The EveryQueer team had the incredible opportunity to visit the Outer Banks in North Carolina and spend five blissful days exploring many charming small towns along the coast. I grew up visiting the beaches here with family and friends, so everything about this trip felt deeply nostalgic, bringing back sweet memories of sun-soaked days, packed lunches, and Capri Suns. Little me could never have imagined that, twenty years later, I’d return to work with The Outer Banks to create a gay Outer Banks Itinerary focused on uplifting the small businesses that support LGBTQ+ people, not just during OBX Pride, but all year round.
Outer Banks LGBT Fun Facts
Before we dive into the itinerary, here are a few key insights into LGBTQ+ culture and history in the Outer Banks—because understanding the local queer community helps us travel more thoughtfully and safely.
OBX Pride Week (Sept 12–14, 2025): The region’s biggest LGBTQ+ event features a free Pride Festival on Sept 13 at Roanoke Island Festival Park with live music, drag, food, and vendors—all set against a scenic waterfront backdrop.
Queer Beach History: In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Coquina Beach became a quiet haven for LGBTQ+ locals and performers. Today, community members still gather near The Lost Colony Theater and in parts of Nags Head.
Local Allyship: After North Carolina passed the anti-LGBTQ+ HB2 law in 2016, OBX businesses and leaders openly opposed it, helping establish the region as one of the more affirming destinations in the state.
Inclusive, Laid-Back Vibe: The Outer Banks offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with a low-key charm that defines the whole beach community. As a visibly queer person, I felt safe and welcomed throughout our entire stay. Many small businesses had just one restroom, making it naturally gender-neutral, and I also encountered other LGBTQ people working at several of the places we visited.
Where to stay in OBX
The Sanderling Resort – Duck, NC
For the perfect home base to unplug and settle into full vacation mode, The Sanderling Resort in Duck is where it’s at. Tucked between the Atlantic and the Currituck Sound, this place feels like a secret coastal sanctuary, with just enough luxury to make you feel spoiled. They’ve just wrapped up some major renovations in time for their 40th anniversary, and the whole space strikes that perfect balance of timeless charm and modern vibes.
One of the big highlights is The Lifesaving Station, their on-site restaurant. The food is Southern coastal comfort with a refined twist—think crab, corn, and all the things that taste like summer. Between the beach access, kayak sessions, morning yoga, and a dreamy spa setup, The Sanderling makes it really easy to sit back and relax.
The Pearl Hotel – Manteo, NC
Tucked into the heart of downtown Manteo, The Pearl Hotel is the kind of place that feels like a stylish secret—equal parts boutique charm and curated luxury. With just 16 rooms and a couple of suites made for families or friend groups, every space has its own vibe, blending Italian design touches with the conveniences of home, like their in-suite laundry facilities. It feels intimate and welcoming.
One of my favorite spots? The rooftop greenspace. It’s the perfect perch for soaking in views of the Roanoke Sound or just sipping something cold while the sky does its sunset thing. You’re also walking distance to the town’s galleries, cafés, and waterfront events, which makes it easy to dip into local culture without ever having to move your car. The Pearl nails that sweet spot between high-end comfort and small-town soul.
Renting a Home in the OBX – The Classic Way to Stay
There’s nothing like piling into a beach house with your favorite people for a week of sun, surf, and late-night deck hangs. Renting a house is the go-to way to experience the Outer Banks—perfect for everything from cozy getaways to big group trips. You’ll find everything from two-bedroom cottages to massive 10-bedroom homes with pools, game rooms, and theaters. Two great LGBTQ-supportive options are Kees Vacations and Carolina Designs Realty. Both have shown up for our community, not just during OBX Pride, but all year long. Support the businesses that support LGBTQ+ people; that’s the kind of travel that feels good from the start.
Day 1: Duck
Fly into Norfolk or drive straight to Duck
Getting to the Outer Banks from Norfolk International Airport is super easy. We rented a car at the airport and drove two hours, stopping at cute little scenic points along the way. There are tons of companies to choose from, and because it’s a smaller airport, the pick-up is incredibly quick and stress-free.
Check in to The Sanderling
First stop—The Sanderling Resort. This resort is a can’t-miss in Duck. We stayed in a large room complete with a small back patio that overlooked the pool and hot tub. They’ve just undergone a full renovation, so everything in the room felt new and super fresh for this upcoming season. What I really loved was how easy it was to relax. We could pop out the back door of our room and be at the hot tub in seconds. The vibe struck a perfect balance—there was just enough going on if we wanted to do something, but it was also quiet and peaceful when we just wanted to chill. Every staff member we encountered was warm and welcoming throughout our entire stay.
Relax on the Beach
The Sanderling Resort is located right on the beach. After a travel day, few things feel better than sinking into the sand. The resort has chairs and umbrellas for guests to use. It’s so nice to have those things accessible, especially for guests who are flying in for their stay and can’t bring a lot of beach gear.
Dinner at Lifesaving Station
Having a restaurant on property is convenient after a long travel day, and it’s even better when the on-property restaurant is truly delicious. We enjoyed an incredible meal at Lifesaving Station. We started with a warm crab that was served with naan, and honestly, days later, I am still thinking about how good it was. For our entree, we opted for a mahi over grits and a tenderloin over mashed potatoes, both were delicious. To close it out, we shared a piece of key lime pie, which hit the perfect notes of sweet and tangy. The service was lovely, and we chatted about how we were excited about having a couple of breakfast visits before leaving.
Sunset at Duck Dock
One of the best places to catch an OBX sunset is on the Duck Boardwalk overlooking the sound. Get there a little bit early and pop into Duck Toy and Ice Cream for a sweet treat.
Fire Pit at the Sanderling
The hotel has two great fire pits that they light after sunset. You can hear the waves, and it was still early enough in the season during our visit to enjoy that warmth from the fire. When we were there, we saw a sweet family come out and make s’mores together, so don’t forget to pick up the supplies for that. There is no better way to close out a night.
Day 2
Breakfast at the Lifesaving Station
Head right back to the Lifesaving Station at The Sanderling Resort for a fantastic breakfast. I highly encourage you to take a slight detour and stop in the high-top chairs at the top of the dune to take a look at the beach. There are few things better than the soft morning light and salty ocean breeze to complement a slow vacation morning. The breakfast menu is as good as what we saw for dinner. We both went for sweet options. I had a delicious French toast, and Meg opted for some delightfully fluffy blueberry ricotta pancakes. The portions were massive; we could have easily shared, but it was fun to try multiple dishes.
Shopping in Duck
Next stop on our Outer Banks gay weekend itinerary: Duck’s Cottage, part coffee shop, part bookstore, and all charm. We were in serious need of caffeine, and this cozy little spot—tucked inside the Waterfront Shops of Duck -hit the spot. It’s also an OBX Pride sponsor, which made it feel even more special. We spotted small makers featured throughout the shop, with Pride stickers and LGBTQ beach reads that instantly made us feel at home. It was such a joy to find a queer-friendly space so early in our trip.
From there, we meandered through the shops along the waterfront. The sun was shining, and everyone we met was incredibly friendly. A few of our favorite stops—though it’s hard to choose—were Outer Banks Olive Oil Co., Amity, and Islands.
Just a short drive away is another charming cluster of shops, the Scarborough Faire Shopping Village. We had a great time wandering in and out of stores here, too. One of the things we loved most was the tree-filled courtyard nestled right in the middle of the village—it felt like a hidden little escape. There’s another popular coffee shop here called Treehouse Coffee. We were already a couple of lattes deep, so we didn’t stop in, but it was clearly a favorite—lots of folks were hanging out, sipping coffee, and enjoying the outdoor space. A couple of our favorite shops in this area were October Jae Boutique and Modern Beach House.
