Vacation 101 - Outer Banks Style

       Vacation, we all need to take one at some point. But you have to admit it that the thought of planning a vacation is a little bit scary. You just want everything to be perfect when planning your vacation; and I don’t blame you because I am as guilty as you are. I know it gets overwhelming, but going on vacation doesn’t have to be as tedious as they seem to look like.  Spontaneity is good but sometimes knowing what’s the main purpose of your trip gives you a head start in planning.

According to Dana Breashears, one of our Marketing Coordinator here at Beach Realty, licensed broker and a resident of the Outer Banks for 15 years, “families that have been visiting the OBX usually celebrate a momentous occasion with their love ones; from birthdays, weddings or anniversaries and more.” For some, it’s been a family tradition to visit the Outer Banks every year and make lasting memories with friends or families.

I have to agree that one of the key factors in any vacation planning is budget. How much is it going to cost a family of four to go on a vacation and how much are they willing to spend?  If budget is indeed an issue, nowadays, Vacation Home Rental companies offer various solutions for prospective guests to make your dream vacation happen. (e.g. Partial Week Rentals)  At the end of the day,  “It is not how much money you’ve spend on your vacation that makes things all worth it, it’s how you make the most out of your stay together with your love ones.”

After nailing your purpose and budget, make sure you determine the location you want to be in, the Rental Company you want to book your vacation with, the amenities included in your vacation home and activities that you can do with your friends or family while on vacation. Booking your vacation in the Outer Banks requires certain knowledge of the area, such as key locations and activities. Prices vary from an Oceanside, Sound side, Oceanfront, Semi-Oceanfront or walking distance from the beach.  There are also plenty of Outer Banks Attractions to see and Activities for the whole family to choose from, you just have to know what activities fit your family’s interests and needs.

So if ever you are planning to take a trip here in the Outer Banks, remember these five things: 1. Purpose, 2. Budget, 3. Location, 4. Amenities, and 5. Activities, for an awesome and memorable vacation.  Still need some help?  Beach Realty will make it easy for you. We make sure that we got it all covered for you by providing excellent customer service to all your needs. We have a website that allows you to see various vacation homes to choose from. We have great vacation specialists who can help you book your dream vacation homes; we also provide our guests a checklist of “things to bring” and when you come in to pick up your keys, you might get lucky to get some “free” cupcakes for a sweet start to your vacation.  What are you waiting for, your next vacation starts here.

Beach Realty NC Team

CONTACT US:
Kill Devil Hills Office
2901 N. Croatan Hwy. (Rt. 158)
P.O. Box 69
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Email Address: info@beachrealtync.com
Website: http://www.beachrealtync.com

Phone Numbers:
Rentals: 252-441-7166
Sales: 252-441-1106
Sales Toll Free: 877-814-1106
Fax: 252-480-1329
Toll Free Number: 800-635-1559

We are going social!

Change is truly inevitable and here at Beach Realty we always find ways to adapt to certain changes. Social media nowadays plays a big part in our everyday lives. With the vast changing technology, we tend to look and rely for news and updates mostly from various social networking sites more than the typical traditional media (TV, Radio and Print). These changes post challenges in real-time for various businesses in different fields of industry particularly the retail and services industry.


As a vacation rental company, we are committed in bringing updates however we can to our consumers. We are happy to announce that we are taking the high road and adapting to technological changes, thus, we are going more social than ever. If you are a social media savvy and are fond of social networking sites, follow us on Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube,  and we will get you updated whenever, wherever. Check out our daily posts of beach photos and weather updates, happenings around the Outer Banks, listings of gorgeous rental houses for all your vacation needs, tips and more.


For more information, check out our website for more updates in the future, we'll surely keep you posted!




