13 Bucket List Vacation Rentals in the Outer Banks That Feel Like a Dream

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated May 29, 2025 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
vacation rentals in the outer banks
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The Outer Banks blew me away on my first visit with those endless stretches of pristine beaches and that laid-back coastal charm you just can’t find anywhere else. After three trips exploring different areas, I’ve learned that picking the right vacation rental completely transforms your experience in this stunning string of barrier islands.

Corolla offers that perfect blend of upscale living with wild horse sightings and uncrowded beaches, while Duck delivers a more walkable village vibe with fantastic dining and water access on both sides. These are honestly the best places in the Outer Banks to immerse yourself in coastal Carolina living. From oceanfront mansions with private beach access to soundside retreats with epic sunset views, these 13 vacation rentals will take your OBX experience from great to absolutely unforgettable!

Vacation Rentals Outer Banks: Best Outer Banks Vacation Homes

Here are the Outer Banks vacation rentals by category, considering factors including amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.

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vacation rental in the outer banks, with a graphical overlay

Vacation Rentals in the Outer Banks: Gorgeous Beach Vistas

Finding the perfect outdoor getaway to an OBX beachfront has never been easier! With this list of the 13 vacation home rentals in the Outer Banks, you’ll be treated to gorgeous beach views, the beautiful ocean, and plenty of nearby activities. Check out all 13 options below!

1. Waves Crest Home

  • 📍 Location: Avon, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $171/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Outdoor pool, air conditioning, beach access, water sports gear
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏖️, water sports enthusiasts 🌊, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
this tall Outer Banks vacation rental is right on the sand
Credit: Vrbo
living area of the rental house, showing sofas and an island
Credit: Vrbo

Welcome to Waves Crest – a top-floor beachside condo with ocean and pool views, just steps from the sand. Perfect for families or small groups, this well-maintained retreat blends coastal comfort with easy access to fun and sun.

Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living area with a sofa bed, and two cozy bedrooms. Step out onto the private sun deck or enjoy the shared outdoor pool after a day at the beach.

A wooden walkway leads directly to the shore, with outdoor showers for a quick rinse. Grill dinner at the BBQ station, dine at the picnic table, or clean your catch at the fish-cleaning table.

Nearby, enjoy surfing at Hatteras Island Boardsports, fishing at Avon Pier, or diving adventures at Surf’s Up. This spot offers the perfect beach escape.

2. Anna’s Beach Cottage Oceanfront Home

  • 📍 Location: Rodanthe, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $290/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront views, private beach access, outdoor dining
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏖️, water sports enthusiasts 🌊, history buffs ⏳, family getaways 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
an OBX vacation rental with the sun shining on its outer deck
Credit: Vrbo
teal furniture in the living area of the rental house
Credit: Vrbo

Step into Anna’s Beach Cottage, a charming oceanfront retreat in the heart of the Outer Banks. Just 60 feet from the waves, this cozy getaway offers stunning views and a front-row seat to world-class surfing and kiteboarding.

Within, the fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, and dining space make it easy to enjoy family meals together. Sleeping up to 8 guests, you’ll find a king bed, a queen bed, and a queen-over-queen bunk.

Nearby, visit Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, explore Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, or climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Whether you’re fishing, surfing, or just relaxing, Anna’s Beach Cottage is the perfect place to unwind.

3. The Salty Soul Home

  • 📍 Location: Corolla, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $566/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 14 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Saltwater pool, hot tub, outdoor bar area, ample lounge furniture
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Large groups 👫👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, families 🏖️, sports enthusiasts 🏓, beach lovers 🌊
this vacation home rental in the Outer Banks is quite spacious
Credit: Vrbo
the inviting living area of the rental, showing the sofas and TV
Credit: Vrbo

The Salty Soul is a spacious 7-bedroom, 4-bathroom retreat in Corolla’s Whalehead community, just a 5-minute walk from Currituck Beach and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. The home features open living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and plenty of room for up to 18 guests.

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Outside, enjoy a private saltwater pool, hot tub, and pickleball court. A shaded pergola with bar seating and lounge chairs offers a relaxing spot to unwind after a day of sun and surf.

Explore 4×4 Beach, climb high at Corolla Adventure Park, or stroll through the historic charm of Corolla Village

Nearby, discover shopping and dining at Timbuck II, or take a short drive to Duck Town. With beach access and outdoor fun in every direction, The Salty Soul is the perfect home base for your Outer Banks escape.

4. Yankee Clipper Home

  • 📍 Location: Avon, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $137/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront views, renovated kitchen and bathrooms, shared pool
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🌊, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, relaxation seekers 🌅
the steps from the OBX vacation rental lead to the beach
Credit: Vrbo
blue furniture inside the rental house
Credit: Vrbo

Yankee Clipper is a beautifully remodeled 1,400 sq. ft. beachfront retreat in the heart of Avon, offering stunning ocean views and direct beach access. With three comfortable bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious great room, this home is perfect for relaxing.

Step onto the private decks to enjoy outdoor dining, catch the sunset, or feel the ocean breeze. From mid-May to October, cool off in the shared pool just steps away.

