My husband and I love traveling with our dogs on vacation. They're surprisingly good road trippers, they adore exploring new environments, and with so many rental homes and hotels welcoming pets, we have lots of accommodations options. Where it can fall apart quickly is when we choose a vacation destination that doesn't offer many dog-friendly activities.
Spending the entire trip indoors is no bueno for Bella and Luna, and the guilt we feel leaving them behind overshadows the benefits of bringing them. Luckily, the Outer Banks is most definitely dog-friendly. From the miles of unspoiled ocean and sound beaches to the multiple trails and paths, the OBX is truly a pooch-lover's paradise.
And, the best part is that your canine companion doesn't have to head for the house when you leave the beach. While it's true that Rover can't go inside any restaurants on the Outer Banks, there are plenty of venues that are happy to accommodate you and your furry friend at their outdoor seating areas. Here are just a few of our favorite hound-friendly haunts:
Corolla
The Shack Coffee Shop and Beer Garden -Super-funky outdoor bar with eclectic decor that serves a wide selection of beer and welcomes dogs in the spacious beer garden.
Corolla Cantina -Located near the Corolla Seaside Vacations office, the Cantina serves up family-friendly "beach fare" for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The large outdoor patio welcomes you and your furry friend too.
Duck
The Roadside Bar and Grill -Cool and quirky spot for lunch or dinner. Dine out on the dog-friendly patio or hit the "Backside Bar" for drinks, live entertainment and corn hole. Dogs welcome!
Duck's Cottage Coffee and Books -So much more than a bookstore, this popular shop serves up specialty coffees, hot cocoas and pastries. The shaded front porch is the perfect perch for your pooch, and the water bowl is always full.
Southern Shores
Barrier Island Bagels -Grab a bagel, salad or sandwich and enjoy in one of the shady outdoor seats with your pup at your feet.
Kitty Hawk
John's Drive In -For 40 years, John's has been best known for the best milkshakes on the beach. This seasonal hot spot features all outdoor seating, which means every table is dog-friendly!
Kill Devil Hills
Ten O six Beach Road Bistro -Killer breakfast burritos served all day, yummy sandwiches and burgers for lunch, and now serving dinner for the summer season. What more could you ask for? A pet-friendly patio? You got it!
Nags Head/South Nags Head
Surfin' Spoon -After a day of sun and fun, cool off at this cozy FroYo shop featuring a limitless assortment of toppings. Don't foget Fido - Surfin' Spoon offers a pup cup for dogs.
Hatteras Island
Waterman's Bar and Grill -Great sound views, good food, live entertainment and a pet-friendly patio make this an ideal spot to chill with family and friends.