CONTACT US:
Beach Realty Construction & Kitty Hawk Rentals
Kill Devil Hills Office
Office Address: 6 Miles South of Wright Memorial Bridge
 
Mailing Address: 2901 N. Croatan Hwy. (Rt. 158)
                             P.O. Box 69
                             Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Email Address: info@beachrealtync.com
Website: http://www.beachrealtync.com


Phone Numbers:


Rentals: 252-441-7166
Sales:     252-441-1106
Sales Toll Free:  877-814-1106
Fax:       252-480-1329
Toll Free Number:  800-635-1559

Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station, Free Community Event

Travel writer Jenny Scarborough wrote “What’s better than an unexpected treasure? The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site & Museum in Rodanthe, the northernmost village on Hatteras Island, could be the most overlooked attraction on the Outer Banks.”  If you have even the slightest interest in history, heroes, or things maritime, and a history that is so big, so unbelievable, yet so generally unknown, then no matter where you are staying on the Outer Banks, this is a must see. The U.S. Life-Saving Service was the precursor of today’s U.S. Coast Guard.  They were the original “Storm Warriors and “Rescue Heroes.” They routinely risked it all so that others may live. In addition to the complete 7 building, 7 acre beachfront complex is “The 1907 home of Cornelius and Daisy Midgett alone is worth the visit for the authentic period décor,” Scarborough continues. It is guaranteed to remind you of someone past. For much more, including a unique and fascinating program schedule found nowhere else on the Outer Banks, go to www.chicamacomico.net.  Finally, Scarborough ends by stating that visitors to the Outer Banks “deserve to know about the most authentic and emotional place to learn about Outer Banks history.”

2012 Outer Banks Taste of the Beach

The 2012 Outer Banks Taste of the Beach is back again this March 15th - 18th with more food & drink events than ever before! Taste the local cuisine of many Outer Banks Restaurants. Taste the brews of local coffee shops, wineries & breweries. It is 4 days of food, drink & fun on the Outer Banks! Don't miss out on this awesome event this St. Patrick's Day Weekend!

We have plenty of vacation homes available for 3 or 4 nights! As of today, we have 70 properties allowing partial week vacations, open for the weekend of March 15th - 18th, 2012. Call us today at 800.635.1559 to book your vacation.

You may also browse our available homes online. See our homes allowing partial week vacations here: http://www.beachrealtync.com/partial-week-rentals

Follow this link for more information on the Outer Banks Taste of the Beach: http://www.obxtasteofthebeach.com/

Welcoming Corolla Rental Manager and Announcing Beach Agent of the Month

Dan Lane Accepts Management Position


Cynthia Owens, General Manager of Beach Realty & Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals is pleased to announce the addition of Dan Lane to the management team of Kitty Hawk Rentals. Dan has accepted the position of Corolla office manager and will oversee the property management of close to 200 homes in the vicinity. Dan graduated from Manhattan College with a BS in Economics and went on to build a career in financial services. Previously, he was a Managing Director at Smith Barney, a Partner at Lawrence, O’Donnell Marcus, a Partner at Access International and an Associate Partner with Keller-Williams Realty. More recently, he served as General Manager of his family’s business, North Beach Outfitters in Duck. Mr. Lane has owned property on the Outer Banks for over 20 years so the transition to property management was a natural fit. Ms. Owens says, “Dan’s experience in the corporate financial world is a huge plus for our company and our homeowners. His acute business sense and focus on customer service is appreciated by all.” Dan can be reached in the Corolla office of Beach Realty & Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals at (252) 453-4141 or by email to dan@beachrealtync.com.

Jackson Dixon named Agent of the Month

Sales Manager, Beth Urch recognizes Jackson Dixon as the April Agent of the Month. Ms. Dixon joined the firm in the fall of 2010 and quickly became a top producer. She holds a BA in Business Management and Economics and obtained her real estate license in 1987. Jackson Dixon offers buyers and sellers ethical representation and comprehensive market knowledge. Jackson Dixon works from the Duck office of Beach Realty and can be reached at (252) 261-6600 or by email to jackson@beachrealtync.com.

Easter 2011 Happenings on the Outer Banks

Whalehead Club’s Easter EGG-stravaganza
April 22, 2011 - Friday from 1 pm to 3 pm
Join the Easter Bunny and the Currituck Duck for a traditional egg hunt in Currituck Heritage Park. Lots of fun children's activities like Balloon Art, Face Painting, Egg & Spoon Races, Bean Bag Toss, and a Jellybean Counting Contest! Snacks & Refreshments. Admission and Parking are free.

