Top North Carolina Outdoor Activities

Q: Which North Carolina Outdoor Activities have Instant Confirmation?

North Carolina Outdoor Activities with Instant Confirmation include: Full-Day Private Tour to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Private Island Eco Tours on a Private Boat from Shackleford Banks Full Day Guided Fly Fishing for Two Anglers Wrightsville Beach Private Pontoon Charter Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour View all Tours with Instant Confirmation →

Q: I need a ride! Which North Carolina Outdoor Activities have Hotel Pickup?

No problem. These North Carolina Outdoor Activities include Hotel Pickup: Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour Exploration of Majestic Crystal Coast Blue Ridge Parkway and Waterfall Hiking Tour from Asheville View all Tours with Hotel Pickup →

Q: Got any more North Carolina trip ideas?

We sure do. Check out our curated lists of hand-picked North Carolina Tours. Top 10 North Carolina 2026 Senior-friendly tours North Carolina The best tours and activities for culture lovers in North Carolina Top Day Trips from North Carolina Things to do in North Carolina this summer View all North Carolina Trip Ideas →

Q: What are the most popular styles of Tours and Activities in North Carolina?

Based on our sales data over the past year, the most popular styles of tours and activities in North Carolina are: North Carolina Luxury & Special Occasions North Carolina Luxury Tours North Carolina Outdoor Activities North Carolina Cultural & Theme Tours North Carolina Nature & Wildlife View all tour styles in North Carolina →

Full-Day Private Tour to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem located just west of the Outerbanks, and on this customizable, unique adventure, you have the chance …More

5.0 (4)

Full-Day Private Tour to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem located just west of the Outerbanks, and on this customizable, unique adventure, you have the chance...

8 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (4)

from
$1,000

Private Island Eco Tours on a Private Boat from Shackleford Banks

Unlike the larger ferry boats on our private tours using smaller boats we have the ability to do so much more and stay away from …More

5.0 (12)

Private Island Eco Tours on a Private Boat from Shackleford Banks

Unlike the larger ferry boats on our private tours using smaller boats we have the ability to do so much more and stay away from...

4 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (12)

from
$600

Full Day Guided Fly Fishing for Two Anglers

Enjoy a full day of fly fishing tailored for two anglers, set against beautiful backdrops. This guided trip provides a unique opportunity to learn from …More

Asheville, USA

5.0 (1)

Full Day Guided Fly Fishing for Two Anglers

Enjoy a full day of fly fishing tailored for two anglers, set against beautiful backdrops. This guided trip provides a unique opportunity to learn from...

6 hours

5.0 (1)

from
$450

Custom Boating Charters in Wilmington, NC

Explore the way the locals do on a custom boating adventure in Wilmington, NC. Whether you're island hopping, enjoying a sunset cruise, or embarking on …More

Wilmington, USA

5.0 (1)

Custom Boating Charters in Wilmington, NC

Explore the way the locals do on a custom boating adventure in Wilmington, NC. Whether you're island hopping, enjoying a sunset cruise, or embarking on...

2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (1)

from
$450

Wrightsville Beach Private Pontoon Charter

The private charter offers an exclusive cruise for up to 7 passengers aboard a high-end Bennington pontoon boat. This adventure takes you to Masonboro Island, …More

Wilmington, USA

5.0 (1)

Wrightsville Beach Private Pontoon Charter

The private charter offers an exclusive cruise for up to 7 passengers aboard a high-end Bennington pontoon boat. This adventure takes you to Masonboro Island,...

2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (1)

from
$435

"There is no Off-Roading Due To Hurricane Helen 2024" Our guided tour takes you deep into the untouched beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offering an …More

Asheville, USA

4.9 (58)

2.5-3 HR Guided Scenic UTV Adventure

"There is no Off-Roading Due To Hurricane Helen 2024" Our guided tour takes you deep into the untouched beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offering an...

3 hours

4.9 (58)

from
$425

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

Escape into the beauty of Western North Carolina on this full-day private mountain adventure featuring waterfalls, charming towns, scenic overlooks, and natural treasures. Departing Asheville, …More

Asheville, USA

4.8 (29)

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

Escape into the beauty of Western North Carolina on this full-day private mountain adventure featuring waterfalls, charming towns, scenic overlooks, and natural treasures. Departing Asheville,...

6 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

4.8 (29)

from
$325

Pilot Mountain Rock Climb with a Certified Guide

Dive into an unparalleled climbing adventure with an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, transforming each ascent into a custom-tailored thrill. Discover the magic of rope climbing …More

5.0 (2)

Pilot Mountain Rock Climb with a Certified Guide

Dive into an unparalleled climbing adventure with an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, transforming each ascent into a custom-tailored thrill. Discover the magic of rope climbing...

5 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (2)

from
$325

View sparkling waters from Emerald Isle through Bogue Banks with a scenic drive to Fort Macon. Next, visit the mainland with stops along the picturesque …More

5.0 (1)

Exploration of Majestic Crystal Coast

View sparkling waters from Emerald Isle through Bogue Banks with a scenic drive to Fort Macon. Next, visit the mainland with stops along the picturesque...

1 to 4 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation

5.0 (1)

from
$275

Rainforests and Waterfalls of Western NC

Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this tour is carefully curated to showcase a variety of experiences in a single day—from quirky museums to historic landmarks, tranquil …More

Asheville, USA

5.0 (2)

Rainforests and Waterfalls of Western NC

Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this tour is carefully curated to showcase a variety of experiences in a single day—from quirky museums to historic landmarks, tranquil...