Take a short walk to Hatteras Island Boardsports, Avon Fishing Pier, and Surf’s Up for surfing, sailing, or scuba diving. Local shops, restaurants, and grocery stores are nearby, adding convenience to your stay. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure or peaceful oceanfront views, Yankee Clipper offers the perfect balance for your Outer Banks getaway.

5. The Wave House

  • 📍 Location: Rodanthe, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $1,127/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 16 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Heated pool, elevator (ADA accessible), panoramic oceanfront views
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Ocean lovers 🌊, large families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, beach enthusiasts 🏖️, game room fans 🎮
this tall vacation home rental in the Outer Banks shows panoramic oceanfront views
Credit: Vrbo
the rental's modern living area and kitchen
Credit: Vrbo

Wave House is a stunning oceanfront retreat in Rodanthe, offering Atlantic views and high-end comfort. This remodeled getaway features five luxurious bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen, and a top-floor living space.

Enjoy the heated pool, relax in the hot tub, or dine al fresco on the expansive deck. An elevator provides easy access for all, while the lower level offers a game room with a pool table, a second kitchen, and a bunk room.

Just a short walk from Rodanthe Pier and the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, this location blends relaxation with history and outdoor adventure. 

With direct beach access and beach gear provided, Wave House is the ideal setting for memorable family vacations in the Outer Banks

6. Tradewinds 2 luxury Home

  • 📍 Location: Nags Head, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $655/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 20 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private heated pool, hot tub, Tiki bar, theater room, elevator
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Large families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, reunions 🎉, luxury beach getaways 🌊
the green exterior of this OBX vacation rental
Credit: Vrbo
the inside of the rental, showing the living space and kitchen in the background
Credit: Vrbo

Tradewinds 2 is a luxurious 4,805 sq. ft. oceanside retreat in Windward Cove, just 200 yards from the beach. This 8-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom home blends comfort and entertainment, featuring a resort-style pool, hot tub, and a covered Tiki bar.

Inside, each King suite features a Kingsdown “Cool Wave” mattress for restful sleep, and added perks include an elevator, a poker room, and a fully stocked kitchen.

Spend time on the spacious decks or lounge in one of several cozy gathering spaces. Nearby, enjoy Jennette’s Pier, play a round at Nags Head Golf Links, or explore the Outer Banks Hospital area for shopping and dining. 

Tradewinds 2 is the perfect getaway for families and groups seeking comfort and fun.

7. Wish You Were Here Home

  • 📍 Location: Corolla, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $280/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 9 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private gated pool, rooftop deck with ocean-to-sound views, tiki bar, pet-friendly 🐾
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Family beach vacations 🏖️, dog-friendly getaways 🐶, Outer Banks explorers 🌅
an aerial view of the Outer Banks, NC vacation rental, showing the decks and pool
Credit: Vrbo
the sofas and kitchen inside the rental house
Credit: Vrbo

Wish You Were Here is a charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath cottage in Corolla’s Whalehead neighborhood. This cozy beach retreat sleeps up to 9, with a sunlit loft featuring a daybed and game table. 

After a day in the sand, relax by the heated pool, sip drinks at the tiki bar, or soak in the private hot tub.

Grill dinner on the deck, relax on the rooftop with panoramic views, or take a 5-minute walk to the beach via the Herring Street access. You’re also just a short drive from Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Corolla Beach, and local shops and restaurants

For more adventure, spot the famous Corolla wild horses or kayak along the beautiful coastline. Pet-friendly and full of coastal charm, this home is your perfect Outer Banks escape.

8. Oceanfront with Private Pool Home

  • 📍 Location: Nags Head, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $500/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private pool, hot tub, beachfront location, golf cart included
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏖️, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, oceanfront relaxation 🌊
the green exterior of the vacation home rental in the Outer Banks
Credit: Vrbo
looking out the windows of the rental from the cozy interior
Credit: Vrbo

Welcome to this stunning oceanfront home in South Nags Head, NC, offering the perfect retreat for families or groups. This spacious 2,500 sq. ft. home features 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 12 guests.

Indoors, the open-concept living area and kitchen are perfect for gathering. Enjoy ocean views from the front screened-in porch and rear deck, or unwind in the 6-person hot tub while watching the sunrise.

Head outside to enjoy the private pool and beach access, or take a short walk to Outer Banks Pier for fishing and dining at Fish Heads Ocean Front Grill.

Nearby, explore Jennette’s Pier, Outlets Nags Head, and Nags Head Golf Links. For fishing enthusiasts, visit Oregon Inlet Fishing Center for fresh catches. Whether you’re fishing, shopping, or simply relaxing, this beach home offers endless adventure.

9. Afterdune Delight Home

  • 📍 Location: Duck, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $377/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, pet-friendly, ocean views
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, beach lovers 🌊, relaxation seekers 🌅
the OBX vacation rental and pool off to the side
Credit: Vrbo
a sitting area inside the rental property
Credit: Vrbo

Begin your stay at Afterdune Delight, a spacious five-bedroom beach house in Duck Ridge Shores, Duck, NC, just 200 yards from the beach. This coastal retreat features a private pool, hot tub, and outdoor shower, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The interior features an open-concept living area and a fully equipped kitchen, providing a great space for gathering. Large decks offer breathtaking ocean views, perfect for sunbathing or enjoying the breeze.

