The town of Duck, with its waterfront dining and pristine beaches - some of the best for shell collecting - is a top notch vacation spot offering a welcoming blend of natural beauty, family-friendly recreation, and the small-town boutique feel of a seaside town. Whether you're looking for an exciting adventure on the water, want to enjoy some local shopping, or you're searching for some of the best seafood anywhere on the Outer Banks, this charming coastal town has a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy.
Did you know? Duck is technically the Outer Banks' newest town, having been incorporated on May 1, 2002! The town was named for the many duck and other waterfowl that call this area of the OBX home and was recently ranked as one of USA Today's "Best Coastal Small Towns."
Top Activities in Duck, NC
Watersports
Thanks to Duck's location directly on the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, watersports are a huge part of Duck's vacation appeal and offer many incredible opportunities to have fun on the water, whether you're heading out as a family, a couple, or a solo traveler!
Kayaking and Canoeing: Get out onto the sound and have some fun enjoying the serene waters as you journey through the brackish areas and saltwater marshes. Keep an eye out for wildlife and the unique fauna of the OBX!
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): This activity is always a blast and is fun for all skill levels, offering a unique perspective on the ocean or the sound!
Sailing and Parasailing: Sailing and parasailing are the perfect option to embrace the wind and get a bird's eye view of the OBX with all the parasailing adventures you can imagine over the water!
Shopping
Duck is an amazing spot to spend some time perusing the boutique shopping and supporting local businesses, as well as some larger brands!
Scarborough Faire Shopping Village: The set of local shops is located beneath tree-covered walkways that are perfect for spending a summer afternoon in the shade. Explore local art, bookstores, souvenir shops, and more before grabbing a cup of coffee at Treehouse Coffee!
The Waterfront Shops: The Waterfront Shops are located right on the Duck Boardwalk and boast more than 27 boutiques, restaurants, outlets, and souvenir shops that are perfect for whatever you're looking for!
Hiking & Biking
Due to the multi-use path that runs the entire length of Duck along the highway, Duck is one of the most bike-friendly towns on the Outer Banks! Grab a bike from Kitty Hawk Kites or VaykGear (many of our homes offer a rental credit!) and get ready to explore this beautiful, seaside town on two wheels. Bike to the beach, the shops nearby, or visit Corolla or Southern Shores and enjoy some fresh ocean air while you ride.
Hiking is incredible in Duck, too, as the walkways and multi-use paths make it easy to get around. The trails around Duck Town Park offer miles of wooded area that's perfect for getting some exercise or spending a warm afternoon under the trees. Head just a few minutes north to the Audubon Pine Island Sanctuary in Corolla for even more wildlife spotting areas, guided tours, and birdwatching opportunities for memories that will last a lifetime.
Wine Tasting
For the wine love in your group, Duck offers some fantastic spots to sip and savor the best of local and imported wine in true coastal style. Whether you're looking for a casual wine flight with dinner, or a more involved tasting experience, Duck has you covered!
Sanctuary Vineyard Voyage: Head to the Kitty Hawk Kites store in Duck and get ready for an unforgettable trip across the Currituck Sound! Travel by boat to Sanctuary Vineyards where you'll receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery and enjoy a private wine tasting. Be sure to grab a bottle or two to take back with you to enjoy at your rental! And save $10 per adult with our Club Seaside discount!
Sweet T's Coffee, Bear & Wine: In addition to offering some delicious coffee, Sweet T's is great for browsing a carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers, and the perfect snacks to enjoy with your wine out on the deck! Their incredibly warm and welcoming staff is ready to help you pick out the perfect bottle - whether you're planning for a sunset picnic or pairing with some fresh, local seafood at your rental.
The Wine Bar @ AQUA Restaurant: Looking for a more upscale experience? Head to AQUA where you can enjoy stunning soundfront views while sipping on delicious wines from North Carolina and beyond. Enjoy a class with dinner or grab a charcuterie plate and try it by the bottle!
Planning a DIY Duck Wine Tasting?
