Adventures and Memories: Our Outer Banks Experience in North Carolina

If you've ever seen the highly popular show "Outerbanks" or read any books by Nicholas Sparks, you're likely familiar with the stunning coastlines of the Carolinas. Last spring we went to Charleston, SC for a weekend and spent a day on Sullivans Island. Once we got a taste of South Carolina we knew we had to come back and do North Carolinas coast next. The mix of pine trees, evergreens, sand and sailboats is just my vibe.

We arrived late Wednesday night and settled into a charming beach cottage "tree house" located north of the OBX island in Kitty Hawk, about 1.5 hours from Norfolk International Airport.

The next day, Thursday morning Richard got up and ran a 5k race while Ruby and I slept in. We take vacation very seriously... Richard came back picked us up and we headed for breakfast at Stack em High Pancakes! Changed into our bathing suits and headed to the beach by 11am! We chose Nags Head beach - So beautiful and too crowded for an island in July compared to your southern beaches. When we arrived at the beach a family of dolphins were swimming by, slapping their tails in the water. It was so sweet and we felt that the OBX was welcoming us. Everyone around us was SO kind and friendly (even the sealife.)

After visiting the beach, our next stop was Dowdy Park. We picked up açaí bowls and relaxed at the park until the humidity became too much to handle (85% humidity). The park was stunning, featuring immaculate landscaping, a pickleball court, and a spacious grassy area where farmers markets are held every Thursday morning from 9 am to 1 pm. Richards one and only request was that we golfed! So thats what we did next before heading back to rest before dinner at Steamers! If you are in the OBX you have to go for dinner. It was so good we went back twice. Their Clam Chowder forever changed us!

Friday, we headed for Manteo! A charming coastal town surrounded by sailboats and quaint shops on Roanoke Island. It was about a 45min drive from Kitty Hawk where the airbnb was. I picked up a little mini fern, a juniper procumbens (a low shrub thats seen all over NC) and Ruby grabbed a little succulent as well! Richard knew that trip would cost us a security stop in baggage check at the airport... it did. But I made it thru with all of my plants!! YAY! One of my favorite shops was Sam and Winston. I came with wanting to take one special piece home, a replica of a real sailboat from the 1800's. And, I found just that at this beautiful european shop. We were supposed to end the evening with a show about "The Lost Colony" but a storm came through and canceled it. We ate dinner at 1587 Lounge inside of the beautiful Tranquil House Inn. Richard and I said next time we come back we would like to stay there - just steps away from everything you need in that precious town!

Saturday marked our final beach day before returning home on Sunday. We kicked off the day with breakfast at our absolute favorite spot, Duck Donuts, where we ended up going three times during our stay. It's a must-visit! We then chose to drive south along the island, where it significantly narrows, offering a view of the coast on one side with dunes closely flanking the road. We headed for Rodanthe on another island, Hatteras. I was SO stoked for this day trip because we got to see the Nights in Rodanthe house off of the movie! It was just as dreamy in person. As soon as we pulled over in the dunes, grabbed our beach chairs and walked over we were shocked that we were the only people on this beach. Everyone was so spaced out down the island. It was so refreshing and relaxing.

Reflecting on this trip, we are incredibly grateful for the experiences we've shared. We purchased heirloom keepsakes that will narrate stories for years to come. We encountered such kind and genuine people who gave Ruby sand toys to play with, engaged with shop owners we met and conversed with, and received recommendations from strangers who took the time to talk with us.

North Carolina, you were special. See you again soon.

xo,

Kaylee