Beach Blog | Beach Realty NC

Joanne Kepler Achieves Top Honors at Beach Realty &Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals

2012-01-15T12:45:00.000-05:00

Joanne Kepler, associate broker for Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals was named the company’s agent of the year for 2011. Joanne was licensed in 1995 and began her real estate career with Beach Realty in 2005. Ms. Kepler attributes her success to her strong customer service skills and believes that service doesn’t stop at closing. Beach Realty & Construction Sales Manager, Beth Urch says, “Joanne Kepler exemplifies what it means to be an agent with Beach Realty. Her dedication and loyalty to her clients is evidenced through her repeat business and numerous referrals. She is an integral member of our sales team and contributes to the success of our company”.

Joanne Kepler has a son Matthew serving in the US Army, 10^th Mountain Division, 187^th Infantry and is currently home safe from Afghanistan and residing with his wife at Fort Drum, NY. Her daughter, Dr. Misti Kepler-Ford, is a practicing physical therapist residing in Wilmington, NC with her husband. Joanne is a member of the Blue Star Mothers.

You can reach Joanne Kepler in the Corolla office of Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals at (252) 453-3131.

Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals is a full-service real estate company offering an attractive and ethical environment for licensed real estate professionals to realize a successful career. For more information about joining the Beach Realty sales team contact Sales Manager, Beth Urch at (252) 261-3815 or beachbuy@beachrealtync.com.

Thanksgiving on the Outer Banks

2011-11-16T12:07:00.000-05:00

We invite you to enjoy a carefree Thanksgiving on the beach! With plenty of space, fully equipped kitchens, beautiful dining rooms & ocean views, our vacation homes have everything you need to make a memorable Thanksgiving Holiday for your family! Don't delay, reserve your vacation home today! 800.635.1559

Here are some featured homes available for the Thanksgiving Holiday!

#535 Whit's End

Oceanfront, Nags Head

7 Bedrooms - Sleeps 17

Check in 11/20 - Weekly Rate is $2695

Click Here for More Information

#3502 Skipper's Sunlight

Oceanside, Duck, Four Seasons

8 Bedrooms - Sleeps 20

Check in 11/20 - Weekly Rate is $1995

Click Here for More Information

#2099 Beach Cabana

Oceanside, Southern Shores

7 Bedrooms - Sleeps 18

Check in 11/19 - Weekly Rate is $2200

Click Here for More Information

#1012 The Summer Wind

Oceanfront, Nags Head

8 Bedrooms - Sleeps 20

Check in 11/20 - Weekly Rate is $3599

Click Here for More Information

#7400 Carolina Getaway

Oceanside, Corolla, Ocean Sands Section O

7 Bedrooms - Sleeps 18

Check in 11/20 - Weekly Rate is $1195

Click Here for More Information

#631 Serenity Now

Oceanside, Corolla

7 Bedrooms - Sleeps 18

Check in 11/20 - Weekly Rate is $1195 (A savings of $100!)

Click Here for More Information

Beach Nourishment is a Fascinating Process to Watch!

2011-06-29T12:23:00.000-04:00

Everyone was excited and a bit nervous about guest reaction to the Beach Nourishment in the Town of Nags Head. I, for one, have become addicted to monitoring the process. I plan to attend the progress meeting at the Town of Nags Head tomorrow morning at the Fire Station.

I am always amazed at what men and machines can create. The dredging company is from the Great Lakes area and has traveled all over the world, including Dubai. Not sure that they created the “Palm Tree” islands but they have sure done pretty amazing work here.

They began in the Nags Head area, near milepost 15.75 at Forbes Street in the Forbes Candy shop area. They placed a T section of pipe on the beach and headed north. The hopper dredge travels out to the “goldmine of sand” a few miles off the coast, sucks the sand up into the hopper in the vessel, then returns to shore and pushes the sand through pipes on the bottom of the ocean through the T pipe and then north or south through a pipe parallel to the dune line. As one area is filled up, another section of pipe is added and the process continues. After they go a certain distance north, they pull up the pipe, return to the T section and proceed south.

There is an engineering machine called “The Crab” that is about 20-30 feet tall, has 3 legs with huge rubber wheels, that travels along the beach and out into the ocean to measure the height, and “lay” of the sand that is projected onto and spread along the shore. As the project moves up the beach, workers go out into the ocean, literally up to their chests and necks, and place survey type poles into the water as a “guide” as to where to extend the sand and to what height. That is amazing to see, waves breaking on survey poles where tomorrow there will be an extended beach.

When the sand first comes through the pipes it is of course full of water and looks like ocean water, but after a few minutes the sand starts to flow and actually puddles up onto the shore. After the sand is pumped, the dozers begin to push the sand into designated locations. This process continues 24 hours per day. At night, there are large panels of lights set out which light the beach up like a baseball field.

Believe it or not, MOST guests have not called to complain, even when it was in their front yard. I have had only 4 groups of guest who have been “very unhappy.” The contractors have made the process very “guest friendly.” The ocean front direct beach accesses from homes and from the public beach accesses are open and the guests may go on the beach and walk parallel to the ocean and dune lines to a beach area that is not roped off. This is usually a reasonable distance.

The project moves very quickly and is only behind 5 – 6 homes for a day, two days at max. There are exceptions, however. The dredge had a generator go bad last week and was down for a few days, so some guests had the blocked off area in their front yards for 3-4 days. That is the exception.

Another dredge is coming to the far South Nags Head area and is to begin pumping today. My understanding from talking with some of the crew is that this second dredge will operate as a true dredge which has pipes directly to the sand mine and will pump to shore without moving back and forth.

The dredging company figures out obstacles along the way. Last week they ran into a “hole” in the beach area at about milepost 16 and because it was taking longer to fill, they decided to split the pipe into a fork and have 2 pipes extending south toward the new Jennette’s Pier. That allowed for more sand to be spread in a wider area from dune to ocean. That also reduced pushing time for the dozers. These guys are real pros, great problem solvers.

When the project reached Jennette’s Pier, you should have seen the guests hovering at the edge of the pier watching the process. It really has been a learning experience for everyone. Many of our guests share their stories about beach nourishment with us when they are checking out. It is well worth visiting one of the 2 sites while you are here this summer. And by the way, the sand is “beautiful, a perfect match to what was there.”

I am a beach nourishment “geek”. Man working with Nature, what an Awesome sight!

2011 Independence Day Celebrations

2011-06-23T11:56:00.000-04:00

July 4th Celebration with the Town of Manteo - 8:00pm

Outdoor Pavilion at Roanoke Island Festival Park.

Featuring the North Carolina National Guard’s 440th Army Band. The celebration will also include fireworks provided by the town of Manteo. The celebration is free and open to the public. Seating at the Pavilion is on the grass, so blankets and lawn chairs will add to the relaxed holiday environment. So, bring a picnic basket for all of your family and friends and join Roanoke Island Festival Park in a celebration of America. Gates open to the public at 6 p.m. After 5 p.m., only handicap parking will be allowed at the park. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com. Roanoke Island Fireworks

Town of Nags Head Celebrates Independence Day with Fireworks Spectacular - July 4, 2011 at 9:25pm

15th annual Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular on the ocean pier located at Mile Post 11.5 on NC Route 12, S. Virginia Dare Trail in Nags Head. A rain date has been set for Friday, July 8, 2011. All persons attending the show are encouraged to park east of U.S. Highway 158/S. Croatan Highway. Those choosing to park west of U.S. Highway 158/S. Croatan Highway should use extreme caution while attempting to cross this heavily traveled roadway. The following public beach accesses are recommended for access to the beach for fireworks viewing:

South of Nags Head Fishing Pier:
Curlew Street / Hollowell Street / Conch Street

North of Nags Head Fishing Pier:
Bladen Street / Bittern Street / Bonnett Street / Blackman Street / Barnes Street

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is another ideal spot for viewing the fireworks. The park will be open late July 4th to accommodate visitors. Please call the park at 252-441-7132 for more information.

Whalehead Club / Currituck Heritage Park – July 3rd, 2011 5pm - 7pm
Patriotic Salute Featuring the 440th Army Band

Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and spread out on the south lawn in front of the historic Whalehead Club. The 440th Army Band will be performing many patriotic anthems and songs to kick off the Independence Day Celebration a bit early! Concessions will be available. Admission and parking are FREE. Pets are welcomed as long as they are leashed.

Whalehead Club / Currituck Heritage Park – July 4th, 2011 6pm-10pm
19th Annual Independence Day Festival of Fireworks

Fireworks begin at dusk but arrive early to enjoy food, fun activities, great music and find a place for your blankets and chairs to settle in for the best fireworks on the Outer Banks! Admission & Parking are free.

Photos by Allie Hawkins/Island Photography

Town of Duck Parade - July 4, 2011 9:00am

Downtown Duck. The parade will be held on Monday, July 4th, with a concert and community social being held immediately following at the Duck Town Park. The after event includes music by Ruth Wyand & Friends, refreshments, the awarding of parade trophies, and a very special Flash Mob.

The one-mile parade route is the same annually and begins at the crest of the hill on Scarborough Lane. The route follows Scarborough Lane towards the ocean, turns left onto Ocean Way, and then heads down Christopher Drive ending back at Duck Road (NC 12). If you are attending the parade, please arrive early so you can get a good spot on the parade route. Remember, NO PART OF THE PARADE IS ON DUCK ROAD (NC 12). and parking is at a premium, so please plan to walk or ride your bicycle and be in Town well in advance of the parade start time of 9:00 a.m.

You're Invited!

2011-06-20T10:36:00.000-04:00

A Message from the Real Estate Division at Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals

Join us every Wednesday at 10:00am in the sales reception of your check-in office to learn about investing in Outer Banks real estate. This is your opportunity to have your questions answered casually and with absolutely no pressure. You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

• Short sales

• Bank-owned properties

• Market conditions

• Rental income

• New construction

Stop by for an hour and find out how you can stay for a lifetime! For more information or to schedule a private consultation call (252) 261-3815 or email beachinfo@beachrealtync.com.

Jenettes Pier has Grand Opening May 21, 2011

2011-05-24T16:07:00.000-04:00

The old pier was destroyed by Hurricane Isabel destroyed it in 2003. The resurrected pier is made of reinforced concrete pilings, not wood. It's the first of its kind to be opened by the state and is built to last at least 30 years and withstand 130-mph winds.

The new pier also is expected to receive platinum level LEED certification, the highest level attainable by the U.S. Green Building Council. The state-of-the-art facility uses wind turbines, solar paneling and recycling and has a wastewater reclamation system that will treat its own sewage and then reuse that water. Jennette's Pier is the product of a $25 million project that legislators backed in an effort to preserve the state's fishing pier heritage.

The first floor of the 16,000-square foot pier house is a gift shop, tackle shop and snack bar with plenty of hot gourmet coffee and ice-cold Pepsi products.
A bank of tall windows reveals a sweeping view of the pier and the Atlantic Ocean. There’s a counter under the windows with stools so people can sit down and enjoy the panoramic scene.
Just outside, visitors will find a covered-porch picnic area complete with tables and chairs so guests can enjoy their meal while watching the fishing, listening to crashing surf and smelling the salty air.

Additional attractions on the first floor of the pier house include alternative energy displays and a large, modern classroom with windows that frame the northern view of the ocean and beach strand.
In addition to family fun, classes will also feature solid conservation-minded educational programming in a perfect outdoor setting – on the beach and over the waves on the pier.

A wide variety of classes, camps, sleepovers and get-wet adventures will be offered. They each explore the Aquariums’ mission to inspire appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments.

Fishing fees for Jennette’s Pier as are follows: adults, $12; children age 12 and under, $6. For pin-rig fishing, multi-day and annual passes, please click here.

Jennette’s Pier is part of the North Carolina Aquariums system and represents the first of three such piers planned to be built and operated by the Aquariums along the coast.

http://www.jennettespier.net/

Welcoming Corolla Rental Manager and Announcing Beach Agent of the Month

2011-04-27T13:14:00.000-04:00

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

2011-04-21T08:51:00.000-04:00

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.

Boardwalk Project for the Town of Duck Continues

2011-03-28T11:16:00.000-04:00

Photo Credit Town of Duck

The Town of Duck is in the process of building a ten foot wide soundside boardwalk which, when completed, will run from Aqua S Restaurant to the Blue Point Restaurant in the Waterfront Shoppes. The finished boardwalk will stretch almost a mile between the two locations, allowing residents and visitors a safe means of travel along the Currituck Sound.

The boardwalk will eventually connect local shops and existing walking trails while providing access to the coastal shorelines and natural habitats for wildlife viewing. A 130 foot pier with four day use boat slips will extend southwest from the southern end of the Waterfront Shoppes existing boardwalk.

Photo Credit Town of Duck

The Town of Duck hopes to have the boardwalk completed by this summer.

Read more at the Town of Duck’s website: http://townofduck.com/news/?p=755

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

2011-03-17T10:16:00.000-04:00

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

2011-03-01T15:48:00.000-05:00

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

2011-02-19T10:58:00.000-05:00

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

2011-01-20T13:33:00.000-05:00

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

2011-01-05T14:14:00.001-05:00

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!!!

Assistance Given for Guests of the Room In The Inn Program

2010-12-29T14:44:00.000-05:00

The Room In The Inn, a church-based homeless shelter program, recently received a gift of financial assistance from the Outer Banks Relief Foundation. The Relief Foundation has pledged $3000.00 to the Room in The Inn program to be used for the individual needs of the program’s guests, including personal hygiene kits, over-the-counter medicines for the program’s First Aid Kits, and other necessary health-related and personal items for its guests. The Room In The Inn (RITI) program is in its third year of operation on the Outer Banks, and is operating this year from November 14, 2010 to April 3, 2011. For more information about the Room In The Inn program, or for anyone wishing to volunteer for the program, please contact Gail Leonard, RITI Program Coordinator, at (252) 207-8820.

Since 2005, the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, Inc. (OBRF) has provided assistance to individuals in our community who struggle with debilitating diseases or illnesses, or who are experiencing a personal tragedy or crisis in their lives. Over the past 5 years, OBRF has provided a total of more than $466,000 to over 240 needy recipients in our Outer Banks community. For more information about the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, please contact Christopher Kelley, OBRF Executive Director, at (252) 261-2004.

Help For The Homeless - The Room In The Inn (RITI) homeless shelter program recently received a $3000 pledge of financial assistance from the Outer Banks Relief Foundation (OBRF) to be used for needed personal and health-related items for their guests. Pictured from left to right, are: John Gillam III, OBRF Board President; Gail Leonard, RITI Program Coordinator accepting the gift for the Room In The Inn; Jimbo Ward, OBRF Vice-President of Finance presenting the gift on behalf of the Outer Banks Relief Foundation; and Chris Kelley, OBRF Executive Director.

Christmas on the Outer Banks

2010-12-11T11:30:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-30T13:56:00.001-05:00

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!

Black Friday

2010-11-24T12:17:00.000-05:00

With Black Friday approaching, it’s time to get started on your Christmas shopping. If you are lucky enough to be here this weekend, check out our local sales. If you cannot be here, and would like to give a gift from the beach, visit some of our stores with online shopping available.
Happy Thanksgiving, and Happy Shopping!

Belk
Part of the nation's largest family- and management owned department stores, offering the best in quality, value, fashion & svc. Black Friday Sale.
Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-2355

Tanger Outlet
7100 S Croatan Highway Nags Head, NC 27959
P: (252) 441-5634
Tanger Outlet Friday Sale , Tanger Outlet Saturday Sale, Tanger Outlet Sunday Sale

Gray's
T-shirts, sweatshirts, active sportswear, swimwear, shoes & accessories.
MP 4, Kitty Hawk and Duck
(800) 382-5006
Website
Kitty Hawk Kites
Kites, kiteboarding gear, apparel, gifts, wind art, unique toys.
US 158 Bypass, across from Jockey's Ridge, Nags Head
(252) 441-4124, (877) FLY-THIS
Online Store
Soundfeet Shoes
Over 75,000 pairs of comfort shoes, including clogs and sandals, at everyday low prices.
Milepost 14 Croatan Center, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk
(252) 441-8954 (Nags Head), (252) 261-0490 (Duck), (252) 441-0715 (Kitty Hawk)
Website

Yellowhouse Gallery
Local art, beach scenes, local photography, vintage Outer Banks photos, Outer Banks maps, antique prints & maps, Civil War, natural history. Seaglass windows & stained glass.
MP 11, 2902 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
(252) 441-6928
Website

Silver Bonsai Gallery
Manteo
(252) 475-1413
Website

Morales Art Galleries
We can take your wedding or vacation photos and reproduce them on canvas, fine art paper and glossy or semi-glossy photo paper. Large selection of limited edition prints and posters, framed or unframed.
MP 10 1/2, Gallery Row, Nags Head
(252) 441-6484, (800) 635-6035
Website

Manteo Booksellers
1000's of titles in stock, literary gifts and more. Mail & Internet Orders, Phone Orders Welcome.
105 Sir Walter Raleigh Street, Downtown Manteo
(252) 473-1221
Website

Islander Flags
Creative Flags & Banners. US, State, Foreign, Flagpoles, Accessories, Custom. OBX Flags.
Kitty Hawk
(800) 253-3524, (252) 261-6266
Website

Nags Head Hammocks
Handcrafted rope hammocks & leisure furniture. Shipping available.
Kill Devil Hills, Avon, Duck
(252) 441-6115, (800) 344-6433
Website

The Cottage Shop
Gifts for every occasion, including weddings and holidays. To compliment any home we offer a unique line of home accents & decorative accessories, housewares, accent furniture and holiday decor.
Outer Banks Mall, Nags Head & Kellogg Supply, Duck
(252) 441-2522 (Nags Head)
(252) 261-8121 (Duck)
Website

Scarborough Faire Shopping Village
An array of 16 sophisticated shops and eateries situated in a gracious enclave amidst natural maritime surroundings in the village of Duck.
1177 Duck Road, Duck
Website

Diamonds'n Dunes
Breathtaking...stunning...enchanting... these are the words Diamonds'n Dunes patrons use upon entering the Kitty Hawk store.
MP 4 3/4, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-0001
Website

Thanksgiving on the Outer Banks

2010-11-08T15:31:00.000-05:00

Ask a local, and they will tell you that their favorite time of the year is the off season. If you haven’t discovered the Outer Banks in the fall, I highly recommend that you give it a try. Why not start a new family tradition, and celebrate Thanksgiving on the beach? There are many restaurants which will be serving Thanksgiving dinner. If you want to cook and serve dinner to your guests, we have plenty of grocery stores in the area which will be stocked with the fixings for a memorable turkey dinner. Oysters are a staple on the Outer Banks during the holidays. Buy a bushel from one of our local seafood markets, and enjoy them roasted, raw, fried or steamed.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Corolla Wild Horses

After your Thanksgiving dinner, go for a walk on the beach, where you will most likely have it all to yourself. Or, go shopping. Get started on your Christmas list at our local shops and take advantage of the big end of season sales. Maybe you’ll have a golfer in your group. There are 9 championship courses to choose from. Visit a few of our local attractions. Put on your warm jacket and climb Jockey’s Ridge in Nags Head. Immerse yourself in aviation history at the Wright Brother National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills (climb to the top of the hill for an awesome view!). If you have a four wheel drive, take a ride on the beach in Carova and look for the famous wild horses.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

If you need accommodations, we have plenty of vacation homes which are available with amenities including a fireplace and hot tub:

Casa de Romance

Ten Years After

Carolina Cottage

Dolphin’s Run

Lasea Days

Picture Perfect

A Salty Piece of Land

Give us a call at 800.635.1559 if we can help you with your Thanksgiving vacation!

Reasons to visit the Outer Banks in the off season

2010-11-03T13:46:00.000-04:00

The Outer Banks is visited by millions of tourists during the prime summer months from May – September. It is the busiest time of year for our beaches; roads are congested, businesses are packed and accommodation prices are steep. Some people came to love the Outer Banks because of the isolation and seclusion our island offers. And although I understand why the summer months are the most popular due to the perfect weather, warm water and sunny skies, I want it to be known that the off-season may be the better time to visit if you’re looking to escape the “everyday grind” and relax on a beach of your own.

In this article I will provide reasons why the off- season it is a great time of year to visit the Outer Banks of North Carolina!

Privacy & Seclusion. As I stated earlier, one main reason why I (and many others) have come to love the Outer Banks is because of the isolation you feel once entering the island. You are far away enough to let all your worries go, yet close enough to drive! The beaches are practically empty so if you enjoy shelling or hunting for sea glass then you’ll have better luck in the off season. If you are looking to get away from it all and enjoy a relaxing week vacation or long weekend getaway without bumping into other vacationers, then try the Outer Banks in the off season (October – April).

The weather is still nice. Some of the most beautiful days of the year are in October & November, March & April. The sunrise & sunsets are phenomenal. If you have ever seen stunning Outer Banks photography, you should know that those photos were most likely taken from October – April. Speaking of photography, if photography is a hobby of yours and you’re looking to add to your portfolio – you must take a trip here in the off season!

Affordability. Accommodation prices drop dramatically in the off season. An Oceanfront, 9 bedroom home in Corolla which rents for $11,795 in the summer, drops to only $2495 in the off season. An oceanfront, 4 bedroom home in Southern Shores which rents for $5075 in the summer, drops to only $995 in the off season! You can rent a private home with a hot tub in the off season for as low as $500/week. Click here for all off season vacation rentals.

Businesses are OPEN. It used to be that after Labor Day many businesses close their doors for the season. Now more businesses are staying open year round to serve to the off season travelers and year round residents.

Surf’s up. Many people associate the Outer Banks as the surfing Mecca of the Eastern US. The best surf on the Outer Banks usually happens in the off season. In addition to traditional surfing, kite boarding has become extremely popular in our area in the off season because of the consistent wind and sound waters. If you’re an adventure seeker looking for a new hobby, visit the Outer Banks and take up surfing or kite boarding!

Fishing. Outer Banks off season fishing is extremely popular. The fish migrate south for the winter passing through the Gulf Stream just off our coast thus allowing for great fishing of all sorts. The off season also offers a variety of fishing tournaments.

Off season events. The Outer Banks hosts many events in the off season such as the Outer Banks Marathon in November which has over 5000 participants each year. Other events include Bike Fest (October) & Bike Week (April), Christmas Parades, Fishing & Golf Tournaments, OBX Taste of the Beach (March), Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March) and so much more.

As you can see, the Outer Banks in the off season has a lot to offer. It may not be for everyone, but for those of you who enjoy isolated beaches, affordable accommodations, stunning scenery, fishing, surfing, kite boarding or other events, you’ll be delightfully surprised to know that we have it all – right here on the Outer Banks this off-season!

Call us today at 800.635.1559 to book your off season Outer Banks Vacation or visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/.

The 2010 Outer Banks Marathon

2010-10-13T08:52:00.000-04:00

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

2010-09-29T12:15:00.000-04:00

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

3rd Annual Outer Banks Bike Fest October 1-3 2010

2010-09-22T15:52:00.000-04:00

The 3rd Annual Outer Banks Bike Fest is coming up on October 1-3, 2010. Get your Harleys polished and revved up to come out to the Outer Banks for a weekend filled of Hog-lovin' fun. Many local businesses are participating and we expect a great turn out of bikers! Beach Realty & Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals is proud to be a sponsor for this event. Please call us at 800.635.1559 to book a vacation home for this three day weekend! We have mini-vacations available at VERY affordable rates. Check out our homes that allow partial weeks at http://www.beachrealtync.com/ under "Vacation Rentals" choose "partial stays".

Here's what's going on for the Bike Fest:

Official parties at Kelly’s on Friday night. Port O’ Call on Saturday night, and the biker breakfast at the Jolly Roger from 8am-2pm

Here are some of the scheduled events taking place:
-Lighthouse run
-Poker run
-Bike show
-Bike games

For additional information please visit www.outerbanksbikefest.com

Nags Head Harley Davidson
4104 Highway 158
Nags Head, NC 27959

Outer Banks Harley-Davidson
8739 Highway 158
Harbinger, NC 27941

Hurricane Earl Update

2010-09-03T13:05:00.000-04:00

Evacuation Order Lifted for Portions of Dare County Today at 12:00 p.m.

A preliminary damage assessment by Dare County Emergency Management indicates that conditions following Hurricane Earl will allow re-entry at this time to the northern and mainland portions of Dare County.

Effective 12:00 p.m Friday, September 3, the mandatory evacuation order will be lifted for areas north of Oregon Inlet including the Towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Manteo, Nags Head, Southern Shores and the unincorporated areas of Dare County north of Oregon Inlet.

The Town of Duck is experiencing water on the road in the typical areas that would occur during any storm with heavy rains. The area in southern Duck at the intersection of NC 12 (Duck Road) and the Tuckahoe subdivision is still experiencing some flooding. Although it is passable, caution, patience, and extra time should be allocated when returning to Duck and Corolla.

