Cute Overload here folks; something you don’t see everyday at the OBX; an Outer Banks Seal. (At least, we call them that.) Although they’re not native to our Islands, it is a stop on the route when they start migrating to other places. You usually see them in late fall or early spring when they stop to rest on our beaches.
They’re great to take pictures of, but not so great at approaching, so be sure your camera has a loooong lens.
The seals, yet another reason to come the Outer Banks out of season. (Hey, I work for a rental company; you had to know it was going to be said. smile.)
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
David Stick, You will be missed.
David Stick will be missed not only by the residents and guests visiting the Outer Banks, but by the entire state of NC. His vast knowledge about our state, citizens, customs and history will be sorely missed.
David Stick was a true gentleman. I remember the first time I met him, he was such a charmer. We sat on his porch in the swing and he talked and talked about his life. What an extraordinary life he has led, he has been all over the world and has had an incredible life. Can you imagine meeting Amelia Earhart, or Orville Wright? David met them both and loved to tell the story of how he almost fell out of the truck until Amelia Earhart wrapped her arms around him (he was 8 years old at the time) to keep him in the truck.
His love of his family was second to none, his three sons, their families were all very much a part of his life. He loved them all dearly and relished in their successes in their lives. A favorite memory of mine is a photo that was taken at the History Center in Manteo, his entire family was there and they gathered his grand children for a photo with him in the center. It was a priceless moment.
David Stick will be missed for many reasons, but I personally will miss the many stories about his life and activities over the years. David, your legacy will live on with your children, grand children. You have left your mark on the Outer Banks. For those of us fortunate to have been able to know you on a personal side, our lives will never be the same with out you in our midst. Rest well, David, you’ve earned it.
David Stick was a true gentleman. I remember the first time I met him, he was such a charmer. We sat on his porch in the swing and he talked and talked about his life. What an extraordinary life he has led, he has been all over the world and has had an incredible life. Can you imagine meeting Amelia Earhart, or Orville Wright? David met them both and loved to tell the story of how he almost fell out of the truck until Amelia Earhart wrapped her arms around him (he was 8 years old at the time) to keep him in the truck.
His love of his family was second to none, his three sons, their families were all very much a part of his life. He loved them all dearly and relished in their successes in their lives. A favorite memory of mine is a photo that was taken at the History Center in Manteo, his entire family was there and they gathered his grand children for a photo with him in the center. It was a priceless moment.
David Stick will be missed for many reasons, but I personally will miss the many stories about his life and activities over the years. David, your legacy will live on with your children, grand children. You have left your mark on the Outer Banks. For those of us fortunate to have been able to know you on a personal side, our lives will never be the same with out you in our midst. Rest well, David, you’ve earned it.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Cape Hatteras lighthouse now open for Climbing!
It’s true! After a very long time of being closed so they could ‘shore up’ the inside, it’s finally re-opened to the public.
This happens so rarely, that it is most definitely worth mentioning. It reopened on 4/17/09 and will remain open until 10/12/09. After that, it might not be open again for a looooong time.
If you love the thrill of climbing lighthouses, and are always looking for a bigger and better one, then this light house will be the ‘king’ of them all.
The 248 spiral stairs made of iron go all the way up; its equivalent to climbing a 12 story building, so bring your most comfortable shoes.
It’s well worth your time, when you get to the top and look out at the world. What a view! There’s nothing else quite like it. My biggest regret at climbing the lighthouse was forgetting my camera, so don’t you forget yours. It’s a long way down to get it.
The fee to climb the lighthouse is $3.50 for children under 12 and senior citizens and $7 for everyone else. According to the park, Children must be able to climb on their own.
Parents, take note; there is a handrail on one side of the stairs only, there are only a few lights and windows and there is no climate control. Since everyone climbs at a different pace, there is two way traffic on the stairs.
Happy climbing! (Don’t forget the camera!)
PS
When you’re driving down to see the lighthouse, don’t forget to stop in Rodanthe to see “Serendipity” the home used in movie “Nights in Rodanthe” staring Richard Gere and Diane Lane.
This happens so rarely, that it is most definitely worth mentioning. It reopened on 4/17/09 and will remain open until 10/12/09. After that, it might not be open again for a looooong time.
If you love the thrill of climbing lighthouses, and are always looking for a bigger and better one, then this light house will be the ‘king’ of them all.
The 248 spiral stairs made of iron go all the way up; its equivalent to climbing a 12 story building, so bring your most comfortable shoes.
