Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park is a popular destination on the Outer Banks, famous for its picturesque sand dunes and breathtaking water views. And most people visiting this far-flung beach destination choose to stay in Nags Head, where the park is located. But there's another small town near Jockey's Ridge State Park that most travelers skip right over: Manteo. This historically rich, scenic, and captivating small town in North Carolina has a world of its own just waiting to be uncovered.

Why This Town Is the Perfect Base for Jockey's Ridge State Park

Manteo sits on Roanoke Island, nestled between the Croatan Sound and Roanoke Sound. It isn't the closest small town to Jockey's Ridge State Park, but it's less than 20 minutes away (almost exactly 10 miles). In my opinion, this actually gives you the best of both worlds: proximity to the beach, but a small-town home base that has its own unique identity apart from the sun and waves. Plus, compared to the closer beach communities, Manteo offers something quieter. You'll still discover plenty of coastal charm, but the town's extensive history takes center stage.

What to Do in Manteo

One of the reasons that Manteo is so easy to fall in love with is its walkability. The historic downtown and waterfront district are both welcoming, pedestrian-friendly, and incredibly picturesque. One thing to know about the town as you begin your tour is its connection to the Lost Colony. This refers to England's first attempt to establish a permanent colony in America in 1587. The colony was made up of around 115 people who, three years later, had completely vanished. The only thing left behind was a single word written on a wooden post: Croatoan. To learn more about this fascinating chapter in history, spend some time at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

When you're ready to sit down to a top-notch meal, a breakfast from the Front Porch Cafe comes highly recommended. Serving excellent coffee and delicious, creative pastries, it's the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of sightseeing and beachcombing. (Pro tip: order the spinach and feta pastry!) Next up on the itinerary is a trip to the Elizabethan Gardens, famous for its stunning views of the sound, shaded paths, beautiful flowers and plants, and a peaceful atmosphere. To close out your day, venture to Nags Head for some time at Lost Colony Brewery, loved for its local beer and pizza.

Where to Stay Nearby

Manteo offers plenty of accommodation options, whether you're looking for a bed and breakfast or a rental home. One adorable option is the Roanoke Island Retreat, a beautiful space that's perfect for couples looking for a quiet and convenient home base. The beautiful woodwork gives the home a warm, comfortable feeling that you won't find at just any stay. The hosts live on the property as well, in a separate building, and sometimes the first floor of the retreat is also rented out as an Airbnb, but it has its own entrance, so your stay will feel completely private. Folks rave about the location and aesthetic, with one reviewer sharing that it was their best Airbnb stay to date!

What to Know Before You Go

Manteo and Jockey's Ridge State Park are popular year-round, but summer is undoubtedly the most popular time of year to visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider going in the fall or spring. And if you've yet to spend time at Jockey's Ridge, a little planning can go a long way. One of the best introductions to the park is the Tracks in the Sand Trail, a 1.2-mile hike that takes you past the beautiful sand dunes. Given that the trail is sandy, it can be challenging to walk on, so be sure to pace yourself and wear plenty of sun protection. For something a bit unexpected, why not try hang gliding? You can sign up for lessons and be airborne before you know it! One thing's for sure—you can't miss out on a famous Jockey's Ridge sunset.

So if you're looking for a different kind of Outer Banks experience, one that's marked by historic intrigue, charming storefronts, and lots to do, you'll be so glad you spent time in Manteo. Looking for related content? Take a look at this seaside town in North Carolina that's still flying under the radar. Or, if you're feeling inspired, take a look at our ultimate guide to state parks in North Carolina.