The mandatory evacuation order for Hatteras Island remains in effect due to sand and standing water on NC Highway 12. Villages affected by the continuation of this evacuation order include Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras. Crews from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) are working to clear the roadway. An advisory will be issued when conditions safely allow the evacuation order for Hatteras Island to be lifted.

The bridges leading to Dare County are open and no re-entry pass is required. Motorists should be careful of standing rain water which may be on streets throughout the area. Proceed with caution as it is difficult to determine the water’s depth and can cause brake failure, loss of control, or vehicle flooding.

Visitors planning travel to Dare County should first consult with their accommodations provider to confirm lodging reservations.

Helpful Contact Information

Dare County Emergency Management 252-475-5655 or www.darenc.com
Dominion North Carolina Power 1-888-667-3000 or www.dom.com
Cape Hatteras Electric 1-866-511-9862 www.chec.coop
Tideland Electric 1-800-637-1079 or 1-800-882-1001 www.tidelandemc.com
North Carolina Ferry Division 1-800-BY-FERRY or www.ncferry.org
North Carolina Road Conditions 1-877-DOT-4YOU or www.ncsmartlink.org
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) 1-800-367-7623
North Carolina Highway Patrol 1-800-441-6127

Bulletins will be released as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20.

Hurricane Earl Update

2010-09-02T10:50:00.000-04:00

Both Dare and Currituck Counties have issued a MANDATORY EVACUATION for all Visitors. This consists of all towns on the Outer Banks - Corolla, Carova, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, South Nags Head, Manteo.

South Nags Head and ALL of Hatteras Island & Ocracoke has a Mandatory Evacuation for ALL VISITORS & RESIDENTS.

If you are staying in a vacation home with Beach Realty, please do your best to secure any outdoor furniture or items that could catch flight during high winds and collect your belongings and follow evacuation routes provided by the towns (links below). Our offices are currently open so if you have any questions at this time you can direct them to your rental office; Corolla: 252.453.4141, Duck: 252.261.6605, or Kill Devil Hills: 252.441.7166.

http://www.co.currituck.nc.us/ Currituck County
http://www.darenc.com/ Dare County

Hurricane Earl Update

2010-09-02T08:53:00.000-04:00

Dare County Control Group has issued a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout Dare County.

Information provided by Dare County: http://www.darenc.com/EmgyMgmt/Alert/index.asp

Bulletin Number: 6

Date/Time: 9/2/2010 6:34:48 AM

Evacuation Order Expanded for Dare County

The Dare County Control Group has issued a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout the entire County effective 6:00 am Thursday, September 2. The evacuation ordered yesterday for visitors and residents on Hatteras Island remains in effect. In addition, residents along the oceanfront are advised to relocate due to coastal flooding and ocean overwash that will occur.

Hurricane force winds are expected during the early morning hours Friday as the storm passes approximately 70 miles off the Outer Banks. Weather conditions will deteriorate this evening as the storm approaches.

Dare County and the North Carolina coast is under a Hurricane Warning, which indicates that sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected within 24 hours.

Town of Nags Head
The Town of Nags Head has issued a mandatory evacuation for residents and visitors in South Nags Head, which includes the area south of Whalebone Junction, NC1243/S. Old Oregon Inlet Road.
School Closings
All Dare County Schools will be closed today and Friday along with all after-school activities including the After-School Enrichment Program. Makeup days are scheduled for Saturday, September 11, and Friday, October 29.

Court Sessions Closed
Court sessions at the Dare County Courthouse are cancelled for today and Friday. Those with cases scheduled for either of these days will receive a letter from the Court advising of a new date.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20.
###

Hurricane Earl Update

2010-09-01T13:48:00.000-04:00

Information provided by Dare County Government: http://www.darenc.com/EmgyMgmt/Alert/index.asp

Bulletin Number: 4
Date/Time: 9/1/2010 12:05:22 PM
Hurricane Warning Issued for Dare County
A Hurricane Warning has been issued for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds.
A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected in 24 hours or less. Warnings can remain in effect when dangerously high water or waves exist even though winds may be less than hurricane force.
This morning the Dare County Control Group ordered a mandatory evacuation for all Hatteras Island VISITORS. The group of local decision makers issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel.
The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County.
The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary.
On nearby Ocracoke Island, Hyde County Emergency Management issued a mandatory evacuation at 5:00am this morning for all visitors and residents of Ocracoke Island.
Dare County Emergency Management urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. Expect high seas, dangerous rip currents and 50 to 60 mile per hour winds as Hurricane Earl passes approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning.
Protective measures should include securing property including all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Pet owners are reminded to make sure their animals have an identification tag on their collar.
The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center closed today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds closed today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity.
The town of Kill Devil Hills will not have residential solid waste collection on Friday, September 3. However, there will be town-wide residential collection on Thursday, September 2. Rollout containers should be placed at the road Wednesday night and remember to properly secure the container after it has been serviced on Thursday. Normal collection will resume Monday, September 6.
The Dare County Transportation System has cancelled all scheduled rides for Friday, September 3.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20.
###

Hurricane Earl - Outer Banks, NC

2010-08-31T15:30:00.000-04:00

You should be watching very carefully the forecast for Hurricane Earl. Preparations should be started for protective measures. While Earl forecast track continues to remain offshore, it is certainly possible that the system could push hurricane winds on the Outer Banks as it moves up the coast. Listen to NOAA weather radio and local media for updates and advisories. Cable TV Channel 20 provided by Dare County issues updates as well as the Dare County Website http://www.darenc.com/

At this time we expect high winds and bands of rain but no evacuation has been determined to be necessary. If you purchased Travel Insurance before the hurricanes were named, you may pick up a claim form in our office. The insurance will only cover you if there is a Mandatory Evacuation.

We have homes with Storm Plans and if your vacation home is one of those, someone will be out to secure all outside furniture. Please do not undo this hurricane preparedness until the threat has passed. If the home is not one of those with a Storm Plan, we suggest that you turn porch furniture upside down to prevent it from becoming mobile during in high winds. Our staff will be able to tell you if your home is on the Storm Plan.

Live Satellite Radar of Hurricane Earl:
http://www.goes.noaa.gov/HURRLOOPS/huvsloop.html

Special things to remember:

Remain calm

Bring all your belongings inside

Electricity may be out periodically – ATMs and gas pumps won’t work – so plan ahead

Have food and water available for a couple of days as you will not want to venture out in the storm

Have a flashlight for light in case of power failure

Please call our office for any questions you may have:

Kill Devil Hills 252-441-7166

Duck 252-261-6605

Corolla 252-453-4141

Dare County Website:
http://www.darenc.com/

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

2010-08-19T14:13:00.000-04:00

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 Real Estate Buying Seminar - Tuesdays in August

2010-07-28T14:29:00.000-04:00

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers…

Join us Tuesday at the Hampton Inn for coffee and valuable information on buying a home on the Outer Banks. Learn the ins and outs of purchasing short sales and bank-owned properties at below market values. Have all your questions answered by our real estate professionals, construction and property management experts and a mortgage representative. If you’ve ever thought about purchasing property on the Outer Banks, you will not want to miss this casual, relaxed opportunity to learn and speak to industry professionals. Don’t worry about a high pressure sales pitch because we are offering information and education only in a time format that won’t interfere with your vacation! Welcome to the “Beach” and have a wonderful vacation. See you Tuesday!

Private consultations available anytime at our office or your cottage, call today!

Tuesday, August 3, 10, 17, and 24th ∙ 10:00 to 11am ∙ The Hampton Inn, Corolla ∙ Sponsored by Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals ∙

Call (252) 261-3815 for more information or email Sales Manager, Beth Urch beth@beachrealtync.com

Pet Friendly Vacations on the Outer Banks

2010-07-19T12:11:00.000-04:00

Nothing brings me more joy than to spend a day at the beach with my Golden Retriever, Tuna. There's something about the smell in the air, the sight of the sand dunes or a glimpse of the waves crashing on shore that physically takes over Tuna's mind and body as he reverts back to a 6 month old puppy. The excitement in his eyes when we pull into a beach access is impossible not to notice. He knows that he is about to spend the afternoon chasing balls, jumping waves and rolling around in the sand. Tuna is almost 2 years old now, but he has grown up to love the beach. As a puppy, he was a little intimidated by the winter waves but he thoroughly enjoyed the sound, and many manmade ponds near our home. As soon as he grew into his skin, he was anxious to try out the ocean. And after watching his best friend, aka my husband, run full speed at the crashing waves with his skim board – Tuna’s fear disappeared as he tackled each wave with a giant leap followed by a strong paddle chasing after the only floating tennis ball in his sight.

Now, the thought of spending a day at the beach without my water dog is out of the question! If I did not live on the Outer Banks, this place would absolutely be my number one vacation destination, not only because of the pristine beaches, excellent temperatures, and peaceful communities but because of how convenient it is to bring my dog. Most beach towns have adopted lenient policies regarding dogs on the beach and more and more vacation rentals are allowing pets to cater to dog-loving families like mine. I have spent long hours trying to find another vacation destination similar to the Outer Banks to enjoy a family getaway, but nothing seems to compare.

Since I work in the vacation rental industry and I live on the Outer Banks AND I own a dog who LOVES the beach, I’ll offer some advice for vacationing on the Outer Banks with a dog:

Firstly, book your vacation home in advance. Pet friendly homes typically book earlier than others. If you want to be sure that you get a house that suites your family’s needs and allows you to bring your pet, then don’t wait until last minute because it’s likely that you’ll have to sacrifice one or some of your desired amenities. Book a house that is spacious enough for your family & your dog(s).

Secondly, make sure you know the town/beach laws regarding pets. The towns with the most lenient laws regarding dogs on the beach are; Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Corolla & Duck. From late May to early September, I would avoid Kill Devil Hills & Southern Shores because they do not allow dogs on the beach during peak season (KDH has certain hours of the day dogs are not allowed). Here’s a link to all town/beach rules regarding pets.

Thirdly, I like to bring a beach umbrella for my dog to lay under when he’s tired from all the exercise. I also bring a jug of water and bowl so that he stays hydrated & a couple plastic bags in case the unthinkable happens. And of course a leash (even the most lenient beach towns require your dog to be on a leash when not playing in the water) . OH and I can’t forget the tennis balls & Frisbees!

The Outer Banks, in my opinion, is the perfect place to vacation. The Outer Banks has something to offer for all ages & species. Our towns are safe, our speed limits are slow and our beaches are less crowded than many other eastern shore beaches. Plus the majority of accommodations are actual HOMES so you can kick back, relax and sprawl out in the comfort of a one-of-a-kind vacation home!

Visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/ today to start planning your next Outer Banks Vacation. We have over 150 pet-friendly vacation homes to choose from!

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Travel Guide Contest

2010-07-15T14:54:00.000-04:00

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!

2010-07-01T17:20:00.000-04:00

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/

July 4th, 2010 Fireworks on the Outer Banks

2010-06-21T12:37:00.000-04:00

Traveling to the Outer Banks for this 4th of July? You'll need to know where the extravagant fireworks displays will take place and to come early with a blanket for the family to get a good spot! This year the Outer Banks has only two Fireworks displays; Corolla - Whalehead Club & Manteo - Roanoke Island Festival Park.

Corolla
18th Annual Independence Day Festival of Fireworks July 4, 2010 FREE - 6pm to 10pm
Fireworks begin at dusk but arrive early to enjoy food, fun activities, and fabulous music. Come early to find a place for your blankets and chairs and settle in for the best fireworks on the Outer Banks!
More Information: http://www.whaleheadclub.org/
252-453-9612

Manteo
America Celebrates/July 4th Fireworks July 4, 2010 FREE - Gates open at 6pm
Bring a picnic and enjoy the musical performance by East Carolina University and watch fireworks.
More Information: http://roanokeisland.com/
(252) 475-1500

North Carolina prohibits the possession of any pyrotechnics which launch or propel into the air, or which explode making a sound or "report." Sparklers, fountains and ground displays are allowed only with adult supervision and when exercising extreme caution and fire prevention. Fireworks are illegal in Dare County, including all towns and villages.

North Carolina Symphony Outer Banks Summer Concert – June 20th

2010-06-09T10:35:00.000-04:00

North Carolina Symphony Outer Banks Summer Concert – June 20th
9th Annual Free Concert At Roanoke Island Festival Park

The Dare County Tourism Board is proud to partner with The Roanoke Island Commission to present the North Carolina Symphony for the 9th Annual Summer Pops Concert at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo on Sunday, June 20, 2010. Once again, this event is free to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend. Bring a picnic basket and portable chairs or blankets to enjoy a fantastic program under the stars that will include “Mardi Gras” from Ferde Grofe’s Mississippi Suite and “Wedding March” from Felix Mendelsson’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Also highlighting the performance will be the Overture to The Merry Wives of Windsor by Otto Nicolai, including a selection from Verdi’s Aida.