Roanoke Island Festival Park’s Third Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 22
Outdoor Pavilion at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 1 p.m. Presented by East Carolina Radio. Participants are asked to bring a canned food item for the dare County Food Pantry. Over 3,000 eggs will be hidden with several age categories. (252) 475-1500 or visit roanokeisland.com

Nags Head Kitty Hawk Kite’s Easter Eggstravaganza & Fly Into Spring
April 22 - 23
Kitty Hawk Kites Annual Easter Eggstravaganza – Located at the Kitty Hawk Kites store in Nags Head (mp 12.5). This is the largest Easter egg hunt in the Outer Banks! Over 2,000 candy and toy-filled eggs are waiting to be collected. Come welcome spring to the Outer Banks with large show kites on top of Jockey’s Ridge. 11:00AM to 1:00PM. 1-877-FLY-THIS, 252-441-4124 or email events@kittyhawk.com

The Elizabethean Garden’s Easter Eggstravaganza - Fun Family Event
April 23
10 a.m. – 1p.m. or 2 p.m. Come spring over to the Easter Eggstravaganza at The Elizabethan Gardens on April 23, 2011! This festive event will feature over 40,000 blooming bulbs that will welcome you thanks to our generous volunteers who planted them! The Easter Eggstravaganza has been an Outer Banks spring tradition loved by many. The Gardens will host the traditional egg hunt, again this season, with more eggs to hunt. This traditional Easter egg hunt will be conducted into two age groups so that all participants can enjoy the hunt. Live Easter bunnies will be on hand for wonderful photo opportunities, a bake sale filled with the most incredible homemade treats and, educational crafts, games of hopscotch, bean bags and an Easter bonnet and hat contest for girls and boys as well as adults. Prizes will be awarded for the Easter Bonnet & Hat Contest. Please visit our website for an update on times. elizabethangardens.org

Nags Head Town Park’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 23, 2011, 1 p.m., Nags Head Town Park
The Town of Nags Head's Police Division will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 23 at 1 p.m. at the Nags Head Town Park located at 415 Health Center Drive. Two separate Easter egg hunts will be held for children between the ages of 0-5 and 6-10 years old. In addition, police, fire, and rescue personnel and equipment will be on scene to answer questions and perform child safety seat inspections. McGruff the Crime Dog will also make a special appearance. Children are asked to bring their own Easter egg basket. The Nags Head Town Park is located at 415 Health Center Drive. Turn onto Barnes Street and proceed one quarter of a mile. The park is on the left.

www.beachrealtysales.com | Launch of New Sales Site!

Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals Sales Manager, Beth Urch unveils a new and dynamic website offering real estate buyers and sellers enhanced search options, features and information. http://www.beachrealtysales.com/ provides viewers a visually appealing and engaging site with a boldly designed home page that is easy to navigate. Dramatic photos of local landscapes, activities and wildlife grace the site and aptly capture the essence of the Outer Banks. Beach Realty invites the viewer to explore the area’s local real estate market through custom and pre-determined search capabilities. Browse the properties currently for sale from Corolla to Ocracoke including the popular destination hot spots of Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and Duck. Updated search functions include:
• Mapping
• Quick Search
• Expanded search criteria
• Bank-owned and short sale lists
• Automatic notification of new listings based on your criteria
• Client accounts
• Mortgage calculator
• Real estate tips
• Agent profiles

Access to the site is also provided at www.beachrealtync.com then click on REAL ESTATE SALES from the home page or go directly to www.beachrealtysales.com. Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals welcomes millions of viewers to their corporate site each year. Visitors may search for weekly vacation rentals and long-term rental properties or browse the gallery of custom built and remodeled homes.

Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals helps buyers and sellers realize their investment goals through updated technology achievements and outstanding customer service. Get to know the Outer Banks real estate market at www.beachrealtync.com and experience the superior search and mapping functions.

http://www.beachrealtysales.com/

February Agent of the Month

Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals sales manager, Beth Urch is pleased to announce that associate broker Nancy Bailey is Agent of the Month for February 2011.  Nancy Bailey joined the Beach Sales Team in 2006 and quickly established a successful career in real estate sales.  Nancy enjoys working with both buyers and sellers and both appreciate Nancy’s professionalism and integrity.   Nancy has an excellent knowledge of the industry and a thorough understanding of the local real estate market.   She specializes in properties from Carova to South Nags Head.  You can contact Nancy at nancy@beachrealtync.com or at the Kill Devil Hills office of Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals (252) 441-1106. 

