Create Guide

Introduction

Rodanthe, NC, is a charming coastal village on Hatteras Island, part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. With its peaceful beaches and windswept dunes, this quiet town captures the laid-back spirit of island life.

Founded in the early 1800s, Rodanthe has a rich maritime history and strong ties to fishing traditions. Visitors are welcomed with friendly hospitality, fresh seafood, and a love for the ocean.

Rodanthe is perfect for beach lovers, kiteboarders, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape. Its iconic pier, picturesque sunsets, and locations from the film “Nights in Rodanthe” add extra appeal for travelers.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleNot specified

DatesDate not specified

BudgetNot specified

AccommodationNot specified

Interests and Activities:

Not what you're looking for? Create Your Own Guide!

Key Facts

Time zone

UTCundefined

Map

Logistics

Rodanthe, NC is located on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, and the closest major airport is Norfolk International Airport (ORF), about 2.5 hours away by car. From the airport, you’ll need to drive, as public transport is limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and access to the Outer Banks' scenic byways.

There are no train or scheduled bus services directly to Rodanthe. Ferries from the mainland serve other Outer Banks villages, but Rodanthe is accessible only via NC Highway 12. Be aware: travel can be affected by storms or flooding, which occasionally close the highway, so check road conditions before your trip.

Weather

Rodanthe, North Carolina has a mild coastal climate, with warm summers and cool, breezy winters. Summer highs reach the low to mid-80s°F (27-29°C), and ocean breezes keep things pleasant, while winter temperatures rarely dip below the 40s°F (4-9°C). Humidity is moderate, and rainfall is evenly spread year-round.

The best time to visit Rodanthe is late spring through early fall, especially May to September, when beach weather is ideal and water activities are in full swing. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in August and September, so visitors may wish to avoid late summer if storms are a concern. Quiet shoulder seasons offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Food & Drink

Rodanthe’s local cuisine is all about fresh seafood—think shrimp, oysters, and local fish, often served fried, grilled, or in chowders. Don’t miss North Carolina specialties like hushpuppies and Carolina-style barbecue. Craft beers and sweet tea are popular beverages.

Top spots include Good Winds Restaurant for oceanfront dining, Lisa’s Pizzeria for casual eats, and Atlantic Coast Café for breakfast and seafood baskets. Most places are laid-back, with outdoor seating and family-friendly vibes. Tipping 18-20% is customary for good service in local restaurants.

Vegetarians and those with special diets will find options, but it’s smart to ask ahead, especially in smaller eateries. Many restaurants are seasonal and close in winter, so check hours before visiting. Reservations aren’t always necessary but recommended during the summer.

Accommodation

Rodanthe offers a range of accommodations, from cozy beachfront cottages to comfortable vacation homes. Popular neighborhoods like Mirlo Beach feature oceanfront rentals with stunning sunrise views. For booking, Hotels.com is an excellent starting point to compare local options and secure the best rates.

While large hotels and resorts are limited in Rodanthe, smaller inns such as the Sea Sound Motel provide a classic Outer Banks experience. There are also family-friendly vacation rentals with pools and pet-friendly amenities. Hostels are scarce, so groups often opt for rental homes, which are widely available and ideal for longer stays.

Itinerary

Attractions

5.0 (140 reviews)
Privately Guided Half Day Hike

Privately Guided Half Day Hike

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Whether you want to see waterfalls, wildflowers, enjoy a quiet walk on a forested path, or climb a 6,000 foot peak, we will customize these trips based on your desired distance, difficulty, and destination. After booking, our office will contact you to discuss your preferences. Hike will meet our office in downtown Asheville at 8:30am, and will last approximately 4-5 hours including transportation time. Snacks are included, but transportation is not. Transportation between Asheville and the trailhead (including hotel pickup) can be added for an additional fee. Your guide can provide trekking poles upon request at no additional charge. We hike rain or shine! Hikers should arrive prepared for all weather conditions and pack a rain jacket, an extra warm layer, and water. We may cancel or reschedule your hike in the event of severe or dangerous weather conditions. Curious about the other hikes we offer? Check out our website!

