The Outer Banks in North Carolina are renowned for having some of the most iconic beaches in the nation, inspiring hit TV shows, and Nicholas Sparks' romance novels. Popular spots like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk draw thousands each year, and for a good reason. But for those who crave a quieter, more secluded coastal experience, the Outer Banks has a wealth of hidden gem beaches waiting to be discovered when you book your stay in one of the premium OBX vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty.
Top 3 Hidden Away North Carolina Outer Banks Beaches
1. Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach, located within Cape Hatteras National Seashore just south of Nags Head, is one of the most overlooked hidden gem beaches of the Outer Banks. Despite its secluded atmosphere, the beach is equipped with lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and access for off-road vehicles (ORV). It is accessible via boardwalks and offers ample parking.
The beach is named for the vibrant coquina clams found here in warmer months and is home to the remnants of the Laura Barnes, a four-masted schooner wrecked in 1921. This stretch of Central Outer Banks shoreline is a favorite among surf fishermen, especially in spring and fall, thanks to convenient 4WD access and an abundance of fish species like bluefish and mullet.
Coquina Beach also draws beachcombers, surfers, and birdwatchers. After storms, the shoreline often yields colorful shells, sea glass, and marine treasures like sand dollars and starfish. Surfers enjoy the waves during offshore swells, while birdwatchers can spot shorebirds like plovers and sandpipers in the quieter months.
2. Salvo Day Use Area
Just south of the quiet village of Salvo, the Salvo Day Use Area is one of the most peaceful Outer Banks beaches—a soundside haven perfect for families, nature lovers, and watersports enthusiasts. Set along the calm Pamlico Sound, its shallow waters are ideal for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding, with local outfitters nearby for rentals and lessons.
This hidden gem offers clean restrooms, shaded picnic pavilions, grills, and ample parking—even for larger vehicles. Birdwatchers can spot herons, ospreys, and pelicans, while the surrounding wetlands provide quiet spaces for wildlife viewing and photography.
3. Carova Beach
For true adventure seekers, Carova Beach is one of the most remote Outer Banks beaches, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles. It has also been named one of America’s most secluded beaches.
It's perfect for a laid-back escape with no crowds, offering the chance to see wild horses on the shore. At the northern tip, you can enjoy unspoiled beauty with no paved roads or commercial development—just miles of sand and surf.
Find the Best Places To Stay in the Outer Banks
At Atlantic Realty, we believe the best OBX vacations are the ones that match your pace. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or a little of both, we offer a wide selection of vacation rentals with some oceanfront options near the iconic beaches in the North Carolina Outer Banks.
Reach out today to start planning a beach vacation that’s off the beaten path but never short on unforgettable memories!
12 bedrooms
12 baths
28 guests
