Mother’s Day is just around the corner and for you last minute Mother’s Day planners, don’t worry. If you’re lucky enough to be on the Outer Banks this Mother’s Day or if you live here, we’ve come up with the top spots on the Outer Banks that Mom will love!
Elizabethan Gardens
Taking a stroll through the historic and beautiful Elizabethan Gardens is a perfect way for mom to enjoy her special day. With views of the sound, beautiful statues, and of course the vibrant flowers, all will be sure to make her smile.
Yoga Studio
For the active mama, a yoga class on the Outer Banks is the best way to spend her day! Local yoga studios like Village Yoga in Duck offer an array of classes to get mom active doing something she loves!
The Spa
What better way to spend Mother’s Day than at the spa? The Outer Banks is full of different amazing spas for mom to get the celebrity treatment. Treat her to a facial and massage this Mother’s Day weekend.
Retail Therapy
From the Outlets to great local boutiques, mom can spend her day engaging in a little retail therapy! A shopping day fit for the queen mom is!
Beach Time
Whether mom wants to run around and play with the kiddos or settle in with a good book, spending some time on the beach is probably at the top of her list. Plan a day full of fun, rest, and relaxation on the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks.
Relaxing On The Porch
The ultimate spot for mom? On the porch watching the waves crash in an Outer Banks vacation rental! Whether you want to give mom a weekend away or want to spend a whole week with her, Resort Realty has a wide array of homes that mom will be sure to love!
If you are a first time visitor to the Outer Banks, planning the perfect vacation can be a little overwhelming. With so much to see and do but such little time, it can be a lot especially if you’ve never visited the Outer Banks before! Lucky for you, we’ve come up with a list of places to go, things to see, and more to help you out on your first visit to the Outer Banks!
Places To Go…
The Outer Banks is full of places to explore and enjoy the beauty and simplicity of small town life. Downtown Manteo features a ton of local shops and restaurants that you must visit. Plus, Roanoke Island Festival Park is just a short walk over the bridge. You can see what life was like for English soldiers in 1585 and even tour a real, working representation ship, The Elizabeth II! The Duck Waterfront Shops features a bunch of great local shops and an amazing view of the sound! If you’re in Corolla, historic Corolla Village is a must visit as well. On a nice, breezy, spring or summer day, getting outside and taking a stroll around these Outer Banks gems with your family is priceless!
Sights To See…
From the Wright Brothers National Monument to Jockey’s Ridge, the Outer Banks is full of rich history that is all tied together. The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site are the perfect places to go if you’re interested in learning more about the Lost Colony and see gorgeous array of flowers. The Currituck Beach, Bodie Island, and Cape Hatteras lighthouses are must-sees as well!
Activities To Do…
Whether you have your own 4 wheel drive vehicle or need to rent one, you have to go to Carova or Cape Hatteras for a first time off-road beach experience! Carova and Hatteras Island both feature pristine, undeveloped beaches that are sure to please the first time Outer Banker.While 4WD beaches in Corolla and Carova don’t require a permit, the Cape Hatteras National seashore does. You can find more info here on how to obtain a permit. If 4WD isn’t your style, take a horseback ride with Equine Adventures and see the beauty that Hatteras Island has to offer!
Places To Eat…
If you’re looking to find the best local food, look no further! Outer Banks Voice has a great Best of the Beach guide for the best seafood, breakfast, donuts and more, making it easy for you to find the best local eats on the beach! Duck Donuts, Run Down Cafe, and Hurricane Mo’s are just a few great places that made the list so be sure to check them all out!
Where To Stay…
When visiting the Outer Banks, staying in a vacation rental home is your best option. It’ll save you money, keep you comfortable, and give you a space to bond and relax with family and friends. At Resort Realty, we have the perfect home for you no matter what your needs. From luxury homes to cozy condos, make your first and future Outer Banks vacations special and rent with Resort Realty! Browse over 500 Outer Banks vacation homes online or talk to one of our amazing vacation specialists at (800) 458 – 3830.
Summer on the Outer Banks is amazing! Great weather, amazing beach time, and so many events. The OBX in June is a super appealing option for your family vacation! See why you and your family should plan your vacation during the first official month of summer!
Lower Rates
During June, rates for vacation rental homes haven’t gone up to peak season prices. You still get warm, summer weather without the expense of renting a home during the middle of the season!
Less Crowds
In the beginning and middle of June, many schools haven’t let out for the summer yet so you get first dibs on houses, less wait time at restaurants, and more space to set up your spot on the beach! What more could you ask for?
Less Traffic
Less people means less traffic. During June, your drive to the Outer Banks (and back home) will be much quicker than traveling during the peak of summer! Plus, with our guide on how to avoid traffic, you’ll be out of the car and on the beach soaking up the sun in no time!
Amazing Weather
Did we mention how amazing the weather is during the beginning of summer? It’s not nearly as humid as the July and August months so you can genuinely enjoy being outdoors! The average temperature on the Outer Banks in June ranges from 83º and breezy during the day and 70º at night, it’s the perfect temperature to get out and explore or lounge on the beach.
The Best Time To Swim
With warm, comfortable weather comes warm, calm waters! The ocean temperature in June ranges from the low to mid 70s which is perfect for cooling off after lying in the sun! When the winds come up from the gulf stream, warm, clear waters appear! It’s the best time to get to the beach and take a dip.
Fun Events
The OBX in June is the best time to visit if you’re looking for fun, family friendly events! Events like Dare Day, The Soundside FunFair, and more great attractions are here for you and your family to take part in when you visit the Outer Banks!
View our wide selection of Outer Banks vacation homes and plan your getaway to the OBX now!
The town of Corolla (properly pronounced Cor-RAH-lah), is a small town on the Outer Banks full of history. Now known for its wild horses, 4 x 4 beaches, and amazing vacation homes, this historic OBX town was once a quaint village that was unrecognizable from what it is today!
Beginnings of Corolla
Native American tribes called Currituck home. The barrier island of what is now Corolla was used for fishing and hunting. Europeans began settling in the area and resided on the mainland in the late 1600’s.
By the mid-1800s, several communities were on the island. The Currituck Beach lighthouse was set to be built in 1873. It was lit on December 1st, 1875, and the U.S. Lifesaving Service was in full effect.
Wild Horses
Corolla has been home to wild horses for over 500 years! The horses can be dated back to the voyage of the colony known now as the Lost Colony. The expedition was led by Sir Richard Grenville in 1587. With so much equipment being brought to the new world, ships had to lighten their load in order to stay afloat in the shallow, Carolina waters. Livestock, including the Spanish mustangs, had to be sacrificed. It is thought that the horses that currently roam the beaches in this town are direct descendants of the voyage of 1587!
The Whalehead Club
Corolla maintained its long reputation as a hunting and fishing community. In 1922, what is now known as the Whalehead Club, was built by Edward and Marie-Louise LeBel Knight. The home provided work opportunities for the towns residents as caretakers and hunting guides for the Knight’s and their guests.
During World War II, the Whale Head Club was leased to the United States Coast Guard to aid in the patrol of German U-boats. As a result of the war being over, the population of Corolla dwindled significantly. In the 1950s, the population became so low the school closed and the church remained empty. By the 1970s, only 15 people lived in the village.
Corolla Today
The number of year-round residents in Corolla is about 500 people. During the summer, the population can be more than 50,000 a week! People are attracted to this quaint town because of its beauty, vast beaches, and rich history! Rest, relaxation, and amazing food are all over this OBX beach town.
Plan your next Outer Banks vacation! Visit the amazing, historical, and beautiful town of Corolla. With over 120 properties located in Corolla, Resort Realty has a vacation home that is sure to suit you and your family! Visit our website, browse the properties, and book your stay online! You can also call us at 1-800-458-3830 and one of our amazing vacation reservation specialists will be happy to assist you!
Get ready for a weekend full of green! The Outer Banks during St. Patrick’s Day is a weekend for friends, family, fun, and even a little leprechaun magic! See everything St. Patrick’s Day weekend on the OBX has in store!
Running of the Leprechauns 5k and 10k
March 17th @ 8:00 AM | 2234 S Lark Street, Nags Head
Run to the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Choose from either a 5K or 10K run! Each finisher will receive a medal and an event t-shirt. There will also be awards for the top 3 male and female finishers in both distances. After the race, enjoy the Irish-themed after party including Irish stew, sweet potato biscuits, beer, and a costume contest! For more information and registration, visit the OBSE website.
St. Paddy’s 1 Mile Beer Run
March 17th @ 2:00 PM| Outer Banks Brewing Station
Participate in a Leprechaun themed beer mile at The Brewing Station! The St. Paddy’s 1 Mile Beer Run is chip timed with a backyard party after! The run is strictly 21 and up. Prizes will be awarded to the overall fastest female and male. Wear your St. Patrick’s Day best and get ready to race! The Beer Run is limited to 100 participants and price is $30 per person. To register, visit the OBX running company website!
