Some vacations come and go. Others stay with you — in sun-soaked memories, in the scent of ocean air, in the stories your family tells for years. That’s the experience waiting for you in North Carolina’s Outer Banks (OBX) — and for countless families, it begins at John Yancey Inn, a beloved, family-owned oceanfront hotel in Kill Devil Hills at Milepost 9¾, just minutes from Nags Head.
For generations, guests have returned to the John Yancey Inn not just for a room by the sea, but for something deeper: comfort, care, and a place where real vacation memories are made.
The Outer Banks: Where Traditions Begin
With its windswept dunes, wide-open beaches, and quiet coastal charm, the Outer Banks is unlike any other beach destination on the East Coast. Here, there are no towering high-rises — just blue skies, the sound of waves, and space to breathe.
From flying kites at Jockey’s Ridge State Park to tracing the footsteps of history at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, OBX offers experiences that feel genuine, grounding, and unforgettable.
And just like the landscape, where you stay should reflect that same spirit.
John Yancey Inn: A Place to Come Home To
At John Yancey Inn, we’ve been welcoming families, couples, and travelers of all kinds to the Outer Banks for decades. What began as a modest oceanfront motel has grown into a trusted coastal retreat, known for its hospitality, warmth, and authentic OBX charm.
As a family-owned inn, we understand the little things that make a vacation feel truly special — and we’ve built our reputation on delivering them consistently.
Spotless Rooms Designed for Comfort and Peace of Mind
When you step into your room at the John Yancey Inn, you can leave your worries at the door. Our dedicated housekeeping team takes pride in maintaining a standard of exceptional cleanliness that gives you complete peace of mind.
Whether you choose a cozy standard room or an oceanfront with a private balcony, every space is thoughtfully prepared to be your personal haven by the sea — clean, comfortable, and quiet.
Oceanfront Location with Effortless Beach Access
Located directly on the ocean in Kill Devil Hills at Milepost 9¾, our guests enjoy the rare privilege of easy, direct beach access. No parking lots, no traffic — just a short walk from your room to the sand, the salt air, and the gentle rhythm of the Atlantic.
And with our central location, just 1/4 mile from Nags Head, you’re never far from the Outer Banks’ best restaurants, shops, and attractions — but far enough to enjoy the tranquility that makes the OBX so special.
Service That Feels Like Family
What truly sets us apart is our people. At the John Yancey Inn, we believe hospitality should feel heartfelt — not rehearsed. Whether you’re checking in after a long drive or asking for the best place to watch the sunset, our team is here with genuine care, helpful insight, and the kind of service that makes you feel like you’re part of something familiar.
Our guests aren’t just visitors — they’re part of a community of families who have returned year after year, generation after generation.
An Authentic OBX Experience You’ll Never Forget
Vacations at John Yancey Inn are built around what really matters: time together, space to relax, and a sense of place that feels real. From beach picnics and stargazing beach nights to quiet mornings with a cup of coffee and the sound of waves, it’s a chance to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures.
This isn’t just a hotel stay — it’s a chance to reconnect. With the ocean. With loved ones. With yourself.
A Family Favorite for Generations — And Yours, Too
For decades, families have trusted John Yancey Inn as their go-to hotel in the Outer Banks — a place where milestones are celebrated, traditions are built, and summer after summer becomes a chapter in their family story.
We’re honored to be part of those stories, and we’d love to be part of yours.
Book your stay today, and discover why John Yancey Inn in Kill Devil Hills has remained a beloved favorite for generations — where the beach is just steps away, the service is always personal, and the memories are made to last.