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.

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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.

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 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.

Credit:Peter Frank Edwards III

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

Credit:Courtesy of OuterBanks.org

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

Courtesy of OuterBanks.org.

Credit:Peter Frank Edwards III

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