The Outer Banks is a beautiful and popular summer vacation destination. However, with our unique positioning along the coast, this makes the barrier islands vulnerable to hurricanes during hurricane season. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are a few quick tips you need to know should a hurricane pass through.
About Hurricane Season
Hurricane season begins on June 1st and ends on November 30th. This season includes tropical storms and tropical depressions. Hurricanes can form in May and December, but it is very rare. Storms go from tropical depressions to tropical storms, and then finally to category 1-5 hurricanes.
A Hurricane Is Expected, Now What?
Hurricane Watch:
A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible in the area and is issued 48 hours before the expected storm arrival.
Hurricane Warning:
A hurricane warning means a hurricane is expected in the affected area and is issued 36 hours in advance of the storm. When a hurricane or tropical storm threatens the Outer Banks, Resort Realty will notify you.
Plan Your Evacuation Route
Should a mandatory evacuation for visitors take place, you can either head inland and stay at a hotel or return home. Make sure you know the best plan to leave the Outer Banks. Before you leave, make sure you have all the needed medications, gas, etc. When the storm passes, you can call our office to find out if you can return and finish the rest of your vacation.
If You Could Not Evacuate
If the storm is imminent and you absolutely cannot evacuate the Outer Banks, stay indoors. Stay away from all windows just in case any flying debris breaks glass. Make sure you have supplies in a hurricane kit, plus plenty of bottled water and non-perishable food. Also, ensure your cell phone is charged in case of a power outage, allowing you to contact family and friends.
The Importance Of Travel Insurance
Buying travel insurance is highly advised when booking your stay during the Hurricane Season or really any time of the year. Life happens and travel insurance can help get your money back when you have to miss out on your vacation.
Frequently Asked Hurricane Questions
Can we return when it is safe for the rest of our vacation?
If the evacuation has been lifted before your check-out date, you are more than welcome to return and enjoy the rest of your vacation. If the evacuation order is lifted once your check-out day has passed, you’re more than welcome to book another stay with us for a later date!
What happens if we can’t make it due to the hurricane?
Travel insurance will help you here. If your primary residence was affected, if the roadways cause a delay, or if the rental home you were supposed to stay in was impacted by the storm, the best course of action is to file an insurance claim.
Do we get a refund if the storm impacts our stay?
Yes, if you purchased travel insurance through our partner Red Sky, you can be reimbursed for your stay.
Can we reschedule or get a credit for a future stay?
Unfortunately, we cannot reschedule or give credit for a future stay because of the impact of a hurricane. You are more than welcome to rebook at the advertised rate online or by calling us at 800-458-3830.
Does travel insurance cover this situation?
Yes! This is why we always recommend purchasing travel insurance (especially during hurricane season). Per Red Sky’s Sun Trip Preserver policy, storm evacuations are covered, allowing you to receive reimbursement. Be sure to review your policy for more details and instructions.
Should we bring our own hurricane supplies?
If you’re traveling to the OBX during hurricane season, it won’t hurt to have a hurricane kit packed just in case. In this kit, you should have:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable foods (energy bars, canned food, can opener)
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Any medication
- First Aid Kit
- Hygiene Items
- Important documents (ID, insurance info, etc.)
- Cash
To find an entire list of hurricane supplies, click the link here.
What if our belongings are damaged?
If you purchased travel insurance, contact them to file a claim.
Your safety is one of our top priorities here at Resort Realty. For more hurricane information, visit our hurricane page on our website. We wish you a safe season!
Fall means cozy sweaters, hot coffee, changing leaves, and bonfires of course! What could be better than a bonfire on the beaches of the Outer Banks?! Our Perfect Outer Banks Bonfire Guide will help you have a safe, fun bonfire for all to enjoy this fall season.
1. Know The Rules
Bonfires are not permitted in Corolla, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills. In Nags Head, bonfires are allowed with a permit! You can get your permit from Fire Station 16 at Milepost 14.5, Fire Station 21 at Milepost 18, or online. The southern beaches (Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, Hatteras, and Ocracoke) also allow beach bonfires with a permit!
2. Have Your Supplies
You can’t have a bonfire without proper supplies. Make sure you’re burning natural materials like leaves, branches, or other plant growth. It’s illegal to burn anything other than natural materials including lumber scraps and trash. Make sure you have enough skewers or sticks to roast your marshmallows and hot dogs and a cooler packed with drinks for everyone! Bring a bucket to fill with ocean water to extinguish your fire when you’re done. Recyclable shopping bags make great trash bags to tote your trash to the can once you clean up.
3. Grab Some Recipes
There’s more than one way to make a s’more! Get creative with cookies like oreos, fudge stripes, and the classic graham cracker. Reese’s Cups, classic Hershey bars, and even fruit can add different sweet twists to your creation!
5. Have Fun
Bonfires are a great way to spend time with friends and family you love. Crank up the music, laugh until you cry, and make memories on the Outer Banks that’ll last a lifetime.
6. Put It Out
When you’ve had enough bonfire fun, make sure the fire is thoroughly put out and there are no embers still lit. Douse the fire with water then cover with dry sand. Make sure you clean up all trash and foreign objects you brought with you. Leave nothing but footprints on our beaches!
A vacation with a view? Yes please! The Outer Banks is full of stunning views of beaches, sounds, and everything in between. Whether you want to hear the crash of the ocean waves or watch stunning sunsets over the sound, Resort Realty offers some of the best homes vacation homes with an OBX view to die for!
Herbie’s #5005
As close to the ocean as you can get, Herbie’s offers the best ocean view in Kill Devil Hills. Located near great local dining and more, Herbie’s offers you the chance to walk right out of the door onto the sandy beach! This 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home is sure to please!
Destiny #5985
Destiny offers oceanfront bliss and endless porch swinging joy! This well equipped and well kept home is the epitome of stunning OBX views. Literally steps away from the beach, start your vacation off in this 4 bedroom 2 bathroom Nags Head home.
Buena Vista #3271
Uniquely built, Buena Vista offers ocean views from the living room and most of the bedrooms! You’ll go to sleep to crashing waves and wake up to stunning OBX sunrises in this 4 bedroom 4 bathroom home in Duck.
DoodleBug #2060
DoodleBug offers ocean views and wildlife views as well. The top deck overlooks expansive undeveloped land and your own private pool! This 4 bedroom 2 and a half bathroom home in Duck is perfect for your next Outer Banks visit.
Casa Del Sol 6 #5188
Breathtaking views are available for those who have smaller parties too! Casa Del Sol 6 in Kill Devil Hills is a 3 bedroom 2 and a half bathroom condo perfect for small families offers comfort and oceanfront exclusivity!
Black Pearl #7012
Any closer to the ocean and you’d literally be wet! This absolutely iconic oceanfront Rodanthe home is as oceanfront as you can get. From the upstairs balcony, the views of the atlantic will make you feel like you’re on a cruise ship. In reality? You’re soaking up a KILLER OBX view.
Beachy Keen #5619
Beachy Keen is perfect for smaller couples or families that still want an amazing OBX view. This Kill Devil Hills condo features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, direct beach access and stunning views. The bright, beachy decor is an added bonus!
Chez Scov II #7043
Chez Scov II is another Outer Banks vacation home that’ll give you unparalleled views. Located in Rodanthe, Chez Scov II sits right on the widespread beaches of Hatteras Island. With 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bath, there’s plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy a beautiful OBX view.
Seascape
Seascape is a spacious 7 bedroom home with stunning views for DAYS. Not only do you get beautiful ocean views but you have access to a private pool, hot tub, and your very own pathway to the beach.
Tide Song
Last but certainly not least is Tide Song! This Rodanthe home offers stunning OBX viewse from each bedroom and from the living room. You can truly soak up the salt air at this 5 bedroom 3.5 bedroom home.
Check out even more oceanfront or sound front rentals and book with Resort Realty today!
Summer is winding down and school is officially back in session. So while your two-legged babies are back sitting at their desks, why not bring you four-legged ones to the beach?! There are so many things for you and your best friend to do on the Outer Banks. Check out our Pup’s Guide to the Outer Banks and get your adventure started!