7 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (2)

from
$275

Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte

Individuals under the age of 21 are not permitted. Hey there! Are you looking for an exciting way to spend a day or night out …More

Charlotte, USA

5.0 (3)

Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte

Individuals under the age of 21 are not permitted. Hey there! Are you looking for an exciting way to spend a day or night out...

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (3)

from
$240

Grandy Tandem Hang Gliding 2000 in Outer Banks

Hang Gliding at altitude is the closest thing to soaring like a bird. In some senses it's the purest form of aviation. Going up to …More

5.0 (25)

Grandy Tandem Hang Gliding 2000 in Outer Banks

Hang Gliding at altitude is the closest thing to soaring like a bird. In some senses it's the purest form of aviation. Going up to...

1 hour Free Cancellation

5.0 (25)

from
$211

Private Efoil Adventure on Lake Norman, Lake Wylie or MIL with CharlotteEfoil

The most unique watersport experience, flight over water. We are with you every step of the way. Our instructors are in the water with you …More

Charlotte, USA

5.0 (4)

Private Efoil Adventure on Lake Norman, Lake Wylie or MIL with CharlotteEfoil

The most unique watersport experience, flight over water. We are with you every step of the way. Our instructors are in the water with you...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation

5.0 (4)

from
$180

3.5-4 HR Guided Cataloochee Valley Jeep Safari & Elk Adventure

Experience the Smokies beyond the ordinary aboard our open-air Safari Jeep! Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, our 3.5–4-hour adventure combines winding dirt mountain roads, breathtaking scenery, …More

Asheville, USA

5.0 (40)

3.5-4 HR Guided Cataloochee Valley Jeep Safari & Elk Adventure

3 hours 30 minutes

5.0 (40)

from
$175

3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk

Leave the pavement behind and take the wheel of your own UTV for a backcountry adventure unlike ordinary Smoky Mountain sightseeing tours! Follow an experienced …More

Asheville, USA

4.9 (25)

3 HR Self-Drive Guided UTV Tour: Cataloochee Dirt Roads & Elk

Leave the pavement behind and take the wheel of your own UTV for a backcountry adventure unlike ordinary Smoky Mountain sightseeing tours! Follow an experienced...

3 hours

4.9 (25)

from
$169

this is one of the closest ways to experience what the Wright Brother's experienced over 100 years ago as they trying to conquer the mystery …More

Outer Banks, USA

5.0 (91)

Dune Hang Gliding Lesson

this is one of the closest ways to experience what the Wright Brother's experienced over 100 years ago as they trying to conquer the mystery...

2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (91)

from
$158

Grandfather Mountain and Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Tour

Escape the ordinary with a curated day trip to Grandfather Mountain—where winding scenic drives open up to mile-high views and unforgettable moments at every turn. …More

Asheville, USA

5.0 (1)

Grandfather Mountain and Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Tour

Escape the ordinary with a curated day trip to Grandfather Mountain—where winding scenic drives open up to mile-high views and unforgettable moments at every turn....

7 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (1)

from
$150

Green River Gorge Small Group Zipline Tour From Saluda

From Saluda, North Carolina, this small-group canopy tour gives you a different view of the Green River Gorge. Travel across 11 ziplines spanning 1.25 miles, …More

Asheville, USA

4.9 (46)

Green River Gorge Small Group Zipline Tour From Saluda

From Saluda, North Carolina, this small-group canopy tour gives you a different view of the Green River Gorge. Travel across 11 ziplines spanning 1.25 miles,...

4 hours Free Cancellation

4.9 (46)

from
$149

Cove Creek Waterfall Rappel and Canyoneering Adventure in Brevard

Discover the excitement of beginner‑friendly waterfall rappelling and canyoneering on the Cove Creek Canyon Adventure, a guided outdoor experience set in the scenic Pisgah National …More

Asheville, USA

5.0 (3)

Cove Creek Waterfall Rappel and Canyoneering Adventure in Brevard

Discover the excitement of beginner‑friendly waterfall rappelling and canyoneering on the Cove Creek Canyon Adventure, a guided outdoor experience set in the scenic Pisgah National...

3 hours 30 minutes

5.0 (3)

from
$143

Horse and Carriage Ride through Moses H. Cone Park

We are the only authorized horse and carriage service in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. While you are witnessing the breathtaking views the parkway and Moses …More

Boone, USA

5.0 (77)

Horse and Carriage Ride through Moses H. Cone Park

We are the only authorized horse and carriage service in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. While you are witnessing the breathtaking views the parkway and Moses...

2 hours Free Cancellation

5.0 (77)

from
$125

Frequently Asked Questions

These answers are based on answers previously given to Cool Shore Excursions customers' questions.

What are the best options for North Carolina Outdoor Activities?

What are the best kid-friendly options for North Carolina Outdoor Activities Tours?

According to verified reviews on Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor, the best kid-friendly North Carolina Outdoor Activities are:

View all kid-friendly Tours →

Which North Carolina Outdoor Activities have Instant Confirmation?

Which North Carolina Outdoor Activities have Free Cancellation?

North Carolina Outdoor Activities with Free Cancellation (in most cases up to 24 hours in advance of your tour date, check the specific tour page) include:

View all Tours with Free Cancellation →

I need a ride! Which North Carolina Outdoor Activities have Hotel Pickup?

Got any more North Carolina trip ideas?

What are the most popular styles of Tours and Activities in North Carolina?