Wineries Near Hatteras Island and the Outer Banks: Coastal Wine Experiences
When most people think of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, they picture sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, and world-class fishing. But many visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover that the region also offers unique wine experiences- from local vineyards to curated tasting rooms.
While Hatteras Island itself doesn't currently have a full winery, there are several excellent spots nearby where visitors can enjoy tastings, wine flights, and coastal vineyard scenery. Whether you're planning a relaxing afternoon or a day trip off the island, these Outer Banks wine destinations are worth adding to your vacation itinerary.
Sanctuary Vineyards- The Closest Vineyard to the Outer Banks
Just across the Currituck Sound on the mainland, Sanctuary Vineyards is the closest true vineyard to the Outer Banks and one of the most popular wine destinations in the region.
Located in Jarvisburg, (about an hour and a half from our rentals!) this family owned vineyard grows grapes on coastal sandy soils and benefits from the cooling Atlantic breezes. The winery produces a variety of reds, whites, and dessert wines and has become known for its award-winning "Outer Banks Collection".
Visitors can enjoy:
- Guided wine tastings
- Vineyard tours
- Charcuterie boards and picnic experiences
- Seasonal events and live music
A particularly unique experience is the Vineyard Voyage, where guests travel by boat from Duck across the sound for a wine tasting and vineyard visit- combining coastal scenery with local wine culture.
For wine lovers staying on Hatteras Island, Sanctuary Vineyards makes a great half-day or full-day excursion when exploring the northern Outer Banks.
OBX Winery- Wine Crafted on the Outer Banks
If you prefer to stay right on the barrier islands, OBX Winery in Kill Devil Hills offers a unique experience: wines actually produced on the Outer Banks.
This small winery specializes in handcrafted and creative blends, including popular bottles like "Pea Island" and "Corolla Mustangria."
Visitors can:
- Purchase flights with a complimentary souvenir glass
- Learn about the winemaking process and purchase wine and homebrewing supplies
- Purchase custom made wine label bottles
Because it's centrally located along the main highway through the Outer Banks, it's an easy stop while visiting other attractions like the Wright Brothers Memorial or the beaches of Kill Devil Hills.
Wine Tastings & Wine Bars Across the Outer Banks
Even though vineyards are limited along the barrier islands, wine enthusiasts will find plenty of tasting opportunities throughout the Outer Banks.
Popular spots include wine bars, specialty wine shops, and restaurants that host regular tastings and pairing dinners. Here are a few of our favorites:
NouVines in Manteo
For a relaxed wine experience, NouVines in Manteo offers a rustic, intimate setting. This wine bar and shop is loved by the locals and serves carefully curated wines, charcuterie boards, and small bites. Stop by for Thursday night trivia, or visit on the weekend to pair wine tastings with live music. After a long day of touring Outer Banks, NouVines brings some slower-paced charm.
Cape Cork & Bottle- Avon
Wine enthusiasts will find their perfect spot at Cape Cork & Bottle, a charming wine and beer lounge in Avon (open seasonly). Featuring a thoughtfully curated lineup of fine wines, regional craft beers and artisanal bites, this laid-back venue is ideal for unwinding- whether inside or out on the patio with your favorite pour. It is also a perfect stop along the southern stretch of the Outer Banks Beer, Wine and & Spirits Trail.
Throughout the year, the region also hosts special wine-focused events and festivals, such as the Lost Colony Wine & Culinary Festival, where visitors can sample wines alongside local cuisine and live entertainment.
The Mother Vine- Manteo
Believed to be America's oldest cultivated grapevine, the Mother Vine, has been growing in Manteo for over four centuries! This 1584 Scuppernong grape- a natural offshoot of the Muscadine which grows wild on Roanoke Island- is a living piece of Outer Banks history. Its story is intertwined with America's first attempted English settlement, The Lost Colony, adding a touch of mystery to its heritage. It's a must-see stop for history buffs and wine enthusiasts!
These experiences allow guests to enjoy a wide variety of wines while taking in the relaxed coastal atmosphere the Outer Banks is known for.
Where to Buy Wine on Hatteras Island
Visitors staying on Hatteras Island will find several excellent local shops where they can pick up quality wine, craft beer and spirits for a relaxing evening at their vacation rental.
Island Spice & Wine- Avon
One of the best places on Hatteras Island for wine lovers is Island Spice & Wine in Avon. This locally owned shop offers a surprisingly large wine selection from North Carolina, California, and around the world, along with gourmet foods, cheeses, olive oils and specialty ingredients.
It's the perfect stop if you're planning a wine and cheese night on the deck or looking for a unique bottle to pair with fresh local seafood.
Village Red & White Market- Hatteras Village
A longtime island favorite, Village Red & White Market is a historic grocery store that now carries hundreds of wines and beers along with groceries and fresh seafood.
It's an easy stop when stocking up your rental house for the week.
Zillie's Island Pantry- Ocracoke Island
If you take the ferry from Hatteras Village to Ocracoke for a day trip, Zillie's Island Pantry is a fantastic stop of wine lovers.
This popular wine and beer shop offers an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and gourmet provisions and visitors can relax with a glass on the outdoor deck.
It's a great place to pick up a bottle before watching the sunset.
Plan Your Outer Banks Wine Adventure
From vineyard tours on the mainland to local tasting rooms along the islands, there are plenty of ways to enjoy wine during your visit. For guests staying on Hatteras Island, adding a winery stop to your Outer Banks itinerary can turn a beach vacation into a memorable culinary adventure.
Our vacation rental homes also feature spacious decks and sunset views over the sound, making them the perfect place to open a bottle and relax after a day of exploring.
Our Vacation Rental- Seas the Breeze II