This Waterfront Hotel in North Carolina’s Outer Banks Just Reopened — With Access to Private Beaches and a Celebrity Chef Restaurant
The North Carolina Outer Banks just got a luxurious upgrade. After an extensive renovation, one of the region’s most beloved waterfront hotels has officially reopened its doors—offering guests a rejuvenated coastal experience complete with exclusive private beach access and a brand-new restaurant helmed by a celebrity chef. For travelers seeking a blend of laid-back beach vibes and upscale amenities, this newly revamped destination is quickly becoming the talk of the East Coast.
Nestled along the Atlantic coastline, this Outer Banks gem has long been a favorite among vacationers for its unbeatable location, panoramic ocean views, and warm Southern hospitality. Now, following a multi-million-dollar overhaul, it returns with refreshed interiors, elevated guest services, and new culinary experiences that rival some of the top resorts in the country.
One of the biggest highlights of the reopening is undoubtedly the private beach access—a rare luxury in the Outer Banks, where public beaches tend to draw crowds during the summer months. Hotel guests can now enjoy a peaceful stretch of sand reserved solely for them, complete with beach attendants, umbrella service, and complimentary loungers. Whether you’re looking to sip cocktails under the sun, stroll along the shoreline at sunrise, or enjoy an evening beachside bonfire, the exclusive access ensures a serene and personalized experience.
Beyond the beach, the hotel’s crown jewel is its new on-site restaurant, led by none other than Chef Marcus Harding, a celebrated name in the culinary world. Known for his appearances on national cooking competitions and his inventive Southern cuisine, Harding brings a bold, fresh energy to the Outer Banks dining scene. The restaurant—aptly named Salt & Shore—features a menu that blends locally sourced seafood with creative Lowcountry flavors, offering dishes like pan-seared scallops with sweet corn purée, grilled oysters with bourbon butter, and a signature seafood boil that has already become a guest favorite.
The interiors of the hotel have also been reimagined with a modern coastal aesthetic that honors the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. Soft neutrals, driftwood textures, and large windows create a calming ambiance that invites the outdoors in. Guest rooms have been outfitted with new furnishings, spa-inspired bathrooms, and oceanfront balconies perfect for watching the waves roll in.
The lobby has been transformed into a social hub, with cozy lounge areas, a fireplace for cooler evenings, and a curated selection of local art. Just steps from the entrance, guests can explore a new outdoor deck and infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic—perfect for sunset lounging or cocktail hour.
In addition to its upgraded facilities, the hotel now offers a suite of curated experiences that go beyond the typical beach vacation. Guests can take part in morning yoga sessions by the water, book eco-tours through the nearby marshlands, or enjoy a sunset sail with local captains who know the area inside and out. There’s also an on-site wellness center offering massages, facials, and body treatments designed to help guests truly unwind.
The hotel’s reopening comes at a time when travelers are increasingly seeking meaningful and immersive getaways, and the Outer Banks—with its historic lighthouses, scenic dunes, and rich maritime heritage—is uniquely positioned to offer just that. With fewer crowds than other East Coast destinations and a strong focus on conservation and local culture, the area provides a refreshing alternative for vacationers looking to connect with nature and community.
Hotel management says the response since reopening has been overwhelming. “We’ve seen a surge in bookings from both returning guests and first-time visitors,” said general manager Laura Simms. “People are excited about the upgrades, and especially about the chance to experience the Outer Banks in a more refined, comfortable way.”
For those planning a summer getaway, now is the perfect time to visit. The hotel is offering a selection of opening-season packages, including complimentary breakfast at Salt & Shore, discounts on spa treatments, and exclusive guided tours of the surrounding islands.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a solo escape to recharge, this waterfront hotel offers something truly special: the magic of the Outer Banks, elevated with comfort, cuisine, and a touch of celebrity flair.
With its unique combination of location, luxury, and local charm, the hotel’s return marks a new chapter not just for the property itself, but for the future of high-end travel in coastal North Carolina.
