Outer Banks Shopping

Mermaid’s Folly stocks affordable and tasteful casual clothing for dress up or dress down. This fun shop boasts a large selection of men's and women’s fine casual clothing, along with quality unisex t-shirts, comfortable dresses, sarongs, carefree ladies-cut tees, flowing skirts and soft pants. Accessorize with beaded jewelry, scarves, totes and handbags or a hat from their well-stocked shelves.

At this tiny cottage shop in Rodanthe, Hatteras native roots are apparent among elegant gifts, original art and rustic vintage items. Stop in to explore an assortment of offerings and village history. The name honors a beloved Rodanthe resident, Nora Midgett Herbert, who had an abiding wish to open a gift shop to welcome the village visitors. Her husband built her the building on ship’s timbers in 1968, but the shop was not to be until decades later, following an unexpected renovation after Hurricane Irene. You’ll find it across from North Beach General Store and near the Chicamacomico Historic Life-Saving Station.

For a tasty treat, head to Big Buck’s Homemade Ice Cream. Choose from more than 50 flavors of made-from-scratch ice cream plus sorbet and soft serve. You can get any flavor made into a shake, split, sundae or float, even a brownie sundae – yum! Big Buck’s has an espresso bar and all the espresso-based coffee drinks you need to pick up your day. Handmade Belgian chocolate and fudge are made fresh daily, and they also accept custom orders for wedding favors, baby showers and other events. And don't forget the ice cream cake! They have a flavor for every occasion.