Vacation rentals in Outer Banks

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Popular amenities for Outer Banks vacation rentals

Houses in Outer Banks

Top guest favorite
Home in Kill Devil Hills
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 341 reviews

Direct Beach Access, Clean & Renovated + EZ Cart

KaitlynRating, 5 stars4 weeks ago
We had the best weekend at this property! It was so clean, excellent location/ quick walk to the beach, and the host included so many thoughtful details to the space and our stay that made our trip wonderful. We will book again the next time we are in the OBX!
Top guest favorite
Home in Duck
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

Scarlett Sunset

JamesRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Getting to the beach was most important to us, and Matthew's place was perfect for the beach! Quick walk to the beach, and the house included all the necessary beach equipment (wagon, chairs, umbrella, sand toys, etc). It was also very clean and comfortable with a beautiful sunset view off the back deck. Highly recommend. Thanks Matthew!
Guest favorite
Home in Kill Devil Hills
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 197 reviews

2BR near beach & bay! Hot tub & Pet-Friendly!

MaryRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Home matched the description and photos. Just a brief walk to the beach. Nice around to walk our dog around as well. Coffee shop close by. The hot tub was a nice plus for our stay. Host provided clear/helpful directions.
Top guest favorite
Home in Kill Devil Hills
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

Twin Fin Inn • Modern OBX Stay • 2 King Beds

KathyRating, 5 stars3 weeks ago
We had a great stay at Michelle‘s house! It is even more beautiful than the pictures. She truly thought of everything. The neighborhood is peaceful and it is convenient to the beach and all that Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hill have to offer. The house was spotless, the beds were some of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in, and the restaurant recommendations were spot on. The house is beautiful beautifully decorated, bright, and uncluttered, making for a peaceful stay. We will be back and hopefully next time we will be able to stay for more than two nights!
Guest favorite
Home in Nags Head
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 142 reviews

Skye's the Limit-400ft to the beach/dog friendly!

EricRating, 5 stars1 week ago
Our stay at Skye’s the limit was amazing. The cottage was newly renovated and everything was in great condition and super clean. The beds were comfortable and the kids enjoyed the room with the bunk bed. The location was great and close to the beach with lots to do around.
Superhost
Home in Salvo
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviews

Oceanfront 4 Bedroom Salvo Sandcastle * Hot Tub

ChloeRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Large property right on the beach. The hot tub was definitely a plus. We just had to flip the breaker one level below. Had pots and pans in as well as dishes for cooking I just would recommend stopping 35 minutes before you get to the property at fresh market/Publix as there are not any large grocery stores close by aside from a Food Lion that is about 25 minutes away. The interior was modern and very nicely designed!
Guest favorite
Home in Hatteras
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 157 reviews

"Hatteras Heartbeat" in Hatteras Village OBX

BobRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
we had a terrific three nights at bryant's..he's as considerate and responsive as any airbnb owner we've dealt with and his place is, if anything, nicer than the written description -- space enough in the bedroom to spread out and a neat 'kitchen' setup that's perfect for a light breakfast..another plus is being tucked down a quiet street away from highway traffic..all in all an a-plus experience..
Guest favorite
Home in Duck
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

DuckUtopia-Pool/HotTub/Private Dock/0.3mi to Beach

JamieRating, 5 stars4 days ago
My family absolutely loved this gorgeous place!!! Great location, great amenities, and very responsive host. We’d book again in a heatbeat!

Cottages in Outer Banks

Top guest favorite
Cottage in Kitty Hawk
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

the cottage

SandyRating, 5 stars1 week ago
We've rented this cottage several times - always a magical vacation. Such a comfortable cottage - along with stunning views and great location. Kitchen is a dream to cook in - fresh and well equipped without clutter. Great restaurants nearby including across the street! Comfortable seating - and sleeping. All boxes checked! Amy is a delight to rent from - always responsive. We plan to return again!!
Guest favorite
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 337 reviews

A Charming OBX Cottage | Bikes | Firepit | Grill

JodyRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
I would describe this home as minimalistic, but that's not always a bad thing. It was perfect for my husband and I for a few days. The home itself is small, and the shower is extremely tiny and there's no automatic dishwasher. I probably wouldn't stay for an extended amount of time, but it was perfect for just the two of us for a few days. It was pretty clean and bug-free, which are the two most important things to me. I contacted Katie once regarding golf cart rental information and she responded right away.
Guest favorite
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Foster Your Dreams: 5 min walk to beach, MP 8.7

WyattRating, 5 stars1 week ago
Overall a very well taken care of house. Loved the space for everyone. Easy access to shops and the beach. Overall a great place to be.
Top guest favorite
Cottage in Manteo
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 324 reviews

Croatan Sound Cottage, Peaceful with Great Views!