Spring Events on the Outer Banks

Looking to getaway to the Outer Banks this spring? There are many of wonderful events lined up for March, April & May that you won't want to miss. Plan your trip around one or more of these events!

March 2011 Events:

Outer Banks Taste of the Beach
March 17th - 20th, 2011
Four days of food, drinks and fun. Presented by the Dare County Restaurant Association. This grand food festival will feature wine tastings, cooking classes, special menu presentations, celebrity guest chef appearances, brewery tours, tapas crawls and many more events with an exciting array of creative combinations and culinary delights. obxtasteofthebeach.com


Kelly’s 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Sun, March 20, 1pm – 3pm
Virginia Dare Trail/Beach Road,MP 11.5 - 10.5, Nags Head
Rain or shine. The largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in NC travels the greenest mile in the Tarheel state. Over 1,500 participants and approximately 10,000 spectators enjoy an afternoon filled with floats, live music, marching bands and creative marching/walking/motorized units. kellysrestaurant.com

April 2011 Events:

Flying Pirate Half Marathon
April 9 - 10, 2011
Outer Banks Half Marathoners, here's your chance to see the first half of the Outer Banks Marathon course! obxmarathon.com

9th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week
Saturday, Apr 16, 2011 - Sunday, April 24th, 2011
Packed full with entertainment, great food, events and special attractions. Bike shows, poker runs, guided tours, party nights, tattoo and bikini contests, over 100 vendors, live music, outdoor concerts, pig pickin and more! outerbanksbikeweek.com

May 2011 Events:

28th Annual Yuengling Nags Head Woods 5K Run
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Nags Head Woods
Not your typical walk down the beach, the dirt trails of the preserve weave through one of the best remaining examples comical forest and deciduous hardwoods. active.com

39th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular
May 20, 2011 - May 23rd, 2011
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge State Park and Jockey’s Ridge Crossing, Nags Head. This is the world’s oldest, continuous hang gliding competition. Hang gliding professionals from all over the world come to the Outer Banks to compete and have fun on Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Demonstrations, street dances and awards ceremonies are all features of this spectacular event. Families can enjoy a rock climbing wall, hang gliding simulator, kite making and face painting. A portion of the events proceeds will go to benefit Friends of Jockey’s Ridge, a non-profit organization which supports the development of Jockey’s Ridge State Park. (877) FLY-THIS, (252) 441-4124 or kittyhawkkites.com

Beach Realty & Construction Names Agent of the Year

Steve Blaisdell, Senior Broker for Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals was named the company’s agent of the year for 2010.  Steve joined the company in 2002 and quickly became a top producer.  Steve earned Agent of the Year honors in 2006 and previously enjoyed Construction Agent of the Year recognition.  He attributes his success to his knowledge of the market and his clients appreciate the accurate statistical information he provides. Steve Blaisdell gets results by positioning his homes correctly in the market place.  Beth Urch, Sales Manager for Beach Realty says, “Steve has an in depth knowledge of the real estate industry and understands our local market well.  He is an integral member of our sales team and through his analytical use of statistical data, his clients are well informed and up to date on current market conditions.”   Steve Blaisdell works from the Kitty Hawk office of Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals and can be reached at (252) 261-3815 or steveb@beachrealtync.com.  Beach Realty & Construction is a full-service real estate company offering real estate sales, vacation rentals, new construction and remodeling services. Pictured above from left to right: Cynthia Owens, General Manager of Kitty Hawk Rentals, Steve Blaisdell, Senior Broker, Beth Urch, Sales Manager. 

