The Outer Banks sets the stage for unforgettable moments, and what could be more magical than a proposal by the sea? From stunning sunsets and iconic landmarks to intimate spots tucked away in nature, the OBX offers endless romantic settings to ask the biggest question of your life. Whether it’s on a sandy beach, atop a historic dune, or under a canopy of stars, this guide will help you find the perfect place to start your forever.

A Proposal on the Beach

Write “Will you marry me?” in the sand or drop to one knee after "finding a shell" during a walk on the beach. Either method is sure to result in a resounding "YES"!

Want to find lodging as close to the beach as possible?  Explore our selection of Oceanfront, Semi-Oceanfront, and Oceanside homes.

Jockey’s Ridge – The Sands of Time Meet Forever Love

Jockey’s Ridge is the tallest living dune system on the East Coast. It is located in Nags Head and offers hours of exploration across vast sandy dunes with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Roanoke Sound.

We recommend parking in the Carolista Drive lot, where your adventure begins with a beautiful wooded path leading to the breathtaking expanse of the ridge.

Bring a blanket and picnic to find your sunset spot tucked among smaller dunes, or, if you’re hoping for a round of applause or a photo-snapping audience, head to the top of a dune where you’ll likely find other ridge explorers enjoying the view.

Want to find lodging as close to Jockey's Ridge as possible?  Explore our selection of homes in Nags Head. 

Hooked on Love – Reel It In from the Pier

From Kitty Hawk down to South Nags Head, you'll find several fishing piers stretching out over the Atlantic, each offering its own unique charm. Once you’ve chosen your venue, the next decision awaits—on the pier, or under it?

If you choose on the pier, walk out over the water as the waves roll gently beneath you toward the shore. For an unforgettable twist, maybe even enlist the help of a fisherman to reel in the ultimate catch of the day—the engagement ring.

Need a little liquid courage or a spot to celebrate afterward? Avalon Pier, Nags Head Pier, and the Outer Banks Pier all have restaurants and bars that are perfect for raising a glass to the big moment.

For a more intimate setting, head under the pier before it opens, when the beach is still quiet, and the sound of the waves creates the perfect romantic backdrop. Will it be at sunrise with the soft golden glow, or at sunset as the sky turns fiery red?

Either way, ensure you’ve got a firm grip on that ring—it’s one catch you don’t want to lose!  

Or, if you want to kick things up a notch, why not knock the proposal out of the park with an Airplane Banner Fly By! 

Want to find lodging near the pier?  We have several piers and hundreds of options to choose from.  Explore our selection of homes in Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and South Nags Head. 

Hope Floats - On the Water

There are so many ways you can get out on the water here on the Outer Banks.  If a kayak sounds like the perfect way to pop the question, we have several homes that provide them, or you can rent one (or two) from our friends at Ocean Atlantic Rentals.  If you would like to instead enjoy the view of the water from shore, why not consider one of our homes with a private dock to set the stage.   Again, if you are hoping for an audience to share the moment with or to snap a photo or video to commemorate the occasion, then perhaps a sunset sail or dolphin cruise is the way to go.  Visit our OBX Watersports page for helpful links to boat charters, rentals, and more.

Want to find lodging on the water? Explore our selection of waterfront homes. 

Let Your Love Shine with a Lighthouse Proposal

Beneath the sweeping views of the Atlantic or surrounded by the historic charm of the lighthouse grounds, a proposal at an Outer Banks lighthouse is unforgettable.

Photo by Brooke Mayo Photographers

Atop Kill Devil Hill – A Proposal Worth Wright-ing About

Take your proposal to new heights—literally! Kick it up a notch by chartering a biplane tour giving you a bird's eye view from above of the Wright Brothers Monument where modern flight began.  Soar over majestic sights like Jockey's Ridge, Oregon Inlet, and the beautiful coastline. Afterward, hike to the monument on top of Kill Devil Hill, where history was made, and let the monumental setting serve as the backdrop for your unforgettable moment. It's the perfect way to start your forever where dreams became reality.

Want to find lodging near the Wright Brothers National Memorial? Explore our selection of homes in Kill Devil Hills.

Elizabethan Gardens - Where Love Doth Bloom Eternal

Whether beneath an ancient oak or beside a cascading fountain, love truly blooms eternal in these historic gardens.

Want to find lodging near the gardens?  Roanoke Island is just a short drive from the towns of Nags Head and South Nags Head. 

Timeless Charm Along Manteo’s Waterfront

The Manteo Historic Waterfront offers an idyllic setting for romance. Stroll hand in hand along the boardwalk, surrounded by picturesque views of sailboats and serene waters. With its quaint shops, inviting cafes, and timeless maritime charm, Manteo provides a magical backdrop for a proposal. Whether you choose the gazebo, a cozy bench by the water, or one of the historic landmarks nearby, this waterfront gem is perfect for making memories that will last a lifetime.

Want to find lodging near the Manteos Historic Waterfront?  Roanoke Island is just a short drive from the towns of Nags Head and South Nags Head. 

It Was Always Written in the Stars

Free from the glare of city lights, the stars shine brighter here on the Outer Banks making for the perfect setting for promises as boundless as the cosmos. Choose your spot, and the starry night sky will be there to add a little extra magic to your special moment. 

Popular Wedding Venues

Once the Outer Banks has become the important place that hosted the momentous occasion of your engagement, then it only makes sense to hold the wedding here as well!  It's no secret that the Outer Banks is a very popular Wedding Destination. The most popular months for Outer Banks weddings are April, May, September, and October, but weddings happen here year-round!

Our inventory has many homes that may be the perfect place to seal the deal. Whether you are looking for an intimate spot on the beach where you can say your vows in the sand just steps from your honeymoon lodging or large estates that can house the entire wedding party and event, too, if the weather requires a backup plan.   Explore wedding and event homes from 4×4 Carova Beach, Corolla, to South Nags Head. Our website makes it easy for your out-of-town guests to search for accommodations nearby and with their must-have's such as  homes that allow pets, offer elevators, private pools, hot tubs, and short stays, or homes that are close to one another to accommodate multiple families.  Browse our inventory of quality vacation rentals here.

The majority of Outer Banks brides choose to do a simple beach wedding ceremony followed by a tented reception at their vacation home. This option provides flexibility and convenience! However, the Outer Banks offers many great venues to hold a Wedding Ceremony and Reception.

Additional Venue Options

• Whalehead Club in Corolla
• Roanoke Island Festival Park
• Jennette’s Pier
• The Currituck Club
• Kitty Hawk Fishing Pier
• Elizabethan Gardens
• The North Carolina Aquarium
• 108 Budleigh, Manteo

If any of these ideas don't resonate with you, we are confident that you will find the perfect place and time while visiting the Outer Banks.