Pregnancy-Friendly Ways to Enjoy a Vacation on The Outer Banks

By Megan Nichols
Aug. 16, 2021

Traveling while pregnant can be exciting and a little intimidating at the same time. With thoughtful planning and realistic expectations, The Outer Banks can make a wonderful coastal escape for expectant visitors. Use these ideas as you explore the shoreline during those nine months.

1. Take it slow

Your body is doing a lot, so feeling more tired than usual is completely normal. The beach towns across The Outer Banks are well suited for a gentler pace, giving you space to enjoy the views, the barrier islands, and the salty breeze. Avoid packing your schedule so tightly that you have to hurry from stop to stop. Build in time to rest, read, and simply enjoy where you are.

Several well-known attractions involve walking, so it helps to be ready before you go. Carry plenty of water, choose comfortable shoes, and pause for breaks as often as you need.

A couple of places stood out from a recent trip as spots where extra preparation would have helped. Jockey’s Ridge is a stunning, oversized sand dune, but climbing up and down the steep slopes of loose sand can be tiring. The Wright Brothers National Memorial includes its famous monument at the top of Kill Devil Hill, which means a long, steep walk. Both destinations are still worth experiencing while pregnant; just move at your own pace and keep hydrated.

2. Enjoy the food

The Outer Banks is full of tasty local dining options, and your body needs fuel, nourishment, and a few treats along the way.

Begin the day with a traditional breakfast from Stack ‘em High Pancakes and So Forth, or pick up a filling bagel sandwich from Barrier Island Bagels.

For dinner, choose something relaxed and flavorful. Miller’s Waterfront offers sunset views along with dishes like coconut shrimp and crab dip.

Make room for something sweet, too—you have earned it. Donutz On a Stick puts a fun spin on a familiar dessert and may be one of the islands’ best hidden gems.

3. Step indoors

During summer visits to the coast, you will probably want time away from direct sun. The Outer Banks offers plenty of indoor ways to keep having fun while enjoying shade and air conditioning.

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is well worth adding to your plans. Interactive exhibits, animals, immersive design, and, most importantly, air conditioning make it a strong choice for expecting mothers.

Museums can also be found throughout the islands, including the Graveyard of the Atlantic in Hatteras Village, a favorite among visitors. Explore distinctive historical objects recovered from shipwrecks while taking a welcome break from the summer heat.

4. Make time to pamper yourself

Restore and unwind with a spa-style retreat. Whether you are looking for facials, manicures, massages, body wraps, or another relaxing service, options are nearby. Local spas and wellness centers offer customized treatments designed to help you find a calmer state. At Aqua Spa, services include body wraps, scrubs with some using local sea salt, and more.

Yoga is also available across the beach communities, with both beach yoga and indoor classes offered along the coast. You can find licensed instructors for a quick morning or evening session.

A shopping outing can be part of the treat-yourself plan, too. Browse locally owned shops, boutiques, and specialty outlets, and pick up your soon-to-be newborn’s first OBX keepsake.

Author

Megan Nichols is the Founder of NC Eat & Play, which reaches 500,000+ followers a day through content that helps locals find good food and activities for sensible budgets and everyday fun. As a curator and influencer for North Carolinians, NC Eat & Play showcases and celebrates local businesses and establishments across the state.