A Guide to the Top Spots for OBX Soundfront Vacation Rentals
Vacation Planning: Top Spots for Outer Banks Soundfront Vacation Rentals

The Outer Banks — a chain of barrier islands off North Carolina’s coast — is renowned for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and for being great for families. While oceanfront properties often steal the spotlight, soundfront vacation rentals offer their own unique charm. If you’re in the midst of vacation planning, these hidden gems are perfect for a serene and scenic getaway in the OBX.

Wondering where to stay on the OBX sound side? In this blog, we’ll give you the lowdown on the top spots for OBX soundfront vacation rentals, along with a brief description of what makes each location special.

Before We Dive In: Here’s a Little About Us…

At Village Realty, we offer a curated selection of exceptional vacation rentals, featuring stunning properties on both the soundside and oceanfront, ensuring you find the perfect getaway for your coastal escape. Our handpicked rentals provide the perfect home away from home. And because we are local experts, we cover many relevant topics on our blog, from explaining the local seafood culture to everything you need to know about fishing.

Now, let’s dive in and explore the wonders of the soundside in the OBX.

The Debate: Ocean vs. Sound

Choosing between oceanfront and soundfront rentals in the Outer Banks presents a fun, yet challenging decision for vacationers. Both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. Oceanfront properties give you direct beach access, crashing waves, and expansive sea views, making them perfect for traditional beach lovers. On the flip side, soundfront rentals offer calmer waters, spectacular sunsets, and a quieter atmosphere.

The choice often comes down to factors like family composition, budget, vacation goals, and the amenities you’re after. While oceanfront rentals tend to be pricier, soundfront properties offer a serene retreat for a more affordable price. Many visitors enjoy experiencing both sides over different vacations or choose a central location for easy access to both.

Soundfront Magic: Why Choose the Calmer Side?

Soundfront rentals along the Currituck, Albemarle, and Pamlico Sounds offer a peaceful coastal experience. These properties are ideal for families with young children, as the waters are gentler and safer for swimming. For those looking to relax and enjoy the water without the crashing waves, the sound side is a perfect choice.

Wildlife lovers will be enchanted by the soundfront’s natural beauty. From your dock or deck, you might spot herons, ospreys, or even a family of ducks gliding across the water. And don’t forget the sunsets! Every evening, the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas, making sunset-watching a nightly ritual.

Quick Facts & Stats About the OBX Soundside:

• Location: Soundfront rentals are located along the western edge of the Outer Banks, bordering five main sounds: Currituck, Albemarle, Roanoke, Croatan, and Pamlico.
  
  
• Width of Sounds: These sounds vary from about 5 miles wide at their narrowest to 20-30 miles wide near Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands.
  
  
• Views: Panoramic views of the open water rival those of oceanfront homes, offering stunning sunsets.
  
  
• Pricing: Soundfront rentals are approximately 30% cheaper per night compared to oceanfront properties.
  
  
• Water Conditions: Shallow, calm waters with small waves make the sound ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities.
  
  
• Beach Access: Though not oceanfront, many properties are within 1600-5000 feet of the beach, either by walking or a short drive.
  
  
• Size Range: Soundfront homes can range from 4 to 12 bedrooms, accommodating families and large groups alike.

Waterfront Wonderland: Activities at Your Doorstep

Staying on the sound side opens the door to all sorts of water activities. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular pastimes, and the calm waters make them accessible for beginners and pros alike. Windsurfing enthusiasts will also love the sound’s steady breezes, offering an exhilarating experience for those seeking adventure.

Fishing fans will appreciate the chance to cast their lines right from the dock. The sound is home to species like flounder, red drum, and speckled trout. And if birdwatching is more your style, you’re in for a treat. With a pair of binoculars, you can spot coastal birds like great blue herons and pelicans diving for fish.

The Outer Banks Soundfront Tour: Top Locations Unveiled

Nags Head: Where History Meets Modern Luxury

Nags Head offers stunning views of Roanoke Sound, creating the perfect backdrop for your vacation. With close proximity to Jockey’s Ridge State Park, you’re only a short drive from the largest living sand dune on the East Coast. Soundfront rentals here often come with spacious accommodations, private pools, and game rooms, making them great for family vacations or group getaways.

Corolla: Upscale Retreats and Wild Horses

Corolla’s soundfront rentals overlook the peaceful Currituck Sound and provide a more secluded, luxurious escape. These rentals often feature gourmet kitchens and spacious decks, ideal for cooking up fresh seafood dinners. And, if you’re lucky, you might spot the famous wild horses that roam the area, descendants of Spanish mustangs from centuries ago.

Duck: Quaint Charm Meets Family Fun

Duck’s soundfront properties offer beautiful views of the Currituck Sound and are just a short walk from the town’s charming shops and restaurants. Many rentals feature private boardwalks leading directly to the water, making them perfect for evening strolls or early-morning paddleboarding. Duck’s family-friendly vibe and endless activity options make it a top pick for all ages.

Kill Devil Hills: Aviation History and Coastal Beauty

With panoramic views of the Albemarle Sound, Kill Devil Hills offers a peaceful escape with a touch of history. This town is home to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. Soundfront rentals here often boast large outdoor spaces for barbecues, family gatherings, and stargazing on warm summer nights.

Kitty Hawk: Where Land, Sea, and Sky Converge

Kitty Hawk’s soundfront rentals provide the best of both worlds, with easy access to both the sound and the ocean. Kitty Hawk Bay offers a serene backdrop, and many rentals come with private docks—perfect for those planning to bring or rent a boat.

Hatteras Island: A Fisherman’s Paradise

Known for its wide, open views of Pamlico Sound, Hatteras Island is a favorite among fishing enthusiasts. Many soundfront rentals here come equipped with features like fish cleaning stations and easy access to charter boats. Its remote location offers a truly immersive experience for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds.

Manteo: Island Living with a Historical Twist

Manteo’s soundfront rentals offer a picturesque view of Shallowbag Bay and Roanoke Sound. Just a short stroll from historic downtown Manteo, you’ll find quaint shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Roanoke Island Festival Park is also nearby, offering a deep dive into the area’s colonial and Native American history.

Southern Shores: Secluded Soundfront Escapes

Southern Shores is perfect for those seeking a more private retreat, with soundfront rentals offering sweeping views of Currituck Sound. Many properties here sit on large wooded lots, providing extra privacy and seclusion. Some rentals even come with their own private sound-side beaches, offering a peaceful alternative to the bustling oceanfront spots.

Discover the Best of the OBX Soundside

The soundside of the Outer Banks offers a peaceful retreat with calm waters and beautiful views, perfect for both adventure and relaxation.

Water Sports Paradise

With its shallow, tranquil waters, the soundside is ideal for water sports. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, allowing you to glide through marshes and explore hidden coves. If you’re into kiteboarding or windsurfing, the steady winds make this area a hotspot, with schools offering lessons for all levels. For a thrill, rent a jet ski and race across the sound’s smooth waters.

Fishing & Crabbing

Anglers will love the inshore fishing opportunities, with flounder, red drum, and speckled trout all up for grabs. Crabbing is another fun activity, especially for families, with many rentals providing crab pots for catching fresh blue crabs right from your dock.

Nature & Wildlife Exploration

The OBX soundside is a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, and ospreys along the trails, while dolphin-watching tours offer a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Several easy-access nature hikes also wind through the marshlands and forests.

Boating Adventures

Take a sailing tour or sunset cruise to experience the serenity of the sound. For those wanting more freedom, boat rentals are available to explore quiet coves and nearby islands at your own pace.

Family-Friendly Fun

Shallow waters make the soundside perfect for young children to swim and build sandcastles. Scenic parks also offer picnic spots, making it a great family day out.

Scenic Enjoyment & Unique Experiences

The soundside is known for its stunning sunsets, offering breathtaking views perfect for photography. For something unique, try parasailing for an aerial view or dig for clams in the shallow waters for a fun, hands-on experience.

With many soundfront rentals offering private docks, kayaks, and paddleboards, you can easily dive into these activities. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the OBX soundside has something for everyone.

Wondering Where to Stay in Nags Head, Outer Banks, NC?

Where you choose the soundside or ocean font, Booking your stay with Village Realty means staying in one of our exceptional, handpicked homes. From the oceanfront to the sound front, we offer outstanding condo rentals.

Our number one priority? Your ultimate comfort and happiness. Our local staff will always go the extra mile to make sure you and your family have a special vacation in OBX.

Staying with us, all you have to care about is letting the coastal beauty whisk you away – and you can rest assured it will!