Things to Do on the OBX - March 21, 2025

Welcome to the first weekend of spring on the Outer Banks! The season of renewal has officially arrived, bringing with it longer days, milder temperatures, and the sweet promise of coastal adventures without the summer crowds.

Spring in the Outer Banks offers a special kind of magic - beaches where you can actually find solitude, restaurants where you can get a table without a reservation, and vacation rentals at prices that won't break the bank. The marshes are beginning to green up, migratory birds are returning, and the entire coastline seems to stretch and yawn as it awakens from its winter slumber.

Whether you're a local emerging from hibernation or a visitor eager to experience our pristine shorelines, this weekend marks the perfect time to reconnect with the natural beauty that makes our barrier islands so extraordinary.

Today's Weather & Coastal Conditions - March 21, 2025

Today we're looking at a typical spring transition day with a high of 56°F and a low of 44°F1. You might want to pack a light jacket as we'll see some early morning sprinkles giving way to clearing clouds as the day progresses1. Winds are coming in at a brisk 19 mph from the north, which might make beach walks a bit invigorating (hair-tousling is complimentary!). The sun rose at 7:03 am and will set at 7:14 pm, giving us over 12 hours of daylight to enjoy. 

Our ocean water temperature is hovering around 42°F - definitely wetsuit territory for those brave surfers and early-season swimmers! Despite the morning showers, we'll have a moderate UV index of 51, so don't forget your sunscreen if you're heading outdoors for an extended period. The chance of precipitation drops throughout the day, making this afternoon perfect for exploring our beautiful coastline as spring begins to work its magic across the landscape.

Spring Awakening: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit

The arrival of spring transforms the Outer Banks into a paradise for nature enthusiasts and solitude seekers. While summer brings the crowds, spring offers a more intimate experience with our coastal wonderland.

The moderate temperatures – typically ranging from lows in the 40s to highs in the 60s throughout March – create ideal conditions for hiking the maritime forests, birdwatching in our wildlife refuges, or simply taking long, contemplative walks on nearly empty beaches. Fishing enthusiasts particularly love this season as many species begin their spring runs, and charter boats offer off-season rates.

Local restaurants that survived the winter are reopening their doors, often with new menus featuring the freshest seasonal catches. The famous Outer Banks lighthouses are less crowded now, allowing for unhurried exploration and perfect photo opportunities without strangers in your shots. As the dogwoods and wax myrtles begin to bloom, there's a freshness to the air that combines salt spray with floral notes – a scent unique to our spring that no candle has ever quite captured.

Weekend Highlights: Events & Activities

This weekend marks several seasonal openings across the islands as businesses prepare for the approaching tourist season. The historic Whalehead Club in Corolla has just launched its spring tour schedule, offering a glimpse into the fascinating Roaring Twenties era of the Outer Banks.

In Manteo, the North Carolina Aquarium is featuring special spring break programming perfect for families with children of all ages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the National Park Service has resumed its guided ecology walks along the soundside marshes, where experienced rangers point out returning bird species and emerging plant life.

Local Tip of the Day

With morning clouds giving way to clearer skies by afternoon1, today presents the perfect opportunity to visit Jockey's Ridge State Park. The largest living sand dune on the East Coast offers spectacular sunset views, and with today's winds, conditions are ideal for kite flying.

Pack a light picnic, bring a camera, and prepare to be mesmerized as the setting sun paints the dunes in golden hues before disappearing at 7:14 pm1. The park is significantly less crowded than during summer months, allowing you to capture those perfect dune photos without photobombers in the background.

Fresh Catch: Today's Seafood Spotlight

Local fishermen report that the spring fish are beginning to run! Several restaurants are featuring fresh-caught Atlantic croaker and sea mullet on their specials boards tonight. These delicious yet often overlooked fish varieties offer a true taste of local spring flavors at prices substantially lower than summer seafood staples.

May your weekend be filled with coastal discoveries and the refreshing spirit of spring in the Outer Banks!