Scoops, sundaes, and sweet seaside moments: the Outer Banks is filled with local ice cream gems that make every beach day even better. From Nags Head to Hatteras, these must-visit spots serve happiness by the cone.
Everyone loves ice cream, but savoring this sweet, refreshing treat along the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks of North Carolina makes it even better. If you're heading to this coastal paradise soon, you'll find plenty of must-visit ice cream spots serving hand-churned classics, creative twists, and sea breezes that satisfy every sweet tooth.
Here's a bite-sized intro to the good stuff:
- The Spot: Surf-shack serving creamy scoops, açai bowls, and smoothies made with local ingredients.
- Booty Treats: Hawaiian-style shave ice, milkshakes, and old-fashioned ice cream.
- Surfin' Spoon: Family-run frozen yogurt bar with surf-inspired décor and endless topping choices.
- Kill Devil's Frozen Custard & Beach Fries: Beloved stop for rich frozen custard and beachside nostalgia.
- American Pie: Fun mix of pizzeria and ice cream parlor serving small-batch homemade flavors.
- Holy Cow Creamery: Friendly creamery known for creative, small-batch scoops and thick shakes.
- The Chill Spot: Easygoing local hangout with generous scoops, colorful toppings, and vegan options.
- Big Buck's Ice Cream Shop: Local parlor serving handcrafted ice cream and warm waffle cones.
- Donutz on a Stick: Playful dessert stop turning warm doughnuts into fun, topping-loaded treats.
- Frosties: Classic soft-serve stand known for creamy cones, sundaes, and milkshakes.
- Old Towne Creamery: Family-run shop dishing out homemade hand-dipped ice cream.
- Big Buck's Ice Cream: Small-batch ice cream and fudge counter with waterfront views.
- Cups & Cones: Buxton's favorite serving generous scoops in homemade waffle cones.
- Happy Belly Ice Cream: Cheerful spot offering huge portions, premium ingredients, and fun toppings.
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 blog post, I've rounded up some of the most beloved ice cream spots across the Outer Banks for you to savor that perfect scoop.
Ready to dive into an ice cream OBX bliss? Let's jump into the details!
Nags Head's Top Ice Cream Spots
1. The Spot
Laid-back beach shack energy everyone loves after a sunny day on the sand.
The Spot in Nags Head has that laid-back beach shack energy everyone loves after a sunny day on the sand. Locals and visitors line up for its creamy scoops, açai bowls, and smoothies made with fresh fruit and local ingredients.
Favorite Flavors
Try the Key Lime Pie for a true coastal treat or the Salted Caramel for something indulgent. Their homemade waffle cones make every scoop taste even better.
Highlights
- Açai bowls and fresh smoothies, in addition to ice cream.
- Beachy outdoor seating for a quick cooldown.
- Friendly staff and a fun surf-inspired setting.
- Vegan and dairy-free options available.
2. Booty Treats
Cheerful shack serving up old-fashioned ice cream, hand-spun milkshakes, and Hawaiian-style shave ice.
Booty Treats brings a tropical twist to the Outer Banks dessert scene. This cheerful shack serves up old-fashioned ice cream, hand-spun milkshakes, and Hawaiian-style shave ice in vibrant colors. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is pure vacation joy.
Favorite Flavors
The Booty Blend (a mix of soft serve and shaved ice) is a local favorite. Try the Coconut or Tiger's Blood shave ice if you like fruity flavors, or grab a scoop of Cookies and Cream for something classic.
Highlights
- Hawaiian shave ice with endless flavor combinations.
- Nostalgic soft-serve and milkshakes.
- Outdoor picnic tables and photo-worthy decor.
- Fast, friendly service even on busy summer nights.
3. Surfin Spoon
Build your own frozen yogurt masterpiece.
Owned by professional surfer Jesse Hines and his wife Whitney, Surfin' Spoon is a beloved Nags Head hangout where everyone builds their own frozen yogurt masterpiece. The interior is cozy and surf-themed, lined with local art and surfboards. It's relaxed, welcoming, and always buzzing with happy energy.
Favorite Flavors
Go for Cake Batter or Salted Caramel Pretzel, then top it off with brownie bites or fresh fruit. The rotating flavors keep things fun for regulars and newcomers alike.
Highlights
- Self-serve frozen yogurt with endless topping choices.
- Surf-inspired decor and local art displays.
- Family-owned with a genuine community vibe.
- Fun merch corner with tees and stickers to take home.
Kill Devil Hills' Top Ice Cream Spots
4. Kill Devil's Frozen Custard & Beach Fries
Classic stop on the Beach Road, famous for its Vanilla custard with hot fudge.
This classic stop on the Beach Road has been serving happiness by the scoop for years. The custard is thick, creamy, and made fresh daily, best enjoyed after a sun-soaked afternoon by the waves. Locals swear by the old-school charm and generous servings, and you'll often spot families lining up for cones, shakes, or sundaes under the striped awning.
Favorite Flavors
Vanilla custard with hot fudge and crushed peanuts is a must. The chocolate malt and banana splits also win big with regulars.
Highlights
- Freshly churned frozen custard made in-house daily.
- Family-friendly spot just steps from the beach.
- Quick bites like crinkle fries and burgers for hungry beachgoers.
5. American Pie
Half pizzeria, half ice cream parlor.
Half pizzeria, half ice cream parlor, American Pie is a fun, chill hangout that's a hit among visitors and locals alike. The retro surf vibe and outdoor picnic tables make it a fun stop after a day on the sand. Expect generous scoops, friendly faces, and some of the creamiest homemade ice cream on the island.
Favorite Flavors
The mint chocolate chip and cookies and cream are local legends. Seasonal fruit flavors like peach or blueberry pop up in summer and sell fast.
Highlights
- Homemade small-batch ice cream with rotating seasonal options.
- Outdoor seating that keeps the beach mood going.
- Family-owned with a loyal local following.
6. Holy Cow Creamery
Rich, small-batch flavors and creative toppings.
Holy Cow Creamery takes ice cream to heavenly levels with its rich, small-batch flavors and creative toppings. The atmosphere is relaxed and bright, and the menu leans into fun combinations that keep everyone happy, especially the little ones who love watching their sundaes piled high over the counter.
Favorite Flavors
Peanut butter cup, coconut almond, and caramel sea salt are top picks. The milkshakes also deserve a moment of appreciation.
Highlights
- Locally made, hand-dipped ice cream with creative twists.
- Friendly staff who don't rush you through flavor decisions.
- Great spot for cooling off after an OBX adventure.
Corolla's Top Ice Cream Spots
7. The Chill Spot
Generous portions, plenty of topping options, and a fun beach-town vibe.
Tucked near Corolla's main stretch, The Chill Spot is a must-go gem for cooling off after a day in the sun in Corolla. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for taking a break from all the outdoor activities while the kids decide between dozens of colorful scoops. Expect generous portions, plenty of topping options, and a fun beach-town vibe that perfectly fits a summer afternoon.
Favorite Flavors
Their crowd-pleasers include Key Lime Pie, Birthday Cake, and classic Butter Pecan. The hand-dipped cones and milkshakes are also worth the wait in line.
Highlights
- Outdoor seating.
- Fun local flavors with seasonal twists.
- Vegan and dairy-free options available.
- Friendly staff who always offer a sample or two.
8. Big Bucks Ice Cream Shop
Freshly made waffle cones and delicious scoops made in-house.
Big Buck's is a local institution that has been serving handcrafted ice cream for decades. The smell of freshly made waffle cones is irresistible, and every scoop is made in-house. Add an extremely cozy space boasting that old-fashioned ice cream parlor charm, and you can't go wrong here.
Favorite Flavors
Local favorites include Banana Pudding, Outer Banks Turtle, and Cookies & Cream. The sundaes piled high with whipped cream and hot fudge are pure happiness in a cup.
Highlights
- Homemade ice cream made daily.
- Locally inspired flavors.
- Sundaes, shakes, and waffle cones.
Duck's Top Ice Cream Spots
9. Donutz on a Stick
Classic doughnuts turned into something even more irresistible.
Donutz on a Stick is a cheerful dessert stop in Duck that takes classic doughnuts and turns them into something even more irresistible. Imagine mini doughnuts, warm and fluffy, served on a stick and coated in your choice of toppings. The aroma alone pulls people in, and once you've had a bite, it's hard not to order seconds. This spot has a playful energy that fits perfectly with Duck's laid-back beach vibe.
Favorite Flavors
- Cookies and Cream.
- Maple Bacon.
- Classic Cinnamon Sugar.
- Strawberry Glaze with Sprinkles.
Highlights
- Made-to-order doughnuts, served warm and fresh.
- Fun presentation with toppings piled high.
- Great spot for a mid-afternoon sugar fix or post-beach treat.
- Friendly staff and quick service, even during busy summer days.
Manteo's Top Ice Cream Spots
10. Frosties
Classic soft-serve cones, creamy milkshakes, and sundaes piled high with toppings.
A Manteo favorite for generations, Frosties boasts a delightful old-school charm and exciting coastal twist that make locals and visitors line up for their classic soft-serve cones, creamy milkshakes, and sundaes piled high with toppings. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a sweet stop after a day exploring the waterfront or visiting Roanoke Island attractions.
Favorite Flavors
- Chocolate-vanilla swirl.
- Strawberry shortcake sundae.
- Peanut butter cup milkshake.
Highlights
- Retro-style soft-serve stand with a local following.
- Generous portions and quick service.
- Great stop after a walk through downtown Manteo.
11. Old Towne Creamery
Family-run shop dishing out delicious hand-dipped ice cream.
This absolute must-visit ice cream spot sits at the heart of Manteo's small-town charm, dishing out hand-dipped ice cream in a cheerful, family-run shop. The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always count on homemade flavors and a welcoming smile behind the counter.
Favorite Flavors
- Cookies and cream.
- Butter pecan.
- Salted caramel.
Highlights
- Homemade ice cream with creamy, dense texture.
- Outdoor seating with views of historic Manteo.
- Family-owned shop known for friendly staff.
12. Big Bucks Ice Cream
Small-batch ice cream and dessert counter packed with fudge and truffles.
Big Buck's Ice Cream adds a little indulgence to Manteo's scenic Waterfront Shops. Known across the Outer Banks for its small-batch ice cream and dessert counter packed with fudge and truffles, this stop is a hit with both kids and adults. You can grab a cone, wander the boardwalk, and watch boats drift by: the definition of coastal downtime.
Favorite Flavors
- Mint chocolate chip.
- Cappuccino crunch.
- Butter fudge swirl.
Highlights
- Locally made ice cream with premium ingredients.
- Bonus sweet shop offering homemade fudge and chocolates.
- Beautiful waterfront location perfect for an afternoon treat.
Hatteras Island's Top Ice Cream Spots
13. Cups & Cones
Long list of flavors served in generous scoops.
This is a classic stop in Buxton that everyone on Hatteras Island seems to love. The place has a beach-town charm, colorful walls, and a long list of flavors served in generous scoops. It's ideal after a day in the surf or a lazy afternoon exploring the lighthouse.
Favorite Flavors
Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chip, and Birthday Cake are top picks here. The homemade waffle cones are warm, crisp, and slightly sweet, worth the visit on their own.
Highlights
- Family-run spot known for its friendly service.
- Offers milkshakes, sundaes, and coffee drinks, too.
- Cozy patio with plenty of shade.
- Local kids' favorite for post-beach treats.
14. Happy Belly Ice Cream
A menu featuring both traditional and adventurous flavors.
Happy Belly Ice Cream in Hatteras Village brings instant joy to anyone walking in. The décor is cheerful, the portions are huge, and the menu features both traditional and adventurous flavors. It's a go-to stop for families cruising through the island looking for a cool treat.
Favorite Flavors
Butter Pecan, Salted Caramel, and Cookie Dough tend to win hearts, though the seasonal fruit flavors deserve a try, too.
Highlights
- Generous scoops made with premium ingredients.
- Fun selection of toppings and sundaes.
- Indoor seating for cooling off after the beach.
- Friendly staff who know how to keep the line moving fast.
Extra Treats for the Sweet Tooth in OBX
It doesn't need to be all about ice cream in the OBX; there's a lot more on offer for the sweet tooth. Here are some extra honorable mentions:
- Duck Donuts: Create your own perfect donut with choices like maple bacon or classic chocolate glaze, ideal for a quick yet indulgent treat.
- Orange Blossom Bakery: Known for their "Apple Uglies," these oversized, crispy donuts filled with spiced apples are a local favorite for a morning snack or post-beach treat.
- Forbes Candies: Forbes Candies delights taste buds with their renowned artisanal salt water taffy and time-honored chocolate recipes, crafting sweet treats that have been cherished for generations. Make sure to also visit the 10 3/4 milepost location offering the traditional Forbes candies plus ice cream at The Ice Cream Shack.
- Outer Banks Chocolate & Wine: Handmade truffles, sea salt caramels, and other artisan chocolates provide a truly decadent ending to a day on the island.
Experience the best of the Outer Banks
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!