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Things To Do On The Outer Banks For May 1, 2025
Stacey OBrien
May 03, 2025
Welcome to May on the Outer Banks!
From Carova’s wild dunes to Ocracoke’s storied shores, the OBX is bursting with spring energy. Here’s your guide to what’s happening, what’s blooming, and what’s delicious this week.
Weather & Beach Report
Daytime Highs: 65–80°F
Nights: Cool, 50–60°F-perfect for bonfires or sunset strolls
Water Temp: Still brisk, wetsuits recommended for swimming
Sunrise/Sunset: Over 13 hours of daylight to enjoy the coast
May Things on the Outer Banks
Date | Event | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
May 2–3 | OBX Rod and Custom Festival | Nags Head | Classic cars, family fun, food, and charity cruise-ins |
May 6 | Spring Nature on the Boardwalk | Duck Boardwalk | Guided stroll, local wildlife and flora, 6:30–8:00 PM |
May 9 | OBX KidsFest | Roanoke Island, Manteo | Crafts, games, bubble play, fire trucks-family-friendly, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM |
May 10 | Nags Head Woods 5K | Nags Head Woods | Scenic race through maritime forest |
May 10 | British Cemetery Ceremony & Reception | Ocracoke Island | WWII tribute to British sailors lost off the OBX |
May 15–18 | Hang Gliding Spectacular | Jockey’s Ridge, Nags Head | Watch or join pilots soaring over the dunes, daily 9:00 AM–4:00 PM |
May 17 | Ocracoke Island-Wide Yard Sale | Ocracoke Island | Hunt for treasures across the island (rain date May 18) |
May 24 | Ocracoke Volunteer Fireman’s Ball | Ocracoke Island | Live music, great food, and dancing-support the local fire department |
Local Flavor: What’s in Season
Seafood: May marks the start of soft-shell crab season-find them fresh at local markets or fried at classic spots like Rundown Café.
Produce: Local strawberries, asparagus, and greens are at their peak.
Dining: Most restaurants are open for the season, but without summer crowds-enjoy fresh catches and outdoor decks.
Nature & Outdoor Fun
Wildlife: Ospreys, loons, and songbirds are returning; bring binoculars for birdwatching at Pea Island or Nags Head Woods.
Fishing: Flounder, red drum, and Spanish mackerel are biting-book a charter or cast from the surf.
Bloom Watch: Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo and Nags Head Woods are bursting with spring color.
Insider Tips
Bonfires: Cool nights are perfect for a beach bonfire-remember, fires are only allowed in designated areas (like Ocracoke Day Use Area from May 1).
Pre-Season Perks: May means lower rental rates and fewer crowds, so you can explore lighthouses, wild horse tours, and historic sites at your own pace.
Pack Smart: Bring layers-days are warm, but evenings cool off quickly. Don’t forget sunscreen and a windbreaker for breezy beach days.
That’s your Outer Banks snapshot for May 1st!
What are you most excited to do or see this month? Want more details on any event, restaurant, or outdoor adventure?
Let me know your interests, and I’ll dig up the latest OBX scoop!
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