You set the pace in the Outer Banks, which can be as tranquil or as exciting as your North Carolina vacation plans dictate.

Here you can soak in the area's unspoiled natural beauty, or view the rich history of some of the oldest towns in North Carolina, with self-guided, guided or even ghost-themed tours. Stroll through a maritime forest, or spend a carefree day on the beach. Visit the setting where the Wright Brothers first took flight, wander through charming downtown shops, or enjoy freshly-caught and delectably prepared seafood at restaurants with some amazing ocean views.

Or, when the mood strikes, you can head for an outdoor adventure. Go dolphin watching, tour the Outer Banks by plane or parasail, go crabbing, or conquer the waves on a surfboard, jet ski or kayak.

And, in the end, know you'll always be returning to well-appointed accommodations with the comforts of home, so you can return well-rested to another day of fun. Book your North Carolina vacation today and be prepared to experience all the charm and adventure the south has to offer.

Eat...

MJ's Raw Bar and Grill (New Bern). The fresh seafood here comes with "a hint of Maryland seasoning". The casual atmosphere makes it a great place for lunch or dinner.

Fishbones and Sunset Grille (Kitty Hawk). Enjoy the award-winning chowder or one of the other seafood dishes prepared with fresh local catches of the day. Fishbones also has a Raw Bar and Sushi Bar as well as one of the most extensive wine lists on the Outer Banks.

Flounders Seafood & Smokehouse (New Bern). Locally supplied seafood includes steamed lobster tails, crab legs and New England-style clam chowder. The smokehouse side of the menu offers pork ribs, chicken and rib eye steaks.

Play...

Parasail (Kitty Hawk). Sign up for a tour of the Outer Banks from the unique vantage point only a parasailing adventure can provide. Flyers can go solo, tandem or triple, if they choose.

Spend a "Day at the Farm" (Cove City). A Day at the Farm is a place where the family can explore dairy barns, milking equipment and other period antiques. Kids will enjoy the pumpkin patch, duck pond and hayrides.

See a locally produced show. The New Bern Civic Theatre presents dramas, comedies and musicals throughout the year.

Explore...

Aero Tours (Kitty Hawk). Hop aboard a plane at Roanoke Island and head out along the coast, where you just might spot dolphins, Manta Rays and the occasional shipwreck.

Candle Light Walking Tours (Manteo). Evening walking tours take you through the streets of Manteo where you'll learn about the historic homes - and the spirits that haunt them.

See it all by kayak. Whether you're just looking to explore the ocean, the salt marshes or charter a guided kayak fishing tour, it's all possible here. Kitty Hawk Kites also offers moonlight and bioluminescence tours.

Shop...

Historic New Bern. Peruse historic downtown New Bern and you'll find an eclectic collection of shops offering everything from antiques to arts and crafts to jewelry.

This is provided for informational purposes only. Endless Vacation Rentals does not endorse any of the resort activities, guides, vendors or service providers described. It is the individual’s responsibility to investigate the safety and suitability of any activity, and the credentials and fitness of any guide, vendor or service provider. Endless Vacation Rentals expressly denies any liability for engaging in any activity, and for using any guide, vendor or services provider, that may be mentioned or described in any Endless Vacation Rentals advertisement or publication. Additional fees and restrictions may apply to any activity or service.