The Benefits of an OBX Condo Rental

Have you ever landed an OBX condo rental? Large, spacious rental homes are the norm to see all over the Outer Banks. While these huge homes are amazingly beautiful, they might not be the most logical option for a mini-vacation or for a smaller family. We’ve put together a few reasons why renting an OBX condo for your next vacation might be the best decision you’ve ever made.

A Smaller Place for Smaller Groups

Kill Devil Hills condo rental #55320 Oceanview at Station one is perfect for those looking for a smaller, OBX condo rental
Property #5320 Oceanview At Station One is perfect for smaller families & friend groups!

Condos offer the luxury of a large vacation home but the size and convenience a small group needs. Sharing a hotel room can get pretty cramped and having to book multiple hotel rooms can be expensive; plus, you don’t get the quality time that’s valuable to spend with your friends and family. With an Outer Banks condo rental, you can spend that precious time together and still go your separate ways without feeling like you’re on top of one another. It’s a win-win all around!

Did someone say, “Weekend getaway”?

An OBX condo rental is perfect for a girls trip or guys weekend!

Want to plan a girl’s trip with a few of your best friends? Been dying to go offshore fishing with the guys? Or do you need just a short weekend getaway for you, your spouse, and the kids? Condo rentals are the way for you to go. OBX condos tend to have that sense of a “home away from home” feel that is cozy and comfortable. They’re perfect for just hanging out and relaxing.

Condos are A Budget-Friendly Find

Renting an Outer Banks condo can save you some serious coin!

Because condos are smaller, they’re a more affordable option. Don’t let the small size of the condo fool you though, they can be just as luxe as larger houses. If you and a small group of friends are planning a short getaway, splitting the cost of the already low rental fee makes your vacation cheaper and you still get all of the fun in the sun the Outer Banks has to offer. For small families, the low rental fee will fit easily into your budget, leaving you more money in your pocket. Now you can think about trying that parasailing adventure or dolphin watch that’s been catching your family’s eye.

OBX Condo Rentals: Smaller Space, Same Great Features

Enjoy luxury amenities at more than half the price when you rent an Outer Banks condo.
Sea Dunes Townhomes offer you the best of the OBX with a shared pool, fitness center, and more!

Remember what we said about condos being just as lavish as the massive vacation homes? Most condos grant you access to pools, hot tubs, and outdoor grilling at no extra cost; just like vacation homes! Some even feature community sports centers, tennis courts, and basketball courts to keep you active. Easy sound and ocean access are available too. Size won’t compromise your experience. You’ll still get the same beautiful soundfront sunsets or oceanside sunrises you can get with a large rental home. And don’t worry about not being able to bring your pup on your trip with you; pet-friendly options are available in vacation homes and in vacation condos as well!

With a more convenient size for smaller groups, affordable prices, and some of the same amenities, why wouldn’t you give a condo rental a try? Resort Realty offers an extensive list of Outer Banks condos available for rent from Corolla to Hatteras. Check them out here and plan your next Outer Banks getaway today!

After a hot, busy summer, some of us are longing for a cooler, simpler season… fall. Everyone looks forward to the first day of fall. It’s the first day where you can pull out your boots, scarfs, and flannel shirts, and begin stocking your home with all the pumpkin flavored items your heart desires. Even though summer gets all the glory on the Outer Banks, fall is a hidden secret among locals, who claim it to be their favorite time of year. The island feels more at ease with less crowds and more beach to enjoy. Check out our Top 10 List to see why you should plan an OBX getaway this fall.


1 // Less Traffic

School is back in session and families are getting back to their yearly routine. The summer travelers have come and gone, making it much easier to get to the beach, your favorite Outer Banks restaurants, and local attractions. Spend less time in the car and more time enjoying all your favorite OBX spots.


2 // More Beach & Great Weather

Less traffic, of course, equals more beach for you! Finding a spot to spread out your beach blanket is easier than ever. There is plenty of room to surf fish, paddle board, surf, or just sit and relax. The cooler temperatures in the 70s make it more enjoyable to kick back and enjoy a good book in your beach chair.


3 // Better Fishing

Local fishermen don’t want to give away this secret, but fall is the best time to go fishing on the Outer Banks. A variety of fish begin to migrate from west to the east coast in the fall, so there is more fish in the sea for you to reel in. White marlin, sailfish, and tuna are plentiful for the offshore angler. Inshore, pier, and surf fishing are also promising if you’re looking to fill up your cooler with Spanish and king mackerel, bluefish, red drum, cobia, trout, mullet, and puppy drum.


4 // Better Surfing

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just enjoy watching from the shore, fall is when the waves get bigger and the surfing is at an all-time high. Windswells, north, south, and east swells and light westerly winds make for great surfing conditions, especially on Hatteras Island. If you’re no Kelly Slater, you can still enjoy watching as the best amateur surfers at the Easterns surf competition at Jennette’s Pier, that takes place every fall.


5. Better Dining Experience

Were you craving a jerk burger from Tortugas’s Lie this summer, but couldn’t take the wait? Now is your chance to visit your favorite OBX restaurants and grub on your favorite dishes before some places close for the winter. Many restaurants offer discounts and specialty menus during the fall so you can try something new at an even better price.


6 // Shorter Lines at Popular OBX Attractions

Leisurely climb the lighthouses and visit the Wright Brother’s Memorial without feeling the rush of the crowd. You can finally take you time to soak in the history and the beauty of these famous local attractions.


7 // Sales for the Shopper

Get a jump on your Christmas shopping this fall on the OBX. Many shops prepare to close for the off-season and offer wonderful deals on unique trinkets and gifts. Outlets Nags Head is also a don’t miss spot for Black Friday shopping and fall sales.


8 // Stunning Sunsets & Scenery

The change in temperature and weather conditions make for stunning sunsets that you just have to see in person. Vibrant colors of purple, orange, red, pink, and blue fill the evening sky and are the perfect way to end the day. Watch the sun set over the sound from the public soundfront piers and gazebos or from the sun decks of your soundfront vacation rental home.


9 // Fantastic Festivals & Events

From the foodie to the music lover, there is a special event for everyone to enjoy on the OBX this fall. The Easterns Surfing Championships, the Outer Banks Parade of Homes, Outer Banks Seafood Festival, and Duck Jazz Festival are just a few of the upcoming fall events that you don’t want to miss.


10 // Discounted Rates

You can stay at Sea Glass Shack property #4846 for as low as $1,307 for the WEEK!

A getaway to the OBX is incredibly affordable in the fall. Rental rates are heavily discounted in the off-season, which means you can stay in a great location for a fraction of the summer price. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, you have a wide selection of homes to choose from. Our Last Minute Offers page allows you to submit an offer (21 days or less prior to your arrival) for the chance to receive incredible savings on your trip. We always have homes on special on our Weekly Specials page too!


The OBX is yours for the taking this fall. Don’t miss the sights, sounds, and events that only happen this time of year. Book your fall getaway on the Outer Banks today!

The Outer Banks in the summer time is the best place to be! Everyone else thinks so too. If you’re an OBX vacation veteran, you’ll know that traffic coming in and out can get super congested. But don’t worry, we’ve got the perfect guide on how to avoid Outer Banks traffic. With everyone coming in on the same day and leaving on the same day, it can get a little congested. If you’re not trying to sit in your car for hours on your next vacation, read on to see how to beat the infamous Outer Banks traffic

Leave Early

By leaving early you'll be able to avoid the dreaded Outer Banks traffic with ease!

The thick of Outer Banks traffic happens roughly between 11 AM and 3 PM due to everyone coming in. This can vary by an hour. However, by leaving early in the morning you can get on the OBX by 9 or 10 AM. This means you won’t have to deal with incoming traffic. Let the kids can sleep in the car so you can get a little peace and quiet. When you get here, explore the OBX while you’re waiting for check-in! There are plenty of things to see and do before your vacation rental is ready for check-in. From going to the beach to exploring amazing Outer Banks landmarks, there’s so much to choose from. To get an idea on what to do while you’re waiting browse through the following blogs:

Top 10 Hidden Gems On The Outer Banks

Top 10 Free Things To Do On The Outer Banks

Explore The Outer Banks On A Budget

Top 25 Outer Banks Rainy Day Activities

Find An Alternate Route

Going off the beaten path is our type of adventure. Instead of 158 to the Outer Banks, hit highway 64 and avoid Outer Banks traffic jams.
image via Pinterest

The most traffic on the Outer Banks on turnover days occurs on the route coming in over the Wright Memorial Bridge. While the GPS may say that taking an alternate route may take more time, it’ll save you from sitting in traffic; especially if you’re vacationing from Kitty Hawk south. Taking highway 64 instead of 158 may add miles to the journey but you’ll be moving at a steady pace and will be on the OBX in no time! Plus, who doesn’t want a good Bojangles biscuit?!

Keep Calm + Plan Ahead

Charcuterie boards are so in style...and they make great snacks for when you know you just won't be able to avoid Outer Banks traffic.

If leaving early or an alternate route to avoid Outer Banks traffic isn’t in the cards for you and your group, have a plan for possibly sitting in traffic. See which rest stops and restaurants are along your route, and pack enough snacks and entertainment for the kids. We’ve come up with a list of great apps for kids to help car rides to the Outer Banks pass faster! You can see them here.

Use Travel Apps

Travel apps can help you figure out what traffic is going to look like, where your rest stops are, and more.

Travel apps like Waze and Gas Buddy can help you travel with ease. The Waze app can help you avoid accidents, road obstructions, and gives you real time traffic updates. Plus, it offers turn by turn voice navigation and ETA. You can share where you are exactly with people you may be meeting at your vacation home. Gas Buddy can help you find the best and closest gas prices along your route. You can also enter to win $100 in free gas everyday, too!

Book A Home With A Friday or Sunday Turn Day

Homes with less conventional turnover days can end up saving you time in the car and help you avoid Outer Banks traffic!
Crosswinds #5716 has convenient access to the beach, great amenities, AND a Sunday turn day!

Most people coming to the Outer Banks book a vacation rental home that has a check-in and check-out day that falls on Saturday. This is why traffic on Saturday is usually the worst. If you book a home with a turn over day that’s a Friday or Sunday, not only can you avoid traffic, you can also save money! Most homes with check-in and check-out that aren’t Saturday are typically cheaper! Resort Realty has homes with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday change over. This allows you to customize your Outer Banks vacation however you see fit!

See everything Resort Realty has to offer and get your (minimal traffic) Outer Banks vacation started today!

Spending a ton of money on your vacation to the Outer Banks should be the last thing on your mind! You can easily have a great vacation and create amazing memories without breaking the bank. Check out our top tips on how to have an amazing vacation on the OBX while on a budget!

Take Advantage Of Free Activities

From strolls on Jennette’s Pier to going ghost crabbing at night, there are so many free OBX activities to do on your vacation!

There are so many great Outer Banks activities that are either free or super inexpensive! You can explore Jockey’s Ridge, spend all day on the beach, visit lighthouses, and so much more without spending a ton of money. Check out our “Explore The Outer Banks On A Budget” blog for even more ideas on how to have fun without going broke!

Cook Meals Instead Of Going Out

A home made seafood roast with local OBX seafood? Yes please!

With so many great restaurants on the Outer Banks, it’s hard to not want to try them all! While dining out can be a great and tasty experience, it can be costly. The average entree on the Outer Banks will run you around $12-$15 depending on what restaurant you go to. When you’re going out to eat with your family, that can really add up. Instead of dining out every night, maybe pick a night to go out and prepare meals at your rental homes the rest of the time! You can get fresh, local seafood from many places on the Outer Banks and prepare it yourself or even cook your own catch if you’re into fishing!

Be Flexible With Travel Dates

With a visit in the off season, you’ll find uncrowded beaches and money saved!

During the peak vacation months of June to August, vacation homes and accommodations can be at their most expensive. If you can be flexible with your vacation schedule, visiting the Outer Banks in the off season can end up being much cheaper. Many locals will say that visiting the Outer Banks in the fall and spring seasons are the best time to come because there is less traffic, less crowds, and beautiful weather! See “Why We Love Fall On The Outer Banks” and plan an off season vacation to get the best bang for your buck!

Consider A Mini Vacation

Vacation homes like Beacham Cottage #7810 are perfect for an affordable weekend getaway to the OBX!

Sometimes a weekend getaway is just what you need! Mini vacations are great alternatives to staying a whole week. The rates can be cheaper, you’ll save money, and you’ll still get to explore the Outer Banks! Resort Realty has many homes that offer weekend and short stays! See all the homes that offer partial vacations!

 

Make A Budget + Stick To It

Budget for fun OBX activities like a trip to the H2OBX water park!

It’s okay to splurge, you’re on vacation after all! Sit down with your family and make a list of things that you want to do on the Outer Banks. Determine how much money you want to stick to spending and then divvy out a set amount to specific activities like dining, souvenirs, and attractions. Stick to this budget all week long and this way you can still do the activities you want to do and have control of your money!

Check Out Budget Friendly Homes

Sea Cabin #7590 is an oceanfront OBX rental that can rent for as little as $695 per week!

Many Outer Banks vacation homes can be super lavish and luxurious but super expensive. You shouldn’t have to compromise comfort and style on your vacation. There are many homes in the Resort Realty family that are inexpensive, beautifully decorated, and comfortable that you and your family can rent without breaking your budget!

Take advantage of Deals + Specials

Home of the free because of the brave, to honor your service, Resort Realty offers a Hometown Hero vacation discount to save you money on your Outer Banks vacation || Image via Pinterest

Resort Realty has many deals and specials to help you save money on your Outer Banks vacation! Our Hometown Heroes discount is offered all year long on select properties and specials like our President’s Day sale and our Summer Kickoff Sale will save you money for a limited time! Plus, select homes will often put certain weeks on special! Check out our Deals and Specials page to get the perfect OBX vacation rental at a lower price.

Rent A Home With A Group

Luxury vacation homes can be super expensive, but if you have a great group of people to split it with, it can be super affordable! A luxury home split between a group of people can be as low as $53 per night per person! See all of the luxury homes Resort Realty has to offer you, find a great group to vacation with, and start your affordable, luxury vacation!

 

Even though we’re well into the new year, it’s never too late to come up with a resolution! Why not change up your New Year’s resolution this year? Instead of making the usual pledge of getting a gym membership, why not make an investment resolution on the OBX? (Or, if you’re ambitious, do both!) Owning a second home on the Outer Banks could be an easy and profitable New Year’s Resolution.

Own A Piece Of Paradise

Owning an OBX vacation home is like owning your own piece of paradise! Your mornings can be spent sipping coffee and watching the sunrise over the ocean. You’ll be able to make memories with your own friends and family at your Outer Banks home. Additionally, you’ll give other families the opportunity to make memories on the Outer Banks as well!

Make a Quality Investment

Investing in a vacation home on the OBX can be a great move financially. Even more so when you list your home with Resort Realty. We have over 34 years of experience and are locally rooted. We’re are leader in the OBX vacation rental industry and we make sure you get the most out of your home. We’re always here for you and give you the best advice on making your home profitable. We ensure that your guests are happy and content during their vacation!

Our Professional Staff Has You Covered

At Resort Realty, we’re blessed with some of the best staff on the beach. We all want to make sure your home is taken care of and you get the maximum profit out of your investment. The Resort Realty family will make sure your home gets the rentals it deserves and shines in its best light!

See Why Our Homeowners Love Us

We aim to keep our homeowners as pleased as our guests! See why listing your rental home with Resort Realty is the best choice you could make.

“…I very much appreciate your high standards and the attention that you have given to our homes.  It certainly brings peace of mind.  Especially during the busy rental season, with every little thing that can go wrong, I’m confident, cleanliness isn’t going to be one of them if you are in charge.  Thank you so very much.” –  Property owner of a Duck vacation rental home

“Thank you Resort Realty for a successful season with 16 rentals! This is my first year with Resort Realty and this was the most rentals I have ever had in the 30 years that I have owned the property. I truly appreciate everything you all do and I’m looking forward to next year!” – Property Owners of a Nags Head vacation rental home

Make This New Year’s Resolution Count

Make your New Year’s Resolution of owning a vacation home on the Outer Banks come true! Take a look at all of the homes for sale on the Outer Banks. When you find the perfect vacation home and you’re ready to make profit on your investment, contact our Director of Business Development! Email debbie.harrell@resortrealty.com or calling (800) 458-3830. You can also get more information on our rental program on the Resort Realty Owner page of our website!

Everyone needs a vacation, now more than ever! If you’re planning an OBX vacation but want to save some cash, have no fear, Resort Realty has you covered. Since 1987, we’ve learned a thing or two because we’ve seen a thing or two. We’ve got a few tips on how to snag the perfect, affordable, OBX vacation.


Plan Early

Planning your OBX vacation early allows you to budget better, making your vacation affordable.


We say it all the time but we mean it! By planning your Outer Banks vacation early, you have more time to budget and you’ll get first dibs on the house of your choice. Our biggest booking days fall in December and January. Planning earlier for the vacation year ahead allows you flexibility financially, time-wise, and preference-wise.


Visit During A Shoulder Season

Shoulder season vacations tend to be more affordable than peak season vacations on the Outer Banks.


Shoulder seasons are the fall and spring months on the Outer Banks. Summer has either passed or is upon us, the weather is great, but not everyone is flocking to our beaches all at once quite yet. Shoulder season vacations come with significantly lower rates than peak season. An example? A 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom oceanfront Signature Series home in Salvo will run you around $3,100 for a week in mid-May. That same house goes up to almost $11,000 for the week in July! You can easily save more than half the price by taking an OBX vacation in the spring or fall months.


Take Advantage of Payment Plans

With payment options like venmo and paypal, you can pay for your Outer Banks vacation easily!


Resort Realty is proud to offer payment options like PayPal and Venmo! With PayPal and Venmo wallets, not only does it make check-out easier, but it also allows you to easily request payment from other families you’re vacationing with, allowing you to split the cost of rent and making your vacation affordable. You can learn more about our Outer Banks vacation payment plans here.


Vacation Together


This one goes hand in hand with the above. Here’s another example for you. During peak season, one of our most high-end, oceanfront Signature Series homes with a private pool can be around $21,000 which can cause some sticker shock. But let’s look at it in a different light. This house sleeps 12 people comfortably. When you divide that fee among 12 people, it comes out to around $1,700 per person. Broken down further? $252 per night per person. Again, this is for one of our standout properties. Many of our properties end up being around $71 per night per person when broken up by occupancy! Seems like an affordable vacation option when you look at it that way, right?


Avoid Hotels


While there are some seriously awesome hotels on the Outer Banks, they’re not typically the best option for an affordable vacation. For an oceanfront hotel room with a king bed during July, you’d be paying about $2,300 for the week. While that sounds like similar, cheaper pricing compared to our rentals, you don’t get all the same amenities we offer. When you rent an Outer Banks vacation home, you have access to an entire house or condo, allowing you to host at least 2 people. You’ll have access to a kitchen where you can easily prepare meals for the entire crew. You’ll also be able to relax in a living room or rec room without feeling confined to one space. Hotels can be great, don’t get us wrong…but sometimes a rental home is the best option, financially and comfort-wise.


Consider A Mini-Vacation


A mini-vacation is also a great option to save on your stay! Taking a 3-night trip to the OBX is sometimes all the time you need, especially when you live within an easy drive of the Outer Banks. Mini-vacations or partial week stays allow you the flexibility of checking in on a day that works best for you and not having to commit to an entire week. Partial week stays require a 3-night minimum. Find homes that offer partial stays here.

Summer is just around the corner which is super exciting, but the beginning months can sometimes interfere with beach time here on the Outer Banks. It’s that awkward time of year when sometimes it’s way too hot to be at the beach without jumping in the ocean but the ocean is way too cold to stand for more than a few seconds. What do you do? Spend the day poolside of course! Resort Realty offers over 60 homes that have their own private pool and many houses and condos that provide access to community pools as well. So take some time to cool off and check out our list of Cool Pools to make this Outer Banks vacation your best one ever!

Virginia Dare (5460) – Nags Head

This is one pool you want to spend the day at. Virginia Dare features a pool with a shallow area perfect for the kids and a deep end perfect for adults and the kids that want to be mermaids and sharks. Virginia Dare also offers a grilling area so you can grill out while enjoying the pool on those hot summer days.

 

Atlantis (5570) – Nags Head atlantis

Atlantis features a pool that is worthy of exploring! With a super shallow end that you can sit or ease yourself in and a deeper end that features built-in bar seating, the options of hanging out poolside are limitless. A hot tub is also featured for so you can enjoy those chillier Outer Banks nights too!

 

Cinnamon Heaven (1549) – Corolla

cinnamon heaven
This soundside home features an awesome in ground pool, patio area for grilling, and a poolside hammock that’s perfect for relaxing or napping. Cinnamon heaven also offers a cool game room too!

 

Ocean Star (5410) – Nags Head

Luxury awaits you at Ocean Star! This home is an oceanfront oasis equipped with a state of the art kitchen, home theater, and of course an amazing in ground pool! The pool area is equipped with grill area, outdoor flat screen television, and enough poolside lounge chairs for everyone to relax and unwind!

 

Sound Dreams (4440) – Duck

sound dreams
Sound Dreams offers a private pool, hot tub, and breathtaking views of the sound! The pool is perfect for cooling off in and the hot tub is the best place to relax and take advantage of the beautiful Outer Banks sunsets. Sound Dreams is also a K Club Member so if there are any golf enthusiasts in your group, special golf rates at Kilmarlic Golf Club will be sure to make them smile.

Risky Business (5175) – Kill Devil Hills

risky business
Risky Business provides you with direct beach access, a private pool, and a hot tub. You get the best of the best! A Tiki bar is located right beside the pool so lunch or afternoon drinks are only a few steps away. The pool can also be heated for a fee if you’re visiting during the cooler months!

 

August Lauren (7020) – Rodanthe

august lauren
With oceanfront views and direct beach access, August Lauren is completed by a private in-ground pool and a hot tub! August Lauren also comes with Rodanthe Pier fishing passes for up to 6 guests!

 

Atlantic Breeze (5411) – Nags Head

Splish and splash around in this luxury pool at Atlantic Breeze property 5411. Atlantic Breeze is a luxury oceanfront home that features cabana service, an awesome game room, and an amazing pool perfect for cooling off on those warm Outer Banks summer days!

Captain’s Retreat II (4664) – Southern Shores

captains retreat
If it’s too hot for the beach, the walk from the beach to the pool is short with the private beach access Captain’s Retreat II offers! The private in-ground pool is perfect for those sweltering summer days and with seating around the pool as well, it’s easy to catch up on that tan! (Just don’t forget that sunscreen!)

 

 

No matter what pool you choose, you can’t go wrong with renting a vacation home with Resort Realty! Check out all of the rentals we have to offer and get stoked on summer!

The 2016 WRV OBX Pro started Wednesday Aug 31 and continues into the labor day weekend with the final day of competition Sunday September 4th.  Our Resort Realty photographer snapped a few shots of opening day yesterday so we could share the fun and excitement with our Outer Banks lovers.  The tropical depression that threatened us with bad weather earlier this week (but thankfully never touched down on the Outer Banks), brought a nice east swell for the competition.  Today they are reporting nice waist high swell, which may increase throughout the weekend adding to good surf conditions.  Temperatures are mid 80s this weekend so make sure to head to Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head to check out the pros in our blue Outer Banks surf!

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You can catch all the action and watch a live stream of the surf competition here and you can also view the entire schedule and find out when you can “Meet the Pros” here.

No early morning alarms, lots of ice cream and plenty of fun in the sun are the highlights of summer break. While enjoying all the spoils of summer, remember to keep the kiddos safe while visiting the Outer Banks. Make sure they continue to have a fun and safe vacation with these helpful summer safety tips. Happy, healthy kids mean parents can finally settle down and relax too.

1. Say Current on the Currents

Getting caught in a rip current or rough seas can quickly turn a good time swimming into a scary situation. Make sure to check the weather report online or read the current conditions on the nearest lifeguard stand.
Also, make sure your kids know about rip currents, how to spot them and how to get out of them. Rip currents are strong, narrow flowing currents that move away from the beach, pushing swimmers further out to sea. The currents are so strong that swimmers begin to panic and become exhausted when they cannot swim pass the current to make it back to shore. Teach your kids to swim parallel to shore until they are out of the current and can swim back to beach safely.

2. Stay Hydrated

When playing and sweating in the summer sun, our bodies need extra water to remain healthy. Make sure the kids are drinking water continuously throughout the day, especially when they are active in the summer heat. If your kids struggle to drink water, add fruit or fruit juice to their bottle for a better taste.

3. Save Your Skin


Make sure your young ones keep their baby smooth skin by applying and reapplying sunscreen while out in the sun. Use sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher, water resistant and broad spectrum to protect against ultra-violet rays. Check the bottle to see when to reapply. It takes 30 minutes for sunscreen to really soak into the skin, so applying before you and your crew hit the beach is the best option.

4. Be Shady

Cool down by finding a shady spot to sit or rest while traveling around the Outer Banks or hanging out on the beach. 10 am – 4 pm is when the sun is the strongest, so bring an umbrella or find a shaded area like underneath a fishing pier to regulate your body temperature. Shade eyes with sunglasses and wide brim hats to protect those sweet faces.

5. Bring a Buddy

Whether they are swimming, biking or exploring, use the buddy system. There is safety in numbers and a playmate is an added bonus

6. Use the Crosswalks and Stay Alert

With lots of families on the OBX this summer, keep your family and others safe by using the crosswalks while on foot. Make your intention clear to drivers and ask young kids to hold hands with older family members for added safety. Move across quickly as a group so no child is left behind

7. Love Your Soles, Mate

Avoid tears and whining by protecting your little ones feet. The pavement and sand can heat up to boiling temperatures in the summer. Water shoes are a good way to avoid burns from the sand and cuts from shells or sharp objects in the ocean or sound.

8. Memorize Important Phone Numbers and Locations

If your child doesn’t already know your phone number, take some time to practice memorizing it with them before your OBX getaway. If older kids are out exploring on their own, add your vacation home’s address and directions to their cell phone or write it down on a piece of paper for them in case they get lost.

9. Pack Non-Perishable Snacks

Even with a cooler, yogurts and other dairy products are more likely to spoil in the sun. Pack snacks that can take the heat.

10. Bypass the Bugs

Avoid itchy skin and insect related diseases by spraying the kids down with bug spray that contains DEET or picaridin. Citronella, lavender and eucalyptus essential oil sprays are a more natural option to help repel insects. Bugs are attracted to scented soaps, perfumes, hair sprays and bright clothing, so avoid wearing these items when visiting marshes or wooded areas.

Enjoy summer to the fullest by passing on and practicing these summer safety tips with your kids. Wishing you all a safe a happy OBX summer vacation!

It’s been carefully planned and boldly circled on the calendar for months. Lots of saving, research and love go into planning a family getaway. It is often times the one week out of the year to make up for lost time with friends and family, so it is easy to splurge and experience buyers remorse later on. Make the most out of your vacation without breaking the bank with these top 10 money savings tips to practice during your OBX vacation. Public beaches, free attractions and ongoing community events make it a lot easier to save, while still enjoying a fun-filled beach getaway.

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  1. Cook meals at your rental home
    When you have 6 or more family members, your restaurant bill can add up quickly. Luckily, your Resort Realty vacation rental home comes fully stocked with basic cookware and utensils to easily cook meals at home. Plan and prep your meals before your vacation to save you money and vacation time. Some of the best family moments happen around the dinner table.70569
  2. Visit free public beaches, museums, parks and attractions
    Most people love visiting the Outer Banks for the beaches and non-commercialized, laid-back vibe of the island. There are plenty of attractions to enjoy for free, including visiting Roanoke Island Festival Park, Jockey’s Ridge, Currituck Heritage Park, The Town of Duck Park and Boardwalk and searching for the wild horses on Carova Beach’s 4 wheeler drive area. The Town of Duck also hosts free fitness classes, concerts and kid’s activities Tuesday – Thursday throughout the summer months.
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  3. Pick up an OBX coupon book or print coupons online
    Stop by any of our Resort Realty offices or a local grocery store for a free Outer Banks coupon book. These books offer discounts on everything from local restaurants to water sport activities. They also give you ideas for places to visit for dining and leisure. Outerbanks.com, Sunnydayobx.com, and Outerbanksthisweek.com also offer printable coupons.IMG_0019
  4. Budget vacation activities with the cash envelope system
    It is far too easy to splurge and overextend your budget while on vacation. Keep your spending in check through Dave Ramsey’s envelope system. Create a budget and make envelopes for each spending category (ex. dining, activities, tours, souvenirs, etc.) and add the amount you want to spend in cash to each envelope. This way, you only spend what you have, instead of freely swiping your credit card.shutterstock_3982045
  5. Carpool, walk or bike
    Save on gas money by carpooling, walking or biking. A large majority of vacation homes are located within walking or biking distance from the beach, restaurants and other attractions. Save gas money while enjoying the scenery as your stroll or ride along. For long trips, make sure to carpool with others in your group. You can also download gas saving apps to find the least expensive gas prices during your road trip to the Outer Banks. 
    Kitty Hawk Kites Paddleboards
  6. Group discounts
    Many Outer Banks businesses offer discounted rates for groups. Kitty Hawk Kites, First Flight Adventure Park and several mini-golf spots offer discounted group rates. Call ahead to see if group discounts are available.
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  7. Borrow beach items
    Before splurging on beach chairs, umbrellas and toys, ask friends and family if you can borrow some items from them. You can also rent beach equipment to save you money and space at home.nh fp
  8. Early dining discounts
    Many restaurants off early dining discounts if you’re seated before 5. Hurricane Mo’s offers great Happy Hour specials between 4-6 pm. Check out the free coupon book to find early bird coupons and discounts.IMG_9559
  9. Check out books and movies at the library 
    If you want a new book to read on the beach or a movie to watch in the evenings, stop by your local library to pick something up before your trip. Many of our vacation homes have their own book and video libraries for you to borrow during your stay. Check the property description for more information. car_family
  10. Leave early to save gas
    Traffic can get backed up around check-in hours, so plan to leave earlier to save gas money and time in the car. Some beach accesses have public bathhouses so you can arrive earlier and hit the beach before check-in time.If you’re longing to be on the Outer Banks this summer but are concerned about the cost, make sure to check out our home specials and last minute offers page.