1 // Take A Walk
The Outer Banks is full of places to go and things to see. Take a stroll in downtown Manteo on the docks. Walk through Nags Head Woods on one of the 7 different trails, or hike Jockey’s Ridge! Just make sure you’ve brushed up on the park’s pet rules before your visit!
2 // Treat Yo Self
Let your best friend know who’s a good boy and give them a treat! Restaurants like Mulligan’s, South Beach Grille, Sweet T’s, and The Beer Garden are just a few of many pet-friendly restaurants on the Outer Banks. Make sure you stop by John’s Drive In to get a pup cup of vanilla ice cream for your favorite friend!
3 // Let’s Play
When you visit the Outer Banks, the beach is a must! Your pooch will love frolicking in the sand or playing fetch in the waves! All towns on the Outer Banks allow dogs, but make sure you’re up to date on the leash laws and restrictions each town has.
4 // Home Sweet Home
After long days of playing, eating, beaching, and puppy lovin’, it’s time to come home to your place by the sea. Resort Realty offers many dog-friendly properties perfect for you and your furry friend.
Summer has given way to cooler weather, awesome beach days, and even more events for you and your family to enjoy! Check out all there is to do on the Outer Banks this fall season, Click the links for more information and happy fall!
August 27 // OBX Wedding Fest
August 30 – September 6 // WRV Outer Banks Pro
August 31 // BIC SUP One Design Series
August 31 // Island Art Show
September 2 // OBX Tribute Rock Concert
September 3 // Dare County Special Olympics BBQ
September 6 – 7 // OBX Arts & Craft Festival
September 9 – 10 // OBX Stunt Kite Competition
September 15 – 16 // Day at the Docks
September 16 // Kitty Hawk Surf Co. Kayak Fishing Tournament
September 17 // OBX Triathlon
September 17 – 23 // ESA Easterns Surfing Championships
September 21 – 24 // Outer Banks Jeep Mutiny
September 22 – 24 // Pridefest
September 29 – 30 // The Lost Colony Wine & Culinary Festival
September 30 // Fish Like A Girl
October 4 – 7 // Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival
October 5 – 8 // Outer Banks Parade of Homes
October 7 // Oink N’ Oyster Roast
October 7 – 8 // Duck Jazz Festival
October 19 // Island Art Show
October 21 // Outer Banks Seafood Festival
October 28 // Outer Banks Brewtag
October 28 // Roanoke Island Maritime Museum Wooden Boat Show
October 28 // Halloween International Film Festival
October 28 // Harvest HayDay
October 28 // The Beer Witch Project
October 29 // Outer Banks Parade of Costumes
October 31 // Roanoke Island Maritime Museum Haunted House
November 1 – 4 // Invitation Surf Fishing Tournament
November 3 – 4 // Evening Lantern Tours
November 4 // Climb to Conquer Cancer
November 10 – 12 // Outer Banks Marathon
November 23 // 5k Turkey Trot
When you’re visiting the Outer Banks, there is so much to see and do. We’ve come up with an Outer Banks Bucket List blog series to guide you to some of the best local spots on the Banks! This week’s feature? Orange Blossom Bakery!
Orange Blossom Bakery is located in the heart of Buxton, right down the street from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The bakery and cafe are home to some of the most delicious pastries, baked goods, and coffee you’ll ever experience.
The outside of the cafe is charming and beachy with a vast array of lush plants and a few tables for outdoor seating! They also offer indoor seating for those balmy summer days.
Orange Blossom’s claim to fame are their homemade Apple Uglies. The pastry isn’t the prettiest thing in the world, but it’s definitely one of the tastiest sweet treats on the island.
Apple Uglies are cinnamony, apple goodness all rolled up into a ginormous pastry. (Seriously, you could feed a small family with just one.)
On your next visit to the Outer Banks, make sure a visit to Orange Blossom is at the top of your bucket list. Check back with us next week for another Outer Banks Bucketlist Spot!
The Outer Banks is famous for many things; wild horses, lighthouses, beaches, and more. One big piece of American history lies right here on the Outer Banks…the mystery of the Lost Colony.
What Is the Lost Colony?
For those who don’t know, the Lost Colony was made up of 117 men, women, and children who made the voyage from England to Roanoke Island in July of 1587 to discover the new world. The Colony established itself amid a feud between Spain and England. Because of the war, the supply ships that were supposed to deliver food and necessities to the colonists never came. The colonists had disappeared by the time John White came back 3 years later to replenish their supplies. Many people have their theories about what happened to the vanished colony, but no one knows for sure.
Who is Eleanor Dare?
Eleanor Dare (daughter of John White) was among the 117 colonists who came to Roanoke Island over 500 years ago. On August 18th, 1587, Elanor gave birth to a baby girl named Virginia Dare. Virginia was the first English child to be born in the New World!
The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama
The mystery of the Lost Colony is a huge part of Outer Banks history. So much so, that the story has been produced into an outdoor drama! The production of Lost Colony is historic in and of itself. It’s been running since 1937 and has produced talents like Andy Griffith, Chris Elliot, and Steve Kazee.
Celebrating Virginia Dare
Each year, to celebrate Virginia Dare’s birthday, the Lost Colony holds auditions for babies to play the role of Virginia Dare in the show!
There’s no denying that summer is amazing on the Outer Banks; the weather is gorgeous, the ocean is warm, and there is so much to see and do. However, if you’ve ever experienced Fall on the Outer Banks, you know it’s something magical. Cooler breezes come in, crowds die out, and the off season begins. Ask any local, the off season on the Outer Banks is the best season.
Reason #1 – The Weather
With Summertime comes heat. That’s awesome for days spent splashing in the waves or diving in the pool, but it makes it hard to enjoy a stroll on the beach or a climb on Jockey’s Ridge. When fall weather on the Outer Banks begins, the temperature drops, the breeze picks up, and every day feels perfect. Plus, who doesn’t love a beach bonfire in the fall?
Reason #2 – Fewer Crowds
School is back in session and work is in full swing for visitors and locals alike. With everyone settled back into their routines, the traffic and crowds whittle down to almost none. The beach is pretty much empty of all visitors and the weather is still gorgeous; it’s a perfect recipe for a perfect beach day.
Reason#3 – Amazing Seafood & Fishing
Fall weather brings a change to seafood and fishing. Fish like red drum and flounder are the best to fish for (and eat) during the months of fall. Oysters are also in season bringing together family and friends for plenty of oyster roasts and bakes throughout the season.
Reason #4 – Events
While summer on the Outer Banks is full of events like 4th Of July parades and Dare Day, fall has its own fun too! The Outer Banks is home to the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, Bluegrass Festival, Outer Banks Marathon and much more.
Reason #5 – Low Rates
Fall is the perfect time to plan an Outer Banks getaway. Rental rates go down and that dream vacation home can become an affordable reality. The weather, events, food, and fun are all a plus for planning your vacation in the Fall! Find your dream home with us at Resort Realty!
If you haven’t recently seen all over news outlets on the internet, a new beach has popped up off of the Outer Banks coast! A new sand island has formed off the coast. First noticed in April, this mile long sand bar has gotten bigger over time. It’s been described as “the mother of all sandbars,” by County Commissioner Danny Couch. The island was named by 11-year-old Caleb Regan. Caleb visited the island with his father over Memorial Day weekend. They discovered scattered shells all over the island, and Shelly Island seemed like a fitting name.
Although Shelly Island is a unique addition to our awesome island, it’s best to look at from a distance if you’re not experienced in the water. Seeing the island up high from a helicopter or airplane tour (check out OBX Biplanes or Barrier Island Aviation) is a great way to see it. If you do decide to adventure out to the island, it’s best to tackled by experienced kayakers or paddle boarders, but definitely DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SWIM. While the waters are shallow that connect Oregon Inlet, rip currents are a major threat and the shallow waters are home to dozens of sharks. We don’t know how long Shelly Island will be around for, (it could disappear just as fast as it appeared) but you should definitely take the opportunity to get a view of this anomaly this summer!
4th of July isn’t complete without a cookout and a cookout isn’t complete without dessert! If you need a few recipe ideas, check out our Memorial Day recipes post here, but if you’ve got a sweeter tooth, we’ve got you covered! Here are 4 of the best sweet treats for the 4th of July!
(To make the image larger, just click on it!)
