Top 10 Things to Do in Duck

Charm is the word that immediately comes to mind when describing the spirit of the town of Duck, North Carolina. The unique boutiques, friendly community and awe-inspiring beaches and sound give Duck its reputation for being one of the best small towns in America. Duck was originally considered a sportsman’s paradise, but over the years, has grown to be a paradise for anyone who enjoys being immersed in nature and a simpler way of life. While vacationing on the Outer Banks, make sure to visit the Town of Duck and experience the beauty and charm firsthand. Here is our list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Duck.

1 // The Town of Duck Boardwalk

Stroll along the 3,386 square foot boardwalk for gorgeous views of the Currituck Sound and surrounding wildlife. The boardwalk is open daily from dawn to dusk. Get your exercise in during the morning and come back for a gorgeous sunset at night.

* Travel Tip – If you bring or rent a kayak or paddleboard, you can launch it from dock located in the middle of the boardwalk. There is also a designated fishing and crabbing area.

2 // The Town Green + Amphitheater

The Town of Duck creates its “small-town” vibe with various free community events throughout the year on the Town Green and Amphitheater. Perhaps the most popular event is the Duck Jazz Festival in October. In the summertime, there is a free event, open to locals and visitors Tuesday through Thursday that include exercise classes, a kid’s interactive theater, magic shows and evening concerts.

*Travel Tip – Visit our event page for the Town of Duck’s summer event schedule.

3 // The Waterfront Shops

Where else can you feed the geese and your shopping urges all at once? The Waterfront Shops provide a memorable shopping experience with over 18 shops, restaurants and eateries located along the sound.

*Travel Tip – Fuel up for a shopping trip with a morning coffee at Duck’s Cottage. The atmosphere and selection is just right for coffee and book lovers!

4 // Aqua Spa + Restaurant

Relaxing is an easy task at the Aqua Spa. The property functions as both a restaurant on the bottom level and spa on the top floor.  Soothe your body and soul with a massage, body treatment, facial or nail service paired with a beautiful soundfront view.

*Travel Tip – After your spa treatment, head downstairs for an appetizer and drink on Aqua Restaurant’s waterfront dining area.

5 // Nor’Banks Sailing + Watersports

Venture out to Nor’Banks Sailing & Watersports for a fun-filled day on the water. You can ride on the waverunners, go parasailing, tubing, paddleboading or kayaking. Pontoon and sailing boats are also available to rent.

*Travel Tip – Make sure to check the weather before booking to make the most of your watersport adventure. The calmer, the better!

6 // The Blue Point

Treat yourself to an upscale dining experience on the waterfront at The Blue Point. A true farm to table restaurant, The Blue Point’s menu changes along with the seasons. They offer creative seafood and meat entrees, fresh salads, wonderful appetizers, desserts and a fine selection of wines.

*Travel Tip – Make sure to start your meal off with one of their soups! They are delicious!

7 // Scarborough Faire Shopping Village

If you’re on the hunt of a special treasure or gift, the Scarborough Faire shops have a wide variety of beautiful items to choose from, including clothing, home decor, jewelry, books, food and more!

*Travel Trip – Visit on Wednesdays in the summertime for their Faire Day Festivals. Petting zoos, live music and crafts are just a few of the fun activities they have going on from 1:30-5:00 pm, beginning June 8th – August 31st.

8 // Duck Donuts

We might be biased, but most Outer Banks visitors would agree that Duck Donuts are the best donuts they have ever had. In our opinion, they taste even better at the original store where it all started; right here in Duck! The donuts are made fresh to order and pair perfectly with your morning coffee.

*Travel Tip – Maple bacon is a fan favorite, but go out on a limb and create your own combination!

9 // Paddleboard Tours

Stand up paddle boarding is a fun activity multi-generational groups can experience together. Take a tour on the sound or the ocean. Outer Banks Stand Up Paddle offers group and private lessons.

*Travel Tip – Bring the crew for a discounted rate. Introductory lessons are $40 per person for groups of 8 or more.

10 // The Beach

Uncrowded and pet friendly, the oceanfront in Duck is a prime location for those that what to get away from it all. The town does not have public beach accesses so there is no outside travel, beside locals and visitors that are vacationing there. The beaches are yours for the taking!

*Travel Tip – If you’re staying at a pet friendly home, your furry friends are allowed to be unleashed on the beach!

If you want to experience Duck for yourself, browse our wide selection of vacation rental homes.