Outer Banks Peak Season Dates

A chain of barrier islands located off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks are visited by tens of thousands of people from around the world each year.

Although there is a steady stream of visitors to the island year-round, there are certain times of year that are considered the “peak season”, which is the period of time where the islands have the most visitors.

So… when is the peak season?

The period of time from mid-June to late-August is considered the peak season for the Outer Banks.

This is the time of year when NC 12 is filled with cars, local restaurants are inundated with hungry vacationers, shops are packed with visitors looking for the perfect souvenirs, and it's difficult as hell to get a dolphin watch tour with Kitty Hawk Kites.

Since it's so busy during the months of June, July, and August, should you try to visit the area some other time of year?

Well if you can, yes.

We’d recommend visiting during the month of September; the ocean water is still really warm, traffic isn’t much of an issue, and almost every business that was operating during the summer is still open for business.

Also, you’ll save hundreds (if not thousands) on your vacation rental home/condo or hotel room. Also, you won’t have any issues finding a parking space at your public beach access of choice!

Most people have kids, so visiting during the month of September isn’t possible. If you don’t have kids… or you home school your youngsters, consider visiting outside of the peak season!