Hi,
We are thinking about going to the Outer Banks this July. For those of you who have been here during July, I have a few questions: How hot and humid will it be during July? How crowded will it be? Will I be able to get a reservation this late? What is there to do besides be at the beach and swim? Some of the things we enjoy are biking, hiking, sightseeing.

Thanks,
Chris

I haven't been to the Outer Banks for several years, but since no one else has responded, I'll tell you what I can remember. It was hot and humid in July, which was fine for the beach, but a little oppressive elsewhere. It was not particularly crowded - I think you will find some place to stay, but you may have trouble finding beachfront. Some things to see: Kitty Hawk-Wright Brothers stuff and you can try your hand at hanggliding there, lighthouses, there is a reproduction of an Elizabethian ship/settlement-can't remember exactly where it is. Hope that helps a little.

The Outer Banks will be crowded in July, but it's all pretty relative. It's the only beach I've really spent a lot of time on, it's less crowded than other east coast beaches. Crowds start mid-June. The crowds aren't terrible except getting there. You may have to wait at popular restaurants for dinner, but traffic won't be heavy except for Saturday and Sunday afternoons when the houses switch renters...on a positive note, the beaches are less crowded those days too.

It does get hot and humid, but there is almost always a nice ocean breeze. Expect highs in mid to upper 80s easy.

If you are looking for a house rental, you may have a problem getting one in a good location, but hotels will probably still be available.

The Elizabethan ship kc is talking about is on Manteo Island. There is also the Elizabethan gardens there which is beautiful. Downtown Manteo is a nice town to visit for a day. The aquarium is supposed to be a good place to take kids.

The Nature Conservancy maintain some park land on the west side which is a nice place to hike. You can take a hike up the dunes, and fly a kite or hang-glide.

There are numerous kayaking tours on the sound. Take a drive down hwy 12 through the National Seashore and visit the various lighthouses. You can bike on the beach road if your south of southern shores, the road north of that isn't great for bike riding, too many cars.

It is very laid back down there, I love it!

My family & I have spent almost every weekend for the last 2 summers in the OBX. It is hot & humid, but usually the beach is relatively cool - the breeze blows off the water no matter what direction it is from as it blows off the ocean or sound. South of Nags Head, Kitty Hawk & Kill Devil Hills is NOT crowded - there are many places from Rodanthe through Buxton/Frisco that have large sections of uncrowded beach. You might have to walk a short distance, but you will have solitude. Also the water in that area is beautiful - crystal clear & emerald green most of the time (unless a storm kicks up).