The northernmost village of the Hatteras Island "Tri-Villages," Rodanthe NC (pronounced roh-DAN-thee) is one of the Outer Banks' small, coastal towns that seems to fade right into the others, including Waves and Salvo. This town, however, is most famously known as the setting for the famous Nicholas Sparks novel Nights in Rodanthe and as the home of Old Christmas. This celebration takes place on January 6 and is based on the "Old Style" Julian calendar.
The rest of the year, this beautiful town is the perfect place for an Outer Banks escape where you can enjoy miles of protected coastline, untouched beaches, and quaint local stores and restaurants that you won't find anywhere else in the world. Rodanthe not only offers beautiful vacation rentals with amazing views and plenty of fresh, salt air, but it is also the perfect spot for windsports and watersports, such as parasailing, kite surfing, and kite boarding, as well as fishing, surfing, and stargazing! The possibilities on this out-of-the-way vacation spot are endless and offer everything you need for an unforgettable trip to the Outer Banks.
History of Rodanthe NC
Located on Hatteras Island in the southern Outer Banks, Rodanthe NC is a small, historic town that was once part of an area known as "Chicamacomico," which also included Waves and Salvo. No one is quite sure why the name "Rodanthe" was chosen to designate the area formerly known as North Chicamacomico, but the name itself originates from Greece and means "rose bud." Regardless, Rodanthe has become synonymous with watersports, including kiteboarding and surfing, and the abundance of natural wildlife and undeveloped sands of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
The towns' location near the easternmost point in North Carolina (Cape Lookout), made it the perfect place for the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. Chicamacomico was the first of seven Lift-Saving Stations built in North Carolina by the U.S. Life-Saving Service in 1874. The US Life-Saving Service would eventually become part of the U.S. Coast Guard which still maintains a station nearby at Oregon Inlet today. The 1918 Mirlo rescue by the men at Chicamacomico is still considered one of the most important rescues in the Coast Guard's history during which 42 sailors were saved during a German U-Boat attack.
Tourism & Economy in Rodanthe NC
Thanks to its position between the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Rodanthe NC plays a vital role in the Outer Banks vacation economy. The town draws visitors seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a peaceful atmosphere that supports small businesses, restaurants, and Rodanthe vacation rentals.
Community & Geography of Rodanthe NC
Rodanthe is an unincorporated community and census-designated place on Hatteras Island in Dare County, part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. With a population of just 213 as of the 2020 census, Rodanthe offers visitors a peaceful, small-town experience that’s perfect for an Outer Banks vacation away from more crowded beach destinations.
This quiet village is uniquely positioned between the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge to the north and Cape Hatteras National Seashore to the south — a location that helps preserve its natural beauty while limiting large-scale development. Visitors will find that Rodanthe’s charm comes from this balance of seclusion and stunning coastal surroundings. The town is served by North Carolina Highway 12, which connects it to neighboring Rodanthe attractions and other communities on Hatteras Island.
ABOUT THE FAMOUS NIGHTS IN RODANTHE HOUSE
The most famous home in Rodanthe is undoubtedly the Inn at Rodanthe, a single-family home that was used to film exterior shots for the movie adaptation of Nicholas Spark's Nights in Rodanthe. The movie stars Richard Gere and Diane Lane and explores their relationship and romance on the island.
During the movie's filming, many locals of the Outer Banks appeared as extras on screen. In January of 2010, the home, which was previously known as Serendeipity, was in danger of being destroyed due to coastal erosion and was eventually moved to new site by the same company that moved the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
You can find out more about the book the film is based on in our Outer Banks Books Guide.
THINGS TO DO IN RODANTHE, NC
There are so many exciting things to do on this tiny stretch of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. Kiteboarders, surfers, birders, fishers, and windsurfers have been coming to this quiet stretch of beach for decades to enjoy its prime location, peaceful atmosphere, and out-of-the-way location that facilitates a fun Outer Banks vacation.
NIGHTLIFE & EVENTS IN RODANTHE NC
Below is our list of some of the best things to do in Rodanthe NC, including watersports, shopping, restaurants, exciting attractions, and even a taste of local nightlife. Don't expect dance clubs or large concerts, but Rodanthe is ideal for family-friendly events to whisk you into warm summer evenings of laughs and fun.
