Things to do in Manteo
Discover amazing Manteo activities and premium in-home experiences.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Roanoke Island, Manteo is a charming town where history and natural beauty converge. Here, coastal allure meets small-town warmth as you explore picturesque waterfronts, savor fresh local seafood, or discover stories from America’s early days at nearby historic sites. Whether you're wandering through boutique shops or enjoying sunset views over Shallowbag Bay, Manteo invites you to embrace its unique blend of tradition and tranquility.
Popular Activities in Manteo
Sandbar Boat Party in Waves NC with Water Slide
Host a private 3-hour floating party with slide, SUP and water toys on a sandbar
Manteo Candlelight History Tour with Police Chief
Discover 450 years of waterfront history on an entertaining evening walk with Manteo's retired police chief.
Outer Banks Dolphin Watching Cruise with Captain
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a relaxed two-hour cruise with engaging commentary from your captain
Morning Dolphin Watch Cruise on Roanoke Island
Spot bottlenose dolphins during a relaxed two-hour protected-water cruise.
Roanoke Island Dolphin Watching Sunset Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins aboard The Captain Johnny while enjoying an Outer Banks sunset.
Manteo Ghost Tour with Lanterns & OBX Legends
Hear chilling Outer Banks legends on a family-friendly evening walk through historic Manteo.
Private 3-Hour Catamaran Sunset Cruise Manteo
Savor a private 3-hour sunset cruise for up to six on the Roanoke Sound
Outer Banks Private Catamaran Sail for 6 Guests
Sail Roanoke Sound on a 40-foot catamaran with up to 6 guests for a relaxed, private cruise
2-Hour Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise on Roanoke Sound
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and coastal birdlife on a scenic 2-hour Roanoke Sound cruise
Bodie Island Lighthouse Private Clear Kayak Tour
Paddle crystal-clear kayaks through Roanoke Sound for a personalized view of Bodie Island Lighthouse and local wildlife.
2Hr Guided Clear Kayak & Lighthouse Tour
Paddle crystal-clear kayaks near Bodie Island Lighthouse and spot coastal wildlife on a relaxed 2-hour guided tour.
Learn Kite Control Skills on Hatteras Beach
Learn essential kite control skills in a focused 2.5-hour beach and water session.
4-Hour Kiteboarding Rental in Waves, NC
Enjoy four hours of wind-powered fun with quality gear from a waterfront shop
Pamlico Sound Jet Ski Rental in Waves, NC
Feel the thrill of speeding across Pamlico Sound on a high-performance jet ski
Safe Family Tubing with Expert Captain in Salvo
Bounce across Salvo’s waves on a safe, captain-led tubing ride for all ages.
Outer Banks Wild Horse Hummer Tour
Spot wild Spanish mustangs in three ecosystems aboard a custom open-air Hummer.
In-Home Experiences
Outer Banks Private Chef with French Cuisine
Elevate your coastal stay with a private chef experience that blends French finesse with fresh, local flavor—served right in your vacation home.
Private Yoga Session at Your Kitty Hawk Rental
Elevate your vacation rental stay with personalized, in-home yoga sessions tailored just for you.
Private In Home Massage in Outer Banks
Elevate your Outer Banks getaway with a rejuvenating in-home massage.
Experience the Charm of Manteo
Manteo is a charming waterfront town where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Located on Roanoke Island, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into America's past with attractions like the Roanoke Island Festival Park and the Elizabethan Gardens. The quaint downtown area invites you to stroll along its picturesque streets lined with local boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. With its rich maritime heritage and friendly atmosphere, Manteo provides an inviting escape from busier nearby destinations.
For those seeking outdoor adventures or leisurely exploration, Manteo doesn't disappoint. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Shallowbag Bay's serene waters or take a scenic bike ride through lush landscapes that showcase the island’s diverse ecosystems. If you're visiting in summer months, don't miss out on "The Lost Colony," an engaging outdoor drama that brings history to life under starry skies at Waterside Theatre.
Manteo also serves as an ideal base for exploring other Outer Banks treasures such as Jockey's Ridge State Park—a short drive away—where you can climb towering sand dunes for breathtaking views of both sound and sea. Whether indulging in fresh seafood at local eateries or enjoying sunset vistas over Roanoke Sound from your accommodation balcony, every moment spent here feels like part of a cherished story waiting to unfold.