It’s well worth your time, when you get to the top and look out at the world. What a view! There’s nothing else quite like it. My biggest regret at climbing the lighthouse was forgetting my camera, so don’t you forget yours. It’s a long way down to get it.
The fee to climb the lighthouse is $3.50 for children under 12 and senior citizens and $7 for everyone else. According to the park, Children must be able to climb on their own.
Parents, take note; there is a handrail on one side of the stairs only, there are only a few lights and windows and there is no climate control. Since everyone climbs at a different pace, there is two way traffic on the stairs.
Happy climbing! (Don’t forget the camera!)
PS
When you’re driving down to see the lighthouse, don’t forget to stop in Rodanthe to see “Serendipity” the home used in movie “Nights in Rodanthe” staring Richard Gere and Diane Lane.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sunday: A Moment of Tranquility
In Today’s hectic, stress inducing world, We have decided to bring you this “Moment of Tranquility” from the Outer Banks of North Carolina, voted one of the worlds best beaches by Dr Beach.
If that moment was to short for you, try this one. It’s a few seconds longer, but very nice too.
We from Kitty Hawk Rentals, wish you stress free day. See you soon.
If that moment was to short for you, try this one. It’s a few seconds longer, but very nice too.
We from Kitty Hawk Rentals, wish you stress free day. See you soon.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Runnin’ Free, the Outer Banks ‘Bankers’: The Wild Horses of Corolla
You may have heard of them, you may have even seen them in such shows as Jon & Kate + 8 or “Rodanthe Nights” with Richard Gere. You might also have seen them on youtube, where they are known to make frequent appearances, shown poking their heads over fences or wandering in the between the houses in the 4 wheel drive area.
But what exactly are these wild horses? Where did they come from, and where are they now? If you’ve always wondered about them then read on…
When the colonists from Spain were settling in the New World in the 1500’s, it was common practice to bring over horses to use during times of war. Sometimes the Ships that were bringing over some of these horses would wreck off our coast, (as many ships did back then.)
The surviving horses swam ashore and went from being domesticated animals into being wild ones.
The Wild horses of Corolla, also called ‘Bankers’ are descendents of these first horses. They are allowed to roam free in the 4 wheel drive area. You can take tours to see them, or if you have 4 wheel drive, you can just go on the beach with it and see if you can find them.
They seem friendly and are used to people, but they are still wild so don’t get too close and don’t feed them.
The herd is managed by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. They make sure that the heard is safe and healthy. (They also get them veterinary care when needed.) When the heard gets too big, some of the younger horses are adopted out. If you already own horses or have the ability to, you can find out more about that program here:
You can read more about the horses here
But what exactly are these wild horses? Where did they come from, and where are they now? If you’ve always wondered about them then read on…
When the colonists from Spain were settling in the New World in the 1500’s, it was common practice to bring over horses to use during times of war. Sometimes the Ships that were bringing over some of these horses would wreck off our coast, (as many ships did back then.)
The surviving horses swam ashore and went from being domesticated animals into being wild ones.
The Wild horses of Corolla, also called ‘Bankers’ are descendents of these first horses. They are allowed to roam free in the 4 wheel drive area. You can take tours to see them, or if you have 4 wheel drive, you can just go on the beach with it and see if you can find them.
They seem friendly and are used to people, but they are still wild so don’t get too close and don’t feed them.
The herd is managed by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. They make sure that the heard is safe and healthy. (They also get them veterinary care when needed.) When the heard gets too big, some of the younger horses are adopted out. If you already own horses or have the ability to, you can find out more about that program here:
You can read more about the horses here
Thursday, May 21, 2009
We have a commercial!
Ok, so I know I shouldn’t use this forum to sell, but it’s our first commercial, and I’m really exited about it, (really I am!)
I’ll have a ‘real’ post tomorrow, so in the meantime, please enjoy this commercial. Pictures and video of the Outer Banks are always fun, even when they’re in commercial form.
Do you have any pictures or video to send us? We would love to feature your pictures/videos either on future commercials, this blog or in our brochure. (Many pictures in our brochure come from our guests.
I’ll have a ‘real’ post tomorrow, so in the meantime, please enjoy this commercial. Pictures and video of the Outer Banks are always fun, even when they’re in commercial form.
Do you have any pictures or video to send us? We would love to feature your pictures/videos either on future commercials, this blog or in our brochure. (Many pictures in our brochure come from our guests.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Save money at the Outer banks, a list of fun, free/inexpensive activities to do at the OBX!
