Swell Motel

2.0 star property
Motel with free parking, 6-minute walk to Outer Banks Beaches

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Swell Motel

Beach nearby, white sand
Exterior
Exterior
Beach nearby, white sand
Reception

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Room service
  • Gym
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
46854 NC-12, Buxton, NC, 27953
  • Place, Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Lighthouse Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Buxton Woods Nature Trail
    ‪10 min walk‬

Room options

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(27 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 1 King Bed No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(22 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Studio, 1 Queen Bed No Pets

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

Comfort Room (2 Queen Pet)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Comfort Room (1 King Pet)

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Classic Double Room No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)
  • 285 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Buxton

Swell Motel places you next to Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf and within a 10-minute walk of Outer Banks Beaches. This 31-room motel welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a gym.

What's nearby

  • Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Outer Banks Beaches - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Lighthouse Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Buxton Woods Nature Trail - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Cape Hatteras Lighthouse - 5 min drive - 1.5 miles

Getting around

  • Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF) - 162 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tavern on 12 - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Angelo's Pizza - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Diamond Shoals Restaurant - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Orange Blossom Bakery & Cafe - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Mad Crabber Restaurant - ‬10 min drive

About this property

Swell Motel

Motel with free parking, 6-minute walk to Outer Banks Beaches
At Swell Motel, guests have access to a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Free parking is included with your stay. Friendly staff can provide front-desk service during limited hours, and also offer advice about sightseeing. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers an off-leash area. Additional amenities include barbecue grills and a picnic area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. Balconies or patios, private yards, and microwaves are other standard amenities. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Things to do

  • Art gallery
  • Gym
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Direct access to the beach
  • Dock
  • In a nature reserve
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • No elevator (single-level property)

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Laptop workspace

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 7:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between November 13 and February 8.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 20.00 per accommodation, per day
  • An off-leash area is available
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per stay
  • Cribs/infant beds are available for USD 20.0 per stay

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 20.00 per accommodation, per day
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Crib (infant bed) fee: USD 20.0 per stay
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per stay

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Swell Motel Buxton
Swell Buxton
Motel Swell Motel Buxton
Buxton Swell Motel Motel
Swell
Motel Swell Motel
Swell Motel Motel
Swell Motel Buxton
Swell Motel Motel Buxton

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Swell Motel?

Swell Motel provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to see near Swell Motel?

Guests enjoy the motel's walkable location in Buxton based on their ratings, and it's within a 10-minute walk of Outer Banks Beaches and Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf. You'll also find Lighthouse Beach and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Swell Motel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Does Swell Motel include a casino at the property?

No, Swell Motel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Swell Motel?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have pool access between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM.

Is Swell Motel a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like a nature reserve plus some guestrooms include kitchenettes and garden views.

Does Swell Motel have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

Does Swell Motel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Swell Motel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Swell Motel allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Swell Motel for a fee of USD 20.00 per accommodation, per day. The property also provides an off-leash area.

Are there connecting rooms at Swell Motel?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Swell Motel?

Yes, every guestroom at Swell Motel comes with a balcony with some featuring garden or courtyard views.

Swell Motel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 335 out of 487 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 116 out of 487 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 20 out of 487 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 487 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 8 out of 487 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Jacob

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It would have been nice if the bedding was cleaner. Fantastic beach vibe and great location!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great place!

Staff were great and attentive, and the rooms were really nice, especially for a renovated old motel! We only stayed here for two nights on our way south to Ocracoke with more family, but would absolutely stay longer. Great vibe with the live music Friday and Saturday. We’ll probably be back next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jorge

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Ai

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great outer banks motel!

This is a great option when staying in the outer banks. It is exactly what you need out of a beach motel. It's affordable, clean, and has friendly service.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed our stay and the staff was very frendly.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandi

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Island vibes

Wonderful family owned classic style motel. Very relaxed and laid-back atmosphere giving off island vibes. Pool was very clean and inviting. The two outdoor kitchens were very nice to be able to cook any of our meals on. The available bicycles and kayaks were great, and free to use. This is a perfect vacation stop if staying around Buxton.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kerry

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was very comfortable, the cleaniness of the pool, unique gift shop, friendly staff Enjoyed the use of the picnic pavilion & even received a copy of a patern to make unique campfire chairs as a project as we returned home. Thank you for an enjoyable stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

jonathan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Relaxing stay

The staff was very friendly. There was everything we needed for a family trip with kids. We could walk to many restaurants and shops. We will definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Melissa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice room very nice manager
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sherry

We absolutely loved our stay at the swell hotel. Located in a small town, everyone was very friendly. For our first trip to OBX we were very pleased and are looking to go back for 2 weeks next year.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sonja

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The owners of the Swell Motel were extremely friendly. They greeted us personally for our evening check-in. The amenities at the property are fabulous. They thought of everything. The outside kitchen areas, equipped with all the necessary utensils, were easily accessible. They also offered bikes and kayaks to use during your stay. The rooms were new in design and had everything you would need for a few-night stay. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is my favorite place to go !! It’s such a welcoming place and the perfect spot for a getaway, I just wish I could have stayed longer. I had a very peaceful, relaxing experience as always and I definitely can’t wait to go back !!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leskie

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Lots of provided activities and equipment, right next to everything... Very laid back!!!! 😎
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dennis

Nicely renovated
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christopher, Wildomar

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great assistance from the office…Friendly Staff.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Payton

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Louis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Its has easy access to the beaches and access to the sound
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Adorable little property that really caters to needs of travelers. Highly recommend ❤️
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Liz, Starkville

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quite and comfortable with great beach near by.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tucker

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
LOVED this motel! Laura was amazing, we got To meet Jorge & Angel who were helping Ms Laura remodel the other buildings; they were amazing as well! Loved everything about this place and already planning my next stay here!!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025