Dynamic Variation:

MENU

Towns & Villages

Villages & Towns in Outer Banks

For travelers seeking an authentic coastal experience, the variety of towns and villages that dot the picturesque coastline of the Outer Banks are sought out by visitors far and wide. These quaint towns offer natural beauty, historical charm, a range of outdoor adventures, numerous culinary delights, and a sense of community that beckons visitors back year after year. 

Whether you’re seeking the hustle and bustle of centrally located towns or prefer a quieter coastal village, Outer Banks offers something for everyone. Keep reading to discover more about the 15 towns and villages that make up the Outer Banks coastline.

Find Places to Stay
An illustrative map of North Carolina's Outer Banks shows the major towns and communities found on the islands.

DUCK

Incorporated in 2002, Duck is the Outer Banks’ newest town known for great beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, fine dining, and eclectic shopping. Discover Duck.

Duck

SOUTHERN SHORES

Nestled between Kitty Hawk and Duck, Southern Shores offers a quieter atmosphere with its private-access beaches and mid-century architecture. All beaches at Southern Shores require private access, keeping the atmosphere quiet and relaxed. Find Tranquility.

Southern Shores

KITTY HAWK

Visitors love Kitty Hawk for its year-round surfing, boating, kayaking, and unique local gems. Dive in.

Kitty

KILL DEVIL HILLS

Home to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, excellent surfing, a skate park, and a fishing pier, Kill Devil Hills is a sought out destination for adventure seekers and beachgoers alike. Take Flight.

Kill Devil

NAGS HEAD

Among the most recognizable of the Northern Outer Banks beach towns is Nags Head. With its abundance of beach houses and seaside accommodations, this charming town in Outer Banks serves as an ideal base for exploring the area. Start Exploring.

Nags Head

MANTEO

As the heart of Roanoke Island, Manteo charms visitors with its marina, waterfront, replica of Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, and quiet residential streets. Uncover Manteo.

Harvey - Manteo Downtown Festival Park Family Kid

WANCHESE

This charming fishing village at the southern end of Roanoke Island maintains its old-world charm and identity. Discover Wanchese.

Wanchese

RODANTHE

The first of the Tri-Villages, Rodanthe is best known for kiteboarding, windsurfing, its famous wooden fishing pier, and for being the setting of a major motion picture, Nights in Rodanthe. Learn More.

Rodanthe

WAVES

The second village of the Tri-Village series — and a favorite for surfers — Waves offers a relaxed beach getaway with plenty of good surf and watersport opportunities. Catch Some Waves.

Waves

SALVO

The southernmost and third of the Tri-Villages, Salvo offers a quiet retreat for seaside goers seeking tranquility. Find Peace.

Salvo Beach

AVON

Known for its natural beauty and gorgeous rental cottages, Avon has evolved from a small fishing village to a highly coveted vacation destination. Experience Avon.

Avon

BUXTON

Home to the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Buxton offers fishing, camping, and exploration opportunities that have drawn in tourists for decades. Discover Buxton.

Buxton

FRISCO

Offering seclusion while still close to amenities, Frisco is a hidden gem on Hatteras Island. Explore Frisco.

 

futuro house in frisco alien

HATTERAS

Renowned as a fishing haven, Hatteras Village is the "Blue Marlin Capital of the World," attracting anglers from far and wide. Cast Your Line.

Hatteras

Get Inspired

Bronze statue of the Wright Brothers Memorial First Flight in Kill Devil Hills in the OBX

4 Stops in Kill Devil Hills You Don't Want to Miss

dog beach

Road Tripping with Your Dog to the Outer Banks

Family Fun - Wright Brother - Bryan Harvey

5 Things To Do in the Outer Banks To Make Your Family Trip Unforgettable

A woman walks on the boardwalk toward the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse in the Outer Banks

A Boomer's Guide to Manteo, the Prettiest Town in North Carolina

NH Golf

Nags Head Golf Links Ranks as North Carolina’s No. 2 Golf Getaway

 

Join our E-Newsletter

 Deals and destination tips in your inbox

Get a Free Travel Guide

 Spark something extraordinary

Take a Virtual Tour

 See what you're missing
Outer Banks of North Carolina

Official Tourism Authority for Dare County’s Outer Banks
1 Visitors Center Circle, Manteo, NC 27954
Phone: (877) 629-4386

© 2025 Outer Banks of North Carolina