The collection of 14 towns that make up the area known as the Outer Banks span from Corolla in the north to Hatteras Island in the south (unless you hop a ferry to Ocracoke island). While these barrier islands experienced quite a boom thanks to the sensationalized Neverland-meets-El Dorado portrayal in the hit Netflix series named after the town, the real Outer Banks still draws many travelers with its pristine beaches, world-renowned surf conditions, access to off-shore fishing in the Gulf Stream, locally owned breweries, and colorful community of artisans and fisherpeople.
Before the pandemic, high season spanned May through August, but the steady flow of tourism in recent years keeps these towns humming year round. Fortunately, the Airbnb market has grown with the increased demand and offers experiences ranging from opulent oceanfront homes to bohemian cottages and vibey studio spaces just steps from the beach. Whether you want to retreat to a tiny house tucked away in the maritime forest or plan to caravan in with the whole family in tow, these Outer Banks vacation rentals offer a range of luxurious beachside escapes.
FAQ:
What is the nicest part of the Outer Banks?
Each town draws people for different reasons. Duck’s walkability and bike-friendliness is great for young families and its boutiques, galleries, and bookstores illustrate the colorful collection of local businesses—the gas station is the only national chain in town (and Duck Donuts, but it started here). Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head position visitors in the heart of the action. The three towns are home to some of the area’s top attractions (the Wright Brothers Memorial, fishing piers, shopping outlets), and you’re rarely more than a mile from beach and sound access. Hatteras Island (made up of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras) juts the farthest east into the Atlantic, making it world-renowned for surfing and watersports. Southern Shores is cushy, residential, and a quiet spot for travelers looking to be near (but not in the heart of) the action. Manteo often gets forgotten, only because it doesn’t have a beach. But the friendly little downtown is entirely walkable and a close drive to renowned historic sites on the surrounding Roanoke Island setting. Corolla cozies up to the Virginia state line at the northernmost end of the island. It’s home to opulent beach vacation homes set in wild surroundings, from wild horses that roam the beach to the road’s literal end (but if you have four-wheel-drive, you can handle the sand).
What is the best month to go to the Outer Banks?
June through August is the peak season, with May and September shouldering a lot of the activity, but October is the best time to visit thanks to the dwindled crowds, still-warm temperatures, and excellent surfing conditions.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in OBX?
Rentals start around $100 per night and hit upwards of $500, all fairly reasonable compared to other vacation destinations.
What is the least crowded beach in the Outer Banks?
The beaches in Southern Shores and Duck are the least crowded as the beach accesses only serve the HOA members (including vacation properties).
We’ve vetted these listings based on Superhost status, ratings, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor. This gallery been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meredith Carey.