Want to host a wine night at your OBX rental? Here’s how:
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Pick up 3–4 bottles from Sweet T’s or Sanctuary Vineyard
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Grab cheese, fruit, and crackers from local markets like Shane's Family Market
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Use your rental’s deck or screened porch for a cozy at-home tasting
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Pair with a local playlist and Outer Banks sunset for the perfect evening
Get Some R&R
Duck, NC is also the perfect place to treat yourself and catch up on some rest and relaxation. Head on over to Aqua Spa or Sanderling Resort for the chance to indulge in a delightful massage and spa day, or check out one of the local yoga studios to rejuvenate with some meditation and a session or two. Give yourself the opportunity to get pampered and experience the truly sensational restoration with a face mask, a glass of wine, and the chance to let go of all the stress that's holding you back!
Annual Events & Festivals in Duck, NC
Christmas in July
Get ready to celebrate the holidays early with Christmas in July in Duck! On July 22 & 23, the town of Duck will unleash some holiday joy with mid-day and sunset holiday movie showings and a full day of "Holiday Shenanigans" on the green!
Concert on the Green
Few things are more wonderful than the chance to enjoy some live music on Thursday evenings out on the Town Green! They've got a full line-up every summer from June through September with a variety of musical styles including country, covers, local, and more! Bring a blanket and a cooler and relax with some free music. View the current schedule here.
Duck Unplugged
This new series from the Town of Duck offers even more music, this time it's acoustic! Enjoy multiple evenings of local acoustic music at the Duck Amphitheater with the Currituck Sound in the background, acoustic guitars, and classic indie vocals. Find out more here.
Dynamic Flow on the Green
Sponsored by Duck’s Cottage, Coffee & Books, and Downtown Books in Manteo, join OBX Fit for a dynamic flow practice out on the Town Green. Enjoy this dynamic, natural, and playful workout to help welcome in the day with positive vibes!
Movies on the Green
Few things are more fun than watching a movie outside as the sun goes down in the summer! Bring your lawn chairs and dinner and treat the family to a free movie under the stars out on the Town Green! Check out the movie schedule here.
4th of July Celebration
Celebrating the 4th of July in Duck has never been more fun! The annual one-mile parade begins on Scarborough Lane and concludes with a Community Celebration with live music, cold drinks, and watermelon at Duck Town Park!
Duck Jazz Festival
The annual Duck Jazz Festival is a free, non-ticketed event that takes place at Duck Town Park where you can come celebrate amazing music and good vibes in the fall air. Bring food, coolers, chairs, blankets, and your favorite canine friend and get ready for an unforgettable event that the whole community looks forward to every year.
Annual Duck Yuletide Celebration
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with the Annual Duck Yuletide Celebration! Enjoy live holiday music, activities, delicious treats, the lighting of the Crab Pot Tree, and welcome Santa to town!
Dining in Duck, NC
Duck may be one of the smaller towns geographically on the Outer Banks, but the food scene is expansive with lots of options for every taste imaginable. Whether you're looking for elegant waterfront dining, casual bites in between beach trips, or something in between, the Duck culinary scene has plenty to offer. Check out their local seafood options, farm-to-table experiences, and perfect soundside views to enjoy with a glass of wine for a well-rounded, vacation dining experience!
The Blue Point
1240 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Known for being a long-standing local favorite spot, The Blue Point sits directly on the Currituck Sound and offers a delightful selection of Southern coastal cuisine, delicious cocktails, and views that bring people back year after. Have an upscale dining experience by enjoying your meal inside or head out back to the "Back Bar" picnic area for small plates, appetizers, and drinks.
Must Try: Pimento Cheese Dip, Buttermilk Fried Soft-Shell Crab
AQUA Restaurant & Spa
1174 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Looking to pair a delectable wine with your seafood as you watch the sun dip below the horizon over the sound? Head on over to AQUA for fresh, local seafood prepared with an upscale local flair. Sit out on the soundfront deck and watch the wildlife on the water while you enjoy a delicious cocktail or glass of wine with an appetizer and a meal. This is perfect for date night or to celebrate any special occasion.
Must Try: Shrimp & Grits, Seared Scallops, Chocolate Torte
NC Coast Grill & Bar
1184 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Get ready to enjoy delicious bold flavors with a waterfront deck where you can enjoy beautiful views, unforgettable sunsets, and a fresh breeze that adds to every meal together. Their creative small plates, craft cocktails, and selection of specials ensure that this is a fun stop for the entire family.