“This year, the North Carolina Symphony performance falls on Father's Day,” explains Lee Nettles, Managing Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. “What a great way to celebrate the occasion. Resident Conductor William Henry Curry really engages his audience and presents personal anecdotes that make the program accessible and fun for music lovers of all ages and backgrounds. For us, this is one of those moments where locals and visitors come out for a common love of timeless music.”

As host venue, Roanoke Island Festival Park offers a premium acoustic and visual concert experience at their state-of-the-art Outdoor Pavilion. Bring a picnic and chairs or blankets and prepare for an incredible display on stage with the beautiful Roanoke Sound providing gorgeous backdrop.

Gates open at 6:00 p.m. with a pre-show starting at 7:00 p.m. featuring the Outer Banks Chorus directed by David Evans. Their program will include “The Way You Look Tonight,” “High Flight” and “All the Things You Are,” among others. The North Carolina Symphony will take the stage at 8:15 p.m. The new inclement weather location will be at First Flight High School in Kill Devil Hills. Go online at outerbanks.org for important weather updates the day of the performance, June 20, 2010.

Information provided by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.

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

2010-06-06T10:45:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-01T10:41:00.000-04:00

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/

Jack Garris Joins Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals

2010-05-24T11:30:00.000-04:00

Jack Garris Joins Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals

Sales Manager, Beth Urch announces the addition of Jack Garris to the sales team at Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals. Jack has 25 years of experience in real estate sales and management and holds both a Virginia and North Carolina license. Mr. Garris earned a BS in Business Administration from Old Dominion University and served in the United States Marine Corps. His real estate accreditations include ABR, ABRM, CRB, CREA, and GRI and Mr. Garris has also served on numerous committees for the Hampton Roads Realtors Association and the Outer Banks Association of Realtors. Jack specializes in residential and investment properties from Carova to South Nags Head and works from the Duck office of Beach Realty & Construction. Please contact Jack Garris at jack@beachrealtync.com or in the Duck Sales office at (252) 261-6600.

Summer Sweepstakes Photo Contest - Enter to Win a Private Photo Session with Lori Douglas!

2010-05-18T16:31:00.002-04:00

Submit your best Outer Banks “beach” photo to photos@beachrealtync.com. Winner will receive one hour private photo session and one 8x10 photo courtesy of Lori Douglas Photography, valued at $150. All entered photographs will be posted on Beach Realty NC’s social media pages and potentially used in Beach Realty’s 2011 Vacation Rental Guide. Winning photo will be selected by the Marketing Department and other staff members at Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rentals based on what we decide is the best representation of our beach. Scenic and family photos welcome.

Rules:
Limit to 1 photo entry per person.
Must be at least 18 years of age to enter.
Must plan to visit the Outer Banks in 2010.
Must be or become a fan of Beach Realty NC on Facebook.

Contest Begins Tuesday, May 18th, 2010 and ends on Tuesday, June 1st at 5:30pm.

Best of Luck!

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Blogspot. You understand that you are providing your information to Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals and not to Facebook or Blogspot. The information you provide will only be used for sending out monthly updates and specials from Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals. You may opt out at anytime.

Beach Realty Agent of the Month

2010-05-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

Bucky Harrison Agent of the Month

Beach Realty & Construction Sales Manager, Beth Urch is proud to announce that Bucky Harrison is named Agent of the Month for April. Bucky moved to the Outer Banks in 2005 from the Richmond area and joined the Beach Realty sales team in 2007. Bucky is a real estate professional dedicated to providing quality, ethical representation. He specializes in residential and investment properties from Corolla to Hatteras. Bucky enjoys all high school sports and spends his spare time at the loc Bucky Harrison can be reached in the Kitty Hawk office at (252) 261-3815 or via email at bucky@beachrealtync.com.

More about Bucky

Two Recognized Beach Realtors

2010-05-13T17:26:00.000-04:00

Joanne Kepler and Kristine Braunsdorf, associate brokers with Beach Realty and Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals, earned the nationally recognized Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification. The National Association of Realtor SER certification instructs agents on how to qualify and prepare sellers for the short sale process, how to communicate and negotiate with lenders, and outlines the options available to distressed homeowners.

Congratulations to both Joanne and Kristine!

Kayaking on the Outer Banks

2010-05-06T14:38:00.000-04:00

The Outer Banks is the perfect place for outdoor enthusists. Kayaking is just one of the many hobbies that locals and tourist from all of the world enjoy on the Outer Banks.

Kayaking on the Ocean may not always be the best idea for the novice kayaker due to strong winds, currents and waves, however there are days when the water is calm and flat for as far as the eye can see. For the adventure seeker, Kayaking in the Ocean can be the ultimate thrill as you can ride the waves as do surfers.

For the more relaxing kayaking experience, take a kayak out on the Sound. The Sound is typically always calm and you can glide in and out of marsh paths, explore untouched, uninhabited beaches & islands or you can even take a scenic kayak trip down to Roanoke Island.

There are plenty of rental companies that rent Kayaks by the day and some of our vacation homes come equipped with kayaks for you to enjoy on your vacation. Some companies like Kitty Hawk Kites offer scenic Kayak tours of the Outer Banks - this is something I highly recommend.

Held annually in September is an adventure race which includes, running, biking, kayaking and swimming for a total of 50 miles. So if you are up for the challenge, you may want to look into signing up for this extremely challenging race.

Here is a short clip of a Kayaker on the Ocean off the Outer Banks.

Enter to Win a Private Helicopter Tour of the Outer Banks for You and Two Friends!

2010-05-03T13:06:00.006-04:00

Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals is giving away a once in a lifetime experience! Enter to win one 30 minute private helicopter tour of the Outer Banks provided by Coastal Helicopters LLC., valued at $225. This is a private helicopter tour for you and two friends to experience the Outer Banks like never before! Contest begins on May 3, 2010 and ends on May 17th, 2010. Winner will be notified via email. Weight restrictions may apply.

Rules:
1. You must be at least 18 years of age to enter.
2. You must be planning to visit the Outer Banks anytime from May - December, 2010.
3. You must become or already be a fan Beach Realty NC on Facebook.

To Enter:
Enter your email address below and Sumbit.
Limit to one entry per person.
Winner will be notified via email. Winner will be chosen randomly.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Blogspot. You understand that you are providing your information to Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals and not to Facebook or Blogspot. The information you provide will only be used for sending out monthly updates and specials from Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals. You may opt out at anytime.

Mid County Currituck Bridge – Yay or Nay?

2010-05-01T10:08:00.000-04:00

The proposed mid county Currituck bridge is one of those things that you’re either very in favor of or extremely against. Personally, I can see both sides. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, allow me to extrapolate. According to the North Carolina Turnpike Authority, the mid county bridge is projected to span seven miles from Currituck County after the Coinjock Bridge in Aydlett and join Corolla either near the Southern end or mid-way through Whalehead Beach near Timbuck II. The project is expected to cost over $659 million which will be paid for by tax dollars and a hefty toll fee for visitors. The plan was to ease the strain on visitor entry and to eliminate the occurrence of major bottleneck during an evacuation.

No one is surprised that most Corolla business owners are in favor of the bridge a. because their guests will be shaving between an hour or five off of their trip depending on the time of year and b. because the area will experience a heavy increase in its year round population. Imagine: Corolla will now be a meager 30 - 45 minute drive from downtown Norfolk. Year round jobs will increase, government structure will grow and the beaches will be more crowded but the economy will be stronger 12 months out of the year.

On the other hand, Duck business owners will lose out on hundreds of thousands of drive by guests annually. The two lanes in Southern Shores and Duck have long been a sore spot for Corolla-bound guests but have brought the two towns revenues from gas, dining and retail dollars. With the proposed plan, Corolla guests will never have to leave Corolla.

I hate to see the Duck folks suffer but I do like the idea of seeing that traffic dwindle. The bridge is supposed to be open by 2014, just in time for Beach Realty / Kitty Hawk Rentals to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Duck business will make it just like they always have; with their niche image and small town atmosphere and Corolla will grow (hopefully not too much). The way I see it, change is always somewhat painful; but, after the initial move, everyone will adjust and life will go on.

Thanks Bikers for a Great Week, Come back soon!

2010-04-25T16:48:00.000-04:00

All of us Outer Bankers thank you, the Bikers, for making the 8th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week the most successful ever! I am going to miss the “thunder” of bikes passing non-stop by our office on the 158 bypass. I used to ride – on the back of a boyfriend’s bike. I know, to most of you that’s not riding at all, but it sure was fun.

The Outer Banks is a special location to bike as you have so many choices of places to go to actually “ride.” You can go from North to South on NC 12 from Corolla to Hatteras. You can go from the Currituck Mainland on Hwy 158 through Kitty Hawk to Nags Head and over to Manteo and Manns Harbor via Hwy 64. All of those rides include crossing over bridges with breathtaking views of ocean, sound, marsh, and marinas. If you happen to be on one of those bridges at sunrise or sunset – well – that’s a special bonus.
Yes, when you come here you can ride for miles and miles and not just be on a “busy commercial strip” rolling along in traffic, often with your feet on the ground. I am going to share some of the great rides you might want to take while exploring the Outer Banks.

The heart of the commercial area on the Outer Banks is the 17 mile area from Kitty Hawk to Nags Head, with the town of Kill Devil Hills nestled in the middle. There are 2 roads through this area: the five laned 158 bypass with a speed limit of 50 MPH and parallel to that a few blocks toward the ocean is Hwy 12, better known as the beach road. Hwy 12 is actually the original road before the bypass was built. The speed limit on the beach road is 35 MPH.

From this heart of the Outer Banks you can branch off in four different directions. First, if you go north on NC 12, you will ride from Kitty Hawk for 20 miles on a 2 lane road through Southern Shores, Duck, and Corolla to where the road ends at Carova Beach. That is where the 4 wheel drive area begins and you would find wild Spanish mustangs. I don’t think you can ride a motorcycle in that area though some may have tried. This ride from Kitty Hawk is a beautiful ride through live oaks and outer banks windswept bushes. The speed limit varies from 45 MPH to 35 MPH. The Village of Duck has a 25 MPH speed limit for a couple of miles. There are many S curves in the Corolla area that you must respect when biking. This is not a high traffic area and allows for an enjoyable journey. For that person on the back of your bike, there are quaint shops and restaurants all along the way.

The second expedition you might wish to take is the southern route on NC 12 from Nags Head to Hatteras. That is about a 60 mile trip on Hatteras Island through the Pea Island Wildlife Refuge, Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and the town of Hatteras. At the end of the road in Hatteras is the sound. You can take a ferry over to Ocracoke Island if you wish. The speed limit on Hatteras Island varies from 55 MPH through unpopulated areas to 35 MPH through the villages. The greatest thrill of this ride is over the Oregon Inlet Bridge which is a high span with a view of ocean, sound and a strip of island for miles and miles. Once you cross the bridge into the Pea Island Wildlife Refuge you will ride for miles through nothing but nature and get a feel for the real beauty of this Outer Banks landscape and wildlife.

The third excursion you would surely take is on 158 north across a bridge to the Currituck Mainland to farmland and wine country. There is also a large Harley Davidson franchise which has lots to do and see during bike week. The speed limit on 158 through Currituck is 55 MPH. By the way, that area is home to the famous Grave Digger Monster Trucks and they have a shop and diner there as well as truck rides. Highway 158 North takes you to Virginia.
Bike Week would not be complete without traveling from Nags Head on Hwy 64 over a bridge to Manteo and then crossing over the 5.5 mile bridge to Manns Harbor. At the foot of the bridge, turn left to Vertigo Tattoo. This is the birthplace of the Outer Banks Bike Week. There are bands, vendors, and bike acrobatics to be seen every day throughout the week. You might want to get your latest, greatest tattoo here. Say Hi to my daughter Gigi who is one of their tattoo artists. Highway 64 West takes you to Rocky Mount/Raleigh.
If you missed any of these side trips during your last visit to the Outer Banks – come back and see more of our area. We appreciate your visit and hope we can assist you with your vacation plans next April or anytime between now and then. Until then, ride hard and be safe!

Preserve Beach Access Cape Hatteras

2010-04-15T16:01:00.002-04:00

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area (CHNSRA) is 72 miles in length and includes Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. People from around the world travel to this recreational area for world class fishing, pristine beaches, surfing and other activities.

