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Tar Heel Motel

2.5 star property
Beachfront motel in Nags Head with free parking

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Photo gallery for Tar Heel Motel

Single Room, 1 King Bed | In-room safe, individually decorated, free WiFi, bed sheets
Single Room, 1 King Bed | In-room safe, individually decorated, free WiFi, bed sheets
Garden
Seasonal outdoor pool
Terrace/patio

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
7010 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC, 27959
  • Place, beach
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Outlets Nags Head
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Place, Jennette's Pier
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Airport, Manteo, NC (MEO-Dare County Regional)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Single Room, 1 King Bed

Single Room, 1 King Bed | Bathroom | Free toiletries, towels

Single Room, 1 King Bed

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(10 reviews)
  • 216 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Single Room, 2 Queen Beds

Single Room, 2 Queen Beds | In-room safe, individually decorated, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(26 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

About the neighborhood

Nags Head

Located in Whalebone, Tar Heel Motel is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Nags Head Golf Links and within a 5-minute drive of Jennette's Pier. Each of the 32 rooms at this motel includes a furnished patio, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
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What's nearby

  • beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Outlets Nags Head - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Jennette's Pier - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Whalebone Junction - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Nags Head Golf Links - 3 min drive - 2.1 miles

Getting around

  • Manteo, NC (MEO-Dare County Regional) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Miller's Waterfront Restaurant - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Fish Heads Bar & Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪KFC - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant - ‬17 min walk

About this property

Tar Heel Motel

Beachfront motel in Nags Head with free parking
Guests of Tar Heel Motel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and express check-in. If you drive, take advantage of free parking. Friendly staff can provide luggage storage, and also offer advice about sightseeing. Additional amenities include express check-out, a terrace, and a vending machine.
Flat-screen TVs come with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Furnished patios, refrigerators, and microwaves are other standard amenities. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

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

Conveniences

  • Luggage storage
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • On the beach
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 floor
  • 3 buildings
  • Built in 1952
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Individual decor
  • Laptop-compatible safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Express 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

Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email with special check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 25 per accommodation, per day
  • Service animals exempt from fees

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 25 per accommodation, 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
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
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 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
Checking in and out are 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.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May to October.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Tar Heel Motel Nags Head
Tar Heel Motel
Tar Heel Nags Head
Tar Heel Hotel
Tar Heel Motel Motel
Tar Heel Motel Nags Head
Tar Heel Motel Motel Nags Head

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of Tar Heel Motel?

This motel is situated in Whalebone within a 10-minute walk of Outer Banks Beaches and Outlets Nags Head. You'll also find Whalebone Junction and Full Throttle Speedway less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Tar Heel Motel?

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

Does Tar Heel Motel feature a casino at the property?

No, Tar Heel Motel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Tar Heel Motel?

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

What amenities will couples enjoy at Tar Heel Motel?

Couples staying at this beachfront motel will appreciate amenities such as a seasonal outdoor pool and a terrace.

Does Tar Heel Motel have a hot tub?

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

Does Tar Heel Motel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

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

Does Tar Heel Motel allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Tar Heel Motel for a fee of USD 25 per accommodation, per day.

Are there connecting rooms at Tar Heel Motel?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this motel.

What is the closest airport to Tar Heel Motel?

The closest major airport to Tar Heel Motel is Manteo, NC (MEO-Dare County Regional), which is 7.2 mi away (12 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Tar Heel Motel?

Yes, every guestroom at Tar Heel Motel comes with a furnished patio.

Tar Heel Motel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 184 out of 372 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 132 out of 372 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 36 out of 372 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 7 out of 372 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 13 out of 372 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
They did a great job renovating the Tar Heel motel. Clean, comfortable rooms. Bring K-cups with you if you are a big coffee drinker and don’t pack heavy. This is the best of old school Outer Banks, reminds me of when my parents would take us to OBX in the 70’s staying at the Beacon.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Mark

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Had a water leak, small room, not awful for what we paid.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Kenneth John, Midlothian

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Chad

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort

Just ok

Check in was a breeze. Room was clean. A/c did not work very well (Not cool enough). Fridge did not keep my items cool, even after turning up the temp. Overall ok, but the A/c and fridge are important items that need to be updated to make stay more comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Priscilla

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It's the perfect place for a short trip to the beach!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

James, Shiloh

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice place and affordable
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

william

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
..
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jerry

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Our got to cheap, clean motel
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Gunther

Traveled with partner
It's very close to the beach, it is clean. The room as well as the bathroom is very tinny if you are a bigger person you will hate the shower as well as the small space where the toilette is. The staff will empty your trash and replace the towels, but that's as far as it goes. Parking is in front of the room, if you have a full-size pickup or SUV........ but overall ok and clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Les

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean and quiet property. Walking distance to several restaurants and a short drive to others. Easy beech access and close to Jeanette's pier.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Thank you for such great accommodations and service.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Troy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
It is an old updated clean motel. Walls are very thin so outside noise is a problem. Fine for a night or two
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marcela

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent stay. Cute beachy motel. Located within a safe area. Very clean. Quiet. Parking was available but limited. Check in was easy via a keypad. If we did have our baby with us, a pack n play probably wouldn’t have fit in the room- heads up to other parents with young ones. Would recommend this place to others.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

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

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The grass outside had spurs. Not great for dog. The TV didn’t eork
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wanda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Travis

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

Weekend getaway

Great little place for a weekend getaway that did not break the bank. Room was very clean with solid amenities. Really enjoyed the boutique hotel experience the Tar Heel offered.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mia J.

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

Fantastic location and beautiful rooms!

The owners have taken an old motel and turned it into beautiful beach style rooms with an excellent location. There are no dirty corners. Go to Sam and Omi’s for food, because it’s the best. The only recommendations I would make is for the owners to provide a plunger because it’s on septic and a flyswatter because it’s by the beach. Thank you! We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Patrick

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Not a luxury motel, but serviceable. Would stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Benny

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cody

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very cute, up to date, easily accessible, and very affordable
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

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