Shore Realty Logo
800-647-1868

Outer Banks Waterfront Ownership

For some reason, blankly staring at a body of water has the ability to relieve stress and leave one feeling relaxed. Throw in the sound of waves crashing on the beach or water lapping up against a bulkhead or pier and it's time to break out the lounge chair and sip on something cold.

The Outer Banks offers a variety of water frontage and water views to satisfy your desire for fun on the water. Read the brief descriptions below descibing the 3 major types of water front properties and follow the links for more detailed information about each.

OBX Oceanfront

Owning an ocean front house on the Outer Banks is a dream shared by a lot of people. Not many of them have the resources and/or the courage to actually make that dream come true. If you are one of the fortunate ones looking to buy an ocean front property then you should find these articles helpful OBX Oceanfront Articles.

OBX Soundfront

Soundfront: These properties are located directly on the various sounds (like the Currituck, Albemarle, Roanoke, Croatan or Pamlico Sounds) on the western side of the barrier islands. They often have private docks and offer views of spectacular sunsets. Here are some articles to show you the ins and outs of sound front ownership. OBX Sound Front

OBX Canalfront

Canalfront: Found in select neighborhoods like Colington Harbour and Old Nags Head Cove, these properties are located on navigable canals, providing direct boat access from your backyard to the sound. Not all canals are the same, so follow this link to find out what to watch out for when looking for OBX Canalfront Properties

Regulations for Building Waterfront Property

Building or renovating a waterfront home on the Outer Banks is subject to strict environmental and building codes to mitigate flood risk and protect the coastline.

CAMA Permit: Projects on the oceanfront, sound, or a canal often require a Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) permit from the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.

Flood Zones and Elevation: All of the Outer Banks is in some type of flood zone, making flood insurance necessary for most properties.

New construction is typically required to have the first floor elevated on pilings, often 9 to 10 feet above sea level, to qualify for minimal flood insurance premiums.

VE Zones (Wave Velocity Zones) are common for oceanfront and soundfront properties and have the strictest building requirements.

Oceanfront Setbacks: The Coastal Resources Commission enforces oceanfront setback requirements, which mandate a minimum distance a structure must be set back from the first line of stable, natural vegetation. These rules aim to reduce risk to property from erosion and storms.

Here are all of the water front homes currently for sale on the Outer Bnaks

Check this one out! This coastal home in Currituck NC located in the highly sought-after Bells Island community, offering water access and a community boat ramp w/voluntary HOA. for the ultimate boating, fishing, and jet ski lifestyle. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on a spacious corner lot and features a bright, layout with a large living room, cozy gas fireplace, and a relaxing sunroom perfect for year-round enjoyment. Ideal as a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity, this property delivers the best of coastal North Carolina real estate. Conveniently positioned among Currituck County homes for sale, you'll enjoy easy access to Elizabeth City, nearby Outer Banks real estate, and a close-to-Virginia commute--making it a perfect OBX nearby property. The community offers a voluntary HOA with clubhouse and boat ramp access, while still giving you the flexibility of no required HOA. Enjoy peaceful island living where every day feels like a vacation. Schedule your private showing today!
MORE
Welcome to 120 W. Sir Walter Raleigh Drive, a spectacular elevated soundfront retreat in Colington Island featuring 109 feet of pristine waterfront, a private boat dock, breathtaking panoramic views, and a beautifully finished private guest suite with separate living quarters ideal for extended family, guests, or rental income. Built in 2022 and thoughtfully positioned on a high homesite, this custom home captures both sunrise and sunset over the sound from nearly every room. From the moment you enter, you are greeted by light-filled spaces and exceptional craftsmanship. Expansive windows and transom accents frame the sparkling water, while the open-concept living area was designed to bring the outdoors in. Rich custom pine doors and trim, upgraded semi-gloss paint, commercial-grade flooring, and a dramatic all-oak staircase create a warm yet elegant coastal feel throughout. The spacious living room is centered around a gas fireplace and opens seamlessly to expansive composite decking, creating the perfect place for morning coffee, sunset cocktails, or simply relaxing while taking in the peaceful waterfront setting. The gourmet kitchen is both beautiful and functional, featuring custom all-wood maple cabinetry, quartz countertops, a farmhouse sink, double ovens, a gas range, upgraded Frigidaire appliances, soft-close drawers and cabinetry, and exceptional storage. The adjoining dining and living areas are perfect for entertaining while keeping the incredible views front and center. The upper level offers three spacious bedrooms and two luxurious baths, including two private suites with walk-in closets and beautifully tiled baths. The primary suite feels like a private retreat with sweeping water views, an oversized walk-in closet, and a spa-like bath featuring a custom-tiled shower with double showerheads. The lower level offers exceptional flexibility with a private guest or extended-family suite featuring two private entrances, a great room/rec room, a kitchenette, a stackable washer/dryer, a 4th bedroom, and a full bath. This separate living space is ideal for an accessory dwelling unit, guests, a home office, a media room, or a recreation room. Currently operating as the successful short-term rental “Dream Bay,” this lower level generated approximately $12,000 in rental income in just four months. Every detail has been thoughtfully upgraded, including Therma windows, upgraded siding and trim, custom cabinetry throughout, Nest thermostats, separate HVAC systems for each level, upgraded lighting and hardware, a propane fireplace, gas water heater, and gas range. Outside, the lifestyle is equally impressive, with a bulkheaded shoreline, an irrigation system, an outdoor shower, an enclosed lower-level sitting area, air-conditioned storage, and endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and enjoying life on the water. Located in the gated community of Colington Harbour with access to a soundfront park, pool, tennis courts, and recreation area, this remarkable property offers the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, versatility, and coastal living. This is the kind of home that makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and imagine yourself living every day surrounded by extraordinary views and unforgettable sunsets.
MORE
BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION in Kitty Hawk! Price Improvement! This beautiful new home is located in a quiet neighborhood within one of Kitty Hawk’s most desirable areas, thoughtfully facing the creek for calm, natural views and a peaceful atmosphere. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home features coastal inspired finishes and a thoughtfully designed layout, including a dedicated office space and storage space. Complete with 1570 square feet of heated living space and an additional 400 Square feet (approx.) of ground level storage space. Interior highlights include LVP flooring throughout, modern trim styling, brushed nickel hardware, and a bright color palette. The kitchen is equipped with quartz countertops and soft-close shaker cabinetry, while the main en-suite offers a custom tile shower. Durable LP Smart Siding enhances low maintenance coastal living. Outdoor living spaces include covered decks and a sun deck, perfect for enjoying the Outer Banks lifestyle. Conveniently located just minutes from beach access, dining, shopping, and local amenities, this newly built home offers quality craftsmanship and modern comfort in a prime Kitty Hawk location. Call for more details today!  Book your showing now!
