Mind-Blowing Twists Unveiled: Dissecting the Epic Finale of Outer Banks Season 3

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Outer Banks season 3!

The Pogues' latest escapade in El Dorado comes to an end with an epic treasure hunt and devastating losses, bringing the Outer Banks season 3 to an exciting conclusion. After a hiatus of almost two years, Outer Banks returned to Netflix on February 23, 2023, continuing the story from season 2's cliffhanger ending. The Pogues' ill-fated mission to retrieve the Cross of Santo Domingo leads them straight into the pursuit of the mythical city of El Dorado. Their journey is filled with twists and turns, including the long-awaited reunion between John B and Big John, budding romances among the Pogues, and the Camerons' struggle to secure their legacy.

John B & Sarah Find El Dorado In Outer Banks Season 3

: The climactic conclusion of Outer Banks season 3 takes place predominantly in South America, as various storylines intertwine and lead the characters to the presumed location of El Dorado. However, this climactic event is also marred by yet another treacherous act committed by Ward Cameron, a familiar act of betrayal. In the pursuit of the coveted gold treasures, the newly introduced antagonist, Carlos Singh, meets his demise. The series of tragedies do not cease, as the third season of Outer Banks draws to a close, seemingly concluding the main quest and providing a temporary sense of finality. Nevertheless, with the confirmation of a fourth season, the conclusion of Outer Banks season 3 brings a semblance of closure through irreparable loss, while also directly setting the stage for the Pogues' next thrilling adventure in search of hidden riches.

The Outer Banks season 3 ending unveils a remarkable revelation for John B, Sarah Cameron, and the Pogues – El Dorado's existence. With Big John's assistance in comprehending the Gnomon of Solana and discovering the cave entrance to the city, the responsibility of locating the fabled site falls upon the two teenagers. Only after deciphering the clues do they achieve this feat, marking the Pogues' first true triumph in their treasure-hunting expedition. Despite their successful findings of the Royal Merchant, Denmark Tanny's gold, and the Cross of Santo Domingo, the Pogues ultimately miss out on the immeasurable wealth these treasures possess.

The events of the Outer Banks season 3 finale result in the Pogues successfully keeping some of the newly found treasure. Upon their return from El Dorado with a bag full of gold, John B and Sarah encounter Carlos Singh, who is promptly dealt with by Big John detonating dynamite to seal off the entrance to El Dorado. This action unintentionally kills Singh while concealing the entrance. Despite Ward Cameron and one of Singh's henchmen attempting to claim the gold, the Pogues emerge victorious and hold onto their treasure.

With their newfound wealth, the Pogues return to the Outer Banks and are recognized for their discovery 18 months later. The season jumps ahead to show the opening of an exhibit featuring the Gnomon of Solana, along with other discoveries connecting the Royal Merchant, Denmark Tanny, the Cross of Santo Domingo, and El Dorado. John B, Sarah, Pope, Cleo, Kiara, and JJ have all partially embraced the Kooks lifestyle and are celebrated members of the Outer Banks, successfully bridging the gap between the Figure Eight and The Cut communities.

Big John & Ward Cameron Die in Outer Banks Season 3 (For Real This Time)

In Outer Banks season 3, several characters meet their demise, with Big John and Ward Cameron being the most prominent ones. Big John succumbs to excessive blood loss caused by being struck by one of Singh's bullets. Despite managing to assist John B and Sarah in locating El Dorado and catching a glimpse of the gold himself, he ultimately passes away during their journey away from Orinoco. As for Ward Cameron, he meets his end in season 3 after bravely intervening when one of Singh's associates threatens to harm Sarah. In his attempt to protect her, he is shot multiple times in the chest and plummets off a cliff.

Interestingly, both Big John and Ward Cameron have experienced apparent deaths in the past within the Outer Banks series. The surprise ending of Outer Banks season 2 revealed that Big John was alive, while Ward Cameron staged his own demise halfway through the previous season. However, the deaths of both characters in season 3 seem to be permanent. Following Big John's passing, the Pogues commemorate his memory by placing a tombstone in a tree. As for Ward, surviving such severe injuries and a fall would be implausible for future seasons.

Outer Banks Season 3 Ending: Everything That Happened During The Time Jump

In the Season 3 finale of Outer Banks, viewers were taken by surprise with a significant time jump of 18 months into the future. This leap in time is the largest seen in the series so far, considering that the events of Seasons 1-3 seemingly occurred over just a few months. While the show only gives glimpses of what has happened to the Pogues and other characters since their return to the Outer Banks, it is evident that they now enjoy newfound wealth and freedom, making them local heroes.

Individually, the time jump in Outer Banks Season 3 brings about some developments for each character. Kiara no longer appears to be on bad terms with her parents, as she dedicates her time to the conservation of turtles. JJ has used his money to purchase a charter boat, but it remains unclear whether he and Kiara are still involved romantically. Pope, on the other hand, is getting ready for college, indicating that he has completed high school. His relationship with Cleo continues at this point. Lastly, John B and Sarah remain a couple and successfully manage a surf shop together.

Outer Banks Season 3 Ending Sets Up The Hunt For BlackBear's Treasure In Season 4

The Pogues' celebration concludes with a tantalizing hint at the plot of Outer Banks season 4, which revolves around a quest for Blackbeard's fabled treasure. Following the ceremony, an elderly man approaches the group, presenting them with a collection of documents. Among these are exhibition notes and a captain's log dating back to 1718, belonging to the infamous pirate Edward Teach, also known as Blackbeard. The Pogues are immediately captivated by the prospect of discovering Blackbeard's legendary treasure, leading to their new mission in Outer Banks season 4.

While Blackbeard's mention in the series first appears in the ending of Outer Banks season 3, there are already existing connections to the real-life pirate. He established a blockade around Charleston, South Carolina, a location prominently featured in Outer Banks season 2. Additionally, Blackbeard met his demise following a battle near Ocracoke Island, part of the Outer Banks region, solidifying his direct link to the area. With the search for Blackbeard's treasure now becoming the central storyline of Outer Banks season 4, the show remains firmly rooted in North Carolina.

Outer Banks Season 3 Ending Sets Up Rafe Cameron’s Season 4 Arc

Rafe Cameron's absence in the conclusion of season 3 of Outer Banks hints at his storyline for season 4. In the penultimate episode, Rafe helps Ward escape the Outer Banks with the Pogues but is soon confronted by Sheriff Shoupe who demands an explanation for his actions. Rafe's fate remains uncertain, leaving the possibility that he could either be cleared of any charges or arrested.

The death of Ward Cameron in the time jump paves the way for Rafe's narrative in season 4 of Outer Banks. Rafe's mission for revenge is sparked by Ward's demise, as he had entrusted the Pogues with his father's safety. Losing his dad grants Rafe the opportunity to assume his role and the power that comes with it, which could drive him to seek vengeance against the Pogues. Additionally, delving into Rafe and Sarah's mother's backstory could be explored if Rafe is positioned as the primary antagonist in season 4. Irrespective of the outcome, Rafe Cameron is poised to maintain his position as the show's villain following the events of season 3.