Outer Banks Bride Expo & Tour - January 7th - 9th, 2011

Attention all brides! If you are even considering the Outer Banks as a destination for your 2011 or 2012 wedding, you MUST attend the Outer Banks Bride Expo & Tour hosted by the Outer Banks Wedding Association: Website. The Tour is on Saturday, January 8th, 2011 and we are proud to open the doors to one of our most popular event homes, Gertrude's Breakaway #7974. This 8 bedroom, oceanside home in Ocean Sands A in Corolla, NC is the perfect venue for your Outer Banks wedding. From 10am - 4pm the doors will be open and inside you will enjoy food from Red Sky Cafe, cake samples from Just Dessert, meet a local photographer Courtney Hathaway, smell scents from AromaCarolina, you will see a Tent & Dance Floor set up by Ocean Atlantic Rentals & a floral arrangement The Embellishers. We will also have Mimosa's provided by Beach Realty NC for you to enjoy as you tour the spacious home.

Photo provided by Carrie Roen from
Brook Mayo Photography

This home is perfect for weddings because of it's spacious yard & decking, 8 Master Bedrooms, elevator, state-of-the-art kitchen, theater room, recreation room with pool table, private pool with a gazebo and a blue tiled bar, meticulously landscaped yard, only 45 yards from the private community beach access. The beach is beyond beautiful with plenty of room for a large ceremony.

If you can attend the Bride Tour this weekend we highly encourage you to stop by Gertrude's Breakaway at 506 Ocean Way Corolla, NC 27927 to see how perfect this home is for yourself, and also to enjoy the tasting & sampling of food, drinks, desserts & more from local vendors.

See below for a video tour of Gertrude's Breakaway & we hope to see you Saturday from 10am - 4pm!!!

Christmas on the Outer Banks

Christmas is just around the corner and if you are still looking for the perfect gift - why not surprise the family with a last minute trip to the Outer Banks to celebrate Christmas! I know that many people prefer to spend the Holiday's at home but wouldn't it be nice to switch it up for once? Leave all the drama behind and come celebrate Christmas in a home away from home - An Outer Banks Vacation Home! Who knows, this could be the start of a new family tradition.

We still have plenty of homes available for great deals! Since Christmas falls on a Saturday, we are more than happy to be flexible the the check in day!

Oceanfront:
2003      $1495.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=2003

2004      $3195.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=2004
2500      $2003.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=2500
644      $3495.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=644
4227      $2295.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=4227
437      $2495.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=437
472        $1450.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=472

6+ Bedrooms:
580      $1795.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=580
1801    $995.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=1801
631      $1295.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=631

11      $995.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=11
260     $1095.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=260

1808    $795.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=1808
2999       $995.00 http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=2999 

Christmas Events on the Outer Banks

"WinterLights at The Elizabethan Gardens


WinterLights is a ten-night premier holiday display of lights and sights running December 9-11, 16-18, 23, 28-30 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. To start the WinterLights event there will be a kick-off called Grand Illuminations. This celebratory event features all the never-seen-before beauty of the presentation along with food, drink and entertainment.

The Candy Bomber "Drops" by with Santa!


December 17-19, 2010 The "Spirit of Freedom" otherwise known as The Candy Bomber once again comes to the OBX! The Douglas C-54 made famous by dropping candy for kids over east Berlin in the days following World War II will make a flyover during the Wright Brothers Anniversary celebration of the First Flight on December 17. On December 19, there will be two candy drops with an appearance by Santa starting at 1:30

Have a Groovy Holiday Season from the Corolla Rental Office

You might recognize the faces of our very own Therese, Norma, Joe, Janet & Kim - our Corolla Team.

Have a Groovy Holiday Season!
-Corolla Office

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

The 2010 Outer Banks Marathon

The 5th Annual Outer Banks Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, 5K and Fun Run are set to take place on November 13-14, 2010. The marathon starts just south of the intersection of Kitty Hawk Road and The Woods Road in Kitty Hawk, and ends in beautiful downtown Manteo. The Outer Banks Half Marathon will begin in Nags Head, and finish in Manteo. The course offers stunning vistas of the Outer Banks. If you’re not a runner, join the crowds to cheer on the participants.

