Things to Do With Your Pet on the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a haven for pet lovers, offering a range of activities and pet friendly accommodations. From scenic beaches to welcoming parks and restaurants, this coastal destination has plenty of things to do with your pet. Whether you’re strolling along sandy shores or exploring nature trails, you and your furry friend can enjoy a memorable vacation together on the Outer Banks!

Finding a place to stay is easy too, thanks to the convenience of our pet friendly vacation rentals. We strive to make traveling with your pet as stress-free as possible. Our pet friendly rental homes are designed to allow your pet space to enjoy with the whole family, both inside and out.

Pet Friendly Beaches on the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks boasts several pet friendly beaches where dogs are welcome to frolic in the sand and surf. Each town has their own set of rules and guidelines to help keep both pets and people safe. It is important to be informed about the local regulations, as well as keeping an eye on signage for any seasonal restrictions or updates, when visiting local beaches and parks.

To ensure you and your pet have an enjoyable stay while visiting the Outer Banks, you can read more about pet regulations and rules for beaches, parks and towns on our Bringing A Dog To The Outer Banks Guide.

From playing fetch at the park to splashing in the surf, the Outer Banks is sure to offer you and your pet endless hours of fun together!

Exploring Pet Friendly Parks and Nature Reserves

Beyond the beaches, the Outer Banks offers pet friendly parks and nature reserves that are perfect for exploring with your four-legged companion. One highlight is Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast. Dogs are welcome on the dunes and trails at Jockey’s Ridge as long as they’re leashed. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset from the dune tops or hike through diverse landscapes ranging from sandy slopes to maritime thickets, an exciting adventure for both you and your pet! (Just be mindful of the hot sand, which can be as much as 30 degrees higher than air temperatures, and consider bringing along booties for your dog or consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to protect your pup’s paws.)

If your dog loves to run free and socialize, Kitty Hawk Dog Park is a great destination. This dog park features two fenced areas (for large and small dogs) where your pet can romp off-leash safely. The park provides water fountains for dogs and plenty of space to play fetch and meet new friends.

You’ll also find another local favorite dog hangout in Kill Devil Hills, at Mary’s Paws Park. This dog park has three designated areas (for large, small and senior dogs). You’ll find easy access to water for your pooch as well as toys and obstacles for them to enjoy. And after a good play, you can clean up using the dog washing station!

Throughout your stay on the Outer Banks you’ll encounter designated pet areas and/or dog parks in each town, ensuring there are ample options for off-leash fun. Additionally, many of the Outer Banks’ nature trails and soundside boardwalks (like the Duck Town Park boardwalk) welcome leashed pets, so you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area together.

Pet Friendly Patios

Vacations aren’t complete without sampling local treats, drinks and food, and on the Outer Banks you can do so without leaving your dog behind. There are numerous pet friendly restaurants and cafes that welcome dogs, ensuring you can go out to eat and drink with your whole family, pup included, on your vacation.

A popular pet friendly restaurant choice is Tortugas’ Lie in Nags Head,. This laid-back beachside restaurant offers Caribbean-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and delicious cold drinks. Dogs may join you on the outdoor porch at Tortugas’ Lie, where you can enjoy a meal while enjoying the sea breeze.

Another local favorite is Sweet T’s Coffee, Beer & Wine in Duck, known for its cozy outdoor seating area. Sweet T’s offers coffee, light bites, and boasts one of the largest selections of beer and wine in Duck. They happily allow well-behaved dogs on their patio, making it a perfect spot to relax with your pup and friends.

In addition to these, many other Outer Banks eateries with patios or decks are pet friendly and happy to serve you and your group, dogs included. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a burger, or just a cup of coffee, you won’t have to wonder where you can dine on the Outer Banks with your dog, there are plenty of delicious options!

Preparing for Your Pet Friendly Vacation

Step one is finding the perfect pet friendly rental, which we are more than happy to assist you with! Once you have your vacation home chosen and booked, your next steps are simply being sure to pack your pets essentials.