28th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 18th @ 1:00 PM | Starts @ Bladen St.
Enjoy a classic Outer Banks tradition! The 28th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade is full of fun, friends, floats, and candy! The parade route starts at the intersection of Bladen St. and Virginia Dare Trail and ends at Driftwood Street. The parade will start at 1 PM. You can find parking and a good seat along the route, but be sure to get there early!
St. Patrick’s Day Dining
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with some of the best restaurants on the Outer Banks! Restaurants like Mulligan’s and The Jolly Roger feature St. Patrick’s Day dishes, specials, and live music to get you into the spirit!
St. Patrick’s Day weekend on the Outer Banks is full of fun! Why not take the time to come visit? Resort Realty has many homes available for spending St. Patty’s Day weekend on the beach! Stay for a week and attend some of the Outer Banks Taste of the Beach events or just come for a weekend stay in a home that allows partials! Whatever you decide, Resort Realty has you covered!
March 9th marks the National Day of Unplugging! For 24 hours, log off of your lap top, turn off that tablet, and put away that cell phone. Use this time to explore and bond with your family. Are you on the Outer Banks? See our guide on different ways to spend your unplugged time on the OBX!
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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
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
Find An Alternate Route
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
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 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
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!
When it comes to your home, you want it to be comfortable, cozy, and of course stylish. Take a few notes from the design trends we’ve gathered from across the internet, local businesses, and even our own homes to spruce up your own space!
Fresh Light Fixtures
Modern light fixtures like these found on pinterest can really brighten up your space! (Pun fully intended). With rattan being so on trend this year, it perfectly matches the beachy, laid back aesthetic of the OBX. Metallic colors like silvers, bronzes, and golds are also always on trend in home decor. You have so many options to make your home super up to date!
Make Use Of Natural Elements + Colors
Modern Beach House, a local Outer Banks interior design service and store hit the nail on the head with this buffet table display. The natural, tan colors of the table and the stark, white walls and topping are beautifully offset by the green plants! This look is easily achievable and can really brighten up your home. To see more great inspo and before and afters of local Outer Banks homes, take a look at the Modern Beach House website!
Shiplap Is Back
If you’ve ever set foot in a classic OBX beach box home, one thing you will see is dark and dreary shiplap and wood paneling. This can make the home look dark and dingy, but fear not, shiplap is making a comeback in a major way! A fresh coat of paint and bright interior furniture or furniture covers and take a drab room and make it fab in no time.
Create An Outside Oasis
When you’re on the Outer Banks, there’s nothing better than sitting out on the porch with a tall glass of sweet tea. Make sure your porch space is inviting and comfortable. Install porch swings or update the current seating you have with outdoor durable pillows and cushions for the ultimate relaxing spot!
Make A Statement
Tired of the same old paint? Make a statement with fun walls! You can get inexpensive wall paper and tile and create a focal point in a room to make it bright and inviting. You don’t have to stop at the walls either, a huge design trend for 2018 is statement floors and ceilings too! Think outside the box and be creative, just make sure you don’t go too overboard, pick one wall and off set the vibrancy with simple furniture and other decor!
Embrace Minimalism
Minimalism is a huge trend that we don’t see going anywhere anytime soon. There’s just something about clean lines, crisp colors, and the simplicity of a great room that makes it super relaxing and serene. Add pops of color to the walls and accent pillows to put a little color in the space. Fun lamps like the wave ones pictured in this bedroom from property Atlantic Breeze #5411 can really pull a minimalistic bedroom together!
Summer is coming up and that means making arrangements now for Summer vacation! One of the biggest questions that is posed during vacation planning is where will you stay? Hotels may seem like the cheapest option but they can actually end up costing you a fortune. Between hidden fees, small spaces, and limited access to basic amenities, hotels can be more of a hassle than you may realize.
Why Rent a Vacation Home?
By renting a vacation home with Resort Realty, you’ll end up having way more space, saving money, and so much more. Take a look at our info-graphic to see why you should rent a vacation home instead of reserving a hotel room for your next Outer Banks vacation!
Vacation Homes vs Hotels
Ditch overpriced and overcrowded hotel rooms this summer and find the vacation home of your dreams! By renting an OBX vacation home with Resort Realty, you’ll be sure to make your vacation fun and memorable. Everyone will have plenty of space to relax and unwind, you can bond over family dinner, and even spend endless hours in the sun, sand, and surf! Book your next Outer Banks vacation with Resort Realty today by visiting our website or by calling us at (800) 458-3830!