21 Free Outer Banks Activities for you and your Family
With the economy being the way it is, I complied this list to help out. After all, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have fun at the Outer Banks.
1. Bike around town
2. Swim
3. Beach comb
4. Sunbathe
5. People watch
6. Feed the gulls
7. Go ghost crabbing
9. Climb Jockey’s Ridge
10. Build a sandcastle
11. Visit one or all of the four lighthouses
12. Take the ferry to Ocracoke (don’t forget bread for gulls. They’re such fun to feed from the ferry.)
13. Watch the fisherman bring in the day’s catch at the Oregon inlet fishing center or Pirates Cove
14. Have a picnic on the grounds of the Whalehead club
15. Go crabbing (chicken necks make great bait)
16. Visit the wildlife education center in Corolla
17. Take a stroll at Duck’s new park, complete with playground and sound boardwalk
18. Fly a kite off jockey’s ridge
19. Boogie board or body surf in the shore break
20. Climb the Wright Brothers Memorial
21. Take a road trip to Rodanthe and visit Serendipity, the house in Rodanthe Nights
(view the trailer, the house is real)
10 inexpensive things to do at the Outer Banks
1. Climb one of the lighthouses (Currituck and Cape Hatteras are both open for climbing this year) http://www.outer-banks.com/lighthouses.asp
2. Visit the Whalehead club
http://www.whaleheadclub.com/
3. Tour the Chicamacamico lifesaving station
http://www.chicamacomico.net/
4. Go fishing. There is a small fee for the license.
http://www.ncwildlife.com/
5. Visit festival park
http://www.roanokeisland.com/
6. Visit the Elizabethan Gardens
http://www.elizabethangardens.org/
7. Experience a Red Wolf Howling
http://www.redwolves.com/howling_regis/index.html
8. Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial Museum
http://www.nps.gov/wrbr
9. Bring home souvenirs to show off where you’ve been
10. Visit the Roanoke Island aquarium http://www.ncaquariums.com/roanoke-island
(Be sure to check out this great video of the Roanoke Island aquarium )
Saturday, May 16, 2009
You look like you’ve seen a ghost crab
When visitors hear about ghost crabs for the first time, many think they are snipes. But here on the Outer Banks, ghost crabs are very real, (even if they sometimes are as elusive as mythical snipes)
When you go to the beach, you’ll see evidence of them all around, they live in the holes in the sand that speckle the beach. They almost never come out during day, but sometimes you will see them on overcast days.
If you really want to see one, you should walk the beach after sunset or right as it’s setting, and bring a flashlight. Suddenly, you’ll see a patch of sand move, but it’s not sand, it’s a sand colored ghost crab. Their almost perfect camouflage is how they earned that name.
Sometimes you can even find them under your house. Look for holes with little slash marks around them. These are the marks of ghost crabs legs.
Going out at night with a flashlight looking for ghost crabs is called “ghost crabbing”. It’s more fun to do it in groups, and don’t forget the camera!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Trash the dress! Outer Banks Style!
Have you heard about this phenomenon? It’s called trash the dress. My wedding Photographer friends assure me it’s the biggest thing to hit weddings since the cupcake cake, although it’s not terribly common down here yet.
Come to think of it, I can’t remember the last time I saw a cupcake cake at a wedding either down here at the OBX…but moving on.
For those who don’t know, and I admit, I was one of them Trash the dress means just that; after the wedding, pictures and reception, you wear the dress to harsh environments and have pictures taken. The pictures I’ve seen are totally stunning, like from the movies, the dress is always totally trashed.
For those who don’t know, and I admit, I was one of them Trash the dress means just that; after the wedding, pictures and reception, you wear the dress to harsh environments and have pictures taken. The pictures I’ve seen are totally stunning, like from the movies, the dress is always totally trashed.
So if you rented a dress, or are wearing an heirloom, this probably isn’t the photshoot for you.
But if you want to have some fun, watch this bride having fun trashing her dress.
Who wants it taking up space in the closet anyway? Mines much too small.
Jon and Kate's post removed
Hi, thank you for taking the time to read our blog.
Due to Jon and Kate’s recent activities, we have decided to remove the post regarding them. The post was done prior to this incident, but seems in bad taste to allow it to remain up. Until I post something else, please enjoy this lovely picture of the Outer Banks.
Thank you to all who commented to let us know you feel.