Outer Banks Marathon
Date: Sunday November 14, 2010
Location: The Woods Road in Kitty Hawk
Start Time: 7:20am

Outer Banks Half Marathon
Date: Sunday November 14, 2010
Location: Nags Head
Start Time: 7:00am

Outer Banks 8K
Date: Saturday November 13, 2010
Location: Kill Devil Hills, First Flight High School Track
Start Time: 7:30am

Buccaneer 5K (part of the Outer Banks 8K course)
Date: Saturday November 13, 2010
Location: Kill Devil Hills, near the First Flight School
Start Time: 9:30am

Outer Banks Fun Run
Date: Saturday November 13, 2010
Location: Kill Devil Hills, First Flight High School Track
Start Time: 10:30am

Buccaneer 5K
Date: Saturday November 13, 2010
Location: Kill Devil Hills, First Flight High School Track
Start Time: 9:30am

For more information, please visit the official Outer Banks Marathon website: http://www.obxmarathon.com/


If you need accommodations, check out some of our vacation homes offered for a 3 night stay:

Atlantic Vu $500
Carolina Kai II $540
Carolina Kai $465
Crabby Oddwaters $400
Carolina Dolphin $495
Palmyra $900
It’s 5 o’clock Somewhere $510
Pop’s Folly upper duplex $600
Pop’s Folly lower duplex $600

Prices do not include processing fee, security deposit or taxes. Give us a call if you are interested, 800.635.1559.

4th Annual Duck Jazz Festival

Beach Realty & Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals is proud to sponsor the 4th Annual Duck Jazz Festival which is taking place October 10th, 2010, gates open at 10am - show starts at 11am.

This all day festival will take place at the Duck Town Park and is Free to attend! Bring your picnic, chairs, blankets and beverages (no tents or umbrella permitted) or enjoy food and drinks at nearby concessions.

The event will be co-hosted by Gerald Veasley, who was the Festival headliner in 2008 and played with Jimmy Bruno at the first Duck Jazz Festival in 2007, will co-host a series of events throughout Town prior to the festival. These events will be announced soon.

Performances by:

■Joyce Cooling from San Francisco, CA at 3:45 p.m.;


■Adrian Crutchfield from Charlotte, NC at 2:00 p.m.;

■Big Rick and The Bombers from Wake Forest, NC at 12:30 p.m.;

■The Roy Muth Big Band featuring Laura Martier from Virginia Beach, VA at 11:00 a.m.
 
Please come out and enjoy this wonderful event in the beautiful Duck Town Park. You won't be disappointed. If you need a place to stay please call Beach Realty & Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals at 800.635.1559 or http://www.beachrealtync.com/ today.
 
For more information about this event please visit: http://www.townofduck.com/jazzfestival.htm
 

Looking for something to do on the Outer Banks this Fall?

Labor Day Weekend kicks off September Events


Something big every weekend starting September 3-6

Outer Banks, NC - August 17, 2010 - It's been a remarkable summer on the Outer Banks, with blazing sunny beach days and mild water temperatures to cool off with. Escape the inland heat with a trip to the OBX this Labor Day Weekend, September 3-6. Remember to send in your favorite vacation pics this year for our Outer Banks 2011 Official Travel Guide photo contest! You still have through Labor Day Weekend to submit entries to photos@outerbanks.org. Read more...


Motorcyle Cannonball

September 10

The pre-1916 Motorcycle Cannonball coast-to-coast Endurance Run departs the OBX on Friday, September 10th from Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, NC. See scores of motorcycles from the early 1900's through 1915 on display from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. before the competitors take off for a 16 day race across America! The Motorcycle Cannonball, named after the famed Erwin "Cannonball" Baker, who set 143 driving records from 1910 through the 1930's, dares contestants to live up to the endurance records set by early motorcycle pioneers. motorcyclecannonball.com


Outer Banks Pirate Festival

September 16-19

Get your "Aarrggghh!" on during 4 days of Pirate Madness! Authentic Pirates will be pillaging local restaurants and businesses including Kellys, Pamlico Jacks, Mako Mikes, Big Al's, Jolly Roger, Outer Banks Brewing Station, and Kitty Hawk Kites! September 19th is National Talk Like A Pirate Day, so come give us your best "Aarrgh!" and bring the kids to the Scalliwag School For Scoundrels at the Kitty Hawk Kites store in Nags Head on September 19. kittyhawk.com


