Taking pets to the Outer Banks can definitely add some extra family fun to your trip. Pooches love the surf, sand, and beautiful natural surroundings of Outer Banks, North Carolina. The OBX is nationally known as a family (and pet-friendly) East Coast destination, from the beaches to accommodations. Bring your furry friend along as we look at some of the best ways to enjoy OBX.
Accommodations
Planning a vacation is fun, but it can be more challenging when you want to bring pets along for the journey. Most Outer Banks accommodations, including vacation property rentals, condos, and more, offer a welcoming space for pets (particularly dogs). For some, there may be a cleaning or pet fee, so be sure to look up ‘pet-friendly’ areas when looking for a place to stay. Be aware of any restrictions on the number or size of pets allowed. These fees are usually comparable, if not less than boarding pets at a local kennel or having a pet sitter for long periods. Taking pets to Outer Banks allows for you to stay in the Outer Banks.
Thinking about camping? Most campgrounds welcome pets, but guests must observe leash restrictions in the campgrounds, in community areas, and any time they want to leave the pet for a non-pet-friendly tour, adventure, or excursion.
What to Bring
Don’t get left out in the dark when preparing your pets for a stay in OBX. Taking pets to Outer Banks is fun, but you want to bring some things to make the stay as comfortable as possible:
- Pack pet meds, extra food, and any specialty items you likely can’t pick up at a store
- Bring medical papers, vaccine certifications and other vital documents in case of emergencies
- Pack favorite toys to destress pets including a bed, blanket, crate, squeakers, frisbees, or other things to play with on the beach or outside as well
- Don’t forget leashes, baggies, and other items to keep your four-legged friend happy. They likely will feel less stressed with their own bowls, snacks, and comforts from home, so be sure to bring whatever will make them feel right at home in OBX.
Where to Play
Visitors to Outer Banks will find plenty of activities for their four-legged friends to enjoy. From miles of trails to watersports (bring a life jacket for them) or running the beaches, OBX welcomes pets as long as they don’t disturb other people or wildlife. Each town has its ordinances. Here are some places to go and play.
Northern and Central OBX
Towns in this area include Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Kitty Hawk. All of these welcome dogs on their beaches. Keep them leashed and pick up after them to keep the beach excellent for everyone. Certain times of day during the busy season may not allow pets, so check with each town’s rules to see what they require.
Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island
Each of these spots are subject to the regulations of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Enjoy 70-plus miles of shoreline year-round all day long as long as the dogs are leashed. Ensure they don’t disturb wildlife like birds, nesting turtles, etc. Beaches may experience closures for endangered species and nesting season, so watch for that. Signs will be posted to alert people to these closures. Call ahead if you’re unsure.
The Sound
Outer Banks vacationers can bring pets to the good side if they want to avoid beaches or try a new adventure. Towns like Roanoke, Currituck, and even Pamlico Sounds are great places for dogs, with forests and beaches all around. Animals will enjoy sniffing around the different scents and low water levels to let them romp and play to their heart’s content. Essentially it’s a dog’s paradise; just be sure to check on any leash restrictions before letting them run free.
Keep a list of local vets who can care for your pet if needed. Two animal hospitals in OBX can accommodate emergency visits in Manteo and Nags Head. Look up local vets for other needs as they arise. There are also pet groomers, boarders, and locally run pet shops for all your different needs. Be sure to keep dogs from drinking ocean water to avoid dehydration, and stick to more relaxed mornings and evenings during the high season to prevent pets from overheating. OBX is a great destination to bring pets, and with some planning will be a memorable experience for everyone.
Share This Page