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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

Spectacular soundfront home with fenced yard, trex decks, shared dock, game room, screened porch, garage storage space, and all 4 bedrooms have attached bathrooms! Beautiful water views greet you from EVERY bedroom, EVERY deck and from the main living space. The home comes fully furnished and decorated! The top floor features cathedral ceilings, open layout with kitchen, dining and ample living space. Plus a large bedroom with two closets, attached bath and private deck with sound views. The living space features built-in shelving, gas fireplace, and a wall of windows and sliders that faces the soundfront to showcase the views. The sliders open to a full-length sound-facing trex deck, brand new in 2025. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and sound views as you prepare dinner. (There's also a gas line connection on the top level deck for a gas grill.) The mid-level features three bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms. Two of the bedrooms share a soundfront deck, one of the bedrooms has it's own private deck with sound views. There is a laundry room on this level also. The ground level space features a game room with an attached soundfront screened porch. The garage space was converted with a knock-down wall added to make a large locked owners storage space, big enough for kayaks, beach/toys, etc, plus a renter-friendly storage space and dry entry. The backyard is fully fenced and leads to a soundfront dock that is shared with one neighbor. All decks are trex with aluminum rails, as are the entry steps. Back decks and entry steps were replaced/upgraded in 2025, front decks in 2024. The dock was upgraded in 2024 with new marine grade wood. The bulkhead was recently reinforced, with 20' posts and stainless rods (2023). The home is located in the gated community of Colington Harbour. The yearly HOA fee is $365/year. Yes, that's it. And you get to use the soundfront beaches, tennis courts, soundfront dogpark and playground. There's a community pool (also on the soundfront) that can be joined for an additional fee. Colington Harbour is one of the largest and most established Outer Banks communities, a popular spot for boaters, kayakers, water enthusiasts and beach lovers. It has its own harbour and marina, with easy jettied access to the Roanoke Sound.
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Introducing THE TALORA — a masterfully designed soundfront retreat that perfectly blends timeless elegance with modern coastal luxury. This spectacular 8-bedroom home, including two primary suites with spa-inspired ensuites, was thoughtfully crafted to capture breathtaking water views from expansive windows and multi-level decks. The chef-inspired kitchen, complete with a grand island and separate service kitchen, flows effortlessly into the dining room, elegant living area with fireplace, and covered veranda—creating the ideal space for entertaining. Graceful glass transoms, coffered ceilings, and custom trim details elevate the interior design. A spacious game room opens to an outdoor oasis featuring a private pool, hot tub, and fenced rear yard—perfect for enjoying waterfront living at its finest. Recently featured in the 2025 Parade of Homes, the award-winning Talora showcases exceptional craftsmanship and attention to every detail. Every element has been perfectly curated to deliver a sense of comfortable luxury, complemented by an elevator for effortless living. Nestled within Water Oak, a 70-home community featuring a manicured entry, green spaces, and a community pier with kayak launch, the location offers easy access to the beach, Bay Drive multi-use path, disc golf, restaurants, and coastal shops.
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3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to Anna’s Beach Cottage, an oceanfront gem in the heart of Rodanthe with unbelievable views and the beach literally steps away. Situated at an angle on the lot to maximize the ocean views, this cottage has a front row seat to sunrises, surfers, and rolling waves. If you’ve been dreaming of waking up to the sound of the ocean and spending your days barefoot in the sand, this is it. Inside, the home is full of coastal charm with bright beachy colors inspired by shells and the sea. The open living area is all about the view, with large windows that bring the ocean right into the home. The kitchen opens to the living and dining areas, making it easy to gather after a long beach day. The home offers comfortable sleeping arrangements with a king bedroom, queen bedroom, and a queen over queen bunk room, making it ideal for family and guests. Located in the laid back fishing village of Rodanthe on Hatteras Island, this area is known for world class surfing, kiteboarding, fishing, and endless stretches of uncrowded beach. Watch surfers right from the deck or head over to the sound side for kiteboarding and legendary sunsets. Nearby attractions include the Rodanthe Pier, Good Winds, Waterman’s, Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station, Pea Island Wildlife Refuge, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Whether you are looking for a second home, investment property, or your own oceanfront escape, Anna’s Beach Cottage captures the classic Hatteras Island lifestyle people fall in love with.
