Dolphin Oceanfront Motel

2.0 star property
Beachside hotel to enjoy seasonal outdoor pool and sand beach

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Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed, Courtyard View

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed, Courtyard View | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed, Courtyard View

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(37 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Double Beds, Courtyard View

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds, Courtyard View | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds, Courtyard View

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(38 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

About the neighborhood

Nags Head

Located in South Nags Head within a 5-minute walk of Outer Banks Beaches, Dolphin Oceanfront Motel is within a 15-minute stroll of Whalebone Junction. Each of the 43 rooms at this hotel includes a private yard, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

What's nearby

  • beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Jennette's Pier - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Whalebone Junction - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Whalebone Junction Information Center - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Outlets Nags Head - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Manteo, NC (MEO-Dare County Regional) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Miller's Waterfront Restaurant - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Fish Heads Bar & Grill - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪KFC - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Dolphin Oceanfront Motel

Beachside hotel to enjoy seasonal outdoor pool and sand beach
At Dolphin Oceanfront Motel, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and express check-out. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. Staff members can help with accommodation requests, and provide front-desk service during limited hours. Other amenities at this beach hotel include a terrace, barbecue grills, and a picnic area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 43-inch TVs with cable channels. Other standard amenities include private yards, refrigerators, and microwaves.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

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

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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Things to do

  • Fishing
  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • Surfing/bodyboarding

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • On the beach
  • On the waterfront
  • Picnic area
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

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

More

  • 1 building
  • 1 floor
  • Built in 1952
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch TV with cable channels
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Heating

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Express 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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 10 per pet, per day, plus a deposit of USD 10 per night
  • 2 total pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding

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 deposit: USD 10 per night
  • Pet fee: USD 10 per pet, per day
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

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; 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—-8:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking out is easy with express services. 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. Cash is not accepted. 

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May to October.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Dolphin Motel
Dolphin Oceanfront
Dolphin Oceanfront Motel
Dolphin Oceanfront Motel Nags Head
Dolphin Oceanfront Nags Head
Dolphin Oceanfront Hotel Nags Head
Dolphin Oceanfront Nags Head
Dolphin Oceanfront Motel Hotel
Dolphin Oceanfront Motel Nags Head
Dolphin Oceanfront Motel Hotel Nags Head

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

This hotel is situated in South Nags Head, just steps from Outer Banks Beaches and Whalebone Junction. You'll also find Pirate's Cove Marina and Jockey's Ridge State Park within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Does Dolphin Oceanfront Motel feature a casino on the premises?

No, Dolphin Oceanfront Motel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. The seasonal pool is normally open from May until October.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront hotel include streaming services as well as a seasonal outdoor pool and a terrace.

Are there hot tubs at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Dolphin Oceanfront Motel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

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

Will Dolphin Oceanfront Motel allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel for a fee of USD 10 per pet, per day. A deposit of USD 10 per night is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

The closest major airport to Dolphin Oceanfront Motel is Manteo, NC (MEO-Dare County Regional), which is 6.8 mi away (11 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel?

Yes, every guestroom at Dolphin Oceanfront Motel comes with a porch with some featuring courtyard views.

Dolphin Oceanfront Motel Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 297 out of 599 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 182 out of 599 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 77 out of 599 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 24 out of 599 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 19 out of 599 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Robert Burns Graham

Traveled with group, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was pleasant and pet friendly. Room held all I needed for a weekend get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Manny

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
My adult son and I just finished a motorcycle trip to OBX. We picked Dolphin Inn because we wanted an old school motel experience, with easy access, and beach front. All at a good value. Dolphin Inn was PERFECT. It's been recently refreshed, and the rooms were very clean, nicely decorated and QUIET. The staff was friendly and professional, and everything we needed was available. Dolphin Inn is located about 15 minutes from the "action" at Nags Head, but a 7-11 and local favorite bar and grill was an easy walk. The room was a little on the small side and didn't have many "extras" but it had everything we needed, including a coffeemaker and nice TV. We don't smoke, and we couldn't smell smoke in our room, but if you do smoke I would highly recommend Dolphin Inn as there are chairs to smoke outside each room. This in no way bothered us as non smokers. In fact, most folks sat in the chairs to enjoy the weather, and we struck up conversation with them. They gave us tips on what to do and see. You don't get that in the large chain hotels. Often times we'd look at the large Comfort Inn hotel a few lots down, and comment on how glad we were choosing the Dolphin. As for convenience, it was VERY nice to just walk out your door and be at your vehicle. It was also very quiet at night with no traffic noise. We're big fans of the Dolphin Inn, it was just right for us.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Rosanne

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great location, needs updating

Staff were great and friendly The room, air conditioning unit very noisy and never got cool enough. Found a cockroach on the wall on day 2 (eekk) Overall view and beach access were great
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

kris

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Donald

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Martha

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The only issue we had is the bed was small, maybe a double size? Other wise, we enjoyed our stay and definitely will return. Office staff was exceptionally helpful and friendly.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

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

Not many steps to the beach

Older motor court motel that has been updated. We had direct beach access from our room. It was in an area with good shopping and food nearby
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Tammy

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

Nice little hotel

Weekend birthday get away. The pool is very nice and clean. Would be nice if they stocked the bathroom w shampoo and conditioner and not two shampoos (I forgot mine). The front desk clerk was very nice. I will stay here again and would like to stay in one of the back rooms that opens onto the sand.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Kathy

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

Beautiful view but dirty room

Beds were dirty, sheets not changed. There was a lot of sand IN both beds. There was makeup and lipstick on the pillowcase. Floors were dirty with sand and hair. Room looked clean when we walked in but once we pulled back the sheets, it was nasty. We took bottom sheet off and slept on mattress pad, took pillowcase off and covered with a towel. Gross. Couldn’t get out of there fast enough.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

CULLEN

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tressa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
I have never seen a pool this clean before. The room was very clean. Loved the retro looking fridge and microwave. Beach access was perfect!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tyler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
2nd year staying here and it’s been fantastic both times. Owner and staff are very nice. Already planning to book here again next year.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Shane

There’s no plastic silverware in the rooms only issues I had.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Allison

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful access to the beach with Jeanette's pier as the backdrop. Can't beat it.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hunter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
What can I say I stayed last Friday and found my self back 1 week later. The accommodations made once I arrived topped the whole stay. Amazing beach front rooms. Very clean pool, comfy beds, fishing pier less than 5 min walk. Just can’t beat it will be sure to book next years stay soon
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

April

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Newly renovated motel right on the ocean. Clean pool with nice pool deck furniture. A few restaurants and an ice cream shop within walking distance. Management lives onsite and he was very helpful for all our needs.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the beach access!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rafael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Good times … very family home feel vibes. Ocean access is good and
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Humberto

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place and very well kept. I would recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gerald

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice and quiet, right on the beach.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Lauren

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our stay was great! We were right on the beach which was nice. It’s great location wise since everything is fairly close for going out and doing things. The only thing that sucked was parking. The spots are so tight and difficult to navigate. Otherwise, our stay was lovely.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Danielle

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

Great location.

We loved the location as we wanted to explore the entire OBX region north and south. We extended our stay a couple more days. Jim was helpful in printing our beach pass for us and accommodated our needs.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christian Anthony

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
its simpe,clean,staff are friendly and understanding.they let us check in at 11am with no extra fee.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

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