Head out and enjoy easy beach access, or explore nearby attractions. Visit Duck Village’s charming shops and restaurants, try kayaking or SUP rentals, or spot wild horses in Corolla. You’re also close to Hatteras National Seashore and the Wright Brothers Memorial.

Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or venturing out to local sights, Afterdune Delight is the perfect beach getaway.

10. Gem of the Ocean Home

  • 📍 Location: Corolla, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $1,256/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 18 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, Tiki bar, beach access
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, beach lovers 🌊, relaxation seekers 🌅
the brown OBX vacation rental set among calming trees
Credit: Vrbo
the rental's living room, showing the furniture and fireplace
Credit: Vrbo

Unwind at the Gem of the Ocean, a spacious semi-oceanfront estate in the Pine Island community of Corolla, NC. This stunning home offers 5 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. 

Enjoy panoramic ocean views from multiple decks or relax in the private pool and hot tub. The newly added poolside Tiki bar, complete with a mini fridge and ice maker, is perfect for entertaining.

Outside, you’re just a short walk from the beach, with community amenities like tennis courts, multiple pools, and a children’s playground. Explore the National Audubon Wildlife Preserve, or play basketball and volleyball in the area. 

Nearby, explore the Currituck Golf Club for a round of golf, visit the Currituck Outer Banks Visitor’s Center to learn about the area’s history, or spend time at Corolla Beach for sunbathing. Whether you’re golfing, exploring, or relaxing by the ocean, this spot offers endless adventure.

11. The Dream Shack Home

  • 📍 Location: Corolla, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $385/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Heated pool, new hot tub, community tennis courts, soundside boat ramp
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🌊, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, adventure seekers 🏖️, relaxation enthusiasts 🛀
the OBX vacation rental in brilliant sunshine
Credit: Vrbo
a TV, fireplace, and living area near the kitchen of the vacation home
Credit: Vrbo

Settle into Dream Shack, the ultimate Outer Banks vacation home. This spacious 4-bedroom retreat, located in a peaceful cul-de-sac, offers stunning views of both the ocean and the sound.

Inside, the open layout features a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living area, and 4 spacious bedrooms, each with its private full bath. The home’s reverse floor plan ensures plenty of space to relax while enjoying the breathtaking views.

Step outside and unwind by the private heated pool or enjoy the nearby beach with easy access at Bonito St. Spend your days exploring local attractions like Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Whalehead Club, and the wild horses of Corolla.

Nearby, enjoy tennis and basketball courts in the community, or stroll through Corolla’s charming shops. Relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or explore the town—Dream Shack is the perfect Outer Banks escape.

12. The Gathering Place

  • 📍 Location: Duck, North Carolina
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $308/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront views, private pool, hot tub, pet-friendly, sun deck
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, beach lovers 🌊, relaxation seekers 🌅
the sandy exterior of the Outer Banks vacation rental, showing the ocean just beyond
Credit: Vrbo
the living area of the house rental showing the ocean through large windows
Credit: Vrbo

Step into The Gathering Place, a spacious oceanfront retreat in Duck, NC, perfect for family getaways. This home offers breathtaking ocean views and direct beach access via a private walkway.

The open living area with vaulted ceilings creates a bright, airy space. The fully equipped kitchen and cozy living areas are perfect for gathering. Each of the six bedrooms has an ensuite bath.

Step out and you’re just moments from the water. Explore Duck Town, with its charming boutiques and restaurants, or take advantage of Schooner Ridge’s indoor pool, fitness center, and game room.

In the vicinity, stroll the Duck Boardwalk, relax at Aqua Spa, or enjoy a short drive to The Sanderling Spa. From beach days to local shopping, The Gathering Place offers endless fun and relaxation.

13. Sweet Southern Pearl

  • 📍 Location: Nags Head, NC
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $312/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 5 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront views, private balcony, newly renovated
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🌊, relaxation seekers 🌅, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
entrance to the parking area of this Outer Banks, NC vacation rental, showing the sign out front
Credit: Vrbo
the sofas and sliding doors inside the rental, showing the deck and beach outside
Credit: Vrbo

Relax at Sweet Southern Pearl, a charming oceanfront condo in Nags Head offering a serene beach escape. This 954 sq. ft. condo features breathtaking ocean views and a 24′ x 6′ balcony where you can watch sunrises and dolphins in the surf.

The condo includes two bedrooms, with a king-size bed, queen-size bed, and twin-size bed, plus a fully equipped kitchen, in-suite washer/dryer, and two flat-screen TVs for your comfort.

Explore nearby attractions like Jennette’s Pier for fishing, Nags Head Golf Links, a scenic 18-hole course for golf enthusiasts, and Tanger Outlet Shopping, featuring a variety of brand-name stores. 

From relaxing on the beach to discovering the area, Sweet Southern Pearl offers the perfect coastal getaway.

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