JeffRating, 5 stars1 week ago
Randall and Aurora are exceptionally knowledgeable about Manteo and the Outer Banks. The $35 plane ride is definitely worth it.
Top guest favorite
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 188 reviews

Beach House with Private Hot tub & Firepit!

MarienRating, 5 stars1 week ago
We loved staying at Shane’s place. It was a great home base for the Outer Banks, close to grocery stores, restaurants, the Wright Brothers Memorial, and just a quick drive to plenty of public beach access points. We LOVED the hot tub (and it was the cleanest hot tub I’ve ever seen), and the TV and big couch was perfect for the rainy days during our stay. I’d definitely recommend.
Guest favorite
Cottage in Frisco
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Cozy Hatteras Island Abode ~ 1 Mi to Frisco Beach!

TammyRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
I absolutely love this place. It’s private and very close to the off ramps as well as places to eat
Guest favorite
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

Sea Captain's Cottage 4; Oceanfront Cottage Court

RebeccaRating, 5 stars1 month ago
Had a great time at the Sea Captains Cottage #4! Will definitely keep it in mind for our return trips to the Outer Banks. It was clean, in a great location, and exactly what we needed for an anniversary getaway.
Superhost
Cottage in Nags Head
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 199 reviews

Lost Boys Hideout | Comfort & Style | Nags Head

GraceRating, 5 stars6 days ago
The house was in the cutest neighborhood! It was perfect upon arrival and just made us feel at home. Loved it!

Private vacation rentals in Outer Banks

Top guest favorite
Home in Kitty Hawk
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 57 reviews

Couples Cove SelfCheck-in small house(pool, bikes)

KatherineRating, 5 stars2 days ago
Cozy home, close to the beach. We were sad to go. We wanted one more night. There is so much to do!
Top guest favorite
Guest suite in Kitty Hawk
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 89 reviews

Picture Perfect soundfront getaway

JennieRating, 5 stars4 days ago
We had a wonderful few days stay at Picture Perfect. Lovely property and such a fabulous location overlooking the sound and it was very peaceful. Ryan and Valerie were great hosts. We would love to return here to explore the Outer Banks more.
Guest favorite
Treehouse in Nags Head
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 469 reviews

Gypsy Treehouse Gazebo - Walk to Beach

AliciaRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Enjoyed our quiet stay in this unique octagonal room with a fantastically large soaking tub. Definitely recommend. Also very close to everything without the noise of the busy road. Loved grabbing coffee at Morning View and visiting the dunes!
Guest favorite
Condo in Nags Head
5 out of 5 average rating, 6 reviews

Your Oceanfront Oasis Awaits You! Walk In Shower!

DarylRating, 5 stars1 month ago
This listing is an unbeatable location - literally on the beachfront. We enjoyed the beautiful sunrise over the ocean each day from the large sliding glass door windows in the bedroom. The morning light is awesome. We were entertained by merely sitting on the comfortable balcony watching the sea life (dolphins!) and the shore birds, the boats, the beach walkers and wind surfers. So peaceful in April. The place is well appointed, just as described in the listing, and the host is responsive. We appreciated all of the information provided by the host for restaurants and local attractions. The location is excellent for access to many food and entertainment options, but is just far enough from the "main drag" to feel private and quiet. If we should pass this way again, we will look no further for accommodations - for we have found "our place" in the Outer Banks.
Top guest favorite
Place to stay in Kitty Hawk
5 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews

Luxury Small Cottage at Kitty Hawk Reserve

AveryRating, 5 stars1 week ago
Amy’s cottage is a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway to the beach! Tucked away and private while close to local favorites in the area! Would definitely stay again.
Top guest favorite
Guest suite in Southern Shores
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviews

Little House in the Live Oaks

MalloryRating, 5 stars3 weeks ago
This is the perfect little place to stay! The Little House was tastefully decorated, extremely clean, private, and even cuter in person than the pictures! Mike and Erin had little details listing sunset, and the tide times, as well as a little letter board with our names on it. There was immaculate detail with directions to the house, where to park, and a welcome book with plenty of information about the stay, and local recommendations. We can’t wait to book again!
Guest favorite
Apartment in Salvo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews

Waterfront, Immaculate, Private Room, Pier, #1

GarrettRating, 5 stars4 days ago
We had an amazing stay. The area is laid back and had all the amenities you could need. The room was very clean and exactly as advertised. The hosts were very friendly and the guide for the area they made helped us to make the most of our trip.
Top guest favorite
Home in Kitty Hawk
5 out of 5 average rating, 36 reviews

Sunrise Bliss

JackieRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
This is a 10/10 - brand new, clean, beautiful furniture, kitchen is equipped with everything you need and more, clean, location fantastic - close to everything and still quiet, clean (can't stress is enough :) . Alina saved our honeymoon after our first apartment in Kitty Hawk was a desaster. She even made an early Check-In possible which literally saved the day. Thanks again so much, we will be back!

