Nags Head Historic Homes

Historic Gallery Row - Nags Head

Historic Cottage Row, officially Nags Head Beach Cottages Historic District, features some of the most unique homes along the Outer Banks. Ranging in age from 100 – 125 years old, these houses have withstood a century of coastal elements.

Named The Unpainted Aristocracy in the 1920s by Jonathan Daniels, the editor of The Raleigh News and Observer, to describe the houses and people of Nags Head, these cottages stand out for blending in.

Easily distinguishable along the shoreline, these unpainted homes sit amongst the dunes. They have expansive, wrap-around decks, relatively unchanged interiors, and a style that allows them to blend in—not detract—from their surroundings. Their subdued, coastal colors and sloping rooftops mimic the dunes, allowing the natural beach setting to remain the focal point.

First developed on the soundside of the islands, this building style was effective at weathering salt air and coastal storms. Function outweighed any frills when these originally popped up around 1830. By the 1850’s, there was a busy soundside vacationing community along the OBX. It wasn’t until 1855 that this style of home moved to the oceanfront and settled into the dunes – creating the thriving oceanside community we’ve come to know today.

The original, historic homes line Nags Head’s beach road, while newer homes that pay homage to the building style are tucked along the islands, showcasing their iconic exteriors with modern interiors.

When looking for a memorable home for your family during your trip to the Outer Banks, The Historic Homes in Nags Head offer the perfect spot for families of all sizes. Here at Coastal Carolina Vacations, we are honored to manage several historic homes and with their stunning ocean views, historic charm and amenities to offer, they are great options to house your next vacation.