Located on a remote beach 5 mi north of Duck, the Sanderling is a fine place to be pampered, go swimming, or go for a stroll. The three inn buildings and villas recently underwent a multimillion-dollar refurbishment; they feature the mellow look of classic Carolina beach cottages with warm tones, wood furniture, and chenille lounge chairs. A 3-mi nature trail winds through the adjacent Pine Island Bird Sanctuary, and the concierge can help arrange kayak tours and other activities. The elegant, dinner-only Left Bank restaurant ($$$$) has a wall of windows overlooking Currituck Sound. The resort-casual Lifesaving Station ($$-$$$), in a restored 1899 lifesaving station, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and includes a second-floor lounge. Pros: on-site spa; natural surroundings; plush robes in every room. Cons: king-size beds only; maximum of two guests per room unless otherwise authorized; third-person room charges for guests 17 and older.
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