From $155 USD

View Details
5.0 (113 reviews)
THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)

THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This Family Friendly tour is operated by Wilmington Bike & Brew Tours here in Wilmington, NC. Be sure to check out our reviews here on Trip Advisor and also on Google. Search for us on Google Maps to find our reviews. Experience historic Wilmington, NC, and its historic & haunted sites by E-Bike while sampling Wilmington Craft Breweries. Sample some of the best craft beer on the coast! Each E-bike tour will include stops at multiple historic and significant sites throughout downtown and beyond! This tour is the perfect balance of history, interesting and haunted stories making it popular with solo travelers, couples, families with kids, and groups alike. Spend the day cruising around town on an electric bike checking out the Wilmington scene, and sample a beverage or two. Whether you’re just visiting or you’re a local looking for an adventure, our E-Bike Tour highlighting the culture and history of Wilmington is a fun and popular activity for people looking for a unique adventure!

From $80 USD

View Details
5.0 (30 reviews)
Private Waterfall and Blue Ridge Parkway Tour with a Naturalist

Private Waterfall and Blue Ridge Parkway Tour with a Naturalist

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our tours have been featured in Southern Living Magazine and MSN News! Join our expert guides, all experienced naturalists, as we discover the stunning waterfalls and mountain views that make Asheville famous! On our tours, we share stories from history and even do some plant foraging so you can eat along the trail! We skip the highway and take advantage of the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway as we venture into the woodlands en route to some of the BEST waterfalls in Asheville! You'll leave with a stick in your hair and unforgettable memories.

From $230 USD

View Details
5.0 (28 reviews)
French Broad River Kayak Tour in Asheville

French Broad River Kayak Tour in Asheville

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Semi-Private guided tour with certified naturalist kayaking through the city of Asheville on the serene French Broad River. Includes peak-a-boo views of the Biltmore Mansion and Estate.

From $75 USD

View Details
5.0 (27 reviews)
 Explore Asheville on Segway Tours

Explore Asheville on Segway Tours

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

What makes this tour unique is you have the ability to be at the eye level of someone walking, but you will see 4 times more of the city in comparison. Segways are a fun way to move around and see all that Asheville has to offer. We see all the sites in downtown. Including the Basilica, Wall Street, Pack square and more, this tour is not only full of visuals but packed with information on history, entertainment, and culture.

From $65 USD

View Details
5.0 (25 reviews)
Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy Walk

Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy Walk

INSTANT

Forest Bathing is the simple practice of walking slowly through the forest, connecting with the environment with all senses rather than rushing to a destination. Enjoy the magic along the way! I invite you to breathe deep and pause long enough to notice the gentle breeze on your skin, the sounds of the forest, and your busy mind relaxing its pace. Studies show that time in nature offers physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits that linger even after you've left the trail behind. A guided forest therapy walk is a unique avenue to unlocking these benefits. Hope to see you on the trail soon!

From $75 USD

View Details
5.0 (25 reviews)
Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography

Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

All photo tours include hands-on coaching and instruction to help you improve your photos both artistically and technically. Most tours include two guides, a husband and wife team who are skilled, award-winning Nature & Fine Art photographers. You get lots of personal attention and guidance, and tours are customized to the types of photography and natural locations that interest you the most.

From $150 USD

View Details
5.0 (21 reviews)
Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Cocktails, and History

Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Cocktails, and History

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Come visit Triangle Adventures just outside Raleigh, NC! Our most popular guided e-bike tour, the original one. Experience fan favorite local hotspots. Local fun facts and history along the way. Exhilarating e-bike ride along the Mountains to Sea Trail. Delicious lunch and cocktail included (bean burger and non-alcoholic drinks can be substituted.) Great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature on a pedal assisted e-bike (no actual pedaling required)! Google us, and check out our 5 star Google Reviews. Get ready for a fun time!

From $119 USD

View Details

Travel Essentials