Here is a quick checklist to help you pack for your Outer Banks vacation with your pet:

• Leash and Harness: Pack a leash along with a comfortable harness or collar. Even though many Outer Banks beaches and parks welcome dogs, leash requirements are in place at many of them. While you will enjoy off-leash time in some areas, being prepared for leashed walks is necessary.
• Identification and Records: Ensure your pet is wearing an ID tag with your contact information. It’s also a good idea to carry medical papers like vaccination records or proof of rabies tags, as some parks or dog facilities may require them.
• Food and Bowls: While you will be able to purchase dog food at many stores on the Outer Banks, it’s a good idea to bring your pet food from home in the event that your preferred brand is not locally available. Bringing bowls for water and food on the go is also helpful for days at the beach or park.
• Toys and Bedding: Pack a few of your pet’s favorite toys to keep them entertained at your vacation rental home or when you’re out enjoying a day on the beach. Bringing their own bed or a familiar blanket can help your pet feel comfortable and at home in a new environment as well.
• Waste Bags and Towels: Carry plenty of waste pickup bags to always clean up after your pet. It’s both courteous and legally required to be sure that you aren’t leaving a mess behind. Additionally, bringing some old towels along can be very handy for drying off a wet, sandy dog after a beach day or wiping muddy paws after a nature walk.

By packing these essentials, you’ll ensure your pet stays happy, safe, and comfortable throughout your Outer Banks vacation and you’ll have a more enjoyable time too! A little planning goes a long way toward a stress-free trip where you can focus on fun with your four-legged family member and your group.

Finding Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals

When planning a vacation with your pet, finding the right pet friendly vacation rental is crucial. Fortunately, at Carolina Designs, we have an abundance of pet friendly rentals for you to choose from! You can search thorough our 150+ OBX rental homes to find the one that suits you best, whether you are looking for pet friendly amenities like a fenced yard or want to have easy access to the beach, we have the perfect pet friendly rental home for you.

Finding your pet friendly Outer Banks vacation rental is a breeze with so much to choose from! Our team is happy to help you find your perfect Outer Banks escape complete with all the amenities you are looking for. Contact us if you would like any assistance in finding the right pet friendly rental home for your vacation, we are here to help.

We Look Forward To Welcoming You!

The Outer Banks is an ideal destination for pet owners, offering an array of pet friendly beaches, parks, and dining options that welcome your furry companion. From playing on dog-friendly stretches of sand to exploring natural trails and grabbing a bite at outdoor cafes, there’s no shortage of things to do with your pet here on the Outer Banks.

Planning ahead by learning the local regulations and packing the right gear is key to an enjoyable stay, but most importantly, choosing a comfortable pet friendly rental will set you up for your Outer Banks vacation success. With our pet friendly rentals making finding the right accommodations easy, you are sure to enjoy a seamless and memorable vacation experience. On the Outer Banks, every member of the family (including those with paws) can join in on the fun and create lasting memories together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there activity options that are family friendly, pet friendly and accessible?

Yes, the Outer Banks offers many activities that are family-friendly, pet friendly, and accessible for visitors with mobility needs. Many of the local beaches and parks allow dogs (some require them to be on-leash), and are certainly family-friendly. Many are also accessible with elements like ramps, paved pathways, Mobi-Mats and accessible restrooms making them great for the whole family. For example, a popular Outer Banks destination like the Duck Town Park boardwalk is both stroller-friendly and wheelchair-accessible, it also allows leashed pets, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience together.

Are there pet friendly vacation rentals on the Outer Banks?

Absolutely, there are countless pet friendly vacation rentals on the Outer Banks to choose from. At Carolina Designs, we provide a variety of pet friendly vacation rental homes where dogs are welcome, complete with a wide array of desirable amenities and locations. With so many options available, it’s easy to find your perfect fit. We offer our guests with pets comfortable, well appointed accommodations that allow you and your pet to fully enjoy your stay on the Outer Banks.