Your guide to Outer Banks

All About Outer Banks

The Outer Banks, a popular vacation spot off of the coast of North Carolina, isn’t just made up of many barrier islands but many charming towns, each with a distinctive personality. Hatteras, for example, traces its seafaring heritage in the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Nearby Buxton is known for great surfing and windsurfing, as well as America's tallest brick lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Nags Head, founded in the 19th century, boasts galleries as well as great fishing spots from its wooden piers. The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk preserves the spot where Orville and Wilbur Wright succeeded at sending up the first powered flight in 1903.

Many people come to the Outer Banks simply to lounge on the beach, but there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the wilderness in a more active way. As part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Outer Banks offers 75 miles of protected Atlantic coastline, with plenty of trails for hikers and bikers. Climb up the East Coast’s highest sand dune in Jockey’s Ridge State Park to watch the sunset from its apex.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Outer Banks

There’s something to see and do in the Outer Banks all year long, aided by the weather, which remains consistent due to the Gulf Stream flowing offshore. Peak time for beachgoers is summer, of course, when the weather is hot and humid. Although the air cools in the fall, the water remains warm, making it a great season for fishing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. The autumn schedule is also packed with events like Hatteras Island’s Day at the Docks a seafood-themed weekend in September that includes a marathon and al fresco dinners. The winter weather here can get chilly, but it rarely snows, so search out a less-crowded beach and build a bonfire. (Get a permit first.)


Top things to do in Outer Banks

The Elizabethan Gardens

Located within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island, the Elizabethan Gardens inspires delight in every season, whether you’re basking in the aroma of winter jasmine in January or admiring the profusion of hydrangeas in June. You can spend several hours strolling along the paths that traverse this 10-acre sculpture garden. Before visiting, you may want to check its website to see if the John White Butterfly Center is hosting workshops (seed saving, floral arrangement) that day.

Hatteras Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

There are well over 2,000 shipwrecks off the coast of North Carolina, and the Hatteras Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum honors their memory. This small, free museum features exhibits on the maritime history of the Outer Banks, displaying artifacts rescued from pirate ships as well as World War II-era German submarines. A fun way to explore the collections is through the museum’s scavenger hunt.

Driving the Beach

The Outer Banks are one of the few spots on the East Coast that allow driving on the beach. You can bring your own four-wheel-drive vehicle or rent one from a local business that outfits cars specifically for beach driving. Before you head onto the sands, though, you’ll need to obtain a beach-driving permit online. While you’re at it, add on a free beach fire permit so you can toast marshmallows by the water. Rules around access differ between beaches and can change over the course of the year, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Outer Banks?

    The weather in Outer Banks is quite mild. Summer temperatures average around 85°F (29°C) while winter temperatures hover around 50°F (10°C). The area is also known for its breeze, making it a popular destination for wind and water sports.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Outer Banks?

    Outer Banks has a rich variety of activities. You can explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial, learn about the local marine life at the North Carolina Aquarium, or wander the vast sandy stretches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. History buffs may appreciate a visit to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Outer Banks?

    The most popular time to visit Outer Banks is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warmest. Visitors can enjoy local events like the Outer Banks Seafood Festival in October and the Duck Jazz Festival in the fall.

  • What are the best places to stay in Outer Banks?

    Popular areas to stay in Outer Banks include Kitty Hawk, known for its beachfront properties, and Duck, reputed for its upscale resorts and shopping. Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills are also frequently suggested for their proximity to major attractions and variety of accommodations.

  • What are the best places to visit in Outer Banks?

    In Outer Banks, you can visit popular landmarks like the historic Bodie Island Lighthouse, the Jockey's Ridge State Park with its large sand dunes, and the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to various bird species. The town of Manteo, with its charming waterfront, is also a frequently suggested place to visit.

  • What are some hiking trails in Outer Banks?

    For hiking enthusiasts, Outer Banks has several trails to explore. Nags Head Woods Preserve features diverse trails weaving through maritime forests, while the Cape Hatteras National Seashore allows for beachside hikes. For a more relaxed stroll, the Duck Boardwalk offers well-maintained paths along the water.

  • What are some family activities to do in Outer Banks?

    Families visiting Outer Banks can explore the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, have some fun at the Dowdy's Amusement Park, or take a Pirate Adventure cruise. They can also visit the Kitty Hawk Kites Adventure Tower or engage in watersports at the H2OBX Waterpark.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Outer Banks?

    Consider a day trip to Roanoke Island, home to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and the Elizabethan Gardens. The town of Corolla is another great day trip option with its wild horse tours and the historic Corolla Lighthouse. You can also take a ferry to Ocracoke Island and explore its quaint village and lighthouse.

Destinations to explore