Ocean Friendly Outer Banks Businesses

The Outer Banks has always been known for its beautiful beaches and stunning oceans. Naturally you’d want to support businesses that protect what you love right? We’ve compiled a list of our favorite ocean friendly Outer Banks businesses that keep our beautiful beaches and environment in mind.

So, what exactly makes an establishment “ocean friendly”? According to the North Carolina Coastal Federation, “owners and managers of certified Ocean Friendly Establishments have agreed to only serve straws upon request and eliminate single-use plastic bags”. Ocean Friendly Outer Banks establishments also participate in the federation’s Restaurant to Reef oyster shell recycling program, they eliminate styrofoam, provide vegetarian menu options, and don’t offer plastic bottled beverages. Each businesses is unique in how they contribute to the environment and the preservation of our beaches and oceans. Browse our round up below and support a local Outer Banks business that supports the beach and ocean you love!

Bad Bean Baja Grill

Kitty Hawk, NC

This Outer Banks ocean friendly establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With creative, and delicious Mexican and Latin American inspired cuisine with an Outer Banks flare, you’ll be sure to find something you love at Bad Bean. Popular menu items include their tacos, nachos, and more. With everything made from fresh ingredients, you really can’t go wrong.

Banks Surf Supply

Nags Head, NC

Banks Surf Supply is home to everything you need and more to have fun in the ocean, from surfing to skim boarding. whether you’re a newcomer to the sport or have been catching waves for years now, Banks Surf Supply has something for everyone. Todd Kleban, the owner of Banks Surf, states he “felt the need for a small shop that focused on going surfing and sharing the vibe with anyone that wanted to participate.” From that, Banks Surf Supply was born.

Cavalier Surf Shop

Nags Head, NC

Founded in the early 1960s, Cavalier Surf Shop is part of local history on the Outer Banks; afterall, they’re the Outer Banks’ original surf shop! Cavalier Surf Shop offers options for everyone, whether you’re a surfer or just looking for a cool, OBX souvenir different than the typical “OBX” t shirt!

Jack Brown’s

Kill Devil Hills, NC

Beers, burgers, and of course fun are all found at Jack Brown’s. Jack Brown’s Burger Joint features a wide array of fun burgers, fries, and even deep fried Oreos. The only catch? No asking for lettuce and tomato, all of JB’s burgers are simple with a creative twist. Along with burgers, you can find a lengthy list of craft beers and a fun, open air bar area complete with cornhole, seating, and live music.

Front Porch Cafe

Manteo | Nags Head | Kill Devil Hills

A local and visitor favorite, Front Porch Cafe offers a wide variety of coffee, tea, and pastries to get you through your day! Front Porch Cafe has been an Outer Banks go to since 1999 and since their start, they’ve been roasting coffee in house and have been serving up a fun environment to relax, unwind, get some work done, and of course drink a tasty cup of coffee.

Nags Head Pizza Company

Nags Head | Kitty Hawk

If you’re looking for pizza for the whole crew (literally), look no further than Nags Head Pizza Company! Nags Head pizza arguably has the best pizza on the Outer Banks. Their menu is diverse and even offers pizza options for those who are vegan, gluten free, and dairy free! From salads and breadsticks to some of the most delicious pizza made with fresh ingredients, Nags Head Pizza company is a great choice for the whole family.

Whalebone Surf Shop

Nags Head, NC

Whalebone Surf Shop is another local favorite and large piece of Outer Banks history. Since 1975, Whalebone Surf Shop has been providing everything from surf boards to swimwear to surfers and beach lovers on the OBX. At Whalebone, you can find surf boards, surf accessories, and of course the classic Whalebone Surf Shop t-shirt!

Pangea Tavern

Avon, NC

Located in Avon on Hatteras Island lies Pangea Tavern. Pangea is a family owned and operated restaurant serving tasty dishes inspired by local cuisine and of course southern hospitality. Pangea sources local, fresh, and sustainable ingredients. From 14 local North Carolina craft beers to tasty dishes including sesame encrusted tuna and vegan Pangea’s Paella, there’s something for everyone at this ocean friendly Outer Banks establishment.

Outer Banks Brewing Station

Kill Devil Hills, NC

Outer Banks Brewing Station is a local favorite that features beers brewed right here on the Outer Banks. Outer Banks Brewing Station is the first wind powered brewery in the United States! Not only does The Brew Station brew their own beers, they also make their own root beer, ginger beer, and orange vanilla creamsicle soda! Their menu items feature everything from a giant hot pretzel and cheese dip to veggie chipotle black bean burgers.

Other local ocean friendly Outer Banks establishments include:

Basnight’s Lone Cedar

Blue Moon Beach Grill

Coastal Cravings

Tortuga’s Lie

You can view a whole list of Ocean Friendly Establishments here!