MORE
6 bd
5 ba
"Somewhere" is a custom built coastal contemporary home in the four wheel drive area of the Outer Banks. This home was thoughtfully designed, well maintained, and updated with style and purpose. Located on one of the widest parts of the beach, with amenities like a private heated pool, game room, theater room, and gourmet kitchen, "Somewhere" is a popular vacation destination. There is plenty of room for family and friends with 6 bedrooms, 5 and a half baths, and multiple gathering spaces, inside and out. Conscious of the importance of maintenance, and guest experiences, the owners have enhanced the property with: construction of poolside pavilion with table and chairs, new water filtration system and purifier under kitchen sink, new Wifi with extenders on every floor, new smart tv's, a 4k projector for the theater room, new mattresses, replaced flooring in bedrooms and top floor with quality LVP for style and durability, upgraded shower in upstairs primary bathroom, and exterior paint job. If you have been looking for an Outer Banks home off of the pavement, "Somewhere" is where you want to be.
MORE
TWO RENTAL UNITS FOR ONE PRICE! This legal duplex offers exceptional flexibility with an optional connecting door on the top level—ideal for maximizing rental income or accommodating larger groups. Each side features 5 bedrooms and 4 baths, with matching furnishings and finishes (photos shown are Unit 305, the north side). Enjoy fantastic ocean views, expansive decks on every level, and spacious interiors designed for comfort and entertainment. Outside, the large private pool and generous pool deck create the perfect setting for relaxing afternoons and poolside gatherings. Situated on a rare 75-foot-wide lot, this property also provides ample parking spaces—a valuable bonus for vacation rentals. Centrally located in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, you’re close to beach access, dining, and attractions. Well-priced and income-ready—close before the season and start generating revenue immediately, with the option to make updates and enhancements later.
MORE
3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to Your Dream Soundfront Home in Kitty Hawk Landing! Nestled along the shores of the Albemarle Sound, this expansive waterfront property offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. The home boasts a private dock, ideal for stunning sunsets, and boat and fishing enthusiasts. Entering the front door, you encounter an open, bright space. The home features three spacious bedrooms, each designed with relaxation in mind. The owner's suite features an updated bathroom and impressive water views, making it a peaceful retreat. The modern kitchen is designed with ample cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances complemented by quartz countertops. The kitchen and breakfast nook offer serene views of the sound and morning sunlight, fostering an inviting environment to begin your day. The spacious deck adjacent to the living area allows for sunset viewing and features a gas line for grilling as well as a retractable awning. The large living and dining area offers magnificent sound views with plenty of room for entertaining friends or family and a gas fireplace for chilly days. On the first floor, you will also find a large laundry room, a powder room, and a closet that could be transformed into an elevator. The home includes two bedrooms and a full bath on the second floor ensuring convenience and privacy for all residents and guests. The recreation room is part of the new addition and offers a perfect space for entertaining guests, unwinding, or hosting family gatherings. It features a wet bar equipped with a sink, mini fridge, and ice machine for added convenience. There is also a half-bath that can easily be upgraded to a full bath, along with a generous storage area for your belongings. Additionally, the room opens onto a large deck with a retractable awning, providing shade during the summer months. A heated, spacious garage was designed for car restoration with a lift for stacking vehicles. The heating allows year-round work, while a rear door leads to the backyard. There is ample space for additional storage cabinets. This waterfront gem is not just a house; it's a lifestyle. Imagine watching the breathtaking sunsets and dolphins, or enjoying water activities right from your dock, and creating lasting memories in your beautiful home. The home has been lovingly and meticulously maintained with numerous upgrades that are detailed in a document in Associated Documents. The Kitty Hawk Landing HOA offers a community boat landing, boat access to the sound, canals, common areas for fishing and private beach parking at the oceanfront with showers and toilet facilities for property owners and guests.
MORE
With close to $200,000 in rental income showing a consistent ROI hard to match, welcome to your dream coastal retreat at 25263 Sea Isle Hills Drive in Waves, North Carolina. This 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom oceanfront home has undergone a large renovation over this past offseason, adding fantastic new amenities and updates to all bedrooms/living areas. A new set of decks highlight the most recent update. Since 2024, the growth in rental income has been consistent and impressive. Starting at $190K gross and $160K net in 2024, the numbers have since increased to $207K/$177 in 2025 and as of this writing on 5/26, the numbers are at an astounding $209K/$177K YTD. You'd be hard pressed to find a better price to rent ratio anywhere on the OBX. The five generously sized bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests, with the semi private master suite offering a private sanctuary complete with an en-suite bathroom and balcony with both ocean and sound views. Entertainment is at the heart of this home. The newly added theater room promises countless movie nights in style, while the custom arcade room provides endless fun for all ages. Outside, the expansive deck and beach access invite you to soak up the sun and enjoy the serene ocean waves. Additional highlights include hardwood floors, updated bathrooms with new fixtures, fresh paint and furnishings throughout. Located in the desirable Waves community, this home offers not only a stunning beachfront lifestyle but also close proximity to local shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities both on Hatteras Island but also not far from the central beaches of Nags Head north. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this exquisite oceanfront property, perfect for a permanent residence, vacation home, or rental investment. Contact us today to schedule a private showing and experience coastal living at its finest. For 3-D Tour copy and paste link below. https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=2unmULviGjS&play=1&brand=0&mls=1& For Aerial flyover copy and paste link below. https://listings.lighthousevisuals.com/videos/018fdf13-8e07-7124-8a9e-c8ea2a90b29e
MORE
6 bd
7 ba
OCEANFRONT Avon - Ocean View Dr. - Amazing investment opportunities, consistently generating over $200,000 in annual rent. There will be no FLIP FLOPPIN' after viewing this stunning oceanfront home in Avon. The ground level of the home features dry entry and direct access to the all-level elevator making unloading luggage and groceries a breeze. The concrete swimming pool is inviting and surrounded by high quality pool furnishings. The first level of the home features the game room with pool table, large flat screen TV home theater system with surround sound, and a wet bar with full size refrigerator, ice machine and microwave perfect for storing and preparing beach and pool snacks, and for filling up your cooler with ice. An indulgent sauna allows you to steam your cares away. Also on this level are two bedrooms - one with 2 single beds and the other is a queen master bedroom with private handicap friendly bathroom with roll-in shower. All bedrooms in the home come equipped with large, flat screen TVs. The second level is home to four more bedrooms - 1 king master bedroom with private bath, 1 bedroom with 2 sets of bunks which utilizes the hall bath, and 2 deluxe king master suites each with access to the deck and private baths with Jacuzzi tubs, walk-in showers and dual vanities. Step out onto the mid-level deck to take a dip in the hot tub. A third deluxe king master suite is located on the top level and boasts an ocean view along with its private bath with Jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower and dual vanity. The top level of this home impresses with wall-to-wall windows framing blue ocean views, exposed wood beams and accents, cathedral ceilings and elegant furnishings. a slider to the oceanfront deck and comfortable seating around a large flat screen TV home theater system with surround sound system. The dining area provides plenty of seating for the entire group including a long oceanfront table for 10, seating at the breakfast bar for 5 and a 4-top table with inlay checker/chess board. The gourmet kitchen is suited for a chef with stainless appliances, gas range, dual dishwashers, ice machine and breakfast bar with prep sink. A breakfast table seating 4, is tucked away for quiet morning coffee. The top level oceanfront deck provides the perfect setting for conversation and wave watching with the seabreeze and star gazing at night. Your guests will surely flip for this house, so be sure to see FLIP FLOPPIN' today!
MORE
Experience unparalleled coastal living in this spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath, 2,259 sq ft soundfront home in the gated Bay Cliff community. Thoughtfully maintained, this property delivers sweeping, unobstructed panoramic views of the Albemarle Sound and Roanoke Island. Perfect for morning coffee on the deck, evening sunsets, or simply soaking in the tranquil waterfront scenery. The 120 ft. pier, rehabbed and renovated in 2025, including a brand-new surface for worry-free enjoyment. A newer (2021) bulkhead offers superior shoreline protection, stability, and added long-term value to your waterfront investment. This desirable sound-front property sits in an X Flood Zone so flood insurance is not required. Inside the home, enjoy an open-concept layout with soaring/vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen with breakfast area, four spacious bedrooms, electric bidets in the bathrooms, jetted tub in primary bath and generous living spaces designed to maximize the stunning sound views. The gourmet kitchen features a newer (2023) smart induction range with an option for a gas drop-in. Additional highlights include a large sunroom for outdoor entertaining, a ground-level theater room featuring a premium 13-channel surround sound system and flexible home office or extra guest space. Large garage with extra refrigerator and space for outdoor gear and indoor gym overlooking the backyard with water views. Additional conveniences include a large storage room, a spacious 4-car driveway, and recent fiber optic wiring for high-speed internet. The home’s plumbing was fully redone in 2021 with PEX piping. Enjoy the convenience of a central vacuum system and laundry shoot. Wash off after in the hot water outdoor shower after a nice day on the water. This soundfront retreat is ideally situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, with low HOA fees of just $200 per month. You can walk to the community pool, clubhouse, pier, boat launch and gym —only five houses away— making everyday living effortless and enjoyable. Located just minutes from the beaches of Kill Devil Hills, local dining, shopping, and attractions, this property offers the best of the Outer Banks lifestyle in one of the area’s most desirable gated communities. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own soundfront property with unforgettable views and access to exceptional community amenities.
