Private, friendly, picturesque. That's Southern Shores. If you’ve chosen to stay in this tiny Outer Banks town, here's how to plan your perfect day.
This quaint community covers four square miles, nestled between Duck and Kitty Hawk, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Currituck Sound on the other. With a year-round population of only 2,500, it's less crowded – and less commercialized – than many other coastal resorts. Yet it still offers plenty of cool attractions, from pristine beaches to picturesque bike paths and much more.
Start with a Stroll on the Beach
Southern Shores boasts four beautiful beaches, all featuring spotless white sand, breathtaking ocean vistas, and seasonal lifeguard stands.
Five beach-access areas offer limited parking:
- Chicahauk Trail
- Hillcrest Drive
- 142 Ocean Boulevard
- Dogwood Trail
- Ocean View Loop
The first two restrict parking to property owners and their guests. But the last three provide convenient paved parking for Southern Shores renters as well.
Because access is limited, these beaches never get really crowded. So, when you rent a vacation unit here, you'll get to savor the sights and sounds of the stunning Atlantic shore in relative peace and privacy.
Why not hit the beach before breakfast? A brisk early walk can be incredibly bracing. As your children wade through the waves – safely within eyeshot – you can revel in the cool ocean breeze, breathe the tangy salt spray, and feel the age-old lure of the sea. All in an utterly unspoiled setting. It's an unforgettable experience.
Why not hit the beach before breakfast? A brisk early walk can be incredibly bracing. As your children wade through the waves – safely within eyeshot – you can revel in the cool ocean breeze, breathe the tangy salt spray, and feel the age-old lure of the sea. All in an utterly unspoiled setting. It's an unforgettable experience.
Treat Your Family to a Tasty Breakfast
After that invigorating walk, you'll probably have a keen appetite. Head to the Tropical Smoothie Café at 5385 North Virginia Trail #1, where you can order delicious delicacies ranging from rich, creamy smoothies to breakfast wraps loaded with eggs, bacon, cheeses, and more. There's even a breakfast favorite called Peanut Butter Banana Crunch Flatbread, sure to satisfy any youngster's sweet tooth. When you're staying in a Southern Shores vacation rental, kickstart your day with a satisfying meal before embarking on your coastal adventures.
