A Stewardship Bucket List for the OBX

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on Aug. 04, 2025

For generations, the Outer Banks has drawn beach-goers, nature-lovers, and adventure-seekers. As everyone enjoys the area’s natural beauty, caring for it in return matters just as much. Whether you live here, are visiting, or fall somewhere in between, you can help keep the OBX beautiful. Use these 30 ideas for responsible travel and stewardship during your next Outer Banks trip.

Pitch In for Conservation

☐ Clean the beach: Start or join a beach cleanup that removes litter and plastic pollution.
☐ Grab trash when you spot it: When you notice litter, collect it and place it in the right receptacle.
☐ Give your time: Find local conservation or environmental organizations and volunteer with them.
☐ Restore the dunes: Choose a focused volunteer opportunity by helping local groups rebuild sand dunes and plant vegetation.

Add Adventure Thoughtfully

☐ Go snorkeling: Discover the underwater environment while being careful around marine life and underwater habitats.
☐ Kayak or paddleboard: Choose non-motorized water activities that lessen environmental impact.
☐ Fish responsibly: If fishing is on your list, use barbless hooks and practice catch-and-release.
☐ Ride a bike: See the area by bicycle as a way to reduce emissions.
☐ Camp with a lighter footprint: If you camp, bring a portable camp stove and keep campfire impact minimal.

Discover Something New

☐ Tour marine reserves: Visit nearby marine reserves or sanctuaries and learn how marine life is protected.
☐ Learn about sea turtle nesting: Watch and study sea turtles during nesting season.
☐ Take an educational tour: Join a guided experience focused on the local ecosystem and conservation work.
☐ Explore historic sites and museums: Learn more about the many sides of OBX history.

Eat, Shop, and Support Local

☐ Choose local, sustainable dining: Support restaurants serving local and sustainable seafood and produce.
☐ Buy from local makers: Pick up souvenirs and goods created by local artisans to help support the community.
☐ Visit local farmers markets: Shop with local growers and help cut down on food miles.

Connect with Nature

☐ Observe nature: Slow down and notice the area’s flora and fauna.
☐ Watch birds: Pack binoculars and a bird guide so you can identify local species.
☐ Look up at the stars: Enjoy the night sky while learning about stars and constellations.
☐ Keep a nature journal: Record what you notice about wildlife and the natural setting around you.
☐ Photograph the sunset: Capture the beach sunset and the way its colors shift.

Collect and Create

☐ Gather seashells carefully: Collect shells with care and avoid disturbing the ecosystem.
☐ Go beachcombing: Look for distinctive finds such as driftwood, sea glass, or unusual rocks.
☐ Make art from beach debris: Turn found debris into artwork that brings attention to pollution.
☐ Photograph the sunset: Capture the beach sunset and the way its colors shift.

Spend Time on the Beach

☐ Meditate by the water: Practice meditation on the shoreline and immerse yourself in the natural environment.
☐ Take a beach walk: Leave your phone behind and enjoy the natural beauty all around you.
☐ Play beach sports: Try frisbee, beach tennis, beach volleyball, or beach soccer.
☐ Practice beach yoga: Do yoga on the sand to relax and reconnect with yourself.
☐ Build sandcastles naturally: Create environmentally-friendly sandcastles using only natural materials.