Manteo Named Vacation of the Year for 2025

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News Summary

The quaint town of Manteo in North Carolina’s Outer Banks has been awarded the title of ‘Vacation of the Year for 2025.’ Known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and vibrant community, Manteo offers visitors a range of activities from charming shops to thrilling dolphin watching tours. As the centerpiece of Roanoke Island, this destination is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. With various dining options and comfortable accommodations, Manteo is set to create unforgettable memories for travelers in 2025.

Welcome to Manteo: The 2025 Vacation of the Year

The charming town of Manteo, nestled on the iconic Outer Banks of North Carolina, has officially been recognized as the Vacation of the Year for 2025. This idyllic locale is celebrated for its stunning scenery, relaxed vibe, and intriguing history that attract visitors from near and far. Given its picturesque settings and abundance of fun activities, it’s easy to see why.

Discovering Roanoke Island

At the heart of the Outer Banks is Roanoke Island, measuring just 8 miles long and 2 miles wide. This small island is home to two vibrant communities: Manteo and the village of Wanchese. While Wanchese has its own charm, Manteo often steals the spotlight as the prettiest town in the area.

Scenic Beauty Awaits

Manteo offers an array of breathtaking vistas, from serene harbors to quaint residential streets and picturesque boardwalks. Although Manteo is not located directly on the beach, you can find sandy shores just a short 10-minute drive away in nearby Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, and Duck. That’s right—sun-soaked beaches are just a hop, skip, and a jump away!

Thrilling Activities

If you’re looking for adventure, Manteo has you covered! Imagine dolphins frolicking in the waves while you’re on a thrilling dolphin watching tour or reeling in the catch of the day on a shrimping charter. For a unique experience, check out Risky Business Shrimping & Crabbing Charters, which offers half-day trips departing from Shallowbag Bay marina from June through September.

History Comes Alive

History buffs will feel right at home in Manteo, where history is meticulously preserved. One must-see attraction is the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, standing gracefully at the end of a pier and showcasing fascinating historical exhibits, including a Fresnel lens dating back to the 1800s. Then there’s the Roanoke Island Festival Park, where visitors can step back in time and experience the lives of the first European settlers through a replica sailing vessel and costumed interpreters.

Another highlight is the Lost Colony play, held annually at Waterside Theatre. This captivating performance is the second longest-running outdoor drama in the U.S., captivating audiences since 1937.

Shop, Dine, and Unwind

After a day filled with adventures, explore downtown Manteo, where locally owned shops like Downtown Books, NouVines (wine shop), and Charis Coffee Company await. You can also dive into the culinary delights that Manteo has to offer. Choose from casual family-style seafood at Darrell’s Seafood Restaurant, enjoy waterfront dining at Stripers Bar and Grille, or grab a quick lunch at Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop.

For those with a taste for spirits, Manteo boasts the Lost Colony Brewery and Outer Banks Distilling, known for their distinctive small-batch rum. You will surely find something to tickle your taste buds!

Comfortable Accommodations

When it’s time to rest, Manteo has a variety of options to suit any traveler. Accommodations are primarily locally owned inns, delightful bed and breakfasts, and cozy private house rentals. For a touch of luxury, consider the White Doe Inn, Tranquil House Inn, or Roanoke Island Inn, all offering stunning views and wonderful amenities.

A Community That Celebrates

As you explore Manteo, don’t miss the Outer Banks Sporting Events OBX Triathlon held annually, showcasing the town’s scenic beauty while uniting over 200 athletes from around the world.

With its unique blend of scenic views, rich history, and warm community spirit, Manteo truly deserves its title as the 2025 Vacation of the Year. So, gather your friends and family, pack your bags, and get ready to create memories that’ll last a lifetime in this charming Outer Banks gem!

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Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER

The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.