Traveling with dogs can be one of the most rewarding ways to vacation. Many pups make excellent road trip companions, love exploring new places, and thrive when included in their family’s adventures. With so many dog-friendly rental homes, hotels, and restaurants available on the Outer Banks, visitors have plenty of options for a trip that includes their four-legged friends. The challenge often comes when choosing a destination that doesn’t offer enough dog-friendly activities to keep everyone happy.
That’s where the Outer Banks shines. Known for being one of the most dog-friendly vacation spots on the East Coast, the OBX offers endless opportunities for pups and their people to enjoy time together. From miles of unspoiled ocean and soundfront beaches to scenic trails, paths, and a wide selection of dog-welcoming restaurants, the Outer Banks is a true paradise for pooch lovers.
And, the best part is that your canine companion doesn't have to head for the house when you leave the beach. While it's true that Rover can't go inside any restaurants on the Outer Banks, there are plenty of venues — including some of the best dog-friendly restaurants OBX has to offer — that are happy to accommodate you and your furry friend at their outdoor seating areas.
Before diving into the list, here’s what to expect at many dog-friendly restaurants Outer Banks visitors love. Most pet-friendly spots offer outdoor patios with shaded seating, and water bowls are often provided for your pup. Leash policies vary, so be sure to keep your dog secured and check ahead during peak summer months, as seasonal restrictions may apply. With these tips in mind, here are just a few of our favorite hound-friendly haunts:
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Corolla, OBX
The Shack Coffee Shop and Beer Garden - Super-funky outdoor bar with eclectic decor that serves a wide selection of beer and welcomes dogs in the spacious beer garden.
Corolla Cantina - Located near the Corolla Seaside Vacations office, the Cantina serves up family-friendly "beach fare" for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The large outdoor patio welcomes you and your furry friend, too.
Off the Wall Tap House - A casual hangout offering craft beers, burgers, and small bites with plenty of dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Mama Easley's - Known for their seafood baskets and casual beach atmosphere, dogs are welcome to join you outside on the patio.
Bernie's Brother Tropical Grill - Relax with tropical cocktails, fresh seafood, and your pup by your side on the outdoor patio.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Duck, OBX
The Roadside Bar and Grill -Cool and quirky spot for lunch or dinner. Dine out on the dog-friendly patio or hit the "Backside Bar" for drinks, live entertainment and corn hole. Dogs welcome!
Duck's Cottage Coffee and Books -So much more than a bookstore, this popular shop serves up specialty coffees, hot cocoas and pastries. The shaded front porch is the perfect perch for your pooch, and the water bowl is always full.
Cravings - The outdoor umbrella tables are dog-friendly and perfect for relaxing with your favorite feline best friend. Table service is not availalble, so your pupper will have to hold your table for you while you order.
NC Coast Grill & Bar - Upscale coastal cuisine with dog-friendly patio dining overlooking the Currituck Sound.
Duck Deli - A local favorite for barbecue and sandwiches, with picnic-style outdoor seating that’s perfect for pups.
Coastal Cantina - Waterfront eatery with Mexican-inspired fare and a dog-friendly deck right on the sound.
Kitty Hawk Dog Friendly Dining
John's Drive In - For 40 years, John's has been best known for the best milkshakes on the beach. This seasonal hot spot features all outdoor seating, which means every table is dog-friendly!
Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill - Enjoy dining with your pooch out on the outdoor covered patio - and don't forget about their special dog menu!
Capt'n Franks - Grab some delicious hot dogs to enjoy with your dog outside at an outdoor table and enjoy the OBX sunshine.
Art's Place - Eat outside with your best friend on the covered porch, the side picnic tables, or the rooftop overlooking the ocean.
Spanky's Grill - Casual American spot with burgers, seafood, and sandwiches where pups can hang out with you on the patio.
Barrier Island Bagels - Famous for fresh-baked bagels and hearty sandwiches, with outdoor tables that welcome dogs.
TRIO Restaurant & Market - Wine, beer, cheese, and bistro-style eats with a pet-friendly patio area.
Swellsa Brewing - Craft brewery with a laid-back vibe where dogs are always welcome on the patio.
Kill Devil Hills Dog-Friendly Dining
Ten O Six Beach Road Bistro - Killer breakfast burritos served all day, yummy sandwiches and burgers for lunch, and now serving dinner for the summer season. What more could you ask for? A pet-friendly patio? You got it!
American Pie Pizza & Ice Cream - Come grab a slice of pizza on the covered patio with your pup while he enjoys some vanilla ice cream!
Pigman's Bar-B-Que - Traditional Carolina-style BBQ with picnic tables outside where dogs can join the fun.
Plaza Azteca - Mexican restaurant with a dog-friendly patio perfect for enjoying tacos and margaritas with your pup.
Beachside Bistro - Oceanfront dining with dog-friendly outdoor seating and a relaxed beachy vibe.
Five Guys - Famous for burgers and fries, with plenty of outdoor tables where dogs are welcome.
Ashley's Espresso Parlour & All-Time Roasting Co. - Coffeehouse serving specialty drinks and pastries with outdoor seating for you and your dog.
Kill Devil's Frozen Custard & Beach Fries - Treat yourself to custard and fries while your dog chills beside you at the outdoor tables.
The Saltbox Cafe - A charming hidden gem with a cozy patio where pups are always welcome.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Nags Head & South Nags Head
Surfin' Spoon - After a day of sun and fun, cool off at this cozy FroYo shop featuring a limitless assortment of toppings. Don't forget Fido - Surfin' Spoon offers a pup cup for dogs.
Blue Moon Beach Grill - A charming hidden gem with a cozy patio where pups are always welcome.
Mulligan's Grille in Historic Cottage Row - Classic OBX dining with rooftop and patio seating where dogs can enjoy the sea breeze with you.
Waveriders Coffee & Deli - Grab coffee, smoothies, or deli sandwiches and relax with your pup on the outdoor patio.
Sooey's BBQ & Rib Shack - A go-to for BBQ plates and sandwiches, with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Miller's Waterfront Restaurant - Soundfront dining with breathtaking sunsets and a pet-friendly deck.
Booty Treats Ice Cream & Shave Ice - Cool down with sweet frozen treats while your dog enjoys the dog-friendly patio.
Snow Bird Burgers & Cones - A walk-up burger and ice cream stand with picnic tables that welcome pups.
Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant - Seafood with a view and a spacious dog-friendly deck overlooking the sound.
South Beach Takeout, Catering, and Delivery - Quick, casual eats with outdoor picnic tables for you and your pup.
The Spot - Smoothies, coffee, and acai bowls served from a fun beach shack with outdoor dog-friendly seating.
Morning View Coffee House - Cozy coffee shop with locally roasted brews and a dog-friendly porch.
Front Porch Cafe - Local coffeehouse chain with dog-friendly patios for sipping lattes with your pup.
Freshfit Cafe - Health-conscious meals and smoothies with outdoor seating that welcomes furry friends.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Manteo
Ortega'z Southwest Grill & Wine Bar - Colorful Southwest-inspired menu with a dog-friendly courtyard.
Lost Colony Tavern - A British-style pub offering hearty meals and a pet-friendly patio.
Charis Coffee Company - Coffee and baked goods served in a welcoming atmosphere with outdoor dog seating.
NouVines - Wine and tapas bar with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area perfect for relaxing with your pup.
Hatteras Island Dining with Dogs
Waterman's Bar and Grill -Great sound views, good food, live entertainment and a pet-friendly patio make this an ideal spot to chill with family and friends.
Quick Tip: Many visitors enjoy pairing a beach day with a meal at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants the OBX has to offer. When heading to the beach with your pup, remember that local leash laws vary by town. Always carry waste bags and bring fresh water to prevent dehydration. For extra protection on hot days, consider dog-safe sunscreen before you settle into your outdoor dining spot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Restaurants in the Outer Banks
What should pet owners keep in mind when dining with their dogs?
Most dog-friendly restaurants in the Outer Banks that visitors enjoy have outdoor patios. Policies vary, so keep your dog leashed, check ahead for seasonal hours, and look for shaded seating areas. Bring water for your pup to ensure a safe and fun dining experience.
What are some tips for taking my dog to the beach in the Outer Banks?
Follow local leash laws, bring fresh water, and carry waste bags to keep beaches clean. Use dog-safe sunscreen on hot days. After spending time at the beach, many visitors stop at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants the OBX offers for patio dining with their pets.
Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in the Outer Banks?
Health regulations generally don’t allow pets inside restaurants. However, many dog-friendly restaurants in OBX offer outdoor patios where leashed dogs are welcome. Always check each restaurant’s policy before visiting.
Which Outer Banks towns have the most dog-friendly restaurants?
You’ll find dog-friendly restaurants across the Outer Banks — with popular options in Corolla, Duck, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Hatteras Island. Each town has outdoor dining spots that welcome pets, making it easy to plan meals with your dog in mind.
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