Due to Jon and Kate’s recent activities, we have decided to remove the post regarding them. The post was done prior to this incident, but seems in bad taste to allow it to remain up. Until I post something else, please enjoy this lovely picture of the Outer Banks.
Thank you to all who commented to let us know you feel.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Want to Fish? What’s biting?
Have you ever wondered what kinds of fish you can catch here at the Outer Banks? Well I’m about to tell you what’s biting.
Although I’m not guaranteeing that the fish are always biting, here are some of the most common fish that you can catch throughout the year without a boat.
Bluefish
Bluefish usually run in the fall. They grow up to four feet and are outstanding fighters. If you enjoy a bold fish taste, you’ll love bluefish. If you prefer a milder fish taste, you can always release your catch. Anglers usually catch blues from the surf but they can also be caught from the various piers along the Outer Banks.
Speckled trout
Speckled Trout are by far one of our most popular fish, both for eating and for catching. They can be caught throughout the fall and into the winter and are usually snagged with light tackle from the surf.
Rockfish
I hear they call these striped bass in other places, but to the locals, it’s a Rockfish. In the early fall there’s a Rockfish Rodeo with prizes for the biggest Rockfish. If you’re in town then, be sure to check it out. Anglers catch Rockfish throughout the fall, winter and spring. The colder the water the better chance you have. Your best chance at catching rock is from a boat but they can often be beached from the surf and piers.
Flounder
Everyone’s favorite fish, because of its mild, light meat. When you swim in the water, these are one of the fish you do the “shuffle” for. (If you step on one though, it won’t hurt, it just feels weird. I’ve stepped one.) You can catch flounder off of the bottom in the ocean or sound throughout the summer and fall months with live or cut bait.
Drum
Our two most common types are Red and Puppy. Both are great to eat and can be caught almost year around in the ocean and sound. Drum can grow up to 90 lbs and are known for their ability to put up a seemingly endless fight.
Spot and Croaker
Both are fun, easy catches and great to eat. Keep in mind; these are small fish so you will need to catch a handful to feed any substantial number of people. They can be caught in from the surf and the piers in the summer and early fall off the bottom with cut bait and blood worms.
Blowfish
They taste really good and when they get startled, they “blow up” like a puffer fish and are fun to watch. Although similar, they are not puffer fish and are in no way dangerous. However, if you don’t clean them the ‘right way’, the fish can release a chemical that will spoil the taste of the meat. Blowfish can be caught from the surf or the piers with cut or live bait.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of local fish; just some of the more common catches you can expect. Many other fish can be caught in the salt and fresh waters surrounding the Outer Banks. Tuna, dolphin fish, Wahoo, Spanish mackerel, Cobia, Marlin and Sailfish are common offshore catches while an array of freshwater fish from large and small mouth bass, brown and raccoon perch to crappie can be caught in the freshwater canals and sounds inland on the Outer Banks.
We hope you take advantage of the fishing opportunities on the Outer Banks. Please respect the ocean and surrounding waters and release all catches if you’re not planning on eating. A Coastal fishing license can be purchased here; http://www.ncwildlife.com/
or at any bait/tackle store on the Outer Banks. .
Saturday, May 2, 2009
5/2-5/7 Activities at the Outer Banks
Fun stuff abounds at the Outer Banks. Here’s what’s going on this week!
Saturday 5/2
Event-Little Women: The Musical
Place-Theatre of Dare, Roanoke Island COA Campus.
Time-7:30pm
Cost-call
Description-
Delightful family musical based on story tracing life and times of four remarkable sisters.
Contact -252 261-4064 http://www.outer-banks.com/calevents/www.theatreofdare.org%20
Event-Youth Aviation Day
Place-Dare County Regional Airport in Manteo
Time-All day
Cost-No admission fee
Description-
Static displays, food, games, Kitty Hawk Kites Rock Climbing Wall, and $10 airplane rides.
Contact -Call Crystal (252)475-5572. http://www.darenc.com/
Sunday 5/3
Event-Little Women: The Musical
Place-Theatre of Dare, Roanoke Island COA Campus.
Time-2:00pm
Cost-call
Description-
Delightful family musical based on story tracing life and times of four remarkable sisters.
Contact -252 261-4064 http://www.outer-banks.com/calevents/www.theatreofdare.org%20
Event-Mollie Fearing Art Show Reception
Place-Roanoke Island Festival Park
Time-4-6
Cost-Free
Description
The 12th Annual Mollie Fearing Art Show. Mingle with local artists and listen to Trio la Mer perform.
