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
Manteo Historic Candlelight Walking Tour
Discover 450 years of waterfront history on an entertaining evening walk with Manteo's retired police chief.
Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins aboard The Captain Johnny while enjoying an Outer Banks sunset.
Afternoon Dolphin Watching Cruise in Outer Banks
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a relaxed two-hour cruise with engaging commentary from your captain
Morning Dolphin Watch Cruise
Spot bottlenose dolphins during a relaxed two-hour protected-water cruise.
Lantern-Lit Ghost Tour of Downtown Manteo
Hear chilling Outer Banks legends on a family-friendly evening walk through historic Manteo.
Private Catamaran Sailing Tour in Outer Banks
Glide across Roanoke Sound for three hours aboard a spacious 40-foot catamaran, spotting dolphins and seabirds along the way.
Private Sunset Sail in the Outer Banks
Sail a 40-foot catamaran at dusk for a serene, private experience on Roanoke Sound.
Outer Banks Dolphin Cruise on Roanoke Sound
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and coastal birdlife on a scenic 2-hour Roanoke Sound cruise
Beach Cabana and Chair Setup Service in Southern Shores to Nags Head
Relax on the sand while professionals set up and take down your cabana and chairs each beach day.
Outer Banks Full-Day E-Bike Rental
Cover more of the Outer Banks with effortless electric power on a flexible ten-hour bike rental.
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.
Bodie Island Lighthouse Clear Kayak Tour
Paddle crystal-clear kayaks near Bodie Island Lighthouse and spot coastal wildlife on a relaxed 2-hour guided tour.
Introductory Kiteboarding Lesson for First-Timers
Learn essential kite control skills in a focused 2.5-hour beach and water session.
Half-Day Wing Foil and Windsurfing Rental
Enjoy four hours of wind-powered fun with quality gear from a waterfront shop
Pirate-Themed Tiki Pontoon Boat Rental
Host a private 3-hour floating party with slide, SUP and water toys on a sandbar
Pamlico Sound Jet Ski Rental
Feel the thrill of speeding across Pamlico Sound on a high-performance jet ski
Tubing Charter Adventure
Bounce across Salvo’s waves on a safe, captain-led tubing ride for all ages.
In-Home Experiences
Private In‑Home Massage
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.