Take A Trip To This Coastal Town For A Laid Back Couples Vacation

If your idea of the perfect romantic getaway looks like long walks on white sand beaches, munching on fresh seafood, and plenty of opportunities to relax and connect with your loved one, it's time to plan a trip to Nags Head. Located in the Outer Banks of coastal North Carolina, Nags Head has a friendly and casual atmosphere, making it ideal for an easy couples getaway. 

The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands scattered along the Atlantic Coast connected by bridges, and getting there will take you on a beautiful road trip route. With more than 100 miles of beautiful beaches, it's easy to see why more than 5 million tourists visit annually. Nags Head is overflowing with small-town Southern charm and packed with amenities like grocery stores, shops, and restaurants. Couples will have plenty of opportunities to experience life's simple pleasures together in a low-stress environment. Plan a picnic on the beach, swim in the sea, or enjoy a long bike ride along the coast for the perfect combination of relaxation, romance, and adventure.

The best activities for couples

Whether traveling to the Outer Banks for an anniversary celebration, a honeymoon, or a simple getaway to reconnect with your significant other, you'll have plenty of cute couples activities to choose from. Spend a few hours visiting an iconic Outer Banks lighthouse just a few miles away. The historic Bodie Island Lighthouse is just outside the town limits and towers an impressive 156 feet. When the lighthouse is open to the public, couples can climb the 200 steps to the top, where they'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding islands. Make sure to visit recreation.gov to make reservations if you plan to climb the lighthouse — otherwise, you can enjoy exploring the grounds and the small visitor center.

Nag's Head is full of excellent restaurants to try, but for an intimate night in, stop by Greentail's Seafood Market and Kitchen and pick out some freshly caught local seafood to cook at home. Enjoy browsing the nearby markets for local seasonal ingredients to create your meal. Alternatively, you can pack a picnic and Head to Jockey's Ridge State Park to watch one of the best sunsets in the Outer Banks.

Around Nags Head, you'll find plenty of shops to rent bikes and e-bikes at affordable rates, starting at $60 for up to one week. Bike around town and to nearby beaches together, enjoying the salty breeze in your hair. Fishing and boating are also popular pastimes for couples. 

Romantic places to stay

Since it's such a popular tourist destination and a yearly favorite for family vacations, there are plenty of options for accommodations in Nags Head. Pick quaint B&Bs, historic inns, beach cottages, and private vacation rentals. If you're looking for privacy, consider booking a secluded rental where you can make yourself right at home. Online marketplaces for private vacation rentals like Vrbo and Airbnb are excellent resources for finding the perfect place to stay in Nags Head.

Sea Spray Cottages offers cute historic cottages equipped with kitchens and located on the beach, starting at just $125 per night. They even allow dogs for those who want to bring their four-legged friends along for the adventure. If a boutique bed and breakfast is more your style, check out First Colony Inn. Bookings include a gourmet breakfast and a daily wine and dessert. The property is steps from the beach and has a pool, rocking chairs, and a library for guests. Many luxury rooms have small kitchens, jacuzzi tubs, and private balconies to relax in privacy with your loved one. Rates start around $155 per night.

Nags Head is one of the more populated areas of the Outer Banks, but the entire town is only 6.6 square miles, so regardless of where you stay, you'll be close to restaurants, shops, and bars, perfect for a laid-back date night with your sweetheart.