This Captivating North Carolina Town Is A Dreamy, Coastal Getaway With Storybook Charm

Tucked away on Roanoke Island in the Outer Banks, the small, charming town of Manteo, North Carolina is a stunning coastal destination with beautiful waterfront views and an uplifting community spirit. With sailboats docked in the marina and gorgeous homes with picket fences, it feels like something from a picture book. Yet, Manteo is well within reach in the real world, with Norfolk International Airport in Virginia being the nearest major transport hub, located just under a two-hour drive away. Going this route, you'll arrive in Manteo by crossing over the Washington Baum Bridge, where you can enjoy stunning views of Roanoke Sound as you enter town.

For those planning a trip here, Manteo has plenty to offer. Stroll down the historic waterfront of Old Manteo, browse a selection of locally-owned boutiques, and enjoy fresh-caught seafood at a range of dockside restaurants. A top choice is Darrell's Restaurant, a family-style spot that serves up the best fried oysters around and hearty barbecue dishes.

Thanks to Manteo's location, it's a great jumping off point for exploring some of the area's other destinations. These include the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (an Outer Banks beach that is a yearly favorite for family vacations), Wanchassee, and Fort Raleigh City. If you plan on truly exploring all that the Outer Banks have to offer, it's worth spending around a week or two here.

If you only have the chance to check out one landmark, make sure it is The Elizabethan Gardens. This 10-acre botanical garden was created as a living memorial to the first English colonists in the New World. The garden is still open year-round (except January) and can be visited between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m or from 11 a.m. on Sundays. It is closed on certain holidays. The gardens feature a range of seasonal blooms, the Queen's Rose Garden, and plenty of shaded paths. Entry tickets are $12 for adults, with discounts available for children and seniors.

Another must-see is the Roanoke Island Festival Park. This interactive history center allows visitors the opportunity to tour a representational 16th-century ship, explore a reconstruction of an original English settlement site, and experience a range of Native American heritage exhibits. Though the park is open seasonally between mid-March and late-December, it's well worth the visit. Entry is $11 for adults, and if you plan on enjoying a walk while in the area, be sure to take a sunset stroll along the Manteo Boardwalk, where there's a chance you could spot some dolphins swimming by!

To ensure you make the most of your trip, it's also good to pack appropriately for the coastal climate. Even when the temperature is forecast to be warm, the sea breeze can carry a bit of a chill, so it's a good idea to wear layered clothing and bring a jacket. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes are all also worth bringing and essential if you visit during the summer months. If you plan on taking a day trip to the beach during your stay, then swimwear and a towel are a must!

Manteo boasts a huge range of accommodations, offering everything from charming waterfront inns to family-run bed and breakfasts and even boutique hotels. Some of the most popular choices for visitors include The Tranquil House Inn (with rooms starting around $200 to $250 per night), and the White Doe Inn (with rooms starting at roughly the same cost). Both of these stays offer cozy, coastal-inspired decor and are conveniently located within walking distance of plenty of great shops and dining options. There's also a selection of vacation rentals in the area, which are perfect for those planning a group trip or who plan on being in the area a little longer.

As you may have guessed by now, the best time to visit Manteo is during the summer, or between late spring and early fall. The weather is beautifully warm, with temperatures reaching highs of 86 degrees. This makes it a perfect time of year to experience Manteo in all its beauty, by enjoying outdoor dining, sailing, and fishing. There's also a great range of lively festivals and vibrant farmers markets operating during the summer, an excellent season to visit if you're a fan of local culture. If you plan on visiting during the off-season, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is considered to be one of the best spring vacations to take in the state. Visit later in the year, and you'll want to plan your stay in either September or October, as the area is also considered to be a fun US destination for a Labor Day weekend getaway, as this point during the year offers quieter streets, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds.