For that reason and many more, we named the Outer Banks our2025 Vacation of the Year.

The island consists of two communities, the main town of Manteo and the neighboring village of Wanchese.

If youre looking for an idyllic coastal escape, heres the best way to spend a weekend in Manteo.

Manteo, North Carolina

Credit:Getty Images

outerbankscruises.com; 400 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, P.O.

you could also schedule a shrimping and crabbing charter from the Shallowbag Bay marina.

There are also costumed interpreters and an Adventure Museum to further tell the areas history.

Manteo, North Carolina

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

If so, make a trip to the North Carolina Aquarium, the states largest aquarium.

Theres live music, boat drinks, and plenty of raw oysters to go around.

Another mid-day favorite isOlives, an authentic Greek taverna owned by Nick and Gayle Mourgides.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is perched on Shallowbag Bay.Credit:Peter Frank Edwards

Grab A Drink

Manteo may be small, but its not short on beverage options either.

To excellent ones to consider include the Tranquil House Inn and The Roanoke Island Inn.

Roanoke Island Festival Park

Credit:Peter Frank Edwards III

The Lost Colony

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

Downtown Manteo

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

Manteo Historic Walking Tour

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

Island Farm

Re-enactors depict life on Roanoke Island in the 1850s at Island Farm.Credit:Peter Frank Edwards

Blue Water Grill

Courtesy of OuterBanks.org.

Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop

Credit:Peter Frank Edwards III

The White Doe Inn

The White Doe Inn in Manteo.Credit:Peter Frank Edwards