To the north of Southern Shores lies Duck, a quaint village situated between the sound and the ocean with seven miles of Atlantic beaches, miles of bike path and a walkable village center with shops, restaurants, a soundfront park. Charming and inviting for the visitor and resident alike,the Town of Duck has mostly private beaches with limited public access.  It is a resort town with most housing in rental programs.  The crowding in the summer months just adds to its appeal (as long as you don't want to drive!).  It is a walker's paradise.

Duck is a relatively new vacation destination. Twenty years ago there were only a handful of locals, a few rustic vacation cottages scattered around the dunes and one gas station. In the 1980s, things started changing in the tiny village. The vacation homes in Duck came first, then the shops, restaurants and recreational facilities. Duck wasn't even an official town until 2002, but now it's a full-fledged vacation area that offers everything you need for a great time at the beach.

Population:  520 year-round, 30,000 in summer
  Beaches:   Private with limited parking