Access to America’s beaches is being threatened by misguided environmental groups who want to prohibit, or severely restrict, the right of people to continue the responsible use of this environment. Generations of people have a heritage of enjoying ocean activities, and sharing these with their children, in a way that has always promoted balance with nature. These traditions include fishing, swimming, surfing, bird watching, beach walking and other reasonable activities which are now at risk.

Serious attacks are now being made to severely limit and restrict beach access at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area (CHNSRA). These efforts have hurt the local economy of Dare County, North Carolina and disrupted a way of life for dedicated people with a proven history of caring for the environment.

You can make a difference. Discover on the website http://www.preservebeachaccess.org/ ways you can help Preserve Access to America’s Beaches.

The public comment period is now underway for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). This long awaited document will determine the future of beach access for the next 10 to 15 years. Because of its importance to our future, public participation is crucial. We need people across the country to make public comments and, if possible, attend public hearings.

Attached and listed below is a colorful ad about the need for public comments before the May 11th deadline. More information is available at http://www.preservebeachaccess.org/.

Top 10 Reasons to choose a Vacation Rental over a Hotel

2010-04-07T13:29:00.000-04:00

Vacation Rentals are becoming increasingly popular with vacationers world-wide. The benefits of choosing a vacation rental over a hotel are numerous but here is a list of our top ten reasons why you should choose a vacation rental over a hotel on your next vacation. If you like what you read, take the next step to planning your next vacation in a vacation rental on the Outer Banks with Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals! Visit us at http://www.beachrealtync.com/.

10. Privacy - A vacation rental provides you the privacy you seek. Unlike hotels with strangers in every hall and in rooms adjacent to yours, with a vacation rental the only people you'll run into are those you choose to bring along.

9. Spaciousness - Unlike cramped hotel rooms, vacation rentals most often have many rooms as well as a yard and sometimes a private pool for you to enjoy. The spaciousness of vacation rentals allows you to bring your entire family or group of friends along with you.

8. Peace & Quiet - Too often in hotels you can hear everything that goes on in the rooms near you and in the hall outside your door. If you are seeking peace & quiet from a vacation then a vacation rentals is the way to go.

7. Security - There is no need to hide your valuables everytime you leave the home (Just make sure you lock the doors behind you). No employees or maids will enter the home during your stay unless you request us.

6. Kitchen - Vacation Homes have fully equipped kitchens! This means that you do not have to spend all your money eating breakfast, lunch and dinner out. You can save money by buying groceries and have plenty of food to munch on during your week vacation.

5. Amenities - Many vacation homes are loaded with amenities such as; pool tables, video games, jacuzzi tubs, foosball, kayaks, beach chairs, bicycles, basketball, DVD & video libraries, books, fireplace, grills, foosball, air hockey, card table, dart board, and so much more, even private pools & hot tubs! Each vacation rental has its own unique amenities that are yours to use during your stay. It is rare that you find this many amenities in a hotel room.

4. Availability - The Outer Banks has some 80,000 vacation rentals for you to choose from while we only have a handful of hotels. So even if you are looking for a last minute trip or a long weekend stay, there is an excellent chance that there is a vacation rental that will suite your groups' needs.

3. Diversity - Unlike hotels where every room is basically the same, each and every vacation rental is unique in it's own way. We have homes with 2 to 10 bedrooms, Oceanfront to Soundfront (and everywhere in between), Pet-friendly, Handicap accesibility. It is highly likely that you will find a vacation home so perfect for your family/group that you will return to that home year after year!

2. Pet-friendly - In my experience it is extremely difficult to bring your dog on vacation to a hotel - even if the hotel allows dogs - I still feel bad knowing my dog will be cramped up in a small room with me for a week. Many vacation rentals allow you to bring your pets for a minimal fee so that you will never have to leave your pooch home.

1. Affordability - Vacation rentals are absolutely, no doubt about it, the best deal for your dollar. While each hotel room can normally only sleep 4 at most, our vacation rentals can sleep up to 22 in one home with no extra charge per person. Each vacation rental is priced differently, depending on size, amenities, location, etc. so even if you are on a small budget you can surely find a vacation rental with all of the above.

Here is an example breakdown:

You are a family of 5 and you want to bring your parents as well as two of your teenager's friends on vacation, making your group count 9. The typical hotel room, let's say, costs $200/night. Your parents want their own room and so does your teenager with his/her two friends as well as you and your significant other and the other two kids. That is 4 hotel rooms.

4 hotel rooms for 7 nights at $200/night = $5600.

Now let me show you an example of a vacation rental in that same price range:

Casa De Romance #2003

This Oceanfront, 4 Bedroom beauty is located in Southern Shores with a Private Pool, Hot Tub, Pool Table, Fireplace, Poker Table, Rec room, wireless internet and more! PLUS the rental rate is from $995 to $5095. So as you can see, with vacation rentals you get MUCH more for your dollar.

Spear Fishing On the Outer Banks, NC

2010-04-03T11:45:00.000-04:00

Spear fishing on the Outer Banks, NC

Equipment - Minimum investment needed and all the gear lasts for years. You will need a pair of swim fins (can be purchased at any surf shop, we recommend Whalebone Surf shop in Nags Head), a dive mask and snorkel which can be purchased at Wal-Mart or one of the many one-stop-shops on the Outer Banks, a net bag and a Hawaiian Sling which you will need to purchase at the Outer Banks Dive Center across form Jockeys Ridge.

Where – There are many optimal spots along the Outer Banks, NC for spear fishing. There is the exposed boiler across from the Ranger Station on Pea Island (this one is pretty secluded so you may need a Kayak to access), Kitty Hawk Pier, the Research Pier in Duck, the Second St. wreck in Kill Devil Hills and the wreck across from Ocean Boulevard in Kitty Hawk. Some of these spots are further out then others and may need a surfboard for access.

How – The process is simple, you simply attach the bag to a ten or twelve foot rope or leash and swim out to your desired fishing area. Once you are there, dive down with your spear drawn and stay as still as possible; when a larger fish gets close, hold out the spear as close to the fish as possible and release. Then, swim to the surface with the fish on the spear, remove and place in the bag. Dinner is served.

You can expect to shoot triggerfish, sheepshead, striped bass and occasionally a drum or even better a cobia. I have personally shot fish in the 30 lb range and can attest that the exhilaration of manually handling a fish that large in open water is an experience you will not likely forget. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call. If you do give spear fishing a shot, spread out your fishing in different areas so one does not get over fished. Most of all have fun and be safe!

Easter Activities on the Outer Banks

2010-03-29T16:36:00.000-04:00

Thousands of Eggs Hidden on The Outer Banks

Here are some fun Easter events for your children or grandchildren

Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, March 27, 2PM

Dare County Family Recreation Park, KDH, Sponsored by Dare County Parks & Recreation, Ages 2 to 10. Family fun activities include temporary tattoos, egg/spoon races, sack races, pictures with Easter Bunny, bean bag toss, ring toss, pin the tail on the bunny, sidewalk decorating and more! 1:30 PM to 4 PM. Three age groups: 0 to 3; 4 to 6; 7 to 10. Free.

Ray Turners 2nd Annual 94.5 WCMS Easter Egg Hunt, Friday, April 2, 12 Noon

Roanoke Island Festival Park Outdoor Pavilion. Two hunts will be offered for Kids 4 to 6 and also those 6 to12. Hundreds of eggs. Grounds open at 11 a.m. Free.
http://www.roanokeisland.com/

Easter Egg-stravaganza, Friday, April 2, 1 pm to 3 pm, Whalehead Club at Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla.

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; Jellybean Counting Contest; Snacks & Refreshments; Fabulous Prizes! Free. http://www.whaleheadclub.org/

Easter Eggstravaganza, Saturday, April 3, 10 AM to 2 PM, Elizabethan Gardens, Manteo.

This is a fun-filled morning of egg rolls, egg hunts, Magic Mike and crafts, as well as music and games. Children under 12 admitted free with paying adult or Friends member. http://www.elizabethangardens.org/

Easter Eggstravaganza, Saturday, April 3, 11 AM, Kitty Hawk Kites, Nags Head

The LARGEST Easter Egg Hunt on the Outer Banks! Several hunts beginning at 11 AM. Over 2,000 candy and toy-filled eggs are waiting to be collected. Fly Into Spring activities at Kitty Hawk Kites and Jockey's Ridge State Park - 10 AM to 2 PM. http://www.kittyhawk.com/ Free.

Sea Turtle Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 3, 10 to 11:30 AM, NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island.

Attention small "turtlers!" Join the Aquarium this spring to learn about one of our local endangered species, the sea turtle. Children will take part in a sea turtle program, come face to face with a loggerhead turtle, and make a craft to take home. The program will conclude with an actual egg hunt on the Aquarium grounds as children search for plastic eggs filled with treats! Event will be held rain or shine. Ages 4 to 7. Cost: $7; Limit 20. Preregistration required. (252) 473-3494 x 232. http://www.ncaquariums.com/

Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head

2010-03-26T09:47:00.002-04:00

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a wonderful place to visit on the Outer Banks. It is located at milepost 12 to 13 in Nags Head. It is made up of large dunes of shifting sand with little vegetation. It is the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States.

There is a marvelous story to this park being created by the State of North Carolina. In the early 1970’s, when I began visiting the Outer Banks, there were little jars with slits in the top as collection containers to “Save Our Dunes.” These could be seen at almost every local business. At that time, some of the dunes were actually being “sand mined” and carried away to be used as fill in other areas. There was a local jewelry maker named Carolista Fletcher Baum who persisted to save the dunes.

She began her campaign of collecting funds and lobbying legislators to protect this ridge of sand dunes. The state eventually purchased the ridge and created the State Park. The dunes are enjoyed by young and old alike.

Any time of year you can see kite flying and hang gliders on top of the ridge. At Christmas time there was a wonderful display of red and green lights up the kite string and outlining the kite. It was wonderful glowing against the starry night sky.

There is a museum at the entrance to Jockey’s Ridge which is free to the public. You can hike across the dunes and see the ocean and sound. In the early mornings, the wildlife tracks from foxes, deer, birds and an occasional snake are fun to identify in the sand before all the human tracks cover it up.

Any wildlife or plant life that you see on the ridge must not be disturbed or removed from the park. You may also see fulgurites on the dunes. They are hollow tubes that are formed when lighting strikes the sand. You may not remove any fulgurites from the ridge. There are samples of these in the museum.

Sunsets on the ridge are breathtaking. There are many free programs that are presented by Jockey’s Ridge State Park including the sunset watch and star gazing at night.

There are picnic tables to accommodate your lunch. There is a great sound side beach on the west side of the ridge. The water is very shallow and great for small children. Children love climbing the ridge and rolling down the soft hills in the sand. A wooden boardwalk provides handicapped accessibility with a great view at the end.

The dunes are constantly changing shape and migrating to the south. Every few years, the State of North Carolina has to have sand trucked from the south side of the ridge back over to the north side of the ridge. Recycled Christmas trees have been used on the south end of the dunes to delay this migration.

Each year that you come, you will see how the ridge has changed. Start your own photo collection from year to year to mark the migration of the dunes. You may wish to join the Friends of Jockey’s Ridge who preserve and support the park. As a member of the Friends group, you will receive discounts in the Gift Shop as well as a newsletter, The Dune Breeze.

Visit the Jockey’s Ridge State Park website at http://www.jockeysridgestatepark.com/info.html

OBX Pirate Half Marathon

2010-03-18T15:28:00.005-04:00

Get set for the OBX Flying Pirate Half Marathon!

Division: 2010 USATF NC Half Marathon Championship

When: Sunday April 18th

Start Time: 7:30 AM with a course time limit of 5 hours

NOTE: Mandatory wave start - placed by estimated finish time. 1st wave for elites and competitors

Entry Fees: $75 2/15/10 - 4/1/10
$80 EXPO 4/16 - 4/17/10

Course Profile: Varied terrain, coastal, scenic and walker-friendly. Former Outer Banks Marathon finishers have commented on the beauty of the first half of the marathon course.

The Flying Pirate Half Marathon, winding its way through the natural beauty that is North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is like no other. After finishing the Flying Pirate, you will have run one of the most beautiful parts of the East Coast. Begin your journey in historic Kitty Hawk, home to the birth of aviation. At mile 8 you’ll run along the base of the famous Wright Brothers Monument, marking the location of the first flight that took place on December 17, 1903. Around mile 10, you’ll enter the Nags Head Woods Nature Preserve. This lush maritime forest will amaze you with its understated beauty. At about mile 12, you’ll leave Nags Head Woods on a narrow trail with off-road conditions. For details, please visit the OBX Marathon website.

