Holiday gifting gets a coastal twist with thoughtful ideas inspired by the Outer Banks. From handmade jewelry to surf essentials and local art, this guide rounds up meaningful presents for anyone who carries a bit of OBX in their heart.
If holiday shopping is on your agenda, I have some inspiration for the Outer Banks fans on your list. Choosing a gift for a loved one is not always easy, but if the person you're gifting is an OBX regular or visiting for the first time during the holidays, there are plenty of options you can't go wrong with.
Here's a little sneak peek for you:
- Handmade Necklace
- Beachy Spa Set
- High-Performance Beach Cooler
- Performance Sun Shirt
- Legends of the Sandbar (Book)
- Premium Surf Wax & Surf Shop Gift Set
- Outer Banks Drawn Map
- Nautical Knot Bracelet
- Outer Banks Cookbook (Food as Art on the Outer Banks)
- Coastal-Inspired Art Print
Dreaming of an OBX getaway? Village Realty has been matching beach lovers with the perfect vacation homes for over 25 years. We offer an extensive selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals tailored to meet every need and desire. From stunning oceanfront properties and cozy condos to pet-friendly and newly listed rentals, our diverse portfolio ensures you find the perfect home away from home.
Craving more insider tips? As experts in everything OBX, our destination blog is loaded with fishing tips, the best outdoor adventures, can't-miss foodie finds, and more.
In this gift guide, I've selected a few items for people traveling to the OBX for the holidays or anyone who considers this North Carolina paradise a second home.
Let's jump into the details!
For the Mermaid
1. HANDMADE NECKLACE
Nautical, boho, chic. What's not to love? Your special lady will definitely appreciate a custom necklace from All Washed Up Jewelry. Their hand-stamped pieces can be personalized with plenty of phrases or custom lettering, along with your choice of gem color. You can pick between a sterling silver chain or a 14K gold-filled one.
2. BEACHY SPA SET
Soft, fresh, coastal scents always feel right for someone who adores the OBX. A beachy spa set with handmade soaps, salt scrubs, and soothing lotions inspired by the Atlantic breeze is an easy win. You can even look for local OBX makers who use natural ingredients, sea salt, or botanicals sourced right on the coast. It's a thoughtful way to bring a bit of Outer Banks calm into her daily routine.
For the Merman
3. High-Performance Beach Cooler
Treat your special guy to the beach cooler of his dreams with the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze. This powerhouse cooler keeps ice frozen for days, has sturdy exterior pockets, and features a leak-proof lining that survives even the sandiest beach sessions. It's lightweight, easy to carry, and tough enough for long OBX days with sun, salt, and surf. The price is far more friendly than many premium coolers, and you still get impressive performance without breaking the bank.
4. Performance Sun Shirt
A good sun shirt is worth its weight in gold, especially for someone who spends long hours fishing, paddling, or hanging out on the shoreline. A UPF 50+ performance shirt from a coastal-ready brand like Huk or Salt Life ticks all the boxes. Quick-drying fabric, breathable panels, and soft seams make it perfect for OBX adventures, and the coastal colors and prints look right at home on the beach. It's a simple, practical gift that he'll wear nonstop.
For the Surfer
5. LEGENDS OF THE SANDBAR By Chris Bickford
Although ranked as one of the best surfing areas in North America, there has never been a single book dedicated to surfing the Outer Banks. A new project by local photographer Chris Bickford, Legends of the Sandbar, delivers this in a beautifully engaging photo book capturing the essence of surf culture on the Outer Banks. The stunning photography, anecdotes, and biographies of local "legends" will make this a cherished gift for years to come. Add this to the list for any surfer or Outer Banks culture enthusiast, and you'll be the winning gifter this year!
6. Premium Surf Wax & Local Surf Shop Gift Set
Every surfer needs good wax, and gifting a set curated from an OBX surf shop adds an extra layer of meaning. Pick up a few bars of high-quality warm-water wax, toss in a fresh leash, and maybe a fun sticker or two from places like Secret Spot Surf Shop or Whalebone Surf Shop. It's practical, personal, and tied directly to the Outer Banks surf scene. A small, thoughtful bundle like this goes straight into any surfer's gear bag and gets real use all season long.
For the Sailor
7. Outer Banks Drawn Map
GeographicsArt's Etsy shop sells a beautiful hand-drawn print of the Outer Banks and its surrounding areas that's perfect for a nautical enthusiast or history lover. These limited-edition prints are individually stained, crumpled, torn at the edges, ironed flat, and then signed and numbered.
8. Nautical Knot Bracelet
A nautical knot bracelet makes a great keepsake for anyone who loves sailing the OBX waters. Many local makers craft them by hand using durable marine-grade rope and stainless-steel clasps that hold up to sun, salt, and long days on the water. They come in classic coastal colors and often carry meanings tied to unity, strength, and safe passage. It's a simple, stylish piece that feels personal without being flashy. Two great brands are Sailormade and NEPTN.
For the Cook
9. Outer Banks Cookbook
Food as Art on the Outer Banks is a beautiful cookbook filled with 30 recipes from favorite local restaurants, all paired with gorgeous photos by OBX Life Photography. The book is packed with classic recipes like Tortuga's Lie's Saint Martin Shrimp, Outer Banks Brewing Station's Tuna Tacos, plus plenty of vegetarian treats like Saltbox Café's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Pie. It's a sweet, easy gift for anyone who loves the OBX or just loves good food.
For the Art Lover
10. Coastal-Inspired Art Print
A coastal art print makes a thoughtful gift for someone who loves the Outer Banks and wants a touch of those shores in their space. Local artists capture everything from soft sunrises to wild dune landscapes to iconic lighthouses, and many offer prints in multiple sizes. It's an easy piece to hang in a living room, home office, or hallway, and it keeps that OBX feeling close even when they're far away.
Heading to the OBX yourself for the holidays?
The secret to a great OBX getaway? Finding the perfect place to stay. With Village Realty OBX, you'll have your pick of vacation rentals that keep you close to the beach, the fun, and everything in between.
Our rentals range from oceanfront homes with stunning views to cozy cottages perfect for families or couples. Many properties include amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens, ensuring your stay is as relaxing as it is adventurous.
Booking with Village Realty means you can focus on enjoying everything this North Carolina treasure has to offer while resting easy in a home tailored to your needs. Start your journey by choosing the perfect rental for your outdoor getaway today!