Everyone can agree that the beach is the place to be when visiting the Outer Banks. However, after a few days, you might discover that your kids could use a quick change of scenery or a new way to get out some of that vacation energy. Local parks and playgrounds offer a perfect opportunity to do just that. Each one is unique and is sure to keep your family entertained when away from the oceanfront.
Corolla
Historic Corolla Park
Located near the historic Whalehead house, Maritime Museum, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and OBX Center for Wildlife Education, this playground features custom-designed equipment that highlights Currituck’s waterfowl and outdoor heritage, including a large Canada goose play structure and a slide platform designed to resemble a duck blind.
Duck
Duck Town Park
1100 Duck Rd.
The playground at the Duck Town Park is designed for use by children ages five through twelve and is highlighted by a climbing wall, slide, and the xcelerator, a ride sure to stir your child’s soul.
Southern Shores
Trinitie Park
This park in the Chicahuak neighborhood includes a variety of outdoor amenities, including a children’s play area, tennis and basketball courts, picnic area, and an open sports field.
Kitty Hawk
Paul Pruitt Park
5160 The Woods Rd.
Located next to Dominion Power, this park has swing sets and a play area designed for younger children.
Sandy Run Park
4343 The Woods Rd.
The small children’s play area is just one perk of visiting this park. Wander through the Kitty Hawk Woods Maritime Forest on the boardwalk, take a lunch break at the picnic pavilion, fish from the small pier (catch and release only), and learn about local flora and fauna from the interpretive signage.
Kill Devil Hills
Hayman Park
219 W. Hayman Boulevard
This circular neighborhood park is located at the north end of Kill Devil Hills and on the west side of the Bypass. Kids will enjoy swings, slides, and a jungle gym, as well as a large open area perfect for Frisbee throwing and kite flying.
Meekins Park
1634 N. Croatan Hwy.
Newly updated in 2023, this park behind the Kill Devil Hills Fire Department has everything to keep the kiddos entertained. A splash pad offers a cool respite in the summer, while various play structures, climbing areas and a large open play field are full of opportunities for fun.
Aviation Park
103 Veteran's Drive
After a stroll around the pond, stop for a picnic before letting the kids explore the children’s play area.
Copley Drive
A walkway through a small, wooded area leads to a picnic table and swing set. No vehicle parking.
Nags Head
Nags Head Town Park
415 Health Center Dr.
Along with a playground, there’s a covered shelter area and bathrooms at this park nestled amongst the trees. A trailhead into Nags Head Woods offers another opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Dowdy Park
3005 S Croatan Hwy.
With five acres of recreation, there’s something for every age and every ability at this premier park in Nags Head. There’s a wide variety of playground equipment, restrooms, a pickleball court and more, making this a perfect spot to visit when everyone needs a break from the beach.
Whalebone Park
7300 S. Virginia Dare Trail
Across from Jennette’s Pier, this nautical-themed park has a pirate playground, covered picnic tables, volleyball courts and more to keep your family entertained.
Manteo
Cartwright Park & Collis Playground
303 Bideford St.
This park provides a safe recreation area along with a picnic shelter, grills and restrooms.
Old Swimming Hole
410 Airport Rd.
Located just south of the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island, this waterfront park has a sandy shoreline with sound access, picnic pavilion, and playground equipment.
Waterfront Playground
207 Queen Elizabeth Ave.
This downtown Manteo park has multiple play areas and swings for the kiddos to enjoy, as well as panoramic views of Shallowbag Bay. Stop here after strolling along the boardwalk in this quaint, coastal town.
Hatteras Island
Rodanthe Community Center Playground
23646 Myrna Peters Rd., Rodanthe
Set sail aboard this pirate ship playground for fun on the high seas, including slides, climbing structures and tunnels.
Avon Playground
40184 Harbor Rd., Avon
Just steps away from Highway 12, this fenced-in recreation area includes playground equipment, a swing set, open space and a covered picnic area.
Fessenden Center and Skate Park
46830 Hwy. 12, Buxton
There’s something for everyone at this center in the heart of Buxton. Amenities include a playground, multipurpose field, skate park, basketball and tennis courts, picnic tables, an observation deck overlooking the sound and more.