Grab a drink at Swella’s Duck Dive Bar
After some fun shopping, sink into one of the bar stools or grab a rooftop seat at Swella’s Duck Dive Bar. Tucked in the back corner behind the Scarborough Faire Shopping Center, this spot feels like a hidden fort—perfect for plopping down once you’ve had your fill of browsing. There’s a cool kids’ area with picnic tables and a rooftop that really leans into that cozy, tucked-away vibe.
They’ve got tons of great summery cocktails and a solid selection of local beers on tap. We were especially excited to see a handful of small-batch sodas on the menu. As non-drinkers, it’s always a treat to find fun options that let us feel like we’re part of the experience too. Note to all bars and restaurants: up your mocktail game! Please and thank you.
Duck Deli
Head back toward The Sanderling Resort and stop at Duck Deli on the way. As a New Yorker, my idea of a deli is all about cold cuts and sandwiches—this was not that. We were surprised (and totally delighted) to find out it’s actually more of a barbecue joint. The vibe is easy and laid-back.
We ate in, but this would be a perfect grab-and-go option if you want to eat on the beach. We ordered the pulled pork sliders and were borderline drooling over how good the Carolina BBQ sauce was—super tangy and vinegar-forward in all the right ways.
Bike Riding or Beach Time
I’m of the belief that every day in the Outer Banks deserves some beach time. So use the afternoon to pick your own adventure. Either grab some beach chairs from the resort and find a quiet spot tucked below the dunes, or—if you’re in the mood for something a bit more active—rent a bike or book an activity through Kitty Hawk Kites at the kiosk conveniently located right on the Sanderling property.
Dinner at The Blue Point
The Blue Point in Duck is a must-visit for any Outer Banks gay weekend itinerary—not just for its outstanding food and cocktails, but because it’s also LGBTQ-owned. With a stunning outdoor space that sits right on the Currituck Sound, it’s one of the most beautiful places to catch the sunset in the Outer Banks. We grabbed a table just before golden hour, and the whole setting felt downright magical.
For dinner, I had the cornmeal-crusted catfish—crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection—while Meg went for the pan-fried local jumbo lump crab cakes, which were packed with sweet, fresh crab. We split the toasted marshmallow brownie for dessert, and it was pure decadence. If you don’t have time for dinner, you can still swing by The BackBar, tucked behind the restaurant right on the water. It’s the perfect spot for a cocktail or glass of wine and some lite bites while soaking in the view. The whole experience felt relaxed and welcoming, and knowing it’s an LGBTQ-owned business made it even more special.
Day 3
Kayak in the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest
Spend day three exploring a different side of the Outer Banks—gliding through the quiet beauty of the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest by kayak. We signed up for the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour through Kitty Hawk Kites, and it ended up being one of our favorite experiences of the trip.
It just happened that it was only us and our guide that morning, making it feel like a private tour. We had the option of choosing single or tandem kayaks, and they gave a quick intro to paddling techniques before we set off. Even though we’ve kayaked a few times before, I really appreciated how beginner-friendly the whole process was—it would be perfect for anyone trying it for the first time.
Our guide, Ty, was incredible. He shared all kinds of fun and fascinating facts about the local wildlife and plant life as we paddled through winding water trails under a shady green canopy. But it wasn’t just educational—Ty was super easy to talk to and shared a bunch of local tips, including the very important intel that Art’s Place has the best burger on the OBX.
If kayaking isn’t quite your vibe or you want to pack in more adventure, Kitty Hawk Kites offers just about every outdoor activity you can imagine across the Outer Banks. From hang gliding in the dunes to crabbing, fishing, and sunset boat cruises, they’re pretty much your one-stop shop for exploring the OBX. They’ve been around since 1974 and are actually the world’s largest hang gliding school, which is reason enough to check them out.