Whether you are a runner or a spectator, Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rentals has weekly and partial week accommodations. Email us or call 800-635-1559 and one of our friendly Vacation Specialists will assist you with your reservation.

Proceeds will benefit the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, Inc., a non-profit foundation on the Outer Banks of North Carolina devoted to help people on the Outer Banks in need. Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rentals supports the foundation and its missions are to assist citizens on the Outer Banks in crisis.

2010 Outer Banks Bike Week

2010-03-11T16:16:00.004-05:00

The 2010 Outer Banks Bike Week is set for April 18th - 25th, 2010! Get ready to rev up your motorcycle engine and make your way to the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks for a week filled of hog-lovin' fun. This year's 8th annual bike week is going to be bigger and better than ever before! Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals is a proud sponsor of the Outer Banks Bike Week and are excited to have many bikers vacation with us for the week.

Here is a video from the 2009 Outer Banks Bike Week Burn Out Competition in Manns Harbor

For more information visit: http://www.harleybay.com/custompage.asp?pg=bikeweek

Below is the schedule of events:

2010 Outer Banks Bike Week Schedule of Events

All week Rides & Events:

Pin Run- OBX H-D – Nags Head H-D – Bayside H-D

Run for the Ferry-Win a Vacation in the OBX for Bike Week 2011
(Pick up your "Ticket" at either OBX or Nags Head H-D)

Ride 2 Three-Win a $1000 Shopping Spree-announced April 25, 2010 (Do not have to be present to win.)

All events at Vertigo Tattoo:$10 at the gate.
Wall of Death at Vertigo Tattoo-shows every hour all week.

Sunday
Welcome Bikers!!
12 noon-8pm Vendors open at 5 locations
Vertigo Tattoo:
11am-4pm Super Bike Contest
5pm- Burnout Competition
4pm-9pm The Walker Brothers Band

Monday
10am-8pm Vendors
All Day-Lucky 12-$1 drafts!
9am-10am Registration-Guided Tour-Around the Sound
Vertigo Tattoo
11am-4pm Metric Bike Contest
5pm Burnout Competition
4pm-9pm The Walker Brothers Band
8pm-11pm Red Drum Taphouse Dreadnecks Band

Tuesday
10am-8pm Vendors
9:30am-10am Registration Guided Tour to Knotts Island-OBX H-D
The Pit- Live Music-$1 Tacos $3 Coronas and Margaritas
12pm-3pm Outer Banks H-D stage Ted Reiser Band
Vertigo Tattoo
11am-4pm Sportster Bike Contest
5pm Burnout Competition
4pm-9pm The Walker Brothers Band
7pm Lucky 12-Nat Hall Band-Rock & Blues

Wednesday
10am-8pm Vendors
9am-10am Guided Tour "Run for the Ferry" OBX H-D
12pm-3pm Ted Reiser Band-OBX H-D Stage
1pm-4:30pm Red Drum-Free Oyster Roast /Mojo Collins Blues Band
Vertigo Tattoo
3pm Hot Wing Contest
11am-4pm Custom Paint Contest
5pm Burnout Competition
11am-4pm Cory Daniel Band
4pm-9pm Triple Shot
7pm Lucky 12-Nat Hall Rock & Blues Band
8pm-11pm Red Drum-Frozen Head & The Squirrels Band
Offical Party Night at Mojo Café- Waves NC Concert Mojo Collins Blues Band

Thursday
10am-8pm Vendors
9am-10am Guided Bike Week "Pin Run"
12pm-4pm South Phantom Band-OBX H-D Stage
12pm-4pm Jolly Rogers Pig Pickin & DJ
2pm-4pm Registration Ladies ONLY Bike Show-OBX H-D
4pm-5pm Judging Ladies ONLY Bike Show-OBX H-D
Vertigo Tattoo
11am-4pm Big Twin Contest
5pm- Burnout Competition
11am-4pm Cory Daniel Band
4pm-9pm Triple Shot
8pm-11pm Red Drum-Dreadnecks Band
10pm Lucky 12 Tavern-DJ Bruce
Official Party at Port O’Call Restaurant 6pm-til?

Friday
10am-8pmVendors
9am-6pm H-D Demo Truck at Nags Head H-D
10am-Noon Poker Run Registration at Neon Moon Saloon/Jarvisburg
12pm-4pm Cory Daniels Band at OBX H-D Stage
11am-Til It's Gone- Kitty Hawk Baptist Church-Hamburgers-Sausage & Dogs
12pm-2pm Miss 2009 OBX Bike Week Signing-Shandi Lester
2pm-4pm Bike Show Registration at Nags Head H-D
3pm Tattoo Contest (Registration 12-2:30pm)
4pm-5pm Bike Show Judging at Nags Head H-D
Vertigo Tattoo
11am-4pm Vertigo Tattoo-Antique Motorcycle Contest
5pm Burnout Competition
4pm-9pm Triple Shot
7pm Lucky 12 Tavern-Ted Reiser Band
7pm Biker Worship at Kitty Hawk Baptist Church
8pm-11pm Red Drum-Frozen Head & The Squirrels Band
Official Party at Kelly’s Restaurant 6pm til?

Saturday
10am-8pmVendors
9am-11am Poker Run Registration at Nags Head H-D (Last bike back by 2:30pm)
9am-6pm H-D Demo Truck at Nags Head
2:30pm Best Beer Belly at OBX H-D Stage
3pm-4pm Miss OBX Bike Week Contest-OBX H-D Stage
11am-Til It's Gone- Kitty Hawk Baptist Church-BBQ
12pm-4pm Awaiting the Sun Band on the OBX H-D Stage
12pn-2pm Miss 2009 OBX Bike Week Poster Signing-Shandi Lester
12pm-4pm The Pit Pig Pickin and Live Music
Gravediggers Mud Bog Event
Vertigo Tattoo
11am-4pm Old School and Bobbers Contest
5pm Final Burnout Competition $250 Cash Prize
11am-4pm Cory Daniel Band
4pm-9pm Triple Shot
7pm Lucky 12 Tavern-Ted Reiser Band
8pm-11pm Red Drum-Dreadnecks Band
Official Party Host OBX Brewing Station 6p til ?

Sunday
10am-3pm Vendors
8am Service at OBX H-D
10am Service Kitty Hawk Baptist Church-Parking Lot
8am-12noon Official Farewell Breakfast at Jolly Rogers Restaurant
10am Service at Kitty Hawk Baptist Church
All Day-Treasure Coin Discounts- Find the Pirate to get the Booty at OBX H-D

Free things to do on the Outer Banks

2010-03-04T14:06:00.004-05:00

Listening to comments from children posted on Beach Realty’s “For the Kids” page makes me realize why I fell in love with the Outer Banks. I will share several that I recently received. These make you realize that the best things in life are FREE! On the Outer Banks, there are many FREE things to do to create memories that last a lifetime.

“I like to go ghost crab hunting at night!” Nicholas from New York

“Walking at night looking for crabs” Kailynn from Virginia

“Throw bread to the seagulls and have them all around us!” Keara from Virginia

“Build sandcastles, find seashells, go in the ocean, play with friends and family” Trinity from Pennsylvania

“Swim in the ocean, play in the sand, and play with my friends and family!!! :) Skylar from Pennsylvania

“Burying my sister's body (except her head) in the sand.” Stephie from Pennsylvania

“Watching Jellyfish!” Alexander (state unknown)

“Flying a kite” Gwendalyn from Florida

“Go boogie boarding with my family.” Emily from Virginia

“Boogie boarding, playing in the waves, tanning, reading a book, looking for dolphins, and taking pictures” Lauren from Virginia

Our beaches are free! You don’t have to buy a ticket to go the beach. Things to do at the beach are endless. As mentioned by the kids: watch wildlife in the ocean including fish, jellyfish, dolphins, pelicans, shorebirds and an occasional whale. Crabs, in the wash near the shore, hurry to hide in the sand after each wave. Build sandcastles. Don’t forget a special container for the shells and sea glass you will find along the shore. Sea glass is beautiful and may be found in many colors. Some folks have a “special talent” for finding sea glass, maybe you are one of those.
At night on the beach, crabs are fascinating to watch as they scurry around. The moon and stars are beautiful from the shore as the water glistens in the moonlight.

You may want to contact Nest-Network for Endangered Sea Turtles and volunteer to watch hatching sea turtles to assure that they are undisturbed. You may be lucky enough to watch them hatch and crawl to the ocean. www.nestonline.org

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a huge ridge of sand dunes that constantly move and change shape due to the blowing wind. They are a great place to climb and roll down. You can fly a kite! When you reach the top of the dunes and look east at the ocean and west at the sound, it is an awesome sight. I always feel like a pirate when I do that and wonder at how many might have stood on that ridge. Nags Head got its name from the Pirates who used to hang lanterns around a “Nag’s Head”, a nag being a horse. The lantern would appear to be a lighthouse and cause ships to be misled and wreck along the shore. If you visit the ridge in the early morning, you can see deer, fox and bird prints in the sand. Great fun! All of this if free. You can visit the Jockey’s Ridge Museum and participate in organized program such as the Sunset Viewing at no charge. Bring a picnic basket as there are picnic tables available. There is a wonderful sound side beach behind Jockey’s Ridge that is great for little kids who want to wade but are perhaps intimidated by the ocean. www.jockeysridgestatepark.com

Nags Head Woods has 5 miles of walking trails where you can observe nature. You must at least treat yourself to a car drive through the largest Maritime Forest on the East coast. It is hard to believe you are on the Outer Banks when you visit the forest. If you are a bird watcher, this is the place to go. There are guided tours that have a fee, but you may explore on your own with a map. www.nature.org

Travel across the causeway to Manteo and visit Marshes Light which is a lighthouse with a Fresnel lens. This is a restored lighthouse that looks like a small house and was originally located in the sound. Near this site, is the Maritime Museum, where you can watch boats being built or restored. You can also see the Elizabeth II, a ship like the Mayflower, across Shallowbag Bay. This ship was built in the Maritime Museum. The lighthouse and the Maritime Museum are free to the public, fun to visit, and very educational. The park in this area has a playground, picnic tables, and park grills. www.obxmaritime.org
http://www.outerbanks.org/attractions/historical_sites/roanoke_marshes_lighthouse.asp www.townofmanteo.com

Cross over Shallowbag Bay on the little bridge and visit Festival Park. This is where the Elizabeth II ship is located. There is a fee to visit the ship and Museum but ask about free events as they have many during the summer months. There are many free concerts and plays in the summer, many for children. You can also walk on the dock all around the park and view the marsh and wildlife. Kids love to search for shark’s teeth in the fossil pit that is located by the entrance to Festival Park. There is no charge for this activity. http://roanokeisland.com

If you are in Corolla, enjoy the NC Wildlife Museum, no admission fee and many free programs to sign up for. In Corolla Village you can visit the Wild Horse Museum which has children’s programs and teaches about Wild Mustangs that live here as descendants of shipwrecks. The museum is located in a historic one room schoolhouse. The Currituck Lighthouse is located in Corolla Village with a minimal fee to climb. Across from the lighthouse through the woods and into the sound is an estuarine walkway with great views of plants and animals.

http://www.ncwildlife.org/Education_Workshops/Outer_Banks_Center.htm

http://www.visitncne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&catid=123:attractions-in-north-carolina&id=148:Corolla-Wild-Horse-Museum-in-the-Corolla-School-House&Itemid=27

If you are a nature lover and history buff, the Outer Banks is the place to soak it up. Explore! Enjoy all these FREE family activities for memories that will last a lifetime.

Beachcombing on the Outer Banks

2010-02-25T10:46:00.005-05:00

Beachcombing is one of my favorite pastimes – especially during the winter months. You literally feel like you have the entire beach to yourself. Well, you and the multitude of shorebirds, who don’t seem to mind you’re there as they politely scurry of your way. The wind is blowing, your eyes are watering, the waves are crashing and you're bundled up like the kid on "A Christmas Story". You’re searching for the Holy Grail – a smoothly shaped, etched piece of sea glass, edges worn from time spent tumbling in the waves. The most common pieces you will find are green, white and brown – but sometimes you will encounter a prized piece of cobalt blue, purple or turquoise. My collection has a very special place, in one of my favorite glass vases – a trophy case of some sort. Sea glass isn’t the only thing you’ll find while enjoying a walk on the beach. Beautiful shells, in all shapes and sizes, are sitting in the tide line. Clam, scallop, oyster and whelk shells are commonly found along the shores of the Outer Banks. They too have a special vase waiting for them when I get them home. I also look for unusually shaped pieces of worn driftwood. They make great garden accents and whimsical wind chimes.