Contact -(252)473-5558. http://www.darearts.org/
Monday 5/4
Event-Creature feature
Place-Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-10 am
Cost-FREE
Description- Ages 7-13 Osprey and catfish and snakes, oh my! North Carolina coastal habitats are filled with fascinating critters. Join Wildlife staff as they highlight one of these animals during today’s creature feature.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event-Nature Photography Basics
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-2 pm
Cost-FREE
Description- Ages 14+ Learn about exposure, composition and special techniques to improve your nature photography. Experience a presentation of nature and wildlife images recently captured from eastern North Carolina.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Tuesday 5/5
Event-Beach Exploration
Place- This class meets at the public beach access on the dirt road (E. Corolla Village Rd) across from the lighthouse. Meet instructor by the green sign. Time-9 am
Cost-Free
Description- All Ages Walk with us on the shore. Shells, shore birds, sand and dolphins, we’ll talk about whatever we find along the way.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Kayaking the Sound
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-3pm
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 14+ Some previous paddling experience required. Paddle the Currituck Sound by kayak with a naturalist. Discover the history and native wildlife hiding in this thriving marsh habitat. Kayaks will be provided by the center. Be sure to bring sunscreen and water.
Contact– For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Wednesday 5/6
Event- History & Habitat of Currituck SoundPlace- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-9am
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 14+ Tour the sound by motorboat, and experience hidden habitats and local lore. Space is limited to four participants only so fills quickly.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Fishing the Sound
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-10am
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 7+Come fish with us! We have the bait, poles, and information on what fish you can catch in Currituck Sound. Learn how to cast, ID your catch, and safely release fish. Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Fish Scales & Crabby Tales
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-2pm
Cost-free
Description- Ages 4-7 Seaside stories told with a ‘Wild’ twist where characters come to life on the big screen! Stick around after and create your own take-home creature or hike to see some of the real-life heroes.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Thursday 5/7
Event- The Early Bird
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-8AM
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 14+
Grab binoculars, set the alarm, and join us to see birding when the action is at its best! This beginners’ class will focus on basic techniques, identification, and behaviors of local and migratory species commonly found in the Northern Outer Banks.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Crazy Critters
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-10 AM
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 4-7 From fish to frogs and snakes to sea turtles, all sorts of crazy critters call the Outer Banks home. Join Wildlife staff and make your own creature while learning what makes them tick.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Maritime Forest Walk
Place- meets in the parking lot of the reserve located a mile north of the Wildlife Center off of NC12
Time- 2pm
Cost-Free
Description-All Ages Hike through the maritime forest at Currituck Banks National Estuarine Research Reserve and see what plants and wildlife call the Outer Banks home.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event-Outer Banks History Center Honors David Stick
Place-Kellys Restaurant in Nags Head
Time-12-2 pm
Cost-$20
Public is invited to attend
Contact -(252)473-2655
Friday 5/8
Event- Kayaking the Sound
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-9:30am
Cost-Free
Description- Ages 14+ Some previous paddling experience required. Paddle the Currituck Sound by kayak with a naturalist. Discover the history and native wildlife hiding in this thriving marsh habitat. Kayaks will be provided by the center. Be sure to bring sunscreen and water.
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event- Spring Into Action
Place- Wildlife Education Center, Corolla (next to the Whalehead club)
Time-2 PM
Cost-free
Description- Ages 7+
Join us this spring and learn simple, everyday things you can do to help our coastal environment become a healthier, happier place!
Contact – For reservations, book online or call 252.453.0221 ex. 3.
https://ncpaws.org/reservations/corolla/CalendarView.aspx
Event-Little Women: The Musical
Place-Theatre of Dare, Roanoke Island COA Campus.
Time-7:30pm
Cost-call
Description-
Delightful family musical based on story tracing life and times of four remarkable sisters.
Contact -252 261-4064 http://www.outer-banks.com/calevents/www.theatreofdare.org%20
This is going on all week!
Event-Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Open For Climbing!
Place-Buxton
Time-Sales begin at 8:15 am; Climbing begins at 9 am
Cost-$7 adult, $3.50 under 12 or seniors
Description-
Runs every 10 minutes limit 30 visitors per day. Sales close at 4:30 pm
Contact-http://www.outerbanks.org/attractions/lighthouses/cape_hatteras_lighthouse.asp
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