Drive to Manteo
Staying at two different hotels on this trip turned out to be such a great decision. Duck had that laid-back, beachy vibe, while Manteo felt like stepping into the most adorable Hallmark movie—complete with a marina, charming streets, and tons of locally owned shops. You could easily pick one spot and just day-trip between the two towns, but we really loved getting to experience both settings in full. It gave the trip such a fun contrast.
One of our first stops on the way to Manteo was Morning View Coffee House, the perfect place to refuel with caffeine. They had a huge variety of fun and creative flavors—if you love sweet coffee, this is your spot.
The menu felt like it was dreamed up just for vacation, with lots of coconut, chocolate, and other beachy combos. Honestly, if you’d asked me to create a menu of vacation lattes, it would have looked a lot like this one. Even the drive from Duck to Manteo was surprisingly enjoyable, with beautiful views and that classic Outer Banks charm the whole way down.
Stay at The Pearl Hotel in Manteo
Stay at The Pearl Hotel in Manteo because it truly feels like a home away from home, with a serious upgrade. The suite we stayed in was massive, honestly bigger than both of our New York City apartments combined.
It had two separate bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, which made it feel more like a full-on residence than a hotel room. The kitchen was fully stocked with everything you’d need to cook a meal (if you’re into that on vacation), but with so many great restaurants nearby, we opted to eat out every night.
The living room had a super cozy couch and a big TV that was perfect for winding down in the evenings. Most restaurants in the area close around 8:30 pm, so we found ourselves settling in early, which turned out to be such a nice change of pace. It made the whole trip feel more wholesome and relaxed—something we didn’t know we needed until we got there.
Explore Downtown Manteo
Downtown Manteo is the kind of place where you can park your car, wander around on foot, and just let the day unfold naturally. One of our favorite stops was Dare Arts, a nonprofit arts hub that’s been supporting creativity in the Outer Banks for nearly 50 years. It’s housed in a historic courthouse building, and stepping inside feels like entering a vibrant little world of its own.
They showcase everything from local paintings and photography to poetry readings and live performances. What really stood out to us was how welcoming and inclusive the space felt, especially their Pride Project, which features LGBTQ+ artists and hosts open mic nights and performances during Pride Month. It’s clear that Dare Arts is more than just a gallery; it’s a gathering place that uplifts voices and celebrates the diversity of the Outer Banks.
Just around the corner, we popped into Old Tom’s Beer, Wine and Provisions, a cozy, LGBTQ-friendly spot with the tiniest pride flag tucked into the corner—but the vibe was big and bold. Think local beers on tap, funky sodas in the cooler, and a super chill space that makes you want to linger.
We were greeted by Ian, the shop dog, who happily roamed around like the unofficial mayor of the place. There’s a whole stack of board games if you’re in the mood to hang out (we got a little too competitive with Connect Four), and the outdoor space was perfect for sipping and people-watching. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at ease—like you’ve found your local haunt, even if you’re only in town for the weekend.
Walk to Dinner at Stripers Bar & Grill
As the sun starts to dip behind the sound, take a stroll over to Stripers Bar & Grill, it’s just a short walk from downtown Manteo and absolutely worth it. Ask for a table out on the deck if you can; the view at sunset is unreal.
The whole place glows with golden light, and the water reflects everything like a postcard. This was one of those meals I dream about when I think of the beach: I ordered fried shrimp, crispy fries, and a sweet tea that hit just right. Chef’s kiss—it was simple, nostalgic, and easily one of my favorite bites from the entire trip.
The atmosphere at Stripers is fun and relaxed, like a classic beach town hangout. When we were there, a lively game of country music trivia was happening inside, and everyone was cracking up—it gave the whole evening such a warm, easy energy. If you’re looking for one of the best seafood sunset dinners on this part of the Outer Banks, this is it.