5th Annual Day at the Docks

September 18

Located in Hatteras village along the waterfront marinas, charter and commercial ships captains and crews demonstrate the tools and skills working watermen use at sea. Fishermen and visitors are invited to compete in a net hanging contest, a concrete marlin competition, and a survival suit race. The commercial and charter fishing fleets will display their boats, skills, products and gear in a variety of competitions and demonstrations. Maritime-inspired games for children and fresh, local seafood will be featured in a chowder cook-off and cooking demos. Traditional wooden boats will be on site. Musical entertainment. dayatthedocks.org


Outer Banks Triathlon

September 18-19

Registration is open for the 2010 Outer Banks Triathlon! Three different skill levels of events over the 2 day weekend. The Half Distance Tri will be held Saturday, September 18th, and the Olympic and Sprint Triathlons will be held Sunday, September 19th. All three courses go from Roanoke Island to the NC mainland community of Manns Harbor and back, and the biking and racing portions follow smooth flat roads and trails. obxmarathon.com


Eastern Surfing Association - Grand Finals

September 19-25

Expect a week of great surfing at Cape Hatteras with the largest amateur surfing association in the world, the Eastern Surfing Association or ESA, with a current membership of over 7,000 surfers. Men, women, boys and girls of all ages. Competition headquarters will be at the Natural Art Surf Shop in Buxton, NC. The Easterns competition series is big news in the surfing world. surfesa.org

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Travel Guide Contest

2nd Annual Outer Banks Travel Guide Contest


Your favorite vacation pics could illustrate 2011 Official Guide

Outer Banks, NC - July 14, 2010 - Take great shots during your OBX vacation this year, because they could land you in the Outer Banks Official Travel Guide. In response to overwhelming public interest, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is bringing back the photo contest that started a craze last summer. All new travelers' photos will be used to illustrate the 2011 Guide due out this fall. Those who participate and make it into the book could have their favorite family photos or artistic snapshots in welcome centers across the country and direct mailed to people all over the world who request it. A production run of 450,000 books is scheduled, and there is also an online version of the Guide that's available for download to your computer and easy to share.

Show Us What You Love

"The neat thing about this event is that it allows anybody with a camera to share their love for the OBX, and that's kind of the theme we're running with this year," presents Lee Nettles, Managing Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. "We are used to showing the world what we think is special about the Outer Banks, but now we want to see in pictures what keeps our loyal fans coming back year after year. We came up with this contest as one more way to thank our visitors for choosing us as their favorite destination. It gives the average person a chance to be published, and we think that's pretty cool."

See Yourself On The OBX All Year Long

To participate, all you have to do is email your favorite pictures with a description of where they were taken. They can be of family gatherings, weddings, lighthouses and local landmarks, outdoor adventure like horseback riding, kayaking or hang gliding, or even your group enjoying a really cool rental cottage. There's no special requirements, just submit photos showcasing what you love about the OBX. No more than five photo submissions per person, please. The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau will contact those selected in the coming weeks. All persons whose photos are selected will get credit in the 2011 Outer Banks Official Travel Guide, so be sure to include your name, address and phone number with your photos emailed to photos@outerbanks.org

Please download and attach our Photo Permission Form with your emailed images or photo CD's sent by mail. The address is provided on the form.

Photo Permision Form

Photo Digital Requirements

Take a Vacation Day to Explore Roanoke Island!

Roanoke Island is a lush green island located between the barrier islands of beaches and the mainland. The island extends from the North End of Sir Walter Raleigh’s Lost Colony to the South End of Wanchese fishing village. From North to South, it is packed with secret spots of fun, educational, and nature loving venues to explore. Set aside one day of your vacation to WOW yourself on Roanoke Island.


Let’s break your day into morning activities on the North End of the Island, lunch and sightseeing in the Town of Manteo, and afternoon watching fishermen bring in their catches in the Village of Wanchese and Pirate’s Cove Marina.

Start your day at the Elizabethan Gardens and the Lost Colony at the northernmost end of the island. The Elizabethan Gardens are a wonderful place to explore with trails, statues, and large lawns to run around on. Kids love to run and explore in the Gardens. Something is always blooming and the butterflies and birds will dance and sing along with you. Next door is the Lost Colony, a settlement that failed in the New World before the founding of Jamestown. The grounds around the outdoor theater are fun to explore. Walking under the massive live oaks with Spanish moss hanging down makes a natural canopy. You can feel that sense of awe at the beauty of the land that the original settlers must have experienced. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings there are children’s plays available.

