
Vacation rentals in Outer Banks
Book unique vacation rentals, houses, and more on Airbnb
Top-rated vacation rentals in Outer Banks
Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Outer Banks vacation rentals
Houses in Outer Banks

Wonderful place
The house was adorable and perfect for a girls weekend! Rose was quick to respond. The house was close to the beach, only a short walk to get there. Would definitely stay here again in the future!

Blue Sand Castle- Pets, Pool Table, & Ping Pong
Great place! Centrally located, quiet neighborhood and amazing hosts.

Cozy Country Cottage
Nice quite location

Playtime. Ocean view from top deck. Pool/Hot Tub.
Enjoyed our stay. Had everything we needed

A House With No Name, Nags Head NC, Outer Banks
Shawn was a good host and answered all my questions very fast and gave us accommodations. The place was very clean, perfect for our family and our dog! We’ll definitely be coming back soon!

NEW build. The Beacon house
came to wanchese for fishing. perfect accommodation for us. fishing was not so great but thats another story... back soon to try again. Thanks!

Lucky You w/ Self-Check-in & Parking
We loved our week at Monika's place. We visted Cape Hatteras (the lighthouse is undergoing repairs), the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Jockey's Ridge State Park (beautiful sunset) and we did daily hikes around Nags Head Wood Preserve, which is a very short walk from the house. We also had some great food and enjoyed the available bicycles.

Your Modern Sanctuary on Ocracoke
This was our 2nd time staying at Claudia's and it was just as perfect as we remember. Very clean, so much character, and super close to town. We can't wait to come back!
Cottages in Outer Banks

the cottage
Location, location, location … For a cottage at the beach that’s all you need to hear. It is the reason we came back and will again. Amy has made her wonderful cottage inside as great as the view out the windows and from the deck.

SwellShack! Boutique Couples Hideaway
Great location, walkable to everything - especially Zilly's. Everything was well maintained and just as nice as shown in the photos. My husband and I had a great week, especially thanks to this dog-friendly cozy cottage.

Atlantic Winds Cottage~ Cozy, Quaint, Steps2beach!
Our visit was just what my family was looking for! We wanted a quiet, comfortable and clean place to stay so we could relax and get away from day-to-day responsibilities. The home was clean and comfortable. The nearby road was a bit noisy but the hosts had left fans that were perfect for covering the noise at night!

Croatan Sound Cottage, Peaceful with Great Views!
Lovely little cottage on the Sound side of Manteo, not quite on the water but close enough to hear the waves and feel the breeze. Immaculately clean, well appointed, and very quiet — perfect for 1-2 guests. Friendly, communicative owner.

Seewoo Cottage
Jeff’s cottage was cozy, clean and absolutely charming. It was an easy walk to the ocean as well as to multiple other activities, sights and things to do. The family felt right at home and had every thing that they needed to spend time together and then head out to the light house, parade with the wild horses and see the Wright brothers make history.

Sea Captain's Cottage 2; Oceanfront Cottage Court
My son & I came down to the Outer Banks for a baseball tournament. Whitney made flexible dates for us to account for our travel. The house was perfect & right on the oceanfront. Awesome host & experience!

Historic Beach Cottage 700ft to ocean #singlestory
If I could give it more stars I would. This is a true gem and a great find. Went for a girls trip/birthday celebration and we LOVED everything about this place. All of the attention to details made this a magical escape. We will all be coming back. The porch is fabulous!

Outer Banks Island Cottage - 1 Mi to Frisco Beach!
Really enjoyed our trip and this house made it memorable. Will definitely recommend this house to anyone in the area.
Private vacation rentals in Outer Banks

Luxury Small Cottage at Kitty Hawk Reserve
The cottage was exactly what we needed to enjoy our 34th anniversary. It was very clean and private. Even though the weather was a little on the cool side, the cottage made it feel warm and comfortable!

Charming OBX Beach Bungalow in Southern Shores
Loved our recent stay at this beach house! The location is great, very close to the beach but felt private and secluded (on a quiet street). We drove to the beach with all our stuff, but could have also walked. No issues with finding parking at the beach, although we were here off-season in September. The house is very comfortable and had everything we needed to relax after a day at the beach (both inside and on the large deck). We grilled, had pizza delivered and drove a short distance to Duck for dinner a few nights. Had one rainy day where we enjoyed sitting in the screened in porch listening to music and playing games. Would recommend Laurie's place to anyone who enjoys charming beach houses (no bland, new build here): full of fun decorations, a spiral staircase and lots of charming personality!

Great location. Walk or drive to beach in minutes
We had a great stay. The fenced in back yard was wonderful with our dogs and was a peaceful place to sip our morning coffee.

Tiny Islander
Loved so much about the place. The fenced yard was a highlight for our dog, and the hot tub was a highlight for my husband and I. The layout of the place was so comfortable- open and efficient, with lovely views, and the kitchen was roomy enough and adequate for the limited food prep we did. Rodanthe itself is very chill, and this place happens to be like a 1/4 mi. away from a sweet dive bar with a great view of Pamlico Sound. I would highly recommend this tiny home!!

Sweet Dreams | Private | Kayaks | Bikes | MP7.5
Property is beautiful and relaxing. Safe neighborhood. Convenient location. Beach equipment to borrow, lots of options! Relaxing fountain pound. Peaceful Property. Cozy Bed. Thoughtful host.

Sunrise Oasis, Pet Friendly Minutes To OBX Beaches
Great stay! Very communicative and all was as described.

