The First Colony Inn is the Outer Banks hotel with the most character. Built in the style of the old Nags Head beach cottages, with weathered shingles, wide porches and rocking chairs, it is a reminder of the days when Carolina families came to the coast for the summer and stayed in grand wooden hotels. The property page on The property page describes breakfast on the property, and the inn is widely known for its historic atmosphere, sitting on the sound-side of the Beach Road in Nags Head. It is not a modern resort with a big pool and conference rooms, and that is precisely its appeal. Guests choose it for the porches, the quiet and the sense of place, and it suits couples, history fans and anyone who finds chain hotels bland.
Atmosphere and rooms
The inn is known for its traditional rooms, which typically include canopy or four-poster beds, antique-style furniture and private balconies or porches, though the details differ from room to room. Expect an old-fashioned charm rather than ultra-modern design, with creaky floors and sea breezes.
Because it is an older building, ask about accessibility, room size and noise when you book. The porches are the heart of the place, a good spot for a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine as the sun sets over the sound or the light fades on the dunes.
Location and food
The inn is in the heart of Nags Head, a short drive from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the Nags Head Fishing Pier and the Roanoke Island causeway. Breakfast is available on the property, and a number of Nags Head restaurants and seafood shacks are close by. The ocean is a short walk or drive away, depending on the beach access you choose.
Ask the staff for tips on local seafood markets and sunset spots. Because the inn is not a large resort, services such as a pool, fitness room and spa should be confirmed before you book if they matter to you.
Who it suits and tips
Couples, honeymooners and history lovers will enjoy the inn the most. Families with small children may prefer a hotel with a pool and a beachfront location. Rates in July and August are high and weekends sell out, so book early.
The shoulder seasons are a particularly good time to stay, when the porches are comfortable and the beaches quiet. A visit to the nearby Jockey’s Ridge at sunset, a morning at the Bodie Island Lighthouse and an evening drive to Manteo for dinner make a rich, relaxed itinerary from this base.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic wood-shingled building
- ✓Breakfast on the property
- ✓Wide porches with rocking chairs
- ✓Traditional rooms
- ✓Near Jockey’s Ridge
- ✓Near Nags Head beaches
- ✓Quiet, adult-friendly atmosphere
- ✓Parking (confirm)
Good questions
Is the First Colony Inn historic?+
Yes. It is a traditional wood-shingled inn in the style of old Nags Head beach hotels, with wide porches.
Does it serve breakfast?+
The property page mentions breakfast on the property, so confirm what is included in your rate.
Is it good for families?+
It suits couples best. Families with small children may prefer a hotel with a pool.