North Carolina’s coast is full of beautiful locations with fantastic views, great surf, and vast stretches of golden sand. While there are plenty of ideal places to stay, Roanoke Island is the best area in the Outer Banks for families. The combination of prime vacation rentals, incredible amenities, and an array of attractions and activities make this the perfect place for all ages!
Discover how you can make the most of your trip to the Outer Banks by downloading our complimentary Vacation Guide!
Why Roanoke Island Is the Best Area in the Outer Banks for Families
1. Vacation Rental Selection
The vacation rentals selection on Roanoke Island the best in all of the Outer Banks, especially with Pirate’s Cove Realty. We offer an incredible range of properties in several prime locations on the island. Our gated community is home to amenities that are second to none in the Outer Banks. If you want to be close to the action of downtown Manteo, we have more than a handful of homes and condos that are within a stone’s throw away from shops, restaurants, and the waterfront. We also have a collection of waterfront condos in Shallowbag Bay that are a short bike ride away from downtown.
2. Pirate’s Cove Amenities
So what makes Pirate’s Cove one of the best places to stay for families in the Outer Banks? Well, our gated community on Roanoke Island offers unparalleled amenities in a safe and beautiful area. You can walk from miles on our boardwalk and soak in the gorgeous views of Roanoke Sound as the sky glows during a picturesque Outer Banks sunset. We also have an on-site restaurant and a tiki bar overlooking the marina. Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar provides an incredible waterfront dining experience for all ages. You’ll also find a pool, a game room, a general store, and of course, our world-class marina.
3. Roanoke Island Attractions and Activities
The attractions on Roanoke Island add to the list of reasons why it’s the best place to stay for families in the Outer Banks. Our island is home to Manteo, one of the best towns on the coast. This charming village gives you access to the best beaches in the area as well as inland highlights like the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Our island is rich in history, restaurants, and attractions that are perfect for families and couples. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site commemorates the first English attempt at colonialization in North American that mysteriously disappeared, and The Lost Colony show provides an award-winning and entertaining interpretation of this piece of history.
In addition to this island highlight, the Elizabethan Gardens, North Carolina Aquarium, and the Roanoke Island Festival Park provide plenty of fun for everyone in your group. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shops, including a brewery and a distillery. Pirate’s Cove Marina and the town of Wanchese on the south side of the island have an extensive list of charter boats, sunset cruises, and dolphin adventures as well. Check out our properties in Manteo and across the island to plan your trip to the best town in the Outer Banks!
The Best Beaches Near Roanoke Island
Roanoke Island’s close proximity to many incredible beaches is another reason why it’s the best area in the Outer Banks for families.
Nags Head
It’s no secret that the Nags Head beaches are some of the most sought-after vacation spots along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. There are over 30 public access points to the 12 miles of pristine seashore where you and your family can frolic in the ocean, build sandcastles on the beach, and relax with your favorite book or drink under an umbrella. Visitors can also bring their dogs if leashed.
Kill Devil Hills
The thin strand of sand draped up and down the coast of this history-laden beach town is perfect for long walks, surfing the celebrated Kill Devil Hills waves, and relaxing with your favorite cold beverage. There are many public access points up and down the beach in addition to over 15 lifeguard stations that rotate on a scheduled basis.
Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is one of the best Outer Banks beaches for families. This beautiful stretch of sand located in between Kill Devil Hills and Southern Shores has several public access points, including one near the Black Pelican Oceanfront.
Duck and Southern Shores
If Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills are both crowded, head up to the beaches in Duck and Southern Shores. The picturesque shoreline of this stretch of the Outer Banks is the perfect place to relax with the family on a warm sunny afternoon.
Corolla
If you want to experience one of the most unique beaches in the Outer Banks, head up to Corolla. While the actual beach isn’t anything to write home about compared to other nearby stretches of sand, but there’s nothing quite like gazing at the wild horses wandering the area.
Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Island is a fantastic place to enjoy a day trip from Manteo. While the charming beach town warrants some exploring, but the tranquil shores of this island are among some of the most beautiful spots on the North Carolina coast!
Explore the Outer Banks With Us
Now that you know all of the fantastic benefits that come with your stay at a Pirate’s Cove property, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you want to explore the rich local history of the first English settlement in America or relax on the beach (which is only a 10-minute drive), there are endless ways to make the most of your stay. Don’t forget to check out our Things to Do page!
Browse our collection of condos and houses and book your Outer Banks family vacation today! We look forward to welcoming you to the Pirate’s Cove family.