Island Lotus Yoga & Spa
Stop searching for a place and book this one. Right now. If you're looking for a tranquil oasis to get away from it all, this is the property for you. The house itself was relaxing and spectacular. I never wanted to leave the sunroom! Yoga with Mari was so much fun and we even got to visit baby goats on the farm with Kristen. The only warning I have is- be prepared to never want to leave. I'm already excited to return! There were fresh eggs left for us, as well as freshly baked blueberry bread. The soap from the goat farm was divine! Be sure to spend plenty of time in the hot tub and get out and look at all of the stars. Nature is truly beautiful in this place. If I could give it ten stars, I would. Thank you, Quang and Mari for such an incredible stay!

OBX Sunset Cottage
Our family of 6 stayed at Matt's place for April break. There was a ton for the kids to do! We were able to open up the back door and let them run! There is a small private beach, volleyball, disc golf, a grill, a deck with chairs on the property itself. It's very private and peaceful, the sunsets are unmatched! It is also minutes from anything and everything you could need or want to do! The house itself is open, super clean and comfy with a view of the water. Check-in and out were a breeze and Matt was always just a text away! I highly recommend a stay if you're looking for peace and quiet with a side of entertainment! 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
- Virginia Beach Vacation rentals
- Nags Head Vacation rentals
- Kill Devil Hills Vacation rentals
- Chesapeake Vacation rentals
- Atlantic Beach Vacation rentals
- Kitty Hawk Vacation rentals
- Duck Vacation rentals
- Cape Hatteras Vacation rentals
- New Bern Vacation rentals
- Myrtle Beach Vacation rentals
- Washington Vacation rentals
- South Jersey Vacation rentals
- Waterfront rentals Outer Banks
- Beachfront rentals Outer Banks
- Beach house rentals Outer Banks
- Villa rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with an EV charger Outer Banks
- Fitness-friendly rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with a patio Outer Banks
- Boutique hotel rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with beach access Outer Banks
- House rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with an accessible height toilet Outer Banks
- Rentals with a washer and dryer Outer Banks
- Rentals with pools Outer Banks
- Tiny house rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with a kayak Outer Banks
- Rentals with a fireplace Outer Banks
- Condo rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with a hot tub Outer Banks
- Family-friendly rentals Outer Banks
- Hotel rentals Outer Banks
- Apartment rentals Outer Banks
- Kid-friendly rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with outdoor seating Outer Banks
- Townhouse rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with breakfast Outer Banks
- Rentals with lake access Outer Banks
- Bed and breakfasts Outer Banks
- Cottage rentals Outer Banks
- Guesthouse rentals Outer Banks
- Pet-friendly rentals Outer Banks
- Rentals with a fire pit Outer Banks
- Private suite rentals Outer Banks
- Cabins United States
- Treehouses United States
- Glamping United States
- Tiny Houses United States
- Beach Houses United States
- Campers and RVs United States
- Lakehouses United States
- Yurt Rentals United States
- Yurt Rentals United Kingdom
- Castle Rentals United States
- Houseboats United States
- Holiday Caravans United Kingdom
- Private Island Rentals United States
- Farm Houses United States
- Farm Cottages United Kingdom
- Cabin Rentals Australia
- Luxury Cabins United Kingdom
- Luxury Cabins United States
- Holiday Chalets United Kingdom
- Cottage Rentals United States
- Holiday Cottages United Kingdom
- Mansion Rentals United States
- Villa Rentals United Kingdom
- Holiday Bungalows United Kingdom
- Bungalow Rentals United States
- Condo Rentals United States
- Holiday Apartments Australia
- Holiday Houses United States
- Holiday Houses United Kingdom
- Private Holiday Rentals United Kingdom
- Big House Rentals United States
- Big Cottages Australia
- Large Villas United Kingdom
- House Rentals with a Pool United States
- Cabin Rentals with a Pool United States
- Villas with a Pool United Kingdom
- Apartments with a Hot Tub United States
- Holiday Cottages with a Hot Tub United Kingdom
- Beach Cabins United States
- Beach Condos United States
- Beachfront Rentals United States
- Beach Houses United Kingdom
- Beach Villas United Kingdom
- Coastal Cottages United Kingdom
- Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Beach Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals United States
- Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Luxury Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Jennette's Pier
- Hillcrest Beach Access
- Corbina Drive Beach Access
- Jockey's Ridge State Park
- H2OBX Waterpark
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV Ramp 48
- Old Lighthouse Beach Access
- The Lost Colony
- Salvo Day Use Area
- Rodanthe Beach Access
- Pea Island Beach
- Haulover Day Use Area
- Black Pelican Beach
- Avon Beach
- Frisco Beach
- Bald Beach
- Rye Beach
- Triangle Park
- Duck Town Park Boardwalk
- Kinnakeet Beach Access
- Soundside Park
- Beach Access Ramp 43
- Lifeguarded Beach
- Things to do Outer Banks
- Nature and outdoors Outer Banks
- Things to do Dare County
- Nature and outdoors Dare County
- Things to do North Carolina
- Sports activities North Carolina
- Food and drink North Carolina
- Tours North Carolina
- Nature and outdoors North Carolina
- Sightseeing North Carolina
- Wellness North Carolina
- Entertainment North Carolina
- Art and culture North Carolina
- Things to do United States
- Sightseeing United States
- Tours United States
- Art and culture United States
- Food and drink United States
- Entertainment United States
- Nature and outdoors United States
- Sports activities United States
- Wellness United States
- Family travel hub Tips and inspiration
- Family budget travel Get there for less
- Vacation ideas for any budget Make it special without making it spendy
- Travel Europe on a budget How to take the kids to Europe for less
- Outdoor adventure Explore nature with the family
- Bucket list national parks Must-see parks for family travel
- Kid-friendly state parks Check out these family-friendly hikes