Honestly, pretty much every place you see on an Outer Banks tour is going to be nice. The beaches on these islands just can’t be beat, and each little town seems to be more charming than the last. Here are a few different places you might consider staying during your next trip to the area:
Northern Outer Banks: The northern towns on the Outer Banks are secluded communities that feature upscale housing and resort-style amenities. The beaches here are gorgeous and less crowded than some of the ones down south, plus you’ll have access to the restaurants and shopping centers beloved by locals. Popular towns on the northern islands include Corolla, Duck, and Southern Shores.
Central Outer Banks: If you want to get right into the middle of the action, then the center islands are going to be best for you. These areas tend to be busy, with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and access to the beach. There are also a ton of places where you can rent surfboards, charter fishing boats, and find other ocean adventures. Central Outer Banks towns include Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head.
Southern Beaches: The southern islands tend to be the most secluded and offer a more relaxing vacation experience. These towns have historic lighthouses, wide-open nature refuges, and other charming activities for all ages. The central village of this area is Cape Hatteras, a pleasant and laid-back town filled with quaint museums and restaurants. The southern beaches have plenty of historical connections as well, from the Lost Colony of Roanoke to Captain Blackbeard’s one-time home port (and eventual watery grave) on Ocracoke Island. Besides Hatteras, some popular places to stay include Rodanthe, Salvo, and Frisco.
To make the most of your next trip to the Outer Banks, check out our bundle of Self-Guided Outer Banks Driving Tours, or you can sign up for Action+ to gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
Essential Travel Guide:
