What Makes Duck, NC Different From Other Outer Banks Towns?
Located in the heart of the Outer Banks, Duck, NC is known for more than its great beaches.
With several unique attractions, families and couples alike frequent this shore town to relax, unwind and make memories with their loved ones.
If Duck sounds like the place for you, read up on our tips to make the most of your visit!
What makes Duck, NC different from other Outer Banks towns?
Duck, NC doesn’t just have breathtaking beaches, but a wide variety of attractions to compliment them! Fine dining, eclectic shopping, and its nationally known Jazz Festival make Duck, NC different from its Outer Banks counterparts. Come beat the crowds in Duck for your next NC vacation.
Who says you can’t have a beach day and a sophisticated evening out all in the same day?
What is there to do in Duck, NC?
If you’re visiting Duck, NC you can expect to spend a good amount of time outdoors! With water both soundside and oceanside there is no shortage of watersports from kayaking to canoeing that you can take part in.
If you want to take a break from the water, rent a bike and go for a ride on the paved bike path along NC-12.
Duck, NC is also home to many annual events and traditions like the Summer Music Series, Pilates and Tai Chi on the Lawn, a 4th of July parade, and a Jazz Festival.
Be sure to check out the town’s event calendar before visiting!
Is Duck, NC safe?
Duck, NC is a very safe coastal community that has crime rates well below the state and national average.
Visitors should always follow standard safety protocol when swimming, participating in motorsports, and riding bikes to protect themselves and their families.
Business owners and lifeguards are always happy to answer questions pertaining to safety as it applies to your particular adventure.
What other towns is Duck, NC located by?
Duck, NC is located on the Currituck Sound in between Corolla, NC and Kitty Hawk, NC.
One of the best parts of visiting the Outer Banks is that you can easily take day trips to neighboring communities without spending much time in the car!
What is the history of Duck, NC?
Duck, NC’s name comes from the hunters and gatherers that flocked to the area since the 1800s for its high population of, you guessed it, duck! Duck is the newest town in the Outer Banks and was officially incorporated in 2002.
What airports are close to Duck, NC?
Norfolk International Airport is the closest and easiest airport to fly into if you’re traveling by plane to Duck, NC.
- Norfolk International Airport ORF (1.5 hours)
Driving Directions to Duck, NC:
- From Norfolk, VA (1.5 hours)
- Follow VA-168 S, NC-168 S and US-158 E to NC-12 N in Kitty Hawk for 70 miles
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto NC-12 N for 5.6 miles
- From Raleigh, NC (3.5 hours)
- Get on 1-440 E from Capital Blvd. for 4 miles
- Continue onto Williamston. Take exit 515 from US-64 E for 100 miles
- Continue on US-64 E. Drive to NC-12 N in Duck for 110 miles
- From Wilmington, NC (4.5 hours)
- Take US-17 N to NC-171 N in Washington for 128 miles
- Turn right onto NC-171 N for 17 miles
- Continue on US-64 E. Drive to NC-12 N in Kitty Hawk for 95 miles
- Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto NC-12 N for 6 miles
Where to Stay in Duck, NC?
There is no shortage of vacation rentals to choose from in Duck, NC.
Check out our top picks below!
- The Mist at Sound Sea Village
- Four bedroom, two bath houseboat that sleeps 8
- Outdoor shower
- Gas & Charcoal grill
- Summer Seas Apartment
- One bed, one bath apartment that sleeps 2
- New build in Downtown Duck
- Outdoor shower
- North Duck ‘Chateau Canard’
- Four bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home that sleeps 10
- Spacious layout
- Four-minute walk to the beach
If you love watersports followed by some wining and dining, Duck, NC is the place for you! Whether you visit for a few days, a week, or more you’re sure to leave with some well-deserved R&R.
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