Vacation rentals in Outer Banks

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Outer Banks

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Guest favorite
Cottage in Shiloh
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews

Easy Breezy beach house on secluded waterfront

🏝️🌞🐬 Take it easy at this unique and tranquil beach cottage nestled in the woods on the Albemarle sound! This hidden gem provides a unique combo of a rural getaway and the beach! Wildlife is truly plentiful at this romantic escape or family vacay- see dolphins, otters, turtles, etc. Enjoy 3 cozy bedrooms, new hot tub, private dock, kayaks, personal balcony off each room with amazing views! Located conveniently between downtown Elizabeth city and Outer Banks. Relaxation and serenity awaits you!🌊🏖️☀️

Top guest favorite
An exterior view of the cottage displays a well-maintained residence with a white facade and inviting front yard. The interior presents a cozy living area with vibrant yellow chairs and a blue sofa, complemented by a kitchenette featuring modern appliances.
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 272 reviews

Escape to Avalon | Exquisite Outer Banks Casita

Professionally hosted by OBX Sharp Stays: Welcome to Avalon Drive, where sandy toes and salty air await! Located in the heart of Kill Devil Hills at Milepost 6.5, across from Avalon Pier, you'll be centrally positioned on the Outer Banks. Enjoy the nearby soundfront multi-use path or bring your bikes. Just a few blocks to the ocean, this fully stocked and impeccably clean retreat offers the perfect coastal getaway. Close to dining, shopping, grocery, the ocean and more! Come, be our guest!

Top guest favorite
A spacious deck made of natural wood offers panoramic views of the beach and ocean at sunrise. Soft light reflects on the deck, complementing the serene shoreline and gentle waves in the distance. Dune grass and a sandy beach line the horizon.
Cottage in Kitty Hawk
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews

the cottage

The cottage stands along the oceanfront in quaint area of Kitty Hawk beach. Very small cottage limited to 2 guests. Remodeled and designed in vintage beach flair. The cottage reminds me of the way coastal homes used to be: simple ; yet, thougthfully integrated into the environment. Approximately 800 square ft. of intimate living space with spacious deck for getting closer to the sea and sky. I provide all the clean linens .Please have prior reviews and be over 29 years of age.

Top guest favorite
The spacious outdoor deck features a hot tub surrounded by carefully arranged flower beds and decorative stones. A wooden pergola and fencing provide privacy. Sunlight reflects off the water in the background, highlighting the inviting atmosphere of the sound front setting.
Guest suite in Kitty Hawk
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Picture Perfect soundfront getaway

Come relax at this sound front getaway on Kitty Hawk Bay! Newly renovated in 2021, this classic OBX cottage features a modern kitchen, updated bathroom, outdoor shower & modern accommodations. This 2 bedroom downstairs apartment sleeps up to 6 with parking for 2 vehicles. Enjoy the use of 3 paddle boards & a kayak off of the private dock or head to the nearby beach access with the provided necessities and then come back to enjoy spectacular sunset views from the private deck & hot tub.

Top guest favorite
The open living area features a gray sofa adorned with orange and brown accents, paired with a round glass coffee table. A flat-screen TV is mounted on the white wall, and a wooden shelf holds books and plants. A vibrant area rug adds warmth to the space.
Apartment in Kill Devil Hills
5 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviews

OBX Apartment, Walk to Beach, Close to Everything!

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler's Best Places to stay on the Outer Banks! 200 yards from the ocean, you’ll find refuge after a busy day of beaching it in our chill crash pad. Unplug, kick back with Netflix, go watch the waves at the end of the road or take in a world class sunset just blocks away. You'll have a fully equipped kitchen for making meals but there is also good food & coffee real close by. Best for singles or couples, not suitable for infants or small children.

Top guest favorite
The charming beach cottage features a colorful exterior with turquoise walls and white accents. A distinctive A-frame roof is present above large windows that allow natural light indoors. The front porch offers steps leading up to the entrance, surrounded by a pebbled landscape and a secluded yard.
Home in Kill Devil Hills
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

The Beach Box- short walk to ocean! Dogs welcome!

The Beach Box is a charming 2 bdrm, 1 bath, original beach cottage located just a quick walk from the ocean. Enjoy the best of OBX in this adorable beach cottage featuring a large fenced in yard, quiet residential neighborhood, and great location. Enjoy many local attractions (including- Avalon fishing pier, Wright Brother's Memorial, movie theater, and countless more). Walking distance to many restaurants, bars and shopping! Beachbox sleeps 4 comfortably.