If you’re lucky enough to be here when Miss Mattie Midgett's Store is open, you’ve got to check it out. The Nags Head Guide writes “Built in 1914 on the soundside before being rolled to the seaside, this unpretentious and once-thriving store houses the celebrated beachcomber collection of Nellie Myrtle Pridgen, Miss Mattie’s daughter who was a self-appointed protector of her beloved Nags Head beaches. In support of Mattie’s store, the Nags Head Board of Commissioners passed a resolution in June 2003. The resolution declared, “The site, the store and the artifacts are an irreplaceable part of Nags Head history.” In 2005 Pridgen was awarded the first annual Nags Header award by the town. The award recognizes a person who has helped shape the image and direction of Nags Head. In the museum, visitors will step back into time viewing artifacts discovered by Pridgen during her years of daily sound to sea jaunts. The collection is essentially the way Nellie left it. Rare shells, beach glass, war paraphernalia, buttons, barnacles, driftwood, messages in bottles and more chronicle her life’s time and its relationship with the sea. The unusual, must-see collection houses a huge fulgurite (crystallized sand caused by lightning) that took days for Pridgen to extract - with the help of a bicycle pump. At the time of this writing, the building had not yet become a full-time museum, but they do conduct several open houses at various times throughout the year.”

See you on the beach!

Submitted by Dana Breashears, Kitty Hawk Rentals Internet Customer Care

Surfing on the Outer Banks

2010-02-18T17:17:00.003-05:00

The Outer Banks of North Carolina were destined to become a Mecca for east coast surfers. The nearby continental shelf, changing sandy sea floor, and strong winds have and will forever continue to provide some of the most appealing surfing conditions from Miami to New York. The continental shelf lying directly east of The Outer Banks is among the most drastic on the Eastern Seaboard. What this means for surfers or better yet waves is that the swells are less inhibited before reaching land. This translates into larger waves and more of them alternatively leaving areas such as Florida and Virginia where the continental shelf is much more gradual and less defined prone to weak and infrequent swells. The power and quality of waves on the Outer Banks often stack up equally to almost anywhere in the world. Recently, a local blew minds with his natural approach to tube riding (maintaining control while inside of the breaking wave) by plowing through an international pool of world renowned surfers and into the semi-finals at a professional surfing event at Pipeline, Hawaii; the most revered wave in the world. The waves were in the 20 foot range and our local charger showed no fear. Surfing has shaped the culture on the Outer Banks for years and shows no sign of slowing. The laid back atmosphere and respect for nature often associated with surfers has translated into our daily lives and is one of the main reasons the Outer Banks flourished in the 1960s and 70s culminating in what it has become today. Who knows? Without surfing and the waves delivered my mother nature our businesses, schools, artists and musicians and churches may not be what they are today. Next time you’re visiting the beach whether a local or tourist, consider picking up a board and giving surfing a try. Believe me, you only need on wave to understand that Only a Surfer Knows the Feeling. Stay up to date with Outer Banks surfing by connecting with http://www.mattluskphotography.com/ or http://www.surfkdh.com/.

Boy Scouts parade in downtown Raleigh

2010-02-11T14:23:00.006-05:00

On February 8, one hundred (100) Boy Scouts from across North Carolina led a parade in downtown Raleigh to the State Capitol; where they met with Governor Beverly Perdue and presented the annual Report to the Governor from the Boy Scouts of America.

This year’s report carries special significance because February 8 is the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America. One Scout from each of the state’s 100 counties attended to represent their home county to celebrate its 100th Anniversary by pledging 100,000 hours of community service to worthy projects.

Frank Stick Memorial Art Show

2010-02-07T12:53:00.005-05:00

The Frank Stick Memorial Art Show is at Glen Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery in Nags Head through February 26th. There is some really fascinating artwork there which includes pottery, jewelry, and paintings. It is great to see wonderful creations of people you actually know.

Frank Stick was a famed outdoor painter who came to the Outer Banks on a fishing trip and couldn’t leave. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge which is the wonderful undeveloped area you drive through for a little over 10 miles after you get off the Oregon Inlet Bridge onto Hatteras Island. Thank goodness there are folks who have the forethought to keep some things natural forever. I guess we have to thank artists for that in a way. Many times it is what they have created that gives us the opportunity to see how things used to look.

I am particularly proud that my daughter, Gigi Wescott, is in this art show. Her painting is of an island girl which is acrylic on canvas. She loved to draw from the time she was 3 years old, on the walls down our hallway. She took so much time to create her drawings in high school that she actually flunked Art 2 as she could never finish her projects on time even though I saw the hours she spent on them. Her art teacher, Mrs. York, was a great mentor to Gigi.

After high school, Gigi became a tattoo artist and has been very successful at Vertigo Tattoo. March 2nd will be her 4th year anniversary as a tattoo artist. She is now also beginning to enjoy painting. She says of herself that she is “a tattoo artist by day and a painter by night.” Here is her untitled painting that is in the show. She selected this one as she said she had spent more time on it and put more detail into it than some of her others.

Thanks to all the artists for making us ooh and aah! Thanks especially to my daughter for making mama so proud.

HomeAway Super Bowl Commercial

2010-02-02T11:42:00.004-05:00

HomeAway.com is launching their 2010 marketing campaign with a Super Bowl Commercial which will reunite the cast of the "National Lampoon's Vacation" comedy series, The Griswolds!!! HomeAway is a leading website in vacation rental marketing; owning popular vacation rental websites such as VRBO.com, VacationRentals.com, GreatRentals.com, Cyberrentals.com, A1Vacations.com and many more. This campaign will hopefully bring much needed attention to the vacation rental industry world-wide. As it is now, statistics show that only 10% of people who vacation have ever considered a vacation rental as an accomoation option. We hope and expect this percentage to rise within the next year with help from HomeAway and their appealing 2010 marketing campaign!

See more information regarding the reunion of the Griswolds & the HomeAway SuperBowl Commercial here.

Outer Banks Taste of the Beach - March 11 - 14th, 2010

2010-01-28T08:58:00.005-05:00

Mark your calendars for the Outer Banks Taste of the Beach Weekend! This year's event will take place from March 11 -14. It's a great way to sample outstanding cuisine prepared by more than 20 local restuarants. Tickets are currently available for events inluding brew tours, music crawls, wine tastings, tapas crawls, cooking classes, dine arounds and desert dive-ins. Coastal Living names OBX Taste of the Beach as one of the Top 10 Seafood & Wine Festivals in the USA! Don't miss it!

Need a place to stay? We have vacation homes available for 3 nights. Check them out! Please call 800-635-1559.

10 Years of Excellent Service - Thank You Cheri!

2010-01-21T16:33:00.004-05:00

Businesses often attribute their success to the loyalty of their employees. At Beach Realty & Construction / Kitty Hawk Rentals, this couldn’t be truer. Last week we had the pleasure of celebrating yet another tenth anniversary with one of our loyal employees.

Cheri Ward, like many, migrated to the Outer Banks by way of Tulare, Ca, Newport News, Va. and Edenton, NC. A consummate beach lover, Cheri spends her free time searching the beach for sea glass with her granddaughters, weekending on Ocracoke Island and enjoying all things outdoors near her home in Colington Harbor. Cheri has been a top producing vacation specialist since her early days with Kitty Hawk Rentals and has always had a positive attitude with an air for leadership. With rental dollars in excess of $9,000,000 over the past ten years, Cheri has played an integral part in the growing success of Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals.

“Cheri is constantly going above and beyond the daily expectations of both owner and guest relations. She is a true asset to Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals.”

-Kitty Hawk Rentals General Manager, Cynthia Owens

Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals has been a leader in the Outer Banks Real Estate and Vacation Rental Industry since 1964. Still a family owned and operated business, Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals assists owners, renters and those looking to relocate whether building or buying with a superior knowledge of the Outer Banks Real Estate Market. After all, with an aggregate total of over 300 years of Outer Banks Real Estate, Vacation Rentals and Custom Homebuilding experience our team of management and loyal employees goes above and beyond in all aspects of the Real Estate and Vacation Rental Industry on the Outer Banks.

The Famous "Nights In Rodanthe" House Moved to a New Spot

2010-01-19T14:00:00.010-05:00

The home "Serendipity" made famous by the 2008 movie "Nights In Rodanthe" was successfully moved to a new location yesterday. This home has persevered through many storms and high tides where the home was literally standing on water. The new location is about a mile south of the original location, which will help protect this famous home.

Check out these videos of the move.

http://hamptonroads.tv/hrtv.php?id=9318303

Watch the entire move here:

Getting Married on the Outer Banks?

2010-01-14T14:09:00.007-05:00

We had a wonderful time last weekend meeting all of the lovely brides, grooms and their families during the Outer Banks Wedding Tour on 1/9/10. We were very proud to show off our amazing home "Gertrude's Breakaway" as well as some other close by as a potential Wedding Venues for a perfect Outer Banks Wedding. We hope that all of the attendees of the tour had a fabulous time and we are happy to help in any accommodation planning for not only the wedding and reception but also for accommodations for all of your out of town guests.

If you were unable to attend the Wedding Expo or Tour and are getting married on the Outer Banks then please call us today as we still have many Event Homes available for Prime Weeks! 800.635.1559 or events@beachrealtync.com

If you are still undecided on where or when to have your destination wedding, call us today and we'll send you information on our area, our event homes, best months to get married on the Outer Banks and our 2010 Vacation Guide - as well as a free gift!

800.635.1559

Below are some pictures of our home "Gertrude's Breakaway" all decked out for the event. Enjoy!

Special Thanks to:

Gertrude's Breakaway

Red Sky Cafe

Bells & Whistles

Ocean Atlantic Rentals

Coastal Provisions

Outer Banks Wedding Association

Outer Banks Wedding Association Tour - Saturday January 9th

2010-01-04T09:59:00.007-05:00

This weekend lucky brides from across the country will congregate at the 2010 Outer Banks Wedding Association's Expo and Tour to plot and plan their 2010 Outer Banks Wedding. For more information on this event and to purchase tickets please visit http://www.outerbanksweddingassoc.org/.

Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals is proud to open the doors to "Gertrude's Breakaway" during the tour from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, January 9th, 2010. This amazing event home is conveniently located Oceanside in Corolla - Ocean Sands Section A - only 45 yards to the Beach. The home will be decorated as if a wedding were taking place with flowers and a large tent. There will be foods for you to sample from featured restaurants such as Red Sky and Coastal Provisions Market.

This home is the perfect venue for your 2010 Outer Banks Wedding! Please don't miss this opportunity to see "Gertrude's Breakaway" decorated for a wedding.

This weekend only! Saturday, January 9th, 2010 from 10AM to 4PM

More information on "Gertrude's Breakaway"

Address: 506 Ocean Way Corolla, NC 27927 - See Birds Eye View

Directions

-Head North on HW 12

-Pass through the Town of Duck

-Pass the Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals Office on your left.

-Continue 7 miles

-Turn Right on Ocean Way

-Home is on the right, 506 Ocean Way

The Whalehead Club Events for 2010

2009-12-28T14:12:00.006-05:00

The Whalehead Club Events for 2010

Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla, NC

January 12 - Tuesday at 9:30am

Currituck Heritage Park Winter Educational Series

Corolla in Retrospect - Surviving Here.

Location: The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education

Experience life in the past from a panel of local experts. Come prepared to participate! This second in a series of three is 'Surviving Here'. Learn about storm stories, passing the time and seasonal skills. Refreshments served. No cost to attend. Donations welcome. Reservations Required. Please call 252-453-9040 ext 3.

February 9 - Tuesday at 9:30 am

Currituck Heritage Park Winter Educational Series

Corolla in Retrospect - Getting Here.

Location: The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education

Experience life in the past from a panel of local experts. Come prepared to participate! This second in a series of three is 'Getting Here'. Learn about boats, carts and automobiles. Refreshments served. No cost to attend. Donations welcome. Reservations Required. Please call 252-453-9040 ext 3.

March 20 - Saturday from 4pm to 9pm

Corolla Island Epicurean Evening at Piney Island Hunt Club

An intimate evening inside the private working hunt club at Piney Island in Coinjock, NC. Experience the sporting heritage of Currituck County with a traditional five-course hunt club dinner reminiscent of the 1920s waterfowl hunting era. There will be an auction of rare and unique treasures as a fundraiser for the ongoing preservation of the Whalehead Club. Call 252-453-9040 ext. 3 for more details.

April 2 - Friday from 1pm to 3pm

Easter EGG-stravaganza

Join the Easter Bunny and the Currituck Duck for a traditional egg hunt in Currituck Heritage Pare. 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.

