For travelers looking to escape without leaving the country, one North Carolina destination continues to capture attention. A new study reveals that the Outer Banks ranks among America’s favorite staycation destinations, proving you don’t have to travel overseas to enjoy an unforgettable getaway.
According to research conducted by The Resorts Collection using Google Keyword Planner search data from the past 12 months, the Outer Banks ranks as the fourth most searched staycation destination in the United States, averaging 7,690 searches each month.
Outer Banks Earns a Spot Among America’s Top Staycation Destinations
Whether you’re craving sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, or laid-back coastal charm, the Outer Banks continues to be one of the country’s most sought-after vacation spots.
Only three destinations ranked ahead of North Carolina’s beloved barrier islands:
| Rank | Destination | State | Average Monthly Searches |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Key West | Florida | 11,696 |
| 2 | Yosemite | California | 9,392 |
| 3 | Myrtle Beach | South Carolina | 8,840 |
| 4 | Outer Banks | North Carolina | 7,690 |
| 5 | Maui | Hawaii | 7,220 |
The study found that while famous entertainment destinations like Las Vegas and Orlando remain popular, many travelers are increasingly searching for destinations that offer relaxation, scenic beauty, and a chance to unplug.
Why Travelers Love the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks offers something for nearly every traveler, making it an ideal staycation destination for families, couples, solo travelers, and retirees alike.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Miles of beautiful Atlantic beaches
- Historic lighthouses and maritime history
- Wild horses roaming Corolla
- Fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating
- Fresh local seafood
- Charming coastal towns and boutique shopping
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset views
Its mix of natural beauty and slower pace continues to make it one of North Carolina’s signature vacation destinations.
North Carolina Makes Another Appearance
While the Outer Banks landed in the national top five, another North Carolina favorite also appeared in the rankings.
Asheville ranked 46th overall with an average of 778 monthly searches, highlighting continued interest in the Blue Ridge Mountains, vibrant arts scene, and renowned culinary offerings.
Travelers Are Choosing Experiences Over Crowds
According to Florian Pauly, co-founder of The Resorts Collection, today’s travelers appear to be prioritizing destinations where they can truly disconnect from everyday life rather than simply visiting major tourist attractions.
That trend helps explain why destinations known for outdoor beauty and relaxing atmospheres—like the Outer Banks, Yosemite, and Maui—continue climbing travelers’ wish lists.
For North Carolinians, having one of the nation’s most popular staycation destinations just a road trip away is certainly something worth celebrating.
This ranking is based on average monthly Google search volumes over the past 12 months for 100 popular U.S. vacation destinations. The study was conducted by The Resorts Collection using data from Google Keyword Planner.
