Ever thought about visiting the Outer Banks in January? Although the Outer Banks is a well-known destination for summer vacationers, there is a bustling local community that lives and works here all year long; including the winter months! Dare and Currituck Counties have thousands of local families who call the OBX home. The month of January may be an unconventional time to visit the OBX but, honestly? It’s a great time to come and slow down, recoup from the holiday season, and charge your internal batteries by the sea. Keep reading to get the gist of what January on the OBX is like from a local’s perspective.
Outer Banks January Weather

We’re not going to lie to you, January on the OBX can be blistery and cold. The average high is around 49º and the low around 40º. It can definitely get quite chilly on the Outer Banks. We’re not even strangers to some snow on the OBX either! Don’t let this be a turn-off to a January Outer Banks visit, though. Sometimes we get the occasional warm January day. Plus, when the sun is shining and the wind is minimal, those chilly days turn out to be some of the best days to stroll the beach and see the beauty of a wintry OBX day.
Outer Banks January Events

January is historically home to the Outer Banks Wedding Expo weekend. This event date changes year to year, but if you’re a bride (or groom) to be who wants to get married on the OBX, it’s an event that’s totally worth planning an Outer Banks getaway around. You’ll be able to meet with local wedding vendors face-to-face, take advantage of expo-only promotions, and so much more. You can get more information about the wedding expo here.
Outer Banks January Rental Rates

You’ll typically find Outer Banks rental rates in January are some of the lowest out of the year. For example, a 2 bedroom oceanfront condo will rent for less than $1,500 for the week in January. During peak summer, you’re looking at about $2,700 for the week. Plus, January is home to a bunch of homes offering partial week stays, allowing you to enjoy a winter weekend getaway to the OBX.
January Recommendations From A Local

As a lifetime local on the Outer Banks and a notoriously bad sea glass scavenger, I’ve found some of the best sea glass and whole seashells during my January beachcombing walks. The stronger currents and empty beaches make for the best beachcombing experience imaginable. Remember what we said about the weather being chilly but really nice when the sun is out and the wind isn’t blowing? It makes for the perfect beach combing/beach walking weather. Grab a hot coffee from Front Porch Cafe, Ashley’s Espresso Parlour, or Shore Coffee Roasters, and take to the beach to find some salty treasures. It’s the best way to spend a winter morning.
Long Story Short…

January is an unconventional time to visit the OBX, but it’s such a great time to take in the stillness and beauty of the beach. From lower rental rates to empty beaches perfect for strolling and finding seaside treasures, it’s so worth it to come and explore the Outer Banks in January.
Finding free things to do on the Outer Banks is easy! We’ve got some top ideas right here. You don’t have to spend a fortune entertaining your friends and family during your Outer Banks vacation. One of the many great things about the Outer Banks is how many free activities there are to enjoy. It’s easy to entertain your family with free OBX activities. We’ve come up with a list of the top free things to do on the Outer Banks that you’ll love.
Go to The Beach
What is the biggest reason why people come to the Outer Banks? Our gorgeous beaches. The Outer Banks is home to some of the most beautiful, free beaches in the country. This is why spending your day at the beach is number one on our list of free things to do on the Outer Banks. You can see how to make the most of an Outer Banks beach day here. As long as you have a cooler packed with water and snacks and have layered on some sunscreen, the beach is one of the best free things to do on the Outer Banks. It costs $0.00 to have a great beach day and create memories that will last a lifetime with your friends and family.

Climb Jockey’s Ridge
Want to get some exercise in as well as learn about some seriously cool OBX history all for free? Explore the tallest natural living dune in the Eastern United States at Jockey’s Ridge on the Outer Banks. Jockey’s Ridge State Park and climbing the dune are completely free OBX activities. Enjoy the views from the top of the dunes. With views of the ocean towards the east and views of the sound in the west, you get a unique view of the Outer Banks…all for free! Just make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks if you’re planning on playing for a while.

Search for Seashells & Beach Glass
Take home treasures from the sea and search for shells and beach glass! The best time to look for beautiful beach glass and shells is right after a storm early in the morning. Take advantage of the summer thunderstorms and go beachcombing when the weather clears. Who knows, you might find something special that’s for free and arguably better than what you’d find at an OBX souvenir shop!

Explore Downtown Manteo
Downtown Manteo is full of history and beauty. Located just 10 minutes south of Nags Head, Manteo is the perfect town to walk around and explore. Take a stroll on the waterfront docks and enjoy the view of the Albemarle and Croatan Sounds. In Manteo, you’ll have the option to head over to Roanoke Island Festival Park. While the park requires admission, there’s a soundside walking path that’s free and open to the public. There are also free events during the spring and summer months in Manteo. Exploring downtown Manteo is up there on our Outer Banks free things-to-do list!

Ride Bikes for Free on the Outer Banks
The OBX is full of safe paths for bikers and walkers alike. From Duck to Nags Head and, you can ride along the beach road. As you pedal, you’ll be able to check out all of the different little local shops and eateries. Park at one of the public beach accesses for a break and a view! There’s also a bike path in Manteo that takes you from one end of the island to the other. Plus, if you rent a participating home with Resort Realty, you’ll be able to get free beach gear credit! You can put that credit towards bike rentals for your family if you don’t want to bring your own. Read more about that right here.

Hunt for Outer Banks Ghost Crabs
Take part in an Outer Banks beach must; ghost crabbing! Ghost crabs sometimes scurry around during the day but they really thrive at night when the beaches are quieter. Grab the family, some dark clothing, and flashlights, and begin your “hunt”. Ghost crabs freeze when a bright light is shining on them so that gives you a chance to check them out up close and personal! Just don’t poke, prod, or attempt to harm them. They’re still a part of the Outer Banks’ ecosystem and they will try to poke you back! Learn more about hunting ghost grabs here.

Ride the Ferry for Free
Take the day and ride the free ferry from Cape Hatteras to Ocracoke! The ferry ride from Hatteras to Ocracoke typically takes 40-45 minutes depending on the weather and runs every 30 minutes from both sides. During your ferry ride, you’ll have the opportunity for some pretty sweet photo opportunities and sightseeing. The ferry sails over the Pamlico Sound where you can see miles of water! Once the ferry stops, adventure the towns of Ocracoke or Hatteras, depending on where you got on!

Head to the free Downtown Market
The Downtown Market happens every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM from May to September. Take a stroll downtown and discover homemade goods, homegrown produce, and more. Local artists sell their works and live music is played sometimes as well. Going to the Farmer’s Market is completely free so you don’t have to spend any money unless you see something really beautiful (or really tasty) that you want to take home with you.
Visit the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Learn more about the different wildlife refuges all over the country at the Coastal North Carolina National Wildlife Refuges Gateway Visitor Center. This center located in Manteo is 100% free! The National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center represents nine different wildlife refuges and one national fish hatchery. With interactive exhibits and audio-visual programs like a virtual airplane ride, you can learn more about national refuge centers and their importance!

See the Catch of the Day
Take a trip down to Oregon Inlet Fishing Center or over to Pirate’s Cove Marina and watch the boats come in after a long day of fishing. Watch the catches of the day being unloaded off the boats and even see who had the best day of fishing!



What could be better for spring break on the Outer Banks? There’s no doubt that everyone is ready for the warmth and brightness of spring. With spring break around the corner, now is the time to start planning your trip! With the average temperature on the Outer Banks ranging from 65º during the day and around 50º at night during March and April, you can get out and explore all the OBX has to offer! Plus, fewer crowds will make your visit so much more enjoyable. If you’re planning a spring break trip to the Outer Banks, Resort Realty has you covered. With a full list of things to do, places to see, amazing food to eat, and more; see what you should be doing this spring break on the OBX.
Get Outside
Did we mention how gorgeous the weather is during the spring on the OBX? The mild temperatures make spring break the perfect time to get outside. Take some time to stroll the open and crowd-free beaches from Corolla to Hatteras Island. The hot summer months can be a little too intense for activities like climbing Jockey’s Ridge, but spring break weather gives you the opportunity to tackle the dunes without breaking a sweat! Don’t want to get too active? No worries. Even a drive on the 4 x 4 beaches in Corolla or on Hatteras Island during your spring break will be a blast. You may even get to see some wild horses during your cruise too!

Go Shopping
The Outer Banks is full of so many unique makers, stores, and shops. Take advantage of the great weather and stroll some of the outdoor shopping centers like the Outer Banks Mall and The Waterfront Shops in Duck! Check out local artisans and makers like Swell Ceramics located in Nags Head. This is a great opportunity to treat yourself or even get a huge jump start on your Christmas shopping for some truly unique gifts!

Eat Like A Local
If you ask any local on the Outer Banks, they’ll tell you that the best part of spring is that local favorite restaurants open back up for the warm weather seasons! Plus, with different kinds of seafood like fish, crab, and shrimp being in season during the spring, you’ll be able to enjoy something tasty and fresh that was caught locally. Many new Outer Banks restaurants tend to pop up and open during the spring season too; even more of a reason to plan an Outer Banks spring break getaway this year.

Learn About The OBX

Remember that great weather we were talking about? It’s not just for the adventurous type that’s a part of your spring break crew. OBX spring weather gives you the opportunity to explore and learn about the history of this amazing little sandbar. You’ll get the opportunity to visit places like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the North Carolina Aquarium, and more without dying of heat stroke or freezing to death. A lot of educational centers like the aforementioned plus Roanoke Island Festival Park have outdoor exhibits that open back up when the warm, spring weather approaches.
The Lost Colony is one of America’s longest unsolved mysteries with 115 men, women, and children vanishing with no trace. On your visit this spring break, learn more about the mystery of the Lost Colony at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Ghost tours! For more information on special events, visit the Lost Colony website.
Take Advantage Of Rates & Specials
Planning your spring break getaway to the Outer Banks can be super exciting. Even more exciting? Lower rates on rental homes! Before the peak season starts, even the most luxurious homes can be super affordable for your stay. Plus, you can usually catch your favorite rental home on a discounted special, saving you even more money for your Outer Banks spring break adventures.
Whether you’re looking for a condo for a weekend retreat or a large and luxe home for a whole week spent relaxing on the beach, Resort Realty has you covered! With over 600 homes to choose from and so many great activities to take part in, why wouldn’t you plan your spring break on the Outer Banks? View all of the homes Resort Realty has to offer and either book online or give us a call at (800) 458-3830 to talk to one of our amazing vacation specialists!

Seafood and the Outer Banks just go hand in hand; it literally just makes sense you know? Locally sourced seafood is something that many locals pride themselves on and we’re willing to bet you didn’t know that most seafood goes by the season! Some types of fish and shellfish are available year-round, but some types are best and only available during certain seasons. To make it easier for you, we’ve come up with a handy guide on which seafood you can get fresh during certain months of the year and some that are available all year round! We wouldn’t blame you for planning a vacation for specific seafood seasons (here’s looking at you, soft shell season.)
Seafood for Spring & Summer Season on the OBX

Mahi Mahi
April-July
Mahi-mahi often goes by the name “dolphin” (not Flipper), “dolphinfish”, and “dorado”. This summer season fish has a sweeter flavor and is a favorite due to its diversity in cooking options.
Our Favorite Way to Enjoy:
Beer Battered and fried at Mahi-Mahis in Nags Head.

Brown Shrimp
July-September
Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood items in the U.S. Brown shrimp is among the most popular shrimp species and what you’ll typically see in seafood markets. While brown shrimp are mostly caught during the summer months, you can usually find them at most local restaurants since they can be frozen to preserve freshness.
Our Favorite Way to Enjoy:
In Shrimp ‘N Grits at NC Coast in Duck.

Softshell Crabs
April-June
Softshell crab season is arguably one of the favorite seafood seasons here on the OBX. Softshell crabs are blue crabs that have recently molted their shell; allowing you to eat the entire body. While the softshell season is short, many locals buy softshells in bulk to freeze and be able to enjoy in the coming seasons. We recommend heading to a local restaurant on the OBX to enjoy soft shell crabs in all their glory as it’s important to clean them properly. If you’re up for the task of cleaning them and cooking them yourself; here’s a quick video on the process.
Our Favorite Way to Enjoy:
As a sandwich at The Kill Devil Grill in Kill Devil Hills.

Hard Shell Crabs
June – September
Unlike soft shell crabs, hardshell crabs have to be picked to enjoy the meat inside the shell. Hardshell crab harvesting typically happens in the Albemarle Sound. Steaming is the preferred cooking method. Hardshell crabs are not to be confused with crab legs. Alaskan and snow crab legs are not caught locally on the Outer Banks. If you want local snow or Alaskan crab legs; you’ll have to go to Alaska or Maine to indulge. If you don’t know how to pick hard crabs, Southern Living has a great guide to help beginners.
Our Favorite Way to Enjoy:
Steamed for you to take home from Austin’s Seafood in Nags Head.

Flounder
August – September
Flounder are probably one of the funniest fish species to look at. They typically dwell on the bottom of the ocean and camouflage themselves in the sand to hunt their prey. Unlike most fish that have eyes on both sides of their heads, flounder only have eyes on one side. This late summer season fish is perfect for kids and picky eaters since this fish has a mild flavor.
Our Favorite Way to Enjoy:
Fried on a sandwich from Sam & Omie’s in Nags Head.
Seafood or the Fall & Winter Season on the OBX

Oysters
October – March
There’s a saying that oysters are best enjoyed during months that end in -er; which isn’t far off! Oysters are typically harvested from October to March. However, steamed oysters are usually enjoyed during the late fall and early winter season from October to December.

Green-tail Shrimp
September – November
Green-tail shrimp are some of the most sought-after shrimp in the country, let alone on the OBX! This fall season seafood is sweeter more subtle flavor in comparison to brown shrimp. You can usually find green-tail shrimp in brackish marshes versus in the ocean.
Seafood Found Year-round on the OBX

Tuna
Tuna is probably one of the most popular fish on the Outer Banks as it’s available during any season. The most popular species are yellowfin, bluefin, bigeye, and blackfin.

Clams
Clams are also a common shellfish that you can find on the OBX year-round. They’re most active and easier to find from June through August, but almost all local OBX restaurants serve clams year-round.
The Outer Banks is definitely one of the top wedding destinations in the country. The annual Outer Banks wedding expo is a yearly feature helping couples plan their dream OBX wedding. Mandy Harlow is an OBX wedding coordinator and one of the vendors that make an appearance at the wedding expo. We had the honor to get the scoop on everything weddings from this OBX mogul!

How did you get into event & wedding coordinating and how long have you been doing it?
“I first started in the Outer Banks event world working as the event coordinator for realty companies. There, I would help brides figure out and book which event homes they wanted for their wedding that fit their requirements. I started that when I moved here in 2012, and then started a day of coordinating company, Heart of Harlow, and have been coordinating weddings for the past three years. A day of coordinator is for couples who know what they want their day to look like and have planned most of the details but need someone there to run the show. We make sure the vendors are all on track, greet guests, get everyone down the aisle, and make sure the wedding goes according to our timeline!”

What is one of your number one tips for brides throughout the OBX wedding planning process?
“My number one tip is to pick your venue first. On the Outer Banks where it is a popular destination wedding area, venues and houses can go quick. Most people plan a year in advance for their OBX family vacation, so you also want to be ahead of the game to book your beach houses for your family and friends to stay in ahead of time (even if you aren’t booking an event home for the venue). Once you pick your venue, everything will fall into place.”

What types of weddings do you love coordinating and decorating for?
“I love working on event home weddings. Event home weddings are super popular on the Outer Banks. From large to small weddings, it’s great to have everything and everyone in one place. Many event homes are 8+ Bedrooms, so most of the bridal party and family can stay in one place. This makes it easy for rehearsal, set up, and getting ready, then when the ceremony starts, you just have to walk out of your home and onto the beautiful beach right in front of your house!
Event homes usually have pool decks and decks that can accommodate tables for cocktail hour and the reception around the pool with the beach in sight. It’s low-key in the idea that you don’t have to worry about shuttling guests from the ceremony site to the reception site, but also super personal in the sense that the bride and groom get to get comfortable with their space and settled in before the big day. Not to mention you get a whole week with your loved ones on top of the best day of your life!”

Where is your favorite OBX location to have a wedding?
“I can’t choose a favorite Outer Banks area, I love them all! I would just have to say anywhere where water is in sight; ocean or sound are both beautiful local features to have a part of your wedding.”

When is the best time to get married On The Outer Banks?
“The best time of the year to get married here is in the fall or spring. The weather is gorgeous, the ocean breeze is perfect without the summer heat, and the rates for just about everything are way cheaper than the peak of summer.”

How far in advance should brides plan?
“For the Outer Banks, brides should start planning and browsing a year out from their wedding date. For venue, accommodations, and any vendors you love and can’t live without, you should book as soon as you can. If you wait until 6 months out or less, you will still find a ton of amazing Outer Banks vendors, since we have such a great array of talent here. However, you should definitely book your venue first and 12-8 months out if you have a certain date in mind.”

Why do you love your job?
“I love my job because I get to work with people, making sure the best day of their life goes just the way they envision it, and because they come here because it’s their favorite place in the world. There’s nothing better than working with people who are so happy to be where they love and feel so connected to their families, the ocean, and the Outer Banks.”

Visit her website, Heart of Harlow for even more details on how to make your Outer Banks wedding unforgettable!
There are many different types of clam chowder, but Hatteras clam chowder is unique. New England clam chowder has a cream base, and Manhattan clam chowder has a tomato base. However, a clear broth plus fresh local clams and vegetables make Hatteras clam chowder a signature Outer Banks dish.

Since Hatteras, North Carolina is the home of this famed chowder variation, there are many local restaurants that serve this hearty, delicious soup. The next time you’re in Hatteras, check out these restaurants for authentic Hatteras clam chowder and other fresh, local dishes!
Teach’s Lair in Hatteras
Breakwater Restaurant in Hatteras
Sandbar & Grille in Buxton
In addition to local restaurants, check out this great Hatteras clam chowder recipe for those times when you can’t be on the Outer Banks but find yourself missing the Hatteras life!
Hatteras Clam Chowder Recipe
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil1 large onion, chopped5 stalks celery, sliced4 carrots, sliced4 cups peeled, cubed white potatoes2 16-ounce cans minced clams, with juice3 quarts clam juice1 teaspoon dried thyme½ teaspoon ground black pepper8 slices of crisp cooked bacon, crumbled
Directions
Prepare a large pot over medium heat. Combine the onion, celery, carrots, and vegetable oil in the pot and cook until these ingredients start softening. Stir in the potatoes, clams, clam juice, thyme, pepper, and bacon. Bring this to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or simmer until the potatoes are tender. This recipe will make eight servings.

So, there you have it. Now you can enjoy a bit of Cape Hatteras all year long!
For more information on Cape Hatteras vacations, visit www.ResortRealty.comor feel free to contact us at (800) 458-3830.
The Outer Banks is one of the most pet-friendly areas in the country; you can ask your dog, we’re sure they’ll agree. However, each town on the Outer Banks has different rules for your pooch. If you would like to bring your dog to the beach, be sure to follow these rules to ensure you have a relaxing vacation and your pup has the best time possible!
Even though each town has their own unique rules, there are a few rules that apply to every town:
1. Dog owners are expected to pick up all waste produced by their pets.
2. Whether a town requires dogs to be leashed or not, all towns require owners to pay close attention to their dogs while on the beach.
3. Service dogs are permitted on all beaches no matter what time of the year.
Corolla
If you are staying in a Corolla vacation rental and are considering bringing your dog to the beach, be sure to bring a leash. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year long in Corolla! You must keep your furry friend on a leash though and pay close attention to them.

Duck
Lucky Duck! Dogs are allowed to enjoy the beach in Duck without a leash year-round, but you must pay close attention to your dog. If you are walking elsewhere in Duck’s town limits, your dog must be wearing a leash. The leash should not be longer than 10 feet.

Southern Shores
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 9 AM to 6 PM from May 15th to September 15th. Outside of those times, and in other areas of the town, dogs must be on a leash.

Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk allows your furry friend to enjoy time with you on the beach. From the Friday before Memorial Day to the day after Labor Day, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., your dog must be on a leash. That leash cannot be longer than 6 feet. Outside of that time period, the leash can have a length of up to 12 feet. If you decide to take the leash off your dog, the dog must remain within 30 feet of you, and you must pay close attention.

Kill Devil Hills
Dogs are not permitted on Kill Devil Hills public beaches from May 15 to September 15 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. unless the dog is a service dog. Outside of this time period, your dog must be wearing a leash on the beach.

Nags Head
In Nags Head, your dog can enjoy the beach all year round! They must be wearing a leash no longer than 8 feet and you need to keep a close eye on them at all times.

Manteo
The town of Manteo permits dogs to be on the waterfront throughout the year if they are on a leash. Leashes cannot be longer than 6 feet.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Beaches designated as swimming beaches on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore don’t allow dogs. On beaches not designated as swimming beaches, dogs are allowed with a leash that is no longer than 6 feet long.

Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Island swimming beaches do not allow dogs. However, on other Ocracoke beaches, dogs must be wearing a leash that is up to 6 feet long.

For more information on rules for pets on the Outer Banks, you can visit Outer Banks Beach Access for more info. You can see all of our pet friendly Outer Banks vacation rentals here. We’re happy to help you find the perfect vacation home for your family and pets!
Hatteras is home to pure Outer Banks living. A day trip to Hatteras is a great way to explore the area that many don’t know about. So, with your day trip to Hatteras, grab your best playlist, hop in your car, roll the windows down, and get on your way to this magical place.
Getting to Hatteras
Driving to Hatteras is easy, just get in your head south on Highway 12. Although the main towns of the northern Outer Banks have kept much of their charm, Hatteras is different. The northern OBX area is well developed which is cool that there’s so much around now. However, the real sense of what a barrier island is and how it exists with the sea, begins at the Marc Basnight Bridge. This bridge crosses Oregon Inlet and connects the northern Outer Banks with Pea Island.
Pea Island
Pea Island is the northernmost part of Hatteras Island. It’s a little more than a thread of sand holding back the Atlantic Ocean. The dunes to the east were constructed in the 1930s by the CCC. The CCC (The Civilian Conservation Corps) a Depression era make work program. Today, the dunes are constantly being replenished to protect the road.
To the west there are a series of ponds that are impoundments built in the early 20thcentury. These ponds were used to attract waterfowl for the hunt clubs that populated the Outer Banks. You’ll find a trail around one of them at the Pea Island Visitor Center. It’s about a mile around and most definitely worth the trek.
A little farther down the road lies the Richard Etheridge Bridge that crosses an inlet formed by Hurricane Irene. Before the Richard Etheridge Bridge was constructed, a weird bridge that looks like it was slapped together in a big hurry, used to stand. Although the bridge was actually very well built; the locals gave it the nickname of the “Lego” bridge.
The Tri-Villages
Rodanthe, Waves, and Salvo are known as the tri-villages. This 4 mile stretch is the first string of towns you’ll find on Hatteras Island. Rodanthe is the first of the tri-village stretch. Rodanthe is also the setting for the Nicholas Sparks’ novel Nights In Rodanthe, but it’s so much more than a fictional plot. It’s home to beautiful beaches, prime surfing, and a rich history. On the north end of Rodanthe, you’ll find the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station. This building may be the best preserved and most complete site of its kind in the country. The Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station is located in a subdivision called Mirlo Beach; named after a British tanker that was sunk off the coast in WWI.
Waves is the middle town of the Tri-Village. It’s full of quaint local shops, eateries, and of course easy beach access. Waves is home to REAL Watersports and is a town full of watersports and spending time on the water.
Salvo is the last (but not least) of the Tri-Villages. It’s about 20 minutes away from Avon/Kinnakeet (we’ll get to that soon don’t worry). Salvo is in a world of its own with uncrowded beaches and residential homes. Blink and you’ll miss it.
Avon (Kinnakeet)
About nine of ten miles south of the Tri-Villages is Avon. Once upon a time, Avon was known as Kinnakeet. Which explains the signs calling out Kinnakeet Shores or Little Kinnakeet. Centrally located, Avon has become the commercial center of Hatteras Island. However, it began its life as a fishing village and there are still remnants of that lifestyle.
Turn right at the light at the intersection of NC-12 and Harbor Road. Follow the road around and it leads to a small commercial fishing dock. It’s a short drive, but it goes right through the core of what was Kinnakeet. There is a clear sense of what the village looked like before commercial development took over. As an aside, the fish market at the intersection gets a lot of its fish from those docks. If seafood is on your menu for dinner, that may be the worth a visit.
For those who aren’t so stoked on seafood, there are a ton of great lunch spots in Avon; the perfect way to break up your trip. Bros Sandwich Shack is a hit as well as Nino’s Pizza. Once you stop and get some grub, get back in the car and keep going south to Buxton.
Buxton & The Hatteras Lighthouse
About 15 miles south of Avon lies Buxton. This Hatteras Island town is the highest point of them all. It’s home to the Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve and the largest maritime forest in North Carolina. Buxton is also home to the heart of Hatteras Island; the Hatteras Lighthouse.
The Hatteras Lighthouse can be climbed and the view is worth the effort–which is considerable. However, climbing is on a first come first served basis, so plan accordingly. For families, children must be at least 42 inches in height and there is a fee. If you have time (or if it’s early enough), take a stop at Orange Blossom Bakery. Their Apply Uglies are one of the most popular menu items. Though they don’t look like much, they’re one of the tastiest pastries you’ll ever try.
Frisco
Frisco is immediately adjacent to Buxton. Another Hatteras Island town rich in history, Frisco was inhabited by the Croatan Algonquin Indians. Some locals think that Frisco is actually where the Lost Colony fled when the Roanoke Island colony failed. The Frisco Native American Museum is a lot of fun. Exhibits, a short nature walk and occasional activities make it an interesting stop along the way.
For the weird; Frisco is also home to the Futuro House. The Futuro House is right off the side of Highway 12 and is full of UFO inspired decor. It’s one of the few Futuro homes left in the US and it’s definitely worth a photo op.
Hatteras Village
Hatteras Village is at the southern end of the island. Many folks get confused on the difference between Hatteras Island vs Hatteras Village. Hatteras Island is the collection of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, and Hatteras Village. Hatteras Village is it’s own little town. It features an eclectic blend of shops, art galleries restaurants. It also features the largest harbor on the island with a substantial fishing fleet-both commercial and recreational. Especially in the fall and winter, when blue water fishing is at its peak, the docks are busy.
At the very tip of Hatteras Village is the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Probably not an all day museum, but some really interesting artifacts and exhibits.
Be sure to stay in the left hand lane when driving to the museum. Bear to the right, and you’ll end up in line for the Ocracoke Ferry. That’s an adventure for another day.
All of us see things through our own eyes, and for the most part, it serves us pretty well. That’s why we have opinions, certain beliefs, and all the things that go into making us unique. This works nicely until we want to sell a product or service. Then the ability to see things through someone else’s eyes becomes critical. That is particularly true when renting a vacation home on the Outer Banks and choosing from different Outer Banks rental companies.
Why You Need A Property Management Company
When it comes to property management and Outer Banks rental companies, it’s important for the homeowner to see what a renter wants and needs from their vacation rental. While this is imperative, it’s also time-consuming. An owner needs to also spend the time and energy needed to understand the market. With an Outer Banks property management company, you as the owner don’t have to do that. We take care of that for you- which is why professional property management on the Outer Banks is so critical. Both the property management company and the homeowner want the same thing and have the same goals. We want to rent the home as much as we possibly can so, in the end, everyone is happy!

The Outer Banks market is very competitive. Even with 95% occupancy in the summer, the best-maintained homes will consistently be the first ones rented at the best price. Having a property manager on the Outer Banks allows you to get a customized course of action for your home. Things you need to provide, updates you should consider, and more. That way for you, as the homeowner, will receive more rental income. While the idea of getting suggestions on what to add to your home may have you sweating dollar signs, not all of the suggestions for making your home more attractive cost that much.
Updating Your Home for Renters
Simple things like new artwork, updating bedding, and even new paint throughout the home can give your home a complete update. Creating a theme for your home and referencing interior design styles that are timeless and on-trend can really impact your rental calendar for the better! You can always get interior design ideas from places like Serena & Lily or inspiration from Pinterest. Take a look at your property from the outside. Do both the house and yard look fresh and well-maintained? Curb appeal is the first impression the renter gets. That furniture that’s been in the living room for 10 years? It’s got to go. Guests want to feel like they’re on vacation and staying in a home that has been consistently updated and cared for.

Even having a routine maintenance and carpet cleaning program with your property management firm can be budgeted and helps keep your home looking fresh for guests. Within updates, making sure to have a well-stocked kitchen with all the accessories a guest needs to cook a big dinner and small but significant touches around your home can keep guests coming back year after year. Updates to your home can make an Outer Banks vacation that much more special.

Avoiding Property Management Hiccups
Just like with suggesting physical updates, Resort Realty property managers suggest what to charge for renting a property based on their vast knowledge of the Outer Banks. Not approving the property management’s recommended rental rates leads to discounting or not booking at all. There are real consequences for not following property management recommendations. Loss of revenue, greater marketing costs because of non-repeat renters, and bad reviews online making it even more difficult to rent the home. If at some point, the property owner wants to sell their house, the rental history directly affects the price of the home.

Owning a vacation rental property does take effort, but understanding what needs to be done and why will make the effort a little more rewarding. Homeownership requires a lot of attention and when you serve the public it requires even more special attention. Being considerate and understanding this from both sides of the communication will optimize the relationship.
If these are things you don’t currently do, it may sound overwhelming; which is a tell-tale sign you need a property manager ASAP! Property managers and homeowners are working together and everything they suggest is to only help, not hurt, your rental calendar. This is a partnership and when you succeed, we all do!
Happy Earth Day! Get out, get involved, and celebrate the beauty of the Outer Banks! From keeping our beaches clean to discovering a new nature park, get outside today (and everyday) to protect what you love; our beautiful Outer Banks! We’ve come up with 4 different ways to celebrate Earth Day on the OBX
Check out our Earth Day video for ways to celebrate Earth Day on the Outer Banks.
Pick Up Trash On The Beach

Help keep our beaches clean! Today, start a new habit! Bring a recyclable bag with you to the beach and try to pick up at least 10 pieces of trash. Obviously the more you pick up the better!
Explore Our Local Parks

Visiting the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Wildlife Refuge, Dowdy Park, any of the local lighthouses, and so much more is a great way to spend Earth Day on the OBX!
Plant Something

The OBX is full of great places to pick up a plant! The Elizabethan Gardens has a beautiful, local greenhouse. Nature’s Harmony is a beautiful, local shop with nurseries located in Manns Harbor and Manteo with the prettiest plants that’ll help you celebrate Earth Day in the best way!
Enjoy The Beauty Around You

With beautiful open beaches, expansive sound accesses, and stunning natural wooded parks, there’s no excuse to not be outside and love on the earth a little today! Enjoy the beauty of the Outer Banks and get outside, get involved, and love your Mother Earth!