The Best Outer Banks Date Night Restaurants

The Outer Banks are an assortment of barrier islands off the North Carolina Coast overflowing with natural beauty and rich American history dating back to the first attempted English Colony. This enchanting region boasts plenty of incredible restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients and waterfront views that are perfect for date nights during romantic getaways. Atlantic Realty offers a lovely array of Outer Banks vacation rentals with amenities that will suit every couple’s desires. From pet-friendly options to private pools and oceanfront views, our OBX vacation rentals are sure to make your couples retreat extra special.

couple strolling hand in hand
couple strolling along the boardwalk

7 Good OBX Restaurants for Romantic Date Nights

  1. NC Coast Grill & Bar: Indulge in tasty dishes in a chic and laid-back atmosphere overlooking the water. With a 4.4-star rating from over 796 reviews, this is an excellent date night restaurant for a romantic evening. 
  2. Red Sky Cafe: With over 30 years of culinary excellence and creative tasty cuisine, this is easily one of the best date night restaurants in the Outer Banks. We aren’t their only fans, they also boast 5.7K Facebook followers and 5.1K Facebook likes. 
  3. JK’s Restaurant: Head to Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, for one of the best date night restaurants around, with a 4.6-star rating from over 1116 Google reviews and delicious steaks, seafood, and wood-fired grill cuisine. Enjoy an elegant ambiance and a delicious meal with your sweetheart.
  4. Ocean Boulevard Bistro & Martini Bar: Tucked within Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, is one of the best Outer Banks date night restaurants, featuring a 4.7-star rating from over 559 Google reviews. Indulge in delicious seafood and cocktails together in an upscale dining setting. 
  5. Trio Restaurant and Market: Couples can enjoy one of the best Outer Banks date night restaurants or grab some treats from the market to enjoy in their OBX vacation rentals. With a 4.7-star rating from over 980 Google reviews, it’s clear to see we’re not alone in enjoying this spot.
  6. The Paper Canoe: Feast your eyes on elegant waterfront dining on American gourmet cuisine. They also feature a stunning 4.7-star rating from over 662 Google reviews.
  7. The Blue Point: Taste the flavors of authentic Southern cuisine with creative twists and ingredients sourced from the Outer Banks. They also feature waterfront views and a 4.6-star rating from over 1111 Google reviews.

Find the best places to stay in the Outer Banks at Atlantic Realty!

Enjoy Romantic Getaways in the NC Outer Banks

Romantic getaways in the NC Outer Banks are an enchanting experience filled with rich American history and the allure of coastal charm. Regarding accommodations, Atlantic Realty offers the best places to stay in the Outer Banks. Our vacation rentals offer a delightful blend of comfort and luxury for couples seeking a memorable escape in the Outer Banks. Choose the perfect accommodations for your NC romantic getaway from our portfolio with options that will suit every heart’s desire, from oceanfront views to even pet-friendly options. 

chairs overlooking the sunrise
Experience a romantic Outer Banks sunrise or sunset

5 Best Ways To Enjoy Romantic Getaways in the NC Outer Banks

  1. Stroll Along Some of the Nation’s Most Iconic Beaches

Embrace the magic the Outer Banks beaches are known for through long romantic walks together during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, golden light over the sandy beaches creates an enchanting ambiance, perfect for romantic getaways in NC. You can add an additional touch of romance with one of the picnic setups offered by Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass Program partners. Relax and let DREAMART OBX Picnic Co. or OBX Pop Up Picnics do the work for you. Or you could add a personal touch and enjoy whipping up some picnic recipes together in your vacation rental’s fully-equipped kitchen.

  1. Explore the Outer Banks With Horseback Riding Tours

Whether you and your sweetheart are horse lovers or want to enjoy a new experience together, the Outer Banks horseback riding tours are a dreamy choice for romantic getaways in NC. There is no experience required to enjoy this unique experience on the Atlantic Coast. You can also enjoy a wild horses tour to view these majestic creatures living freely in their natural habitats.  

  1. Try the Best OBX Restaurants During Romantic NC Getaways

Romantic getaways would not be complete without indulging in some of the best restaurants in the NC Outer Banks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Point, JK’s Restaurant, and Tale of the Whale Restaurant are some excellent choices for a truly special date. 

  1. Cruise the Alluring Outer Banks With Your Special Someone

Embark on a dreamy boat cruise to be surrounded by the tranquility of the open waters with your special someone. Many tour operators offer private and intimate cruises tailored for couples. There are also boat tours with engaging activities like crabbing, shrimping, parasailing, fishing, and much more.

