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Swell Motel

2.0 star property
Motel near Outer Banks Beaches in Buxton

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Photo gallery for Swell Motel

Beach nearby, white sand
Reception
Beach nearby, white sand
Lobby
Reception

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym

Explore the area

View in a map
46854 NC-12, Buxton, NC, 27953
  • Place, Cape Hatteras National Seashore
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Lighthouse Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬

Room options

View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds No Pets

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds No Pets | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(27 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Classic Room, 1 King Bed No Pets

Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Classic Room, 1 King Bed No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(22 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Studio, 1 Queen Bed No Pets

Studio, 1 Queen Bed No Pets | Private kitchen | Mini-fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker

Studio, 1 Queen Bed No Pets

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Comfort Room (2 Queen Pet)

Comfort Room (2 Queen Pet) | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Comfort Room (2 Queen Pet)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Comfort Room (1 King Pet)

Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Comfort Room (1 King Pet)

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Classic Double Room No Pets

Classic Double Room No Pets | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Classic Double Room No Pets

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)
  • 285 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Buxton

Walk to the beach.At this motel, you'll be steps from Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf and within a 10-minute walk of Outer Banks Beaches. Also, Buxton Woods Nature Trail is within half a mile (1 km) and Lighthouse Beach is within 2 miles (3 km).
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What's nearby

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard and 18-Hole Mini Golf - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Lighthouse Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Buxton Woods Nature Trail - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Cape Hatteras Lighthouse - 5 min drive - 1.5 miles

Getting around

  • Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF) - 162 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tavern on 12 - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Diamond Shoals Restaurant - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Angelo's Pizza - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Mad Crabber Restaurant - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Orange Blossom Bakery & Cafe - ‬8 min walk

About this property

Swell Motel

Motel near Outer Banks Beaches in Buxton
Swell Motel offers its guests a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool. WiFi is free in public spaces. Swell Motel also features barbecue grills, a picnic area, and complimentary use of a nearby fitness facility. Self parking is free.

This Buxton motel is smoke free.

  • 31 guestrooms or units
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • BBQ grill(s)
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
Swell Motel offers 31 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Flat-screen televisions are featured in guestrooms.

Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations. This Buxton motel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Housekeeping is provided on request.

Similar properties

Front of property
Hatteras Island Inn
  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
4.4 out of 5, Excellent, 1,005 reviews
$79 nightly
The price is $89
Jan 21 - Jan 22
Total with taxes and fees
Hatteras Island Inn

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Things to do

  • Art gallery
  • Gym
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • No elevator (single-level property)

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Laptop workspace

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 7:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between November 13 and February 8.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • Pets: USD 20.00 per accommodation, per day
  • An off-leash area is available
  • Certain rooms only
  • You can request a pet-friendly room by reaching out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per stay.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are available for USD 20.0 per stay.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Pet fee: USD 20.00 per accommodation, per day
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Crib (infant bed) fee: USD 20.0 per stay
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per stay

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 

We should mention

  • Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • Pets are welcome in specific rooms only, which can be requested by contacting the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation (please see the Fees section for related charges).

Property is also known as

Swell Motel Buxton
Swell Buxton
Motel Swell Motel Buxton
Buxton Swell Motel Motel
Swell
Motel Swell Motel
Swell Motel Motel
Swell Motel Buxton
Swell Motel Motel Buxton

Frequently asked questions

How close is Swell Motel to the airport?

Swell Motel is 171.4 mi (182-min drive) away from the Greenville, NC (PGV-Pitt-Greenville) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Swell Motel?

As of Jan 20, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Swell Motel on Feb 13, 2026 start from $135.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Swell Motel have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Swell Motel.

How close is Swell Motel to the beach?

This motel is a short 6-minute walk from Outer Banks Beaches and 0.4 mi (1-min drive) from Lighthouse Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Swell Motel offer free breakfast?

Swell Motel does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Swell Motel?

No, there is no casino at this motel.

What time is check-in at Swell Motel?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Swell Motel?

This motel offers free self parking.

Does Swell Motel have a pool?

Swell Motel features a seasonal outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy pool access from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Does Swell Motel have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this motel.

How close is Swell Motel to downtown Buxton?

Swell Motel is 1 mi away from Buxton.

Swell Motel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 336 out of 488 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 116 out of 488 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 20 out of 488 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 488 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 8 out of 488 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ruth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The person who checked us in for a last minute booking when we got stranded on the island without any personal items was so courteous and helpful. Our room was clean and lovely. I would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen, Cosby

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cute little bungalow type rooms. Everyone staying near us was super friendly. Outdoor spaces with a fire pit encouraged get-togethers in the evening with music and food on Saturday night. Close to all things to do in the area, it was a perfect place to stay! We loved it, and will be back. Most of those we met were return customers, which says a lot!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Romey

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dale

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
always a great place to stay. Great people
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lou

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
All the amenities that the motel has to offer
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
Outstanding owners and one of the coolest places we have stayed
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great stay!

Very clean motel! The owner is also extremely helpful and friendly. Would definitely stay again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

THERESA, Mineral Springs

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This has to be the best place in Buxton! The staff was awesome they have clean comfortable we arrived early and were welcome to put our things in the room and go enjoy the beach. Loved having use of the kayaks, crab cages, fire pit, outdoor games, bicycles! Amazing place definitely would go again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Corey

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Cockroaches, used towels, poor ventillation. All of my belongings smell of mildew. Will not be returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

John

Liked: Staff & service
Motel is very dated and had many areas that needed attention. Room was clean, with no bugs and beds were comfortable but one was very short.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tanya

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I adore this place! Love the quirks. Not only are they pet friendly, they are people friendly too! I think I’m going to make the Swell a tradition. Very much looking forward to returning next year, that will be my 3rd time.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Alicia

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I made reservations for four adults, three kids and one infant. When we arrived, after a seven hour drive, we get our room and it’s a room with a queen size bed and a full size bed. So we ask the lady at the front desk how this room sleeps 8 people and she said I don’t know I didn’t make the reservation. My husband had to speak to the owner about our situation and she finally suggested rolling 2 cots into our room which then left us packed in like sardines. There’s no way that was safe under the fire code. The next day we are loading up to go get some lunch and my oldest daughter steps off the porch and into a crack in the parking lot and scrapes her shin and breaks her foot. Their parking lot has huge cracks all over it which they instantly started acting like they were going to have fixed now that someone got hurt. Needless to say this will not be a place we stay at again or recommend for anyone else.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Raquel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

This is what a 6 STAR stay would look like!

This facility was extremely spotless inside and outside. The amenities were unlimited and the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding areas. We are grateful and thankful for the opportunity to stay here at this location. We are already booking again in the fall to stay again. We are giving this establishment a 6 star rating! Is has the whole package plus more.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brenda K

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

David

Business traveler
The property was closed due to Hurricane Erin and we were turned away by the owner. We need a full refund.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Jacob

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It would have been nice if the bedding was cleaner. Fantastic beach vibe and great location!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great place!

Staff were great and attentive, and the rooms were really nice, especially for a renovated old motel! We only stayed here for two nights on our way south to Ocracoke with more family, but would absolutely stay longer. Great vibe with the live music Friday and Saturday. We’ll probably be back next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jorge

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Ai

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great outer banks motel!

This is a great option when staying in the outer banks. It is exactly what you need out of a beach motel. It's affordable, clean, and has friendly service.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed our stay and the staff was very frendly.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandi

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025