MORE
Tucked away off the beaten path in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk Landing offers a peaceful coastal community with great neighbors, endless water access, and abundant outdoor activities. Residents enjoy a private beach parking area complete with showers and restrooms, as well as a neighborhood boat ramp and open community space, making it easy to enjoy everything this coastal setting has to offer. Whether you are searching for a primary residence or the perfect vacation getaway, this 3-bedroom home offers an ideal location to experience everything this special area has to offer. With ample deck space, a spacious dock, and deep-water access, you can enjoy boating, fishing, and easy trips to the popular summertime sandbar hangouts right from your backyard. Paddleboard down to a waterfront barbecue, spend the day canoeing or kayaking through the peaceful backwaters of the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, or simply kick back and soak in your hot tub after a day on the water. Downstairs, you will find over 1,000 square feet of heated recreation space, including a small kitchenette and full bath. A dedicated home gym is already set up in its own private room, making it easy to stay active on those cooler, rainy days. If you’re looking for a special place to call home in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, this is one you’ll want to check out.
MORE
Fleur De Sea is ready for its next adventuring family! This property makes a perfect second home or investment opportunity. The home boasts six spacious bedrooms—including two master suites—and 4.5 bathrooms distributed across four floors. An open floor plan features vaulted ceilings, large closets, and multiple deck access points, offering guests plenty of room to spread out. Enjoy quiet time on the decks or retreat to the peaceful fourth-floor study. Fleur De Sea’s location is absolutely perfect for any water sports enthusiast! The private pool is ideally situated for long, sunny days and unending views. If you prefer the beach, the ocean access is only a short walk away. You are here to relax and enjoy the salt air. Conveniently located is the Tri-Villages walking path, the property location offers easy access to popular local attractions, including the Rodanthe Pier, REAL Water sports, shopping and many restaurants. Come and see this lovely home for yourself!
MORE
Welcome to the Gator Hole, a rare waterfront retreat where endless possibilities meet the natural beauty of coastal Hyde County. Set on more than two acres, this one-of-a-kind property offers a unique combination of privacy, income potential, recreation, and multi-generational living opportunities. Whether you're searching for a private family compound, an income-producing investment, a hunting and fishing lodge, vacation retreat, or a combination of all four, The Gator Hole delivers exceptional flexibility with three separate residences and an impressive collection of outbuildings and amenities. The primary residence features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, highlighted by a spacious owner's suite complete with a private office, ensuite bath, and dual walk-in closets. A welcoming foyer opens into expansive living and dining areas designed for gathering, entertaining, and making memories. Step outside to the rear deck and enjoy peaceful waterfront views, abundant wildlife, and the soothing sounds of nature that make every morning feel like a getaway. A second 3-bedroom, 2-bath home provides immediate income-producing potential and is currently utilized as a rental property. Guests and tenants alike will appreciate the inviting screened front porch—an ideal place to relax and enjoy the coastal breeze in any season. Adding even more versatility, a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath manufactured home is tucked away at the rear of the property. Perfect as a guest cottage, short-term rental, caretaker's residence, private office, or personal retreat, this additional living space creates countless opportunities for owners and investors alike. Beyond the residences, The Gator Hole truly shines with amenities that are increasingly difficult to find. Launch directly from your own private boat ramp and enjoy quick access to the Pamlico Sound, renowned for world-class fishing, boating, waterfowl hunting, and outdoor recreation. Multiple outbuildings—including a large storage building, garage, and historic crab house—offer abundant space for equipment, hobbies, workshops, boat storage, or future creative uses. RV hookups further enhance the property's flexibility for guests, travelers, or additional income opportunities. From family gatherings and waterfront adventures to rental income and future development possibilities, The Gator Hole offers a lifestyle and investment opportunity unlike anything else on the market. This is more than a property—it's a coastal legacy waiting for its next chapter.
MORE