Things to do in Wanchese
Discover amazing Wanchese activities and premium in-home experiences.
Tucked at the southern tip of Roanoke Island, Wanchese is a quiet, working waterfront village that offers a deep connection to the sea and the traditions that have shaped North Carolina’s Outer Banks for generations. With its rustic charm, thriving fishing docks, and unfiltered coastal beauty, Wanchese is a destination for those who appreciate authenticity and a slower pace.
Popular Activities in Wanchese
Outer Banks Dolphin Cruise on Roanoke Sound
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and coastal birdlife on a scenic 2-hour Roanoke Sound cruise
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.
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.
Lantern-Lit Ghost Tour of Downtown Manteo
Hear chilling Outer Banks legends on a family-friendly evening walk through historic 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.
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.
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.
Discover More in Wanchese
Wanchese invites you to experience coastal life at its roots. This small village is steeped in maritime tradition—home to generations of fishermen, boatbuilders, and seafood harvesters. Strolling through the harbor, you’ll see working boats bringing in the day’s catch and smell the salty breeze that defines this place. It's less about beach umbrellas and more about oyster shucking, fish markets, and watching pelicans dive beside wooden docks.
Just beyond the boats, you’ll find opportunities to explore nature up close. Charter a local fishing trip, paddle through the calm waters of Roanoke Sound, or visit the nearby NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island for a deeper dive into the region’s marine life. While Wanchese doesn’t have the beach crowds of the neighboring towns, it offers something just as special—real, rooted coastal culture.
Greetwell guests can tap into locally led experiences, from seafood tastings and heritage boat tours to guided excursions that explore the natural and cultural legacy of the Outer Banks.