Ice Cream at Laughing Lollipop
End the night with something sweet at Laughing Lollipop Soda and Candy Shoppe—because vacation and dessert basically go hand-in-hand. There’s just something about a day at the shore that makes a sugar craving inevitable, and this spot in downtown Manteo totally delivers. The shop is full of nostalgic charm, with rows of colorful candies and an impressive variety of saltwater taffy (because, of course).
Meg went for the turtle ice cream—swirls of fudge and caramel—and immediately looked up with wide eyes and declared it delicious. I opted for a chamoyada, a sweet and spicy mango slushy loaded with mango chunks, chamoy sauce, and tajín-covered candy on top. It was bright, bold, and the perfect fun little kick to wrap up the evening. Whether you’re into classic scoops or adventurous treats, this spot is a must-stop after dinner.
Day 4
Morning at Bodie Island Lighthouse
Wake up early and kick off your day with a peaceful visit to Bodie Island Lighthouse, located at the northern tip of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This spot is iconic in the Outer Banks, and we made a point to get there in the soft morning light before the crowds rolled in.
We wandered around the base of the lighthouse, soaked up the quiet, read up on its history, and strolled out to the end of the boardwalk to watch ducks and fish gliding through the water.
Even if you don’t climb it, it’s absolutely worth the drive. We saw plenty of folks heading out on nearby hiking trails—we didn’t have time to explore them on this trip, but it’s something I’d definitely want to check out next time.
The Bodie Island Lighthouse (pronounced “body”) has been watching over this stretch of coastline since 1872, helping ships navigate the treacherous sandbars that give the Outer Banks its nickname, the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”
Standing 156 feet tall, it’s still active today with its original first-order Fresnel lens, casting light almost 20 miles out to sea. This is actually the third lighthouse built on the island—the first two didn’t make it due to bad foundations and Civil War damage.
You can climb it seasonally, and the views from the top are absolutely stunning: marshlands, forest, and ocean in every direction. Managed by the National Park Service, it’s one of the few lighthouses in the country still using its original lens, which is pretty amazing if you’re into that kind of history.
Coffee Break at Front Porch Café
From Bodie Lighthouse, we made our way to Front Porch Café for a much-needed caffeine boost—and it hit the spot. I went for the pistachio latte, which was perfectly nutty and not too sweet, and we split a cinnamon bun that was gooey, warm, and absolutely outstanding. This spot is such a cozy little gem. We sat outside on the porch, soaking up the sunshine and just enjoying the slow, easy pace of the morning. It’s the kind of place that feels like a local favorite, and now I totally get why.
Beach Afternoon at Avalon Pier
It’s your last full day in the Outer Banks, so obviously, beach time is non-negotiable. We decided to head to Avalon Pier, and it was the perfect spot to soak up the easygoing coastal vibes one last time.
We took a stroll along the pier first, then settled into the soft sand to watch the bravest beachgoers (mostly kids, naturally) splash around in the still-chilly Atlantic. We pulled out the books we’d picked up earlier in the week at Duck’s Cottage (check out the EveryQueer Queue to see what we’ve been reading), and just let the afternoon unfold.
One of my favorite things about the Outer Banks is how quiet the beaches are—you’re not shoulder to shoulder like you are in other places. There’s space to spread out, breathe, and just be. We ended up staying for hours, completely losing track of time. But honestly, I think that’s kind of the point of an OBX vacation—to relax so deeply that the clock stops mattering.
Drinks at Swella Brewing
From the beach, we made our way to Swella Brewing, a must-visit stop on any Outer Banks LGBTQ+ itinerary. The space is gorgeous—you can see right into where they’re brewing the beer, which gives the whole place this cool behind-the-scenes vibe.
There’s also a beautiful outdoor area and an upstairs deck that’s perfect for kicking back. It’s easy to see why OBX Pride has hosted events here—it just has that welcoming, laid-back energy that makes you want to stay a while.
We’re not big drinkers, but if you are, definitely consider trying one of their flights. We grabbed a couple of sodas and posted up by the bar for an hour or so, just soaking in the buzz of conversation and hearing people rave about the beers. It was the perfect low-key way to wind down the afternoon.