Must Try: Crispy Duck Wings, Tuna Nachos, Daily Special
Pizzazz Pizza of Duck
1171 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Prefer something a little faster that's casual and kid-friendly? Pizzazz Pizza is a local hotspot with a delicious selection of OBX-themed pizzas, salads, and subs that everyone will enjoy. This is perfect for takeout night at the comfort of your rental or a quick lunch after spending the day at the beach!
Must Try: Hurricane White, The Greek, and Garlic Knots
Coastal Cravings
1209 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Known for its feature on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Coastal Cravings is the ideal spot to enjoy big flavor with a coastal, beachy vibe! Enjoy fresh local seafood, hearty breakfast options, and creative on-the-go comfort food, making this perfect for any meal of the day!
Must Try: Camel Wings, Duck Wontons, Seafood Pot To-Go!
Red Sky Cafe
1197 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Here at Seaside Vacations, we love our Club Seaside partner Red Sky Cafe! They offer an eclectic menu of globally-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients! Enjoy creative Southern cuisine, unique cocktails, and seafood dishes to write home about! The stylish setting near the water makes it perfect for foodies and date nights.
Must Try: Shrimp N Grits, Green Tomato 360 Sear, Duck In Duck
Roadside Bar & Grill
1193 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
Located in a historic beach cottage, Roadside Bar & Grill is perfect for OBX comfort food with a funky, welcoming vibe and rotating local seafood specials! Enjoy a delightful dinner in the heart of Duck with live music and carefully crafted cocktails.
Must Try: Blackened Tuna BLT, Mac & Cheese
Beach Days in Duck
The beaches in Duck are known for being quiet, clean, and pet-friendly. There are no public beach access in Duck, so you'll want to pick a vacation rental that offers a community access or a private oceanfront access as part of your rental! This adds to the peaceful, exclusive vibe that these beaches offer during your stay. Find nearby public beach accesses here.
Dog-Friendly Note: Duck has been voted one of the top 10 dog-friendly beach towns in the United States! Dogs are allowed year-round and off-leash on Duck's beaches and must be vaccinated, collared with ID, and leashed throughout town and at the park. Find out more here.
Where to Stay in Duck, NC
Whether you're after a luxe soundfront estate or a cozy beach box, Duck has plenty of vacation rental options to suit every traveler.
Popular Duck Rentals:
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Oceanfront homes with private walkways
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Pet-friendly rentals close to the boardwalk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit Duck?
Duck is a fantastic spot to visit year-round! During the summer, the weather is perfect for visiting the beach or exploring outdoor activities, while spring and fall ensure reduced rates, milder weather, and fewer crowds. The winter is great, too, because there are lots of shopping opportunities if the weather gets chilly and plenty of fun festivals and events to celebrate the holiday season! Find out more about when to visit the Outer Banks here.
Where can I stay in Duck?
Here at Seaside Vacations, we offer a variety of vacation rentals in Duck, NC for all your OBX vacation needs! Whether you're looking for a small dreamy condo for that romantic getaway or a larger home that offers plenty of amenities and space for the whole family, we've got something for everyone. Check out our available rentals in Duck here!
Are there public beach accesses in Duck?
Duck does not have public beach access; visitors usually use the private accesses from their vacation rentals. There are beach accesses north in Corolla and south in Kitty Hawk. Find nearby public beach accesses here.
Where can I kayak or paddleboard in Duck?
The Currituck Sound is the perfect spot to engage in watersports. There are three public sound access points in Duck: Duck Town Park and the north.south ends of the Town Boardwalk.
Is Duck a good destination for families?
Duck is a great spot for families! It's very walkable, close-knit, dog-friendly, and offers year-round free events that everyone can enjoy! It's perfect for families with kids, couples looking for a romantic retreat, and larger families hoping to spend some quality time together in the fresh, beach air.
Visit Duck on Your Next OBX Vacation!
Seaside Vacations offers a large selection of vacation rental homes located in Duck, NC. The homes in our rental program range in size large, multi-bedroom houses with all of the amenities you could ask for, to the quaint three-bedroom cottages located on the oceanside near plenty of popular area attractions.
Book your stay today in one of our cozy vacation rentals and explore all the best and brightest that the Outer Banks has to offer. Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our available rentals to get started planning your next historic adventure to the Outer Banks.
And don't forget about our layaway plan, which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments.
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We’ll see you at the beach.
About the Author: Lauren is an Outer Banks local, mom, history professor, and travel enthusiast. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with her nose in a book or cuddling with her cats.