- Market Monday: Soundside Sunset Market
Kitty Hawk Kites, 24798 North Carolina Hwy 12 Unit 001, Rodanthe, NC 27968
4:00 PM – SUNSET
Sound side Sunset Market Series provides yet another amazing opportunity for our talented local artisans, creators and makers to get in front of their clientele to share their wares, their stories, and their spirit with Outer Banks visitors and locals alike. - Mermaid Tail Tuesdays
Kitty Hawk Kites, 24798 North Carolina Hwy 12 Unit 001, Rodanthe, NC 27968|
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Make a splash every Tuesday with Mermaid Tail Tuesdays! Meet a real-life mermaid, pose for magical photos, and enjoy hands-on fun with fairy hair tinsel crafts and shell painting. It’s an afternoon full of sparkle, smiles, and seaside magic! - Game Night Wednesdays
Kitty Hawk Kites, 24798 North Carolina Hwy 12 Unit 001, Rodanthe, NC 27968
7:00 PM – SUNSET
Join us every Wednesday for Game Night! Enjoy a fun-filled evening with a variety of board games and outdoor favorites perfect for all ages. Whether you’re feeling competitive or just in it for the laughs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! - Thursday Kite Night
Kitty Hawk Kites, 24798 North Carolina Hwy 12 Unit 001, Rodanthe, NC 27968
7:00 PM – SUNSET
Kites, glow sticks, and bubbles are fun for all ages here at Kitty Hawk Kites! Come and join us for some bubbly activities including lessons on Kite Flying in one of the windiest areas on the East Coast. Come enjoy the thrill of kite flying as the sky fills with vibrant colors and watch as the fun continues into the night with glowing glow sticks lighting up the evening. Whether you’re soaring your kite high or dancing with glowing lights, there’s plenty of fun and excitement for everyone. It’s the perfect way to end the week with fresh air, fun activities, and a glowing good time! - Fishing Fridays
Kitty Hawk Kites, 24798 North Carolina Hwy 12 Unit 001, Rodanthe, NC 27968
7:00 PM – SUNSET
Cast off into fun every Friday with Fishing Fridays! Join our friendly instructor to learn the basics of fishing—how to tie a hook, bait it, cast, jig, and safely handle your catch. It’s a hands-on experience perfect for beginners and curious anglers of all ages!
ATTRACTIONS
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
14500 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Enjoy an unforgettable experience whether you're coming to birdwatch or simply stroll through acres of natural, untouched wildlife. The refuge includes many different habitats including beach, dunes, braskish ponds, and marshes and is home to more than 370 different bird species.
Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station
23645 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
One of the most complete historic life-saving stations in the United States, a visit to the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is a must for any history buff or Coast Guard or Navy veteran. Explore the museum and learn more about some of the most exciting rescues in U.S. history that took place right off the coast.
RODANTHE NC RESTAURANTS
Austin's South Island Seafood & Vacuum Packing Company
24202 B. NC Hwy. 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Austin's is a great place to pick up some fresh, local seafood to grill back at your vacation rental or for already prepared meals on the go!Beads & Beans OBX
24202 NC 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
A combined coffee house and bead studio, head out for some breakfast and stay for the local art!Good Winds Restaurant
24502 HWY 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Good Winds is the place to go when you're looking for the perfect dining atmosphere and fresh, local seafood.Lisa's Pizzeria
24158 NC Hwy 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
This Hatteras Island Staple offers delicious food, some of the best pizza on the Outer Banks, and free delivery on the island!Neptunes Kitchen and Dive Bar
24394 North Carolina 12 Rodanthe, NC 27968
Head to Neptunes for comforting American cuisine, great drinks, and a good time!Taqueria Las Ahumadera
4394 NC 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Enjoy fresh, authentic Mexican food from this family-run business right on the island!
SHOPPING
Pirates of Chicamacomico
23881 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Stop by Pirates of Chicamacomico for an eclectic variety of beach-themed gifts and unique Outer Banks treasures.Rodanthe Surf Shop
23580 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Whether you're looking for gear rentals, a new wetsuit, or some stylish clothes, Rodanthe Surf Shop has everything you need to go totally tubular!Reef Beachwear
24782 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Step on into Reef Beachwear for all your bathing suit and beach towel needs.Kitty Hawk Kites
24502 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Up and down the Outer Banks, you'll find that Kitty Hawk Kites has everything you need to enjoy watersports or a day at the beach. Don't forget to pick up a souvenir while you're there!
Kitty Hawk Surf Co.
24502 NC HWY 12, Waves Village, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Kitty Hawk Surf Co. is a great destination to pick up new and used equipment for a variety of watersports including surfing and skimboarding.
Nora's Wish
23772 NC HWY 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Visit Nora's Wish for unique local art and beautiful beach-themed gifts for everyone in your life!
WATER SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
Charlies Trivillage Watersports
24768 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Charlie's offers a wide range of watersport rentals including pontoon boats, skiffs, jet skis, tiki boats, and kayaks.Kitty Hawk Kites Kiteboarding School
24798 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
For the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure, sign up for Kitty Hawk Kites' Kiteboarding School and spend your time in Rodanthe having the adventure of a lifetime!Rad Kite & Jetski
25094 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Rad offers jet-ski rentals as well as kiteboarding lessons for the adventure-seeker in your family group.
RODANTHE NC RESOURCES
Rodanthe Beach Access: 23731 NC 12 Highway, Rodanthe, NC 27968
Features 97 parking spaces, a bathhouse, outdoor showers, picnic tables, oceanfront gazebo
Rodanthe Pier LLC: 24251 Atlantic Dr, Rodanthe, NC 27968
The Rodanthe Pier offers wonderful sightseeing and fishing from Easter to Thanksgiving. Enjoy a fun family atmosphere while fishing from the pier!