The Outer Banks is full of popular attractions. Honestly, what’s an Outer Banks vacation without a visit to the aquarium, climbing Jockey’s Ridge, and eating your favorite meal at your favorite, local spot? Although these attractions are amazing, there are so many more hidden places to see, things to do, and food to eat that you may not know about! Check out our 10 hidden gems of the Outer Banks to add to your to-do list this Outer Banks vacation.
Little Red Mailbox of Hope
Glenmere Ave Beach Access, Kill Devil Hills
Not very many people have heard of the Little Red Mailbox of Hope. Started by Sue and Eddie Goodrich and the Town of Kill Devil Hills, this little mailbox spreads messages of hope and love. When you come to the Outer Banks, make sure you take some time to read some of the messages in the Little Red Mailbox journal and even leave a note. You might find something you didn’t know you needed at this Outer Banks hidden gem.
The Futuro House
Hwy 12, Frisco
This unique UFO sighting is found in Frisco off of Highway 12! Full of UFO inspired decor and items, the 26-foot wide dwelling is one of the few Futuro homes left in the United States! Because it is not up to code, you can’t enter it to visit but you can definitley pose in front of this ornamental structure for a great photo. The Futuro House is a strange sight to see but definitely a gem on the Outer Banks!
Full Moon Restaurant + Lost Colony Brewery
Downtown Manteo
Full Moon Cafe, The Lost Colony Brewery, or The Full Moon Brewery – the restaurant of many names. Whatever you call it, there’s no denying that there is great food and great, craft beer to be had at this Manteo eatery! Initially opened in 1995 as a restaurant, Full Moon Cafe doubled as a brewery in 2011 and continues to make uniquely crafted beer and amazing food. “We are the home town restaurant where first dates, prom dates, wedding proposals, family gatherings, showers, and birthdays, have taken place for 22 years,” which is why Full Moon has earned it’s spot as a hidden Outer Banks gem!
Canadian Hole
Windsurfers from all over the world come to Canadian Hole to windsurf during the spring and summer months. However, if you’re not an avid windsurfer, Canadian Hole is still a really cool place to go and watch windsurfers sail over the sound with their colorful kites! Additionally, the area is ideal for families with young children because of the shallow waters and lack of waves!
Monument To A Century of Flight
This public monument located in Kitty Hawk honors the achievement and the history of flight! The Wright Brothers completed the first successful flight right here on the Outer Banks on December 17, 1903. This monument honors successful men and women who contributed to the history of modern flight and aviation that we continue to use today!
Winged Horses of the OBX
If you’ve been to the Outer Banks, you’ve noticed the colorful winged horses. They stand proudly outside of different local businesses. The winged horses were in commemoration for the Wright Brothers centennial of flight! This project went on from May 2002 to October 2004. Many of the horses are still on display today! Check out photos of all the horses and a list of current winged horse locations!
Hatteras Cats
On Hatteras Island, you’ll find Burrus Red & White Supermarket. There’s nothing super special about this grocery store…except for the 6 toed cats! The cats that wander around the supermarket are descendants of a ghost ship from a few hundred years ago. When the ship was looted, locals brought them ashore and more six-toed (or polydactyl) cats appeared over time. The store owner, Allen Burrus, cares for the cats. They’ve all been spayed and neutered.
Lucy + Ricky’s Nest
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe is a local and visitor favorite. Even though this restaurant is very popular, not everyone knows about the Lone Cedar residents; Ricky and Lucy! Ricky and Lucy built a nest right outside of Lone Cedar to raise their young. They have returned each year and Lone Cedar even named their bar the Osprey Lounge! Ricky and Lucy’s nest is located outside of the windows. You can see them while you dine at Lone Cedar!
Ocracoke Island Cemetery
Few people know that the Outer Banks was home to lurking German U-Boats during World War I and World War II; patiently waiting to attack the U.S. coast. Allied forces from England were sent to the US to protect the coastline, and many English troops ended up guarding the Outer Banks and Ocracoke. Their valiant efforts, however, resulted in the destruction of a number of ships and submarines. A cemetery was created for the bodies of two unnamed British Soldiers who washed up on the beach during WWII. This cemetery is technically British soil and is a rich part of the history of Ocracoke Island.
Nags Head Woods
Full of nature, walking paths, and beauty, Nags Head Woods is a must visit on your next Outer Banks visit. Nags Head woods spans over 420 and over 5 miles of different trails from advanced to leisure! On a nice, sunny day, the secret sound access is the perfect place to go relax and get away from it all!