Dinner at Black Pelican
Have dinner at another great LGBT-friendly spot on the Outer Banks, The Black Pelican. This spacious restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, with a large menu that’s sure to please everyone in your group, making it a perfect choice when dining with a variety of tastes. We were in the mood for seafood, and the steamed shrimp and bacon-wrapped scallops entrée definitely hit the spot.
Black Pelican is bigger than most of the places we visited on the OBX, and during high season, I can imagine it buzzing with energy. With beautiful ocean views and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, it’s a standout restaurant. Plus, it’s one of the proud sponsors of OBX Pride, reflecting its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re enjoying the indoor ambiance or the fresh air on the patio, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a delicious meal with a side of great vibes.
Sunset at Jockeys Ridge State Park
Spend your evening at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to two of the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast. This is an absolute must-see, especially at sunset. Watching the sun dip below the dunes, casting warm light over the Roanoke Sound, is truly a special experience.
You’ll see families with young kids playing in the sand, teenagers testing out sandboards, and couples enjoying the view hand-in-hand—it’s one of those moments where you can’t help but appreciate the beauty of being together in nature.
@lindscale 📍Jockey’s Ridge State Park #obx #outerbanks #jockeysridgestatepark #kittyhawk ♬ Take My Hand – Matt Berry
To get to the best viewpoints, you’ll have to trek through loose sand, so it’s not a quick or easy walk, but it’s worth it.
Pro tip: leave early enough to avoid walking back to your car in the dark! You can also visit during the day—people come to hang glide, fly kites, and explore the dunes. With towering dunes reaching up to 110 feet and a mix of ecosystems to enjoy, Jockey’s Ridge is an ever-changing landscape, making it a place worth visiting again and again.
Day 5
Breakfast at Mia’s Bake Shop
Walk across the street from The Pearl to Mia’s Bake Shop and Tea Room, and you’ll be transported to a cozy spot that feels like a hidden gem. We came in for the tea (which was lovely), but what we really couldn’t stop talking about were the breakfast sandwiches. The biscuits were so flaky and delicious—Meg’s Brooklyn bodega could never compete!
The charming teapots and beautiful china were the perfect touch, making us dream of hosting our own garden party. Whether you’re in the mood for a soothing cup of tea or a satisfying breakfast, Mia’s is the kind of place that’ll make you want to linger a little longer.
Browse Downdown Books
Next door to Mia’s, you’ll find another great LGBTQ-friendly business that absolutely stole our hearts, Downtown Books. We’ve got a soft spot for queer-owned bookstores, and this one checked all the boxes. Whether you’re on the hunt for your next beach read or something to flip through on the flight home, this cozy shop delivers.
We spotted queer favorites like The Paris Library and Red, White & Royal Blue (Meg’s top rec for a light, travel-themed read). I wandered through the local photography section, daydreaming about making my own Outer Banks coffee table book, while Meg spent time exploring the banned books shelf, marked with cheeky caution tape.
We both loved the selection of queer-themed stickers, patches, and magnets—equal parts fun and thoughtful. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to buy five books when you only planned to browse.
Outer Banks Gay Itinerary Wrap Up
Unfortunately, this wraps our Outer Banks gay weekend itinerary—for us, that meant heading back to Norfolk Airport. We gave ourselves a little extra time before the drive so we could squeeze in one last stop at Ashley’s Espresso Parlour & All-Time Roasting Co. in Kill Devil Hills.
It turned out to be one of our favorite coffee spots of the whole trip. The vibe was super local—surfers and fishermen catching up over strong coffee—and the drinks absolutely delivered. They even have a whole room dedicated to fresh-roasted beans if you want to take some Outer Banks flavor home with you. We wandered down for one last look at the beach before hopping in the car, already dreaming about the next time we’d be back.
