One of the more fascinating things about the Outer Banks is the abundance of small, coastal towns that fade into one another as you're exploring these pristine beaches of the Outer Banks. Many of these towns do have a unique claim to fame, and Rodanthe, NC is no different. Known for its role as the setting for the famous Nicholas Sparks novel Nights in Rodanthe, this quaint Outer Banks town boasts a rich history, exciting things to do, and unforgettable places to see. Keep reading below to learn more about Rodanthe, NC and be sure to add a stop in this amazing town to your next Outer Banks itinerary!
History of Rodanthe
Located on Hatteras Island in the southern Outer Banks, Rodanthe is a small, historic town that was once part of an area known as "Chicamacomico," which also included Waves and Salvo. No one is quite sure why the name "Rodanthe" was chosen to designate the area formerly known as North Chicamacomico, but the name itself originates from Greece and means "rose bud." Regardless, Rodanthe has become synonymous with watersports, including kiteboarding and surfing, and the abundance of natural wildlife and undeveloped sands of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
The towns' location near the easternmost point in North Carolina (Cape Lookout), made it the perfect place for the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. Chicamacomico was the first of seven Lift-Saving Stations built in North Carolina by the U.S. Life-Saving Service in 1874. The US Life-Saving Service would eventually become part of the U.S. Coast Guard which still maintains a station nearby at Oregon Inlet today. The 1918 Mirlo rescue by the men at Chicamacomico is still considered one of the most important rescues in the Coast Guard's history during which 42 sailors were saved during a German U-Boat attack.
About the Famous Nights in Rodanthe House
The most famous home in Rodanthe is undoubtedly the Inn at Rodanthe, a single-family home that was used to film exterior shots for the movie adaptation of Nicholas Spark's Nights in Rodanthe. The movie stars Richard Gere and Diane Lane and explores their relationship and romance on the island.
During the movie's filming, many locals of the Outer Banks appeared as extras on screen. In January of 2010, the home, which was previously known as Serendeipity, was in danger of being destroyed due to coastal erosion and was eventually moved to new site by the same company that moved the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
You can find out more about the book the film is based on in our Outer Banks Books Guide.
Things to Do in Rodanthe, NC
There are so many exciting things to do on this tiny stretch of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. Kiteboarders, surfers, birders, fishers, and windsurfers have been coming to this quiet stretch of beach for decades to enjoy its prime location, peaceful atmosphere, and out-of-the-way location that facilitates a fun Outer Banks vacation. Below is our list of some of the best things to do in Rodanthe including watersports, shopping, restaurants, and exciting attractions that will have you coming back to this unique part of the North Carolina coast during every visit to the Outer Banks.
Attractions
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Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
14500 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Enjoy an unforgettable experience whether you're coming to birdwatch or simply stroll through acres of natural, untouched wildlife. The refuge includes many different habitats including beach, dunes, braskish ponds, and marshes and is home to more than 370 different bird species.
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Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station
23645 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
One of the most complete historic life-saving stations in the United States, a visit to the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is a must for any history buff or Coast Guard or Navy veteran. Explore the museum and learn more about some of the most exciting rescues in U.S. history that took place right off the coast.
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Rodanthe Pier LLC
24251 Atlantic Dr, Rodanthe, NC 27968
The Rodanthe Pier offers wonderful sightseeing and fishing from Easter to Thanksgiving. Enjoy a fun family atmosphere while fishing from the pier!
Rodanthe Restaurants
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Austin's South Island Seafood & Vacuum Packing Company
24202 B. NC Hwy. 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Austin's is a great place to pick up some fresh, local seafood to grill back at your vacation rental or for already prepared meals on the go! -
Beads & Beans OBX
24202 NC 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
A combined coffee house and bead studio, head out for some breakfast and stay for the local art! -
Good Winds Restaurant
24502 HWY 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Good Winds is the place to go when you're looking for the perfect dining atmosphere and fresh, local seafood. -
Lisa's Pizzeria
24158 NC Hwy 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
This Hatteras Island Staple offers delicious food, some of the best pizza on the Outer Banks, and free delivery on the island! -
Neptunes Kitchen and Dive Bar
24394 North Carolina 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Head to Neptunes for comforting American cuisine, great drinks, and a good time! -
Taqueria Las Ahumadera
4394 NC 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Enjoy fresh, authentic Mexican food from this family-run business right on the island!
Shopping
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Pirates of Chicamacomico
23881 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Stop by Pirates of Chicamacomico for an eclectic variety of beach-themed gifts and unique Outer Banks treasures. -
Rodanthe Surf Shop
23580 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Whether you're looking for gear rentals, a new wetsuit, or some stylish clothes, Rodanthe Surf Shop has everything you need to go totally tubular! -
Reef Beachwear
24782 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Step on into Reef Beachwear for all your bathing suit and beach towel needs. -
Kitty Hawk Kites
24502 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Up and down the Outer Banks, you'll find that Kitty Hawk Kites has everything you need to enjoy watersports or a day at the beach. Don't forget to pick up a souvenir while you're there!
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Kitty Hawk Surf Co.
24502 NC HWY 12, Waves Village, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Kitty Hawk Surf Co. is a great destination to pick up new and used equipment for a variety of watersports including surfing and skimboarding.
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Nora's Wish
23772 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Visit Nora's Wish for unique local art and beautiful beach-themed gifts for everyone in your life!
Water Sports & Activities
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Charlies Trivillage Watersports
24768 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Charlie's offers a wide range of watersport rentals including pontoon boats, skiffs, jet skis, tiki boats, and kayaks. -
Kitty Hawk Kites Kiteboarding School
24798 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
For the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure, sign up for Kitty Hawk Kites' Kiteboarding School and spend your time in Rodanthe having the adventure of a lifetime! -
Rad Kite & Jetski
25094 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Rad offers jet-ski rentals as well as kiteboarding lessons for the adventure-seeker in your family group.
Book Your Next OBX Vacation Now!
Check out our available homes and find the perfect place to stay on Hatteras Island or nearby South Nags Head! And even if you're staying a little further north on the Outer Banks, it's a quick and easy drive to see the unique beauty and beautiful weather to be found in Rodanthe. It's never too early, or too late, to start thinking about your next Outer Banks vacation so be sure to book your next Outer Banks vacation home with Seaside Vacations! We want to make your next vacation fun and hassle-free, so give us a call or book online today.
About the Author: Lauren is a mom, author, and travel enthusiast. She grew up on the Outer Banks and only left for a few years to get her degree at UNC-Chapel Hill and complete a tour in the Coast Guard before making her way back to the beach in 2017. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with a book and cup of tea in hand, planning her next travel adventure.