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3 bd
2 ba
Wake up to the Albemarle Sound every morning. This extraordinary soundfront property in Manns Harbor delivers the kind of waterfront lifestyle most people only dream about — tucked away on the quiet shores of Dare County with sweeping, unobstructed water views that stretch endlessly across the sound. Unobstructed, panoramic views that make sunrise and sunset views possible. The home sits directly on the water, where a stunning screened porch with rocking chairs and panoramic sound views sets the tone the moment you arrive. Inside, the open living and kitchen layout is bright, coastal, and completely move-in ready — true turnkey living with nothing left to do but enjoy it. Living room opens directly to the water side of the home, bringing the outside in at every turn. But the crown jewel may be the extensive downstairs encapsulation and remodel. Owners introduced a spacious garage bay opens up via a large garage door to reveal a one-of-a-kind waterfront entertainment space — complete with a farm sink, Blackstone grill, bar top, and full-size refrigerator. Roll up the door, fire up the grill, and you’re entertaining with the Albemarle Sound as your backdrop. Shoot skeet and fish off your front lawn—It’s the kind of setup that turns a weekend into a memory. Outside, an accessible sandy shoreline and direct water access give you everything you need to fish, kayak, or simply watch the sun melt into the sound at the end of the day. Properties with this combination of direct sound frontage, unmatched views, a true entertainment setup, and turnkey condition are exceptionally rare in Dare County. The buyers who find them don’t let them go. Your waterfront life starts at 52 Cahoon Road.
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7 bd
7 ba
Breathtaking ocean views can be yours with this 7-bedroom, 7.5 bath estate in Pine Island. The spacious, 4,700+ square foot oceanfront vacation home features six en suite bedrooms - five with private balconies - along with an elevator, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, a game room, a private gunite pool and hot tub, and a dedicated walkway to one of the area’s finest beaches. Three en suite bedrooms comprise the uppermost level. On the north end, two suites each enjoy a private balcony: one faces the ocean, the other looks west for sunset views. Separated from these rooms by a gallery, with ocean view windows and open to the floor below, the southern side of this level is devoted entirely to the primary en suite. In addition to sweeping ocean vistas and a private oceanfront balcony in the bedroom, the expansive en suite bath boasts its own sunset balcony, custom tile, double vanities, a jetted tub, and separate shower - creating a remarkably open, spa like retreat. Taking the elevator to the heart of the home reveals an airy great room crowned by cathedral ceilings and a wall of windows framing the spectacular Atlantic Ocean. A generous sun deck invites morning coffee or evening stargazing. Inside, a gas fireplace, hardwood floors, and a window lined dining area maintain the panoramic backdrop. The beautifully remodeled kitchen pairs sleek quartz counters with white single panel cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances; black hardware provides a dramatic accent. Dual islands add workspace, storage, and seating, while the adjacent breakfast room - bathed in natural light - opens to front and rear covered decks for effortless al fresco dining. Breathtaking ocean views can be enjoyed from nearly every vantage point of this open floor plan. The opposite end of this floor has two more en suite bedrooms, one with even more spectacular ocean views and a private bath, along with oceanfront sun deck access, and the other with a private bath and a dedicated, sunset-facing covered deck. On the ground level is yet another en suite bedroom with private bathroom, an additional guest room, and the spacious game room complete with kitchenette and an adjacent full bathroom. Double sliding glass doors lead to the 16'×32’ heated pool, hot tub, fish cleaning station, and multiple outdoor showers. A new private dune walkway places one of Corolla’s least populated beaches just steps away. Panoramic ocean views take center stage in this luxurious estate, where a thoughtfully planned layout showcases the sea from nearly every room. Set on nearly three-quarters of an acre in Pine Island - one of the Outer Banks’ most coveted communities - the property gives owners resort-style amenities that include outdoor pools, a fitness center, tennis courts, and more. Rarely does a property combine such expansive vistas, sophisticated design, and prime location- a unique opportunity for the truly discerning buyer.
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This beautiful waterfront home truly has it all. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, enjoy amazing water views just steps away from Colington Harbour clubhouse, pool, tennis, and pickleball court, plus the neighborhood park featuring its own soundfront beach. The private dock is equipped with a boat lift, electric and fresh water making it perfect for boating and waterfront living. Relax in the 19ft. Swim and Fitness Spa overlooking the water. Built for low-maintenance coastal living , the exterior features AZEK decking, vinyl handrails and durable vinyl shake siding. Inside, the open and bright reverse floor plan is designed to maximize the water views. An elevator provides easy access to all levels.The kitchen features granite countertops that continues throughout the bathrooms for a cohesive upscale finish. Additional features include a central vacuum system with an under-counter kitchen vac. The middle floor offers 9-foot ceiling and three bedrooms. Two bedrooms provide direct access to the screened porch beneath the covered deck, creating an excellent indoor-outdoor living space. Additional upgrades include:home security system,4 Nest cameras, 10x14 insulated shed, EV and RV hookups and a dedicated 200 amp second panel box for an electric start generator. Whether you're looking for a primary or second residents, this property presents a wonderful opportunity to make it your own.
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12 bd
12 ba
Metamorphoseas is an extraordinary oceanfront estate that redefines luxury living in Corolla. This architectural masterpiece boasts 12 elegant bedrooms, complemented by modern decks and balconies that invite seamless indoor-outdoor living. The heart of the home is a beautifully appointed chef's kitchen, blending sleek design with functionality, while the expansive great room impresses with soaring ceilings, painted wood beams, shiplap accents, and a dramatic window wall framing endless views of the Atlantic Ocean. A true centerpiece, the oceanfront dining area offers seating for 24—perfect for unforgettable gatherings by the sea. Throughout the home, high-end textures and finishes create an atmosphere of refined sophistication. Metamorphoseas is brimming with distinctive amenities, including an expansive private pool with waterfall and fire feature, cabana, and an open-air recreation area complete with ping pong table, and a covered lounge with pass-through window to the indoor kitchenette. Inside, you'll find a well-equipped game room featuring billiards, shuffleboard, an arcade, and a cozy TV lounge. With its innovative design, unparalleled amenities, and proven rental performance, Metamorphoseas is a premier investment opportunity. This one-of-a-kind coastal retreat is sure to elevate any real estate portfolio.
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Starting in Low 400's New Construction Home in Keeter Barn Landing - South Mills, NC (Camden County). Discover your dream home in Keeter Barn Landing, a peaceful new community of just 37 homes in beautiful South Mills, North Carolina -- only minutes from Hampton Roads, VA. Enjoy a rural lifestyle with modern comforts on a half-acre lot, offering space, privacy, and southern charm. This to-be-built (under construction)home combines quality craftsmanship with thoughtful design and standard luxury features: • Open Concept Layout ideal for entertaining and family living • Spacious Kitchen with beautiful cabinetry, ugraded appliance package and modern finishes • Primary Bath (PBA) with a luxury shower • 12x12 Covered Rear Porch and slider door leading outside - perfect for relaxing evenings • Single front door entry with classic curb appeal • Laundry room with optional cabinets and shelving (custom add-ons available) • Finished Room Over Garage (FROG) for flexible use - home office, guest suite, or bonus space. Each new construction home in Keeter Barn Landing blends modern efficiency and timeless style, crafted by Sicario Properties, one of Camden County's premier builders. Enjoy quiet country living while staying conveniently close to Elizabeth City, Hampton Roads, and the Outer Banks. Model open 12-5pm Wed-Sunday.
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With almost $100,000 booked for the upcoming 2026 season, this oceanfront offers guaranteed 2026 rental income in a location adored by Outer Banks visitors.Unveil the charm of South Nags Head with this oceanfront income producing property. The home offers direct beach access, breathtaking views, and spectacular sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. Recent renovations have transformed the space, featuring a fully remodeled kitchen and updated bathrooms, and fresh interior painting to brighten the space, ensuring a modern yet coastal experience. The thoughtfully designed reverse floorplan layout maximizes panoramic ocean views. The expansive living room, adorned with stylish wide-plank LVP flooring and vaulted ceilings with skylights, creates a bright and airy ambiance. Original juniper wood walls adds warmth and character in the vaulted foyer, while the updated painted juniper creates a crisp balance. The spacious living area spans the width of the house and offers 2 seating options with deck access to an expansive oceanfront deck! Enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot tub while taking in the ocean breezes and gorgeous views of the Atlantic. The remodeled kitchen boasts stunning quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, making meal preparation a delight. With two dining tables accommodating up to twelve people and bar seating for eight, hosting family gatherings has never been easier. The primary suite on the top level includes a king bed, ensuite bath, and private deck. The lower level features additional bedrooms, including another ensuite, with three rooms offering deck access to enjoy ocean breezes and the soothing sound of waves. A cozy mid-level den serves as an extra hangout area, complete with a wet bar and mini fridge, perfect for the kiddos, gaming, or added movie space. The just beyond the private pool, you can find the world renowned sandy beaches of the Outer Banks. Located at Milepost 19, this home is nestled in a highly sought after location with uncrowded beaches. Less than a mile away, the Outer Banks Fishing Pier and Fish Head's Bar and Grill invite you to enjoy oceanfront dining with live music, a treasured spot for locals and visitors! Plus, you're only a few miles from Coquina Beach and the renowned 4x4 beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, popular for fishing and surfing. Schedule a tour and enjoy the charm and allure of South Nags Head.
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6 bd
5 ba
Now available at $1,525,000! Welcome to your dream oceanfront escape in Avon, Dream Gables! This stunning 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom coastal retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy panoramic ocean views from multiple levels of this spacious home, designed for both relaxation and entertaining. The recently renovated kitchen is a standout feature, showcasing modern finishes, upgraded appliances, and ample space for gathering with family and friends. Thoughtfully maintained and enhanced by the current owner, the home boasts numerous updates throughout, ensuring a move-in-ready experience with a fresh, contemporary feel. Expansive living areas, generous bedrooms, and well-appointed bathrooms provide plenty of room for guests. Step outside to your private pool, perfect for cooling off after a day on the beach, or unwind on the decks while taking in the coastal breeze and unforgettable sunrises. Whether you're looking for a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment property, this oceanfront gem offers it all—location, space, and updates that make it truly special.
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3 bd
2 ba
816 sq ft
Rare canal-front opportunity in the highly sought-after Old Nags Head Cove community! This well maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the ultimate blend of coastal charm and modern security, featuring a new Fortified Roof (2025) and an X Flood Zone designation for maximum peace of mind. The interior radiates warmth with stunning tongue-and-groove ceilings, exposed wooden beams, a gas fireplace, and gorgeous hardwood floors (2022). The heart of the home is a beautifully refreshed kitchen (2023) boasting granite countertops, luxury vinyl flooring, and custom built-in nook seating with integrated storage. Designed for the waterfront lifestyle, the layout includes a dining room and den that flow seamlessly to a screened-in porch and wrap-around gated decks. Retreat to the second floor that includes 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. The primary bedroom offers a private west-facing balcony for legendary OBX sunsets, while an additional bedroom on East side features its own sunrise deck. The outdoor space is a true sanctuary, featuring a large canal front lot, fenced-in yard, private dock with a fish-cleaning station, a fire pit, and a lush "edible landscape" of mature fig, pomegranate, and raspberry trees. With a walkout basement workshop, along with the outside shower & storage, dual driveways for boat/RV parking and access to community boat ramps and pickleball, this property is the perfect hub for Outer Banks living. The community pool is optional with additional fee. Located less than a mile from the ocean and minutes from Jockey’s Ridge, the sound, shopping, medical facilities and world-class dining!
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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.
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