Just south is the North Carolina Aquarium. Need I say more – the SHARK tank is fascinating! There are many educational programs daily. Call ahead to schedule participation in these or for Lunch with the Sharks!

Between the Aquarium and the town of Manteo is the Island Farm. Visit the animals and learn about farming in the 1800s.

The town of Manteo has great places for lunch. Along the waterfront of Shallowbag Bay are many eateries. While in town, you may visit the unique shops, including Manteo Booksellers, Endless Possibilities (everything made from recycled fabrics) and Dare County Arts Council in the Old Dare County Courthouse. There is much to see in Manteo including the lovely homes and gardens. Marshes Lighthouse is on the waterfront and beside it is the Shipbuilding Museum where the Elizabeth II was built. The Elizabeth II is a ship like the Mayflower located across the bridge in Manteo at Festival Park. On the waterfront you may want to take the Pirate Ship cruise, great for the kids, or rent a kayak and paddle around Shallowbag Bay. You will want to walk across the bridge to Festival Park where you can visit an Indian Village, climb aboard the Elizabeth II, and learn about the Lost Colony at the museum. A special treat is to sift through the fossil pit on the grounds out front to find shark’s teeth. There is an estuarine walkway along the marsh where you may see some wildlife.

South of Manteo is Wanchese Village. This is where large trawlers come in with their catches. These are “The Secret Storm” kind of fishermen. This seafood is sold locally to our restaurants and seafood markets and the excess is shipped out to New York and Boston.

On your way back to the beach, before you head across the first bridge, on your left is Pirates Cove Marina. If you pull in the Marina between 4:30 and 5:30 PM you will likely see some

BIG fish. Many white and blue marlin and sailfish are brought in, as well as tuna, bluefish, and dolphin (don’t worry, not like Flipper).

After a day on Roanoke Island, you will have explored a New World and have Family Memories to last a lifetime!

http://www.roanokeisland.net/attractions/

Beach Realty & Construction – Kitty Hawk Rentals welcomes new team members!

Doree Scarborough has accepted the position of Duck Rental Manager in Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rental’s Sound front Duck office adjacent to Sanderling. Doree’s well rounded understanding of the Outer Banks rental market is attributable to her 25+ years of experience in all aspects of rental management. Doree has extensive experience in both vacation rental service management as well as general property management and brings a refreshing approach to our team. We look forward to the opportunity to work with Doree and am confident that her expertise and guidance will continue the outstanding service the Duck Team has provided to our Owners and Guests in the past and will so in the future.

Doree Scarborough

We are pleased to announce the newest team member to our Corolla Rental Office, Therese Moorefield as Rental Manager, who comes to us with extensive Property Management experience, enthusiasm and exclusive owner relations experience. Therese has been a Property Manager in the Northern Beaches for the past 6 years has received 5 employee of the month awards, manager of the year award in 2007 and office of the year award. Living on the Outer Banks since 1991 and starting in Property management in 1992, her familiarity of the area will be an asset and we welcome her to the Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals family.

Therese Moorefield

Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals welcomes Norma Wagner as the Assistant Rental Manager of their Corolla Rental office. Norma’s real estate experience is grounded in over 30 years of both sales and property management involvement, many of which were dedicated to the Corolla area. We look forward to the broad perspective of property management Norma will bring to our team and feel confident her specialization in the Corolla area will enhance the development of our Corolla team.

Norma Wagner

Hands Across the Sand Coming to the Outer Banks June 26th, 2010

Hands Across the Sand is coming to the Outer Banks on June 26th, 2010 beginning on Bonnett Street in Nags Head. Hands Across the Sand is a movement made of people of all walks of life and crosses political affiliations. This movement is not about politics; it is about protection of our coastal economies, oceans, marine wildlife, fishing industry and coastal military missions.

For more information on this event contact:

MATT WALKER


Outerbanks Surfrider Chapter

OUTERBANKS@SURFRIDER.ORG
or visit http://www.handsacrossthesand.com/