Swell Motel

2.0 star property
Motel with free parking, a short walk to Outer Banks Beaches

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Swell Motel

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

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Room service
  • Gym
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included

Explore the area

Map
46854 NC-12, Buxton, NC, 27953
  • Outer Banks Beaches
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Buxton Woods Nature Trail
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
    ‪5 min drive‬

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Room options

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds No Pets

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(23 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 1 King Bed No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(19 reviews)
  • Sleeps 8
  • 1 King Bed

Studio, 1 Queen Bed No Pets

  • Sleeps 8
  • 1 Queen Bed

Classic Double Room No Pets

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

Comfort Room (2 Queen Pet)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 Queen Beds

Comfort Room (1 King Pet)

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 8
  • 1 King 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

  • ‪Diamond Shoals - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Oceana’s Bistro - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Angelo's Pizza - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Tavern On 12 - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Bros Sandwich Shack - ‬7 min drive

About this property

Swell Motel

Motel with free parking, a short 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 a picnic area and barbecue grills.
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.

Languages

English

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

  • Smoke-free property

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: 10:00 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 - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Swell Motel?

As of Jun 22, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Swell Motel on Jun 23, 2025 start from $150.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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 there parking available 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.

What do couples enjoy most about Swell Motel?

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

Are there hot tubs at Swell Motel?

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

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.

Does Swell Motel have connecting rooms?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies 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. 294 out of 436 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 111 out of 436 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 19 out of 436 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 436 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 436 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

10/10 Excellent

Louis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
All the amenities the property offers. From covered outdoor cooking facilities to easy fishing access
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Meredith

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our 2nd of many future stays! It's our "home" away from home! The outdoor kitchens we have yet to use & there's two for family & friend gatherings. Air/wayer hoses, corn hole, horse shoe, ice machine, fish cleaning station, laundry onsite, pool, toys and bikes, clothes line, firepits, entertainment area for Sat (seasonal) night boogy. Rooms are renovated, some with walk in showers. Gift shop & Art Gallery on site. Doggie stations w/poop bags, dog play area (fenced), kayack use with life vests. This is the Sweet Spot of Buxton! The staff is AMAZING! I'd give 10 stars if I could! Ready to Beach Bum it out in Buxton then go have one hell of a swell time at the Swell Motel!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian

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

Swell stays swell for a second time!

Love the swell! This was my second visit & I will always check availability & pricing when I go to southern OBX. Buxton is convenient to everything down there imo, & swell is in the middle of it all. You can walk to everything you need & several off road ramps within 5 min. The outdoor kitchen & kayaks available for the sound are also a great amenity. I’ll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Barbara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
No hair dryer. Fun vibe 1950’s beach style. Good place if you are fishing with fish cleaning area, picnic tables and campfire. Staff very pleasant too.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lars

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth

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

Outer Banks Getaway

Great location near Cape Point. Bicycles and kayak included. Great amenities including ice machine, fish cleaning station, bbq's, and firepit.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

William

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very clean rooms. Excellent customer service. Walkable to beach & restaurants.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property is adorable. I’ve stayed in this area at many different hotels/motels and this one is adorable! The owner is super nice and it’s close to one of the best fishing spots in the OBX. I will be staying here again. Rooms were clean and comfortable!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

larry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
great place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Great option

This place is just what you need, no more no less! It is so clean and well layed out
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet R

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Absolutely squeaky clean and quiet. Complete satisfaction all around. Good job!!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

Charles

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Larry

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely small hotel right across from a nice restaurant. Close to the lighthouse and friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lou

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Meredith

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Meredith

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Waiting for this Diamond in the rough to find new life, finally the new owners have done that. So many thoughtful amenities...fish cleaning station, an outdoor grill/kitchen and picnic area for CYO meals, laundry on-site, rooms have been upgraded to make the most of your stay here. Such wonderful hospitality!!! There's horse shoe, cornhole, kayaks, and so much more...oh, lets not forget the pool! And so very furbaby friendly too! We will be back most definitely and cannot wait to see what more this special place holds! Congratulations Laura and Hubs! We hope to see y'all sooner than later! Surf's up and be 'Swell'! 😎
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher Broadwell

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paula

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff are wonderful. Had some issue with our vehicle and the staff offered help without hesitation. Room was very clean!! Would definitely stay here again
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca, Smithfield

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed our stay here, there is a cute little gift shop on site with some very nice items. Staff was friendly and helpful, room was clean and comfortable. We will definitely stay here again, highly recommend it!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Seth

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Melissa

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A great little place for a quick stay! The rooms are CLEAN and have been remodeled very nicely! The pool was also very clean and we loved the Swell Art Gallery on site and cute little gift shop. They had live music and 2 fire pits if you byo wood- something that we did which turned into a fun night meeting other guests. The staff were friendly as was Squeakers the cat. Cant beat this place for the value! We had a perfect little getaway here.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

6/10 Okay

LUIS

Stayed 1 night in May 2024