Southern Shores might be the most overlooked town on the Outer Banks, and the people who stay there like it that way. Tucked between Kitty Hawk and Duck, Southern Shores and the neighboring gated community of Martin’s Point are almost entirely residential: no commercial strip, no crowds, just quiet streets, canals, and beaches used mostly by the people staying there. Here’s why that’s a feature, not a bug.
What Makes Southern Shores Different
Southern Shores was one of the OBX’s first planned communities, laid out after World War II with flat-top cottages that architecture fans still seek out. The town deliberately kept business development minimal, so nearly every street is homes, trees, and the occasional cyclist.
The result is a vacation that feels like borrowing a friend’s beach house in a real neighborhood. Beach accesses and soundside marinas are managed by the local civic association, with many amenities reserved for residents and guests staying in town, which keeps the beaches noticeably calm even in July.
Martin’s Point: The Quiet Side of the Sound
Martin’s Point is a gated, wooded community on the sound side near the foot of the Wright Memorial Bridge area, just south of Duck. It’s known for larger homes on big lots, a private marina feel, and serious tranquility. Renters staying inside the gates get quiet, security, and quick access onto the main road toward both Duck and the central beaches, which makes it a sneaky-good location despite feeling tucked away.
You won’t find attractions in Martin’s Point, and that’s the appeal. It’s a home base for people whose vacation plan is the porch, the boat, and dinner in Duck.
One practical note for both neighborhoods: because they’re residential, plan your grocery runs and beach-gear stops on the way in. Kitty Hawk’s stores sit conveniently between the bridge and your driveway, so one smart loop on check-in day sets up the whole week.
Flat Streets Built for Carts and Bikes
Southern Shores’ street grid is flat, shaded in the woods sections, and blissfully low-traffic, which makes it one of the most pleasant places on the OBX to get around on a bike or golf cart. Families cruise to beach accesses in the morning and loop the canals and soundside in the evening.
Golf cart rules vary town to town on the Outer Banks, so check the current local rules for where carts can operate before you ride. Once you know your streets, a cart replaces the car for nearly everything inside the neighborhood. OBX Drive delivers carts right to rental homes in the area; see the golf cart rentals to pick a size for your group.
Bikes deserve equal billing here. The area’s shaded lanes and the multi-use path along the main road make Southern Shores one of the few OBX towns where a family bike ride feels genuinely relaxing instead of brave.
Minutes from Duck, Close to Everything
Here’s the location math that makes these neighborhoods work: Duck village and its boardwalk are just up the road, close enough for easy dinners and shopping. Kitty Hawk’s grocery stores and services are minutes south. You’re also positioned at the base of the road north, which matters on busy days when traffic through Duck backs up; you’re ahead of most of it.
Trying to decide between staying here or in the villages to the north? Our Corolla vs Duck comparison pairs well with this guide: Southern Shores is the answer for people who read both and think “quieter than either, please.”
FAQ: Southern Shores and Martin’s Point
Are there restaurants or shops in Southern Shores?
Almost none inside the neighborhoods, by design. A small commercial area sits near the Kitty Hawk line, and Duck’s full restaurant scene is a few minutes north. You’ll do your dining out in the neighboring towns.
Are the beaches in Southern Shores public?
Access is managed locally, with parking and some amenities oriented to residents and in-town guests. If you’re renting in Southern Shores, you’re set; if you’re staying elsewhere, other towns’ public accesses are the better plan.
Is Martin’s Point good for families?
Yes, if your family wants quiet. Kids bike and cart safely inside the gates, and the beach is a short drive. Just plan on driving or carting for every meal out and activity.
Booked a quiet week in Southern Shores or Martin’s Point? Have your ride waiting when you arrive: browse the OBX Drive fleet for golf carts and vehicles delivered to your rental, or get in touch and we’ll help you choose.