Picture this: a brilliant sunset over the ocean, the warm breeze coming off the ocean, a plate of delicious, Outer Banks seafood in front of you. Fortunately, with all of the amazing waterfront restaurants up and down the beach, there are plenty of options for enjoying a delicious waterfront meal with an unbelievable view. Before you make plans for your next vacation dinner, check out our list of the top places for outdoor summer dining on the Outer Banks!
1. Oceanfront Grille (Corolla)
Oceanfront Grille
1197 Franklyn Street, Corolla, NC 27927
(252) 453-4748
Located in Corolla, The Oceanfront Grille is a beautiful restaurant with brilliant views of the water and delicious fresh, local seafood. Enjoy their famous crab cakes, scallops, or a nightly special curated by the Oceanfront Grille's talented chefs. Sample a cocktail from the full service bar while you watch the moon rise up over the water and experience and unforgettable evening dining experience.
2. The Blue Point (Duck)
The Blue Point
1240 Duck Rd., Duck, NC 27949
(252) 261-8090
Known for their upscale wine selection and fabulous Backbar located on the soundfront in Duck, The Blue is a great spot for a casual evening of cocktails and light bites or a full-scale meal with a view of the water. You can't miss thier cornmeal crusted catfish and their shrimp & grits for a hearty, southern fare. Let the breezes coming off the sound wash your worries away as you bask in the peace and quiet of the northern Outer Banks.
3. Aqua Restaurant (Duck)
AQUA Restaurant
1174 Duck Road, Duck, NC 27949
(252) 261-9700
AQUA Restaurant is an upscale, sophisticated restaurant situated on the waterfront in Duck. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner date night with delicious wine, fresh local seafood, and local ingredients. Enjoy live music year-round as you take in the spectacular waterfront setting.
4. The Black Pelican (Kitty Hawk)
The Black Pelican
MP4 on the Beach Road, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
(252) 261-3171
The Black Pelican is a staple of the Outer Banks and the perfect spot to enjoy the brilliance of the ocean while enjoying some of the best fare you'll find on the beach. Enjoy nightly specials from talented chefs and a carefully curated dining experience that is sure to be the highlight of your summer. Located in Kitty Hawk, this restaurant is perfectly situated in the middle of the main banks and is easily accessible from where you're staying during your vacation!
5. Fish Heads Bar & Grill (Nags Head)
Fish Heads Bar & Grill
8901 S. Old Oregon Inlet Rd., Nags Head, NC
(252) 441-5740
If you're looking for the ultimate Outer Banks oceanfront dining experience, look no further than Fish Heads Bar & Grill. Located right on the Outer Banks Fishing Pier, this awesome hangout spot boasts life music and entertainment, craft beats, and fresh, local seafood to enjoy while you listen to the sound of the waves nearby. Check out the pier for a little extra fun and experience Nags Head like a local!
6. Basnight's Lone Cedar (Nags Head)
Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe
7623 S. Virginia Dare Trl., Nags Head, NC
(252) 441-5405
Basnight's is your premiere spot for fresh, local seafood with an unbelievable view of the water. This family owned and operated restaurant is everything you could possibly want with daily fresh catch, a large wine cellar, and The Osprey Loung, which is the perfect spot for some live music as you take in the unbeatable views of the Roanoke Sound.
7. Miller's Waterfront Restaurant (Nags Head)
Miller's Waterfront Restaurant
6916 S. Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
(252) 551-6151
Miller's Waterfront is a great place for sunsets over the Roanoke Sound while you enjoy an unbelieveable selection of fresh, local seafood, carefully curated beer and wine lists, and an amazing staff. Their wide selection of seafood including scallops, crab cakes, and sanwiches ensures a delicious dining experience that is sure to make Miller's an OBX tradition for your family.
8. The 1587 Restaurant & Lounge (Manteo)
1587 Restaurant & Lounge
405 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo NC
(252) 473-1587
Dine at one of the finest restaurants in Manteo at 1587 Restaurant & Lounge. Enjoy signature cocktails, craft wine and beer, and an elegant menu that includes everything from light salads with heirloom vegetables to fresh local fish brought in from Wanchese, just down the road. Dine knowing you're supporting local vendors such as Hattie's Produce, Jennette Brothers, and O'Neals Seafood.
9. Cafe Pamlico (Buxton)
Cafe Pamlico
49684 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
(866) 726-5426
Cafe Pamlico is one of the premier waterfront restaurants on Hatteras Island, making this a must-stop during your Outer Banks vacation. Reservations are required for this unbeatable dining experience. Explore their wine and cocktail selection before watching the sunset over the sound while eating a delectable seafood entree or specialty martini.
10. Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill (Hatteras)
Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill
58646 NC Hwy 12, Hatteras, NC 27943
(252) 986-1414
For a welcoming blend of casual and upscale dining, Hatteras Sol offers an amazing atmosphere with beautiful views of the water and a menu that is sure to have you coming back for more. Greet the summer with a carefully prepared seafood meal and a delicious dessert. Take in the salt air out on the deck and enjoy all the brilliance of a Hatteras Island sunset.
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There really is no bad place to stay on the Outer Banks, so why not plan a yearly trip and maybe stay in a different town each time? You're sure to find your perfect spot. Keep an eye on our specials and deals and book now before your dream Outer Banks beach house fills up for the summer. 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!
We'll see you at the beach.