April 17 - Saturday from 10am to 4pm

Coastal Antique Appraisal Fair

Location: The Currituck Cooperative Extension Building in Barco

Find out the estimated value of your antiques from professional appraisers. Shop for collectibles from local dealers. Learn some tricks to keeping your treasures beautiful at the educational workshops. Silent auction and refreshments too!

Sponsored by the Outer Banks History Center Associates , NC Cooperative Extension, Currituck Center and the Whalehead Preservation Trust. Admission is free. Appraisal fee: $10 per item or 3 items for $25.

May 9 - Sunday from 1pm to 4pm

Fun Fly Festival

Watch and learn how to fly all kinds of kites sponsored by Flying Smiles Kites! Treat Mom and the whole family to a fun afternoon in the park capturing the imagination and harnessing the power of Mother Nature! Children enjoy making paper kites to keep or bring your own to play with. Admission and Parking are free.

June 23 & 24 - Wednesday from 10am to 6pm/ Thursday from 10am to 5pm

9th Annual "Under the Oaks" Arts Festival

Enjoy this outdoor art show on the waterfront grounds of Currituck Heritage Park. This show features the unique talents of over 100 quality artists with a wide variety of media plus musical entertainment, local food concessions, an art auction, and children's activities. Admission is free! $5 parking donation requested.

July 4 - Sunday from 6pm to 11pm

18th Annual Independence Day Festival of Fireworks

Fireworks begin at dusk but arrive early to enjoy food, fun activities, fabulous music and find a place for your blankets and chairs to settle in for the best fireworks on the Outer Banks! Sponsored by the Currituck County Department of Travel and Tourism. Admission and parking are free!

July and August - every Thursday evening from 6:30 pm to sunset

Summer Concert Series on the South Lawn

Relax on the south lawn at Currituck Heritage Park and enjoy local musicians performing on the historic Whalehead Club front porch. Bring a beach chair or blanket and watch the sun set over the Currituck Sound while supporting the musical arts! No alcohol permitted to be brought into the park. Wine and snack concessions available. Leashed pets welcome. Admission & parking are free.

July, August and September - every Wednesday from 3 pm to 7 pm

Whalehead Club Wednesday Wine Festivals

Enjoy a Wednesday afternoon of wine tasting and entertainment under the tents of the north lawn of the Whalehead Club. With your $20 admission adults can sample wines from North Carolina and around the world; keep your souvenir glass; listen to popular local musical artists perform on the stage; sample food from local vendors. Children are also welcome at no charge. Bring your pets on a leash. Parking is free.

July 6th, 7th & 8th - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Wild Horse Days at Currituck Heritage Park

Come celebrate with the Corolla Wild Horse Fund the presence and significance of the wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs living on the Currituck Outer Banks for nearly 500 years. There will be food, music, games and crafts! Meet a gentles mustang, enjoy carriage rides and try a mini riding lesson too. Call 252-453-8002 for more information.

November 26 - Friday from 9am to 5pm

Black Friday Porch Sale

The Black Friday Porch Sale is the place to buy all your holiday presents! Select unique gifts with the message of preserving the heritage of the Outer Banks. The Whalehead Club's Copper Collection is discounted only once a year & this is it! Enjoy apple cider and home-baked treats while you shop. Plus you can be the first to see this holiday season's decorations in the Whalehead Club inspired by Mr. Knight's etchings from the 1920's. Come away feeling festive not frazzled this Black Friday! Admission & Parking are free.

December 11 - Saturday from 3pm to 6pm

4th Annual Park Illumination Celebration & Holiday Tour

Gather on the north lawn to enjoy free hot chocolate and sing carols while the giant cedar tree in Currituck Heritage Park and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse are simultaneously illuminated. The Whalehead Club will open for the holiday tours to show off the house museum festively decorated as in the 1920's. Admission & Parking are free.

Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals Christmas Party

2009-12-20T11:08:00.007-05:00

After another successful year at Beach Realty & Construction - Kitty Hawk Rentals we all celebrated at our annual Christmas party. The food was fantastic as well as the venue - thanks Steve! It was an excellent party - we all enjoyed ourselves very much. Here are some photos of those who attended and highlights of the night! Enjoy!

Outer Banks Communities with Indoor Pools

2009-12-07T12:54:00.009-05:00

If you are considering traveling to the Outer Banks for the Holidays or any off season month, you may want to stay in a community offering an indoor pool. Indoor pools are open year round - giving you the opportunity to enjoy the water even in the Outer Banks' coldest months. The Outer Banks has so much to offer in the off-season, from events such as the Outer Banks Wedding Associations' Wedding Expo in January, the "Taste of the Beach" in March or the Kelly's Annual St. Patricks Day Parade.

So pack the bags (remember the bathing suit) and jump in the car to head to the Outer Banks for an off season Outer Banks vacation.

Below are some Outer Banks communities that offer year-round indoor community pools:

Four Seasons in Duck

Four Seasons is the desired address in Duck. This sidewalk community features soundside pier and park, indoor pool, fitness center, clubhouse, lighted tennis, children's play area, volleyball courts and, of course, trolley service. As the name inplies, it's a great place to be no matter what the season!

Click here for a list of vacation homes in Four Seasons

Schooner Ridge in Duck

Schooner Ridge lies in the heart of the Village of Duck. It is located within walking distance to many of the wonderful Duck shoppes and offers a complete amenity package. Schooner Ridge has multiple swimming pools (one is indoor), hot tub, indoor recreation center with an exercise room, raquetball and tennis courts.

Click here for a list of vacation homes in Schooner Ridge

Duck Landing in Duck

Take a dip in the indoor heated pool (also heated kid's pool) anytime of the year! That is one of the many options to spend your time at Duck Landing. It offers weight/exercise rooms, tennis courts and a game room, all at the Oceanside clubhouse. The town of Duck is an easy walk, job or bike away.

Click here for a list of vacation homes in Duck Landing

Corolla Light in Corolla

This ocean to sound community features a plethora of indoor and outdoor resort amenities for the entire family. Enjoy oceanfront comforts like restaurants, a clubhouse, pools, a gazebo, a playground and more. Some of the soundside amenities include: a picnic area, two pools, a baby pool, a pier and more. The sports center has indoor rqcquetball, indoor pool, hot tub and an array of fitness equipment. The Corolla Light Trolley provides transportation to the many amenities and the beach.

Click here for a list of vacation homes in Corolla Light

Hunting, Fishing, Golfing, Boating Paradise Vacation

2009-12-07T10:13:00.008-05:00

Kitty Hawk Rentals is proud to add "Southern Comfort" to our inventory for the 2010 season. Southern Comfort is a hunters, fisherman's and boating enthusiasts paradise. It is located on the Mainland in Currituck County - situated on a peninsula surrounded by water and marsh. If you are the type that likes to get away from it all but still have access to common luxuries such as restaurants and shops then you may want to consider "Southern Comfort" #9999 for your next Outer Banks Vacation.

#9999 Southern Comfort

Providing unparalleled water views from every room in the house, Southern Comfort is Soundfront on the mainland in Currituck County, just minutes away from the Outer Banks! With more than 200 feet of frontage on the sound, the vistas from this home have been called “the best views in Currituck County!

Located on its own private peninsula, Southern Comfort feels like your very own family compound or bed and breakfast. Easy access to all the Outer Banks has to offer via the Wright Memorial Bridge is just minutes away. The home provides an on site boat launch area and brand new large, private platform dock for your boat and other water toys! Canoes and kayaks are also available for your pleasure. Enjoy the harbor and tributaries throughout the sound where wildlife and nature abound!

Southern Comfort was originally built in the 1920's and was known as the G.C.Sawyer Hunting and Fishing Lodge. It has been lovingly restored into a 4 bedroom, 4 bath retreat that could be featured in Country Living! Original details like hardwood floors and beaded board walls are still intact, yet blend seamlessly with the updated kitchen and bathroom areas. If you are a history buff, this is the place for you! In addition, there are 2 family living areas as well as a dining room, study, and an unbelievable screened in porch! To top it off, outdoor spaces are plentiful with 5 decks including a private one off of your master suite! Your private swimming pool is ready for a brisk swim . . . or perhaps you would prefer the hot tub to soak your tired muscles after your day of play and fun.Oh, and don't worry about having to come across the bridge to get your house keys! you will beat the traffic by being provided with an access code prior to arrival for your 4pm entry into Southern Comfort.

Enjoy golf? You are minutes away from several championship golf courses - The Pointe, The Carolina Club, Kilmarlic and Goose Creek. What about hunting and fishing? The Currituck mainland has a long and storied history of hunting and fishing in which this home was featured prominently! NC state licenses are required.

Enjoy the beach? No problem! With the bridge a short ride away, you are convenient to the beach, awared winning restaurants, shopping and more!!

Southern Comfort has it all - the peacefulness and tranquility of your own private retreat yet still close to everything! You will never want to leave!

This home is located on the Mainland in Currituck County, approximately 5 miles from the Wright Memorial Bridge to the Outer Banks.

Click here to reserve "Southern Comfort" for a week in 2010!

Visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/

A Kitchen Makes Vacation Rental Hospitality Even More Enjoyable

2009-11-22T10:27:00.003-05:00

The Benefits of a Vacation Home-Cooked Meal
Traveling doesn't have to mean ruining dedicated diets or budgets
Budgeting for food expenditures during travel to any destination can be almost as difficult as forecasting the week's weather. When staying at a traditional hotel, the challenge is multiplied as travelers face the added expense of dining out for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While the majority of quality hotels do not offer full kitchens, professionally managed vacation rentals allow guests to enjoy their favorite (and often healthier) meals and snacks, as each property provides a full kitchen stocked with clean utensils, pots, pans, plates and ample cabinet/refrigerator space for food storage. "For my family, including grandkids, the best part of staying in a vacation rental was having breakfast in our jammies," explains Kathy Ogden, a traveler from Clovis, Calif., who stayed with Monterey Bay Property Management. "We loved the freedom to have meals at our leisure and have home-cooked meals instead of dining out."Often costing less than a single hotel room, vacation rentals afford travelers an accommodations lifestyle unlike any other, providing considerably more space (both for living and dining), amenities, guest services and privacy than other, more traditional lodging options. For answers to common questions, along with additional tips and tools for choosing a rental that fits travelers' needs and budgets, visit Discover Vacation Homes.

Dining on a Dime

The average daily cost for lunch at a full-service restaurant for a family of four is approximately $40.00; dinner prices can jump as much as $6/person totaling $64/day. As the majority of traditional hotels do not offer in-room kitchens or adequate amounts of pantry space, many families are forced to dine out for all three meals per day. Access to a full kitchen adds up to major savings throughout trips of any duration - For example, enjoying cereal for breakfast or sandwiches for lunch, rather than a full-scale restaurant meal, can save enough for additional activities, a nice night out, or more!

Sticking to a Healthy Living Meal Plan

While on vacation, travelers can easily consume more than 4,000 calories a day, translating into an average 5-pound weight gain for a one-week trip. With an in-home kitchen, vacation rental guests are no longer slaves to fast food or other high fat dining options, but are now back in control of their personal menu, allowing them to cook their food, shop for healthy snacks and accurately monitor their caloric intake. A Chef Just for YouSome professional vacation rental management companiesoffer personal chef services, catering to travelers whose idea of a vacation may be far away from the kitchen. During their stay, trained chefs are available to prepare a romantic dinner for two or an entire family. Chefs may even cook up to one week's meals in advance, ready in the refrigerator or freezer upon guests' arrivals. All entrees are customized for guests' nutritional goals or restrictions.

About Discover Vacation Homes

Discover Vacation Homes is the trusted public voice and an expert resource on behalf of the professionally managed vacation rental industry. As the awareness initiative of the long-standing Vacation Rental Managers Association (VRMA), it represents approximately 150,000 rental homes, condos and villas from more than 500 of the most well established vacation rental management companies in North America and the Caribbean. Often costing less than a single hotel room, vacation rentals afford travelers an accommodations lifestyle unlike any other, providing considerably more space, amenities, guest services, and privacy than other lodging options.

Sincerely,
VRMA Public Relations Committee

Outer Banks Wedding Association's Expo and Tour

2009-11-19T14:52:00.003-05:00

Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rentals is a proud member of the Outer Banks Wedding Association.

The Outer Banks Wedding Association is hosting its 12 annual Wedding Expo on January 9 & 10th, 2010. We are very excited about participating in the Wedding Tour on Saturday, January 10th! Our featured home will be "Gertrude's Breakaway" #7974. This home is truly amazