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A simple Buxton stay near the lighthouse, the national seashore, and the surf
Swell Motel sits on NC-12 in Buxton, one of the strung-out villages that make up Hatteras Island, a narrower, more exposed barrier island than the beaches farther north and one that sits entirely inside Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Buxton is best known as the home of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the country, moved inland in 1999 to escape encroaching erosion, and for the maritime forest of Buxton Woods just off the highway. From here it's a short drive to surf breaks, soundside flats, and the NPS's numbered beach ramps that allow 4x4 access with an ORV permit — a setup that's fairly rare on the Outer Banks, since beach driving isn't permitted on the core beaches to the north.
252 reviews
in the last week
Stayed there several times now, clean rooms, friendly (AND HONEST, I MEAN HONEST) staff. Pool is also excellent 8ft deep. I absolutely recommend staying here if your like me and occasionally go down for a few days and don't need a "big rental."
in the last week
I recently stayed at this motel while diving in Hatteras. The room was very clean, beds were comfortable, and the premises was quiet which was great for me. My favorite part were the sweet cats that run the place. Their names and pictures are posted on the outside door of the office.
2 weeks ago
I've been staying on the island since 97' I honestly couldn't tell you of a better location to stay at if you aren't a bougie individual. They offer everything! From gas grills ( with flattops) horseshoes, ice machines, access to bicycles, a little dog park for tiny dogs. Other than the clean rooms and the very comfortable beds. The best part was the free kayaks. That's you could take on the Sound. The ladies in the office and the ones that did the housekeeping.. are some of the most pleasant individuals ever. They also found my girlfriend's earring in our bed after we left. They mailed her a single earring! That southern hospitality my friends.💯✌️
3 weeks ago
The Swell Motel was very swell! Very well maintained property. Very clean room. The place had a great vibe! Great location if you want to take the ferry to Ocracoke. I was smiling from the moment I arrived to the moment I departed. They even have real keys that you use to unlock the door to your room. I would definitely stay here again if I’m ever in the area.
a month ago
We had a great experience at the Swell Motel. Clean room, friendly staff, great amenities like an outdoor kitchen. We really enjoyed the available kayaks and how easy it was to access the sound. We would highly recommend and would love to come back!