Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for Pirate’s Cove Realty, letting visitors to the Outer Banks know about all the area’s best attractions while finding them the best deals and offers.
Enjoying a nice Outer Banks meal is always made better by the area’s scenery, sunshine, and shimmering views of the coast. Plenty of dining options across the barrier islands offer you everything from oceanfront tiki bars to peaceful patios overlooking the water. There’s plenty to enjoy, accompanied by some of the best views around, for any age, price point, and occasion. That’s why we want to take you through some of the Outer Banks’ best outdoor and waterfront dining options. No matter what you’re looking for, take in the views and vibes of the Outer Banks and find your new favorite coastal diner during your next trip!
For even more ideas for the perfect Outer Banks vacation, be sure to download our Vacation Guide! Inside, you’ll find all of the top activities to enjoy.
In this Blog:
- Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar
- Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop
- Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
- Blue Moon Beach Grill
- Fish Heads Bar and Grill
- Plan Your Outer Banks Getaway
Blue Water Grill and Raw Bar
This is one of the best raw bars around our properties to enjoy a date night while staying at Pirate’s Cove. While the restaurant may not offer true outdoor dining, this spot offers plenty of space to enjoy the outside weather, including Mimi’s Tiki Hut, the downstairs area featuring a marina, and on many nights, live entertainment. From creamy clam chowders to fried calamari and a fish of the day, there’s more than enough to fill your appetite while you’re at this Outer Banks eatery.
- Address: 2000 Sailfish Dr
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
- Menus
Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop
Founded in 1984, this Outer Banks staple has been a beloved landmark ever since. Sink into the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere of a ship’s cabin, paying homage to the area’s swashbuckling past as you explore the tons of options on the menu, with classics like Reubens and BLTs and specialty picks like the rockfish wrap and the grilled buffalo sandwich served on flatbread. Stop by for brunch or spend the evening at this local favorite for some of the best sandwiches around
- Address: 305 Queen Elizabeth Ave
- Hours: Monday 11 AM – 3 PM, 5–11 PM | Closed Sundays
- Menu
Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
This Nags Head spot is one of our favorite places to savor local seafood with a nice view of the Roanoke Sound. They serve up dishes filled with flavor, from lobster rolls to fresh scallops. The seaside location makes this an ideal spot to watch the sunset in their outdoor dining area. The best thing about Miller’s is its multiple staging areas, allowing you to post up inside the restaurant or head upstairs to the deck bar, where you can watch kiteboarders and windsurfers, or simply enjoy the sunset.
- Address: 6916 S Croatan Hwy
- Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Menus
Blue Moon Beach Grill
This Nags Head classic offers a spacious porch, fenced backyard, outdoor bar, and seasonal live music. The menu is full of Southern comfort food with a mix of creative coastal flavors, including smoked Gouda shrimp and grits, fish tacos, bouillabaisse, and a Mahi Mahi BLT served with jalapeño remoulade. Try the fried green tomato and shrimp Napoleon, or grab a glass of their Blue Moon Margarita. The outdoor areas are open to families and leashed dogs, making Blue Moon a laid-back choice for groups.
- Address: 102 E Dove St
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9 PM | Closed Tuesday
- Menu
Fish Heads Bar and Grill
This is another one of our top places to enjoy outdoor dining in the Outer Banks, and for good reason. This hotspot sits at the base of the Outer Banks Fishing Pier and provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Stop by for happy hour to dig into some no-frills seafood classics, with several fried shrimp baskets, specialty burgers, fish tacos, and more. Make a whole day out of this spot and grab yourself some space on the pier, where you can cast your line for some fish to share with the family at your rental!
- Address: 8901 S Old Oregon Inlet Rd
- Hours: 11 AM– 9 PM | Closed Monday and Tuesday
- Menu
Plan Your Outer Banks Getaway
Featured Stay: HV14 – Hammock Village 14
Pirate’s Cove is the ideal home base for those wanting to explore the Outer Banks on the water. Our properties are located on beautiful Roanoke Island, where you are steps away from the waterfront. Whether you want to launch your kiteboard from downtown Manteo or enjoy a relaxing retreat in our private gated community, you’ll find the perfect rental for your vacation. Explore all our rentals today, and be sure to book direct to get in on all our latest specials and save big at checkout!
