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 best restaurants OBX has to offer for outdoor summer dining with unforgettable views!
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 OBX has to offer right in the heart of 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 OBX visitors love to discover while exploring 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, making it a standout among the top restaurants OBX travelers return to year after year, 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.
More Outer Banks Restaurants to Explore
While our top 10 list highlights some of the most scenic waterfront dining experiences, there are even more Outer Banks restaurants that deserve a spot on your itinerary. Local favorites like Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills combine great food with craft beer, yard games, and family-friendly fun. Or visit Blue Moon Beach Grill in Nags Head for a lively and creative take on coastal cuisine. Don’t forget about Black Pelican and Sunset Grille—perfect spots for tropical cocktails and laid-back vibes near the water. Whether you're craving tacos from Coastal Cantina or fresh donuts from Duck Donuts, there’s no shortage of culinary adventures across the OBX.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants on the OBX
What episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives features the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks was featured in the Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives episode titled “Pubs and Grub”. One of the highlights was the Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills, where Guy Fieri sampled their famous shrimp and grits and praised their homemade beers. It's one of the must-visit restaurants OBX travelers seek out. Several other OBX restaurants were featured on the Food Network, too. You can see them all here.
What are some family-friendly Outer Banks restaurants?
Some top family-friendly Outer Banks restaurants include Miller’s Waterfront, Outer Banks Brewing Station (which also has a kids’ playground), and Basnight’s Lone Cedar Café. These spots combine great food, relaxed settings, and options the whole family will enjoy.
Do these restaurants require reservations?
Some popular waterfront restaurants in the OBX do accept reservations, especially during peak summer months. It’s always best to call ahead or check their website for availability.
Are there dog-friendly waterfront restaurants in OBX?
Yes! Many Outer Banks restaurants with outdoor patios or decks allow dogs. Check out Spanky's Grille, Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill, and John's Drive In in Kitty Hawk or Mulligans, Blue Moon Beach Grill, and Surfin' Spoon in Nags Head!
Check out BringFido for a comprehensive list and be sure to check with the restaurant beforehand to confirm their pet policy.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options at OBX waterfront restaurants?
Absolutely! While seafood is a staple in the Outer Banks, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including fresh salads, veggie tacos, and plant-based entrees. Check out our list of OBX vegan and vegetarian restaurants here.
Plan an OBX Vacation Around the Best Waterfront Restaurants
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 unforgettable adventure to the Outer Banks. There so much to do and see. With amazing food and drinks, exciting excursions, and plenty of sand for everyone to relax, there's something for everyone here on 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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