Guest favorite
A serene beach view is captured at sunset, showcasing gentle waves lapping at the shore. The sky displays warm hues of orange and gold, reflecting on the water. Wooden steps lead down to the sandy beach, framed by lush greenery and soft grasses.
Apartment in Kill Devil Hills
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 369 reviews

OBX Beach Bliss No Fees, Free WiFi, 2-Min to Ocean

Your OBX Oasis: No-Fee Beach Apartment with Fast Wi-Fi, Keyless Entry, & More! Discover the Outer Banks from our cozy 1-bed getaway: ✓ 2 mins to ocean or bay ✓ Walk to coffee shop & wine bar ✓ Modern amenities, entertainment, and beach essentials ✓ Safety measures in place Your convenience is our priority: Complimentary items for a comfortable stay ✓ Beach Gear ✓ Towels & Linens ✓ Book now for an unforgettable OBX beach retreat!

Top guest favorite
A cozy bungalow is nestled among old live oak trees, featuring a large wrap-around deck elevated above the surrounding landscape. The deck offers outdoor seating, inviting guests to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Guesthouse in Avon
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Barefoot Bungalow, steps from the Pamlico Sound

Sound-Side retreat. Enjoy a sunset nestled in the cool, old, live oak trees. With a cozy bungalow style feel enjoy ocean living on the peaceful sound side. Large wrap around deck for star gazing. Beach access is a short 6 min walk for surf and beach fun. Close to grocery store, ice cream parlor, restaurants, coffee, and souvenir shops. Visit the Avon pier for fishing, concerts and farmers markets.

Guest favorite
The exterior of the cottage features a wooden deck with steps leading to the entrance. A private outdoor shower is visible on the left side, surrounded by greenery. The structure is modestly designed with light-colored siding and large windows, set against a backdrop of blue sky and scattered clouds.
Cottage in Kinnakeet
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviews

Osprey - Updated Cottage with Beach Access

Remodeled in February 2020, Osprey is a quaint house nestled in the village of Salvo on an oceanside street. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic retreat and small families wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, Osprey feels cozy while maintaining Hatteras Island charm and natural beauty. A well-appointed cottage with comforts of home, Osprey invites you to unwind and relax!

Top guest favorite
The living area features a gray sofa with decorative pillows and a light blue armchair. A white coffee table sits atop a patterned rug, surrounded by natural light from windows. The open kitchen showcases bar stools and light-colored cabinetry, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Cottage in Kill Devil Hills
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

1950’s Avalon Beach Cottage - Vintage Charm

Built by my Dad in 1956, this vacation beach cottage has remained in our family, and over the years has been a source of many summertime memories. Lovingly remodeled, while still maintaining the beach cottage charm that my Dad originally created. Our hope is to share the history and charm of this special place with others. Come stay with us and make your own Outer Banks memories.

Top guest favorite
A bright bedroom is featured with a spacious bed dressed in a colorful patterned blanket. Soft lighting from two bedside lamps creates a cozy ambiance. Large windows are adorned with flowing curtains, and rustic wooden beams add character to the room.
Guest suite in Southern Shores
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 262 reviews

Sea Oats Flat on the Outer Banks 🌊

Pet friendly, one bedroom, one bath apartment , private entrance with microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker on the town line between Duck and Southern Shores. 5 minute walk to the beach at end of the street. Short bike ride or walk into the town of Duck for great restaurants and live entertainment. Private setting, free on site parking. Well behaved pets allowed.

Top guest favorite
A private pool is framed by a wooden deck, with lounge chairs positioned nearby. A covered balcony above offers shade and seating. Lush greenery and flower pots surround the area, adding a natural element. The outdoor space includes a dining table with chairs, inviting relaxation.
Apartment in Kitty Hawk
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 147 reviews

*Latitude 36* Heated pool and golf course view

Couples retreat! Newly remodeled apartment on Seascape golf course, only 1/4 mile to beach. Enjoy a private pool, bike rides, and amazing view of the golf course. Located walking distance to restaurants and biking distance to entertainment and etc. Fenced in yard with grill and outdoor dining. Bikes and beach necessities included.

Popular amenities for Outer Banks vacation rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Outer Banks located?

    Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, known for its long beaches, dunes, and maritime forests. The area includes popular towns like Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Corolla.

  • When is the best time to visit Outer Banks?

    Late spring through early fall is frequently suggested for visiting Outer Banks, with warmer temperatures and vibrant coastal activities. Those seeking quieter periods often explore in early spring or late autumn, when crowds thin and the weather remains mild.

  • What are some things to do near Outer Banks?

    Visitors can explore Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and historic Roanoke Island. Wildlife watching, fishing, and visiting local lighthouses are also often recommended to experience the area's natural and cultural heritage.

  • How is the weather near Outer Banks?

    Outer Banks has mild winters around 41–55°F (5–13°C), while summer months are warmer, typically 74–87°F (24–31°C), with variable rain. Spring and autumn are marked by pleasant temperatures and changing coastal breezes.

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.

What are the 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.

Destinations to explore