  1. Romantic NC Getaways in Premium OBX Vacation Rentals

Sometimes, the most romantic getaways are when you are simply enjoying quality time together, and our NC Outer Banks have an impressive selection of amenities to make this time extra special. Book your stay with Atlantic Realty to spend a relaxed evening in the comfort of amenities such as private hot tubs, balconies with ocean views, or game rooms that create a romantic atmosphere.

Your Guide to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Exploring the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is like stepping into a time capsule that bridges the past and the present. Nestled on the picturesque Roanoke Island in North Carolina, this site holds profound historical significance, particularly due to its connection with the mysterious Lost Colony of Roanoke and the Civil War. This site is overflowing with things to explore while staying in one of the Outer Banks vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty.
Staying in the Outer Banks vacation rentals provided by Atlantic Realty is like discovering your own slice of paradise along the stunning North Carolina coast. Choose from our OBX vacation rentals with options featuring oceanfront views, theater rooms, and private pools. Some of our rentals are even pet-friendly! The Outer Banks’ rich history and beauty, combined with the comfort of our OBX rentals, create an unforgettable vacation.

The Fort Raleigh Park
Fort Raleigh offers walking paths and historical markers to enjoy at your leisure

Top 9 Activities at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

  1. Lindsay Warren Visitor Center: Start your trip to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site at the visitor center. This center hosts engaging exhibits on the Roanoke Island Freedmen’s Colony, the English, the Civil War Battle of Roanoke Island, the Algonquian, and Reginald Fessenden.
  2. 1896 Monument: This monument marks the start of preservation efforts at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, a Croatoan native Manteo baptism, and the birth of Virginia Dare. She was the first English child born in North America.
  3. Earthwork: Learn about the earthwork and metallurgical activity that was present on the site for centuries. 
  4. First Light of Freedom: This monument at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site commemorates what was an important haven for formerly enslaved people. The Freedman’s Colony was set up on Roanoke Island during the Civil War era. 
  5. Freedom Trail: Embark on a hiking adventure on this 1.25-mile trail through maritime forest, Croatan Sound views, and near where the Civil War forts and Freedmen’s Colony once stood.
  6. Thomas Hariot Trail: This shorter hiking trail in the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site explores the maritime forest and the Albemarle Sound. Along the way, you’ll find interpretive signs describing the habitat and the Algonquian food and resource gathering methods. 
  7. Waterside Theatre: Watch the mysterious story of the lost Roanoke Colony come alive at the country’s first and longest-running outdoor symphonic drama.
  8. Etheridge Point Beach: The water here tends to be calmer and warmer than the ocean, making this the perfect beach trip. Etheridge Point has one of the best views of the Outer Banks, with sights such as the Wright Brothers Monument, Jockey’s Ridge, and Colington Island.
  9. Fishing: Enjoy a delightful day of fishing at the Albemarle Sound, which is adjacent to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. 

The range of accommodations offered by Atlantic Realty caters to various tastes and needs, offering an experience that’s not just about a place to stay but a gateway to an exceptional coastal adventure overflowing in history!

Explore the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station Historic Site

Exploring the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site is a journey back in time through the rich maritime history and heroic tales of the United States Life-Saving Service. Nestled along the scenic Outer Banks of North Carolina, this site offers a glimpse into the courageous efforts of the brave souls who risked their lives to rescue shipwrecked victims. This is just one of the many thrilling sites and activities to see when you book your Outer Banks trip in one of the vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty.  Take advantage of our Fun N Sun Pass Program and enjoy a complimentary admission to the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station museum.

Atlantic Realty offers a remarkable array of vacation rentals that cater to every traveler’s needs and preferences. Choose an Outer Banks vacation rental that will be the perfect home away from home. After a day of adventure, you can relax in our properties, which feature amenities like private pools, theater rooms, game rooms, and more!

Explore the Chicamacomico Lifesaving station and museum
Explore the Chicamacomico Lifesaving station and museum

Overview of the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station 

When you visit the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station Historic Site, you will learn about North Carolina’s first trained, shore-based rescue responders and the early history of the US Life-Saving Service/US Coast Guard. Come and explore two stations and five buildings at the most complete historic site of the nation’s remaining life-saving stations. This historic site is protected and preserved by the Chicamacomico Historical Association. 

The Mirlo Rescue conducted by the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station is recognized as one of the best rescues in maritime services history by the US Coast Guard. During World War I, the Chicamacomico crew saved 42 sailors from the British tanker Mirlo. The boat from this famous rescue in 1918 is kept in the original Chicamacomico building.

Tour the Beginning of US Life-Saving Service/US Coast Guard

You’ll begin your tour of the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station with a brief overview of the history of the US Life Saving Service and how this historic site has played an important role. You’ll watch a video and receive a brochure that will explain everything you need to know to access the five exhibit buildings. 

Exploring the Outer Banks while staying in one of the premium vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty will create lasting memories, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both!

Top Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Exploring the many fun things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a journey that reconnects you with the raw beauty of the natural world. Tucked on the North Carolina Outer Banks, this protected stretch of coastline is a haven for those seeking a unique coastal experience. 

Book an unforgettable vacation to the Outer Banks with Atlantic Realty. Choose your Outer Banks vacation rental from our selection of OBX rentals featuring amenities like theater rooms, private pools, and oceanfront views. We can’t wait to welcome you to the trip of a lifetime! 

The natural beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Where Is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore?

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches over 70 miles of barrier islands along the NC Atlantic Coast. The area is often called the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to its numerous shipwrecks off its coast during its rich maritime past. 

4 Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Beach Activities 

There are plenty of fun things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches. You can enjoy kite flying, picnicking, and shelling on the almost 70 miles of beach. Three historic lighthouses have options for tours. Off-road vehicles are another great way to explore the Cape Hatteras beaches. When the sun sets, you and your companions can huddle up by a beach fire. 

Fishing at the Cape Hatteras 

Fishing is one of the most popular things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The spring and fall are the best time to enjoy fishing at Cape Hatteras, but motivated anglers can find catches all year round. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center in Nags Head has one of the eastern seaboard’s most modern and largest charter boat fishing fleets. The Avon Fishing Pier is world renowned for its many record-breaking catches, especially with Red Drum fish.

Hiking at the Cape Hatteras 

Exploring the hiking trails is one of the best things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore to see the most remote parts. The Buxton Woods Trail loop starts and ends at the Buxton Woods Picnic. It will take you up close to the diverse maritime forest ecosystem and some of the highest points on Hatteras Island. The Open Ponds Trail is 9 miles out and back and winds along maritime forests, dunes, and the British Cemetery. 

Nature Viewing & Photography

One of the most wonderful things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is wildlife viewing, where you can capture beautiful photos. Come and gander at a herd of banker ponies, wildflowers, over 400 bird species, and more. The Bodie Island Marsh Blind wildlife-viewing platform is a great spot for visitors to observe the natural and distinctive beauty of the Outer Banks. 

Book your stay in one of Atlantic Realty’s Vacation Rental Homes, just a short drive away from Cape Hatteras National Seashore and explore the endless adventurous things to do there! 

A Brief Guide to Some of the Rich Outer Banks History

Few places in the nation are as rich in American history as the Outer Banks. From the first attempted English settlement to where the Wright Brothers made history with their first flight, the Outer Banks is much more than a premium beach vacation spot. Atlantic Realty is delighted to offer travelers a wide range of Outer Banks vacation rentals with a lot of bang for your buck. 

Many of our vacation homes and condos have premium amenities like full kitchens, private pools, theater rooms, and way more space than a hotel room could ever provide. Our Fun ‘N Sun Perks Pass lets guests enjoy complimentary activities and local discounts. Whether your heart desires a luxurious oceanfront property or an affordable condo rental, we have the perfect Outer Banks rental for you. 

Woman sitting on the Manteo Waterfront
The Manteo Waterfront features a boardwalk, shopping and restaurants

12 Places Overflowing With Outer Banks History

  1. Civil War Trail: Learn about the rich Outer Banks Civil War history on this self-guided trail of historical sites. 
  2. Elizabethan Gardens: Explore lovely gardens as authentic to the Elizabethan period as possible.
  3. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: the dangerous waters of the Outer Banks are called the Graveyard of the Atlantic, where over 600 shipwrecks have tragically claimed many lives throughout history. Shipwrecks are now rare today, but storms can uncover the remains of past shipwrecks along the Outer Banks beaches.
  4. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Visit the lighthouse that has protected some of the most dangerous waters on the Atlantic Coast.
  5. Chicamacomico Life-saving Station Historic Site: Learn about the history of the North Carolina US Life-Saving Service/US Coast Guard at this historic site in the Outer Banks.
  6. Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center: Explore the nature trails, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the original people who inhabited Hatteras Island.
  7. Island Farm: Experience the living history of people who lived in the Outer Banks during the 1850s.
  8. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site: Learn about the first attempted English Colony that mysteriously disappeared, the cultural heritage of Native Americans, and the Freedmen’s Colony established for formerly enslaved people. This is also where you can enjoy America’s second longest running outdoor drama – The Lost Colony.
  9. The Pea Island Cookhouse Museum: Learn about one of the most highly awarded rescue crews in the nation which was skillfully ran by an all-Black crew. 
  10. Roanoke Island Maritime Museum: Explore the rich Outer Banks’ maritime history.
  11. Roanoke Island Festival Park: Immerse yourself in living history through the Settlement Site, the Elizabeth II ship, the American Indian Town, and the Roanoke Adventure Museum
  12. Wright Brothers National Memorial: Visit where the Wright Brothers made history with their first flight off the shores of the Outer Banks.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Outer Banks by booking your stay with Atlantic Realty!

Explore the Dare County Civil War Trail

The Dare County Civil War Trail offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of events that shaped American history. The North Carolina Outer Banks overflow in American history spanning all the way back to the first attempted English Colony on American soil. Book your trip today with Atlantic Realty!

Atlantic Realty has provided travelers with a lovely array of Outer Banks vacation rentals for over four decades. Our team of experienced professionals has deep roots in the region and is dedicated to helping guests find their ideal Outer Banks vacation rental. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, Atlantic Realty has a diverse portfolio of OBX rentals to suit every need and budget.

First Light of Freedom Market at Fort Raleigh
First Light of Freedom Marker . Photographer: Tom Bosse

Venture on the Dare County Civil War Trail

Book your trip with Atlantic Realty to immerse yourself in American history!

Enjoy a Lovely Outer Banks Beach Picnic

The Outer Banks offer an idyllic setting for a beach picnic, with endless stretches of sandy shores, gentle ocean breezes, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic Realty has a plush selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals with fully equipped kitchens perfect for whipping up the tasty recipe ideas in this blog post. Find your ideal home away from home from our properties featuring private pools, oceanfront views, theater rooms, and even pet-friendly options!

Picnic Setup on the Beach
Plan your perfect beach picnic on the OBX — Photo courtesy of DREAMART OBX Picnic Co.

Two of Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass Program partners offer enchanting picnic setups. Guests can enjoy a 10% discount at DREAMART OBX Picnic Co., the top luxury picnic company in the Outer Banks. Guests can also receive a 10% discount from OBX Pop Up Picnics, which specializes in picnic setups for a wide variety of occasions. Book your stay today to experience pure bliss on an Outer Banks beach picnic. 

9 Recipe Ideas To Try On Your Outer Banks Beach Picnic

  1. Cheese Platter 

A cheese board is a picnic staple, and this recipe will walk you through how to personalize your own. Learn how to choose your favorite cheeses, find the perfect accompaniments, and arrange a visually stunning board.

  1. Charcuterie Board

A skillfully crafted charcuterie board will class up any beach picnic. This recipe is another comprehensive guide from Bake It With Love that will walk you through how to create a board that’s sure to impress. 

  1. Fresh Fruit Salad

There’s nothing that screams summer quite like a fresh fruit salad. Follow this recipe for a delicious and fruity picnic side dish.

  1. Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade

 This super easy recipe will be the perfect way to quench your thirst during your dreamy beach picnic. This recipe should take you less than half an hour to whip up!

  1. Easy Sun Tea Recipe 

Sun tea is a beloved summertime drink in the South. Although sun tea is usually safe to drink, those with a weakened immune system should be cautious. The sun won’t make the tea hot enough to kill bacteria, like boiling water will. 

  1. Hippie Juice 

This fun and fruity cocktail will add a nice kick to your Outer Banks beach picnic. It should only take you under 10 minutes to mix everything up. 

  1. Pigs in a Blanket

These adorable finger foods are perfect for any beach picnic. With just three ingredients, these will be quick and easy to whip up in your Outer Banks vacation rental.

  1. Picnic Pie

This is a delicious and unique meal to try out during your stay in the Outer Banks. This recipe is vegetarian and includes a colorful array of veggies.

  1. Picnic Pizza Cob Loaf

If you’re a meat lover, don’t think we forgot about you! This delicious recipe will surely be a hit during your Outer Banks picnic on the beach.

Enjoy a dreamy OBX beach picnic by booking your stay in one of the lovely and spacious vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty!

Come to the Outer Banks for the Best 4th of July Vacations

The Outer Banks are the best place for 4th of July vacations because of the area’s rich American history and endless adventures. There are so many reasons a trip to the Outer Banks will be one you will treasure for a lifetime. Atlantic Realty narrowed it down to just seven reasons there’s no better place to spend the 4th of July!

American Flag in sandcastle on the beach
Spend 4th of July on the Outer Banks

Atlantic Realty has an incredible selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals in Corolla, Duck, Manteo, Nags Head, and other vibrant OBX communities. Many of our OBX vacation rentals feature premium amenities such as theater rooms, private pools, game rooms, and pet-friendly options. Book your 4th of July trip in time with Atlantic Realty. The Outer Banks are one of the best places in the world for 4th of July vacations, so accommodations fill up fast!

7 Reasons the Outer Banks Has the Best 4th of July Vacations

  1. Rich American History 

The best destination for 4th of July vacations is where America first planted its roots. The first attempted English colony settled into the Outer Banks. However, the Roanoke Colony mysteriously disappeared and nobody is sure to this day what happened. 

  1. Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park

Enjoy a marvelous fireworks show, live music, and family-friendly fun at Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park. Watermelon eating contests, games, food vendors, and cornhole tournaments are just some of the fun you’ll have at the 4th of July party. 

  1. Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park

Come and enjoy the Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park. Have a blast at the 4th of July parade, with live music, refreshments, and parade float competitions. 

  1. Perfect Beach Weather

The perfect beach weather is one of the many reasons the Outer Banks are the best destination for 4th of July vacations.The ocean water temperatures average 72 degrees and are perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. 

  1. The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run

Work off the barbeque, parade candy, and popsicles at The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run. There will also be a backyard 4th of July party and t-shirts. 

  1. Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Watch a fireworks display at the scenic Avalon Pier. The Town Of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular is also incredible for watching fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean. 

  1. Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration 

The Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration is easily one of the best 4th of July events for guests to check out during their Outer Banks vacations. Enjoy games, activities, patriotic trivia, decorated bike competitions, apple pie contests, and more!

Book your stay with Atlantic Realty for the best 4th of July vacations!

The 2023 Season of The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama

The Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) produces The Lost Colony production to honor and celebrate the significant American history of Roanoke Island. It tells the story of the first English Colony in the Americas that mysteriously disappeared. The play debuted in 1937, and it is now the longest-running outdoor symphonic drama in the United States. 

The Lost Colony is the longest running outdoor drama

Book your vacation today with Atlantic Realty to experience The Lost Colony show for yourself. From plush oceanfront rentals to pet-friendly options, we have an impressive selection of spacious vacation rentals in the Outer Banks, perfect for every group size, budget, and personal taste. 

Immerse Yourself in American History

During this world-class performance, you’ll feel like you’re there in 1587 when the first pilgrims set foot on American soil. Witness the birth of the first English child in America, Virginia Dare. Become immersed in the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth I and her court. 

Continue the magic after you’re done watching The Lost Colony. Check out the Elizabethan Gardens to feel like you’ve entered a time of unmatched extravagance. These gardens are as authentic to the Elizabethan period as possible when the Roanoke Colony first set foot on the island. 

Experience the Lost Colony of Roanoke

The Lost Colony Tickets

Atlantic Realty Guests can get one free ticket per reservation to The Lost Colony performance with the Fun N Sun Perks Pass. Additional tickets can be purchased directly on The Lost Colony website. All sales are final unless you purchase Performance Cancellation Insurance. The show will go on no matter if there’s rain or shine, but if, for any reason, the show gets canceled, you can exchange your tickets for a different night.

The Performance Location

The Lost Colony stage is massive, and over three times larger than most stages you’ll find on Broadway in New York City. The address is 1409 National Park Dr., Manteo, NC 27954. 

The 2023 Lost Colony Play Season Dates

The Lost Colony 2023 season will run from June 2 – August 26.

Choose From a Plush Selection of Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

Atlantic Realty has a stunning selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals for you to choose from, including in Manteo, NC, where The Lost Colony takes place, and the nearby town of Nags Head, NC. No matter what your heart desires, you will find affordable options for your stay during The Lost Colony 2023 season. Choose from properties with oceanfront views, private pools, theater rooms, and pet-friendly properties. 

P.S… You can save even more money on other activities with Atlantic Realty’s Fun’ N Sun Perks Pass. Book your stay with Atlantic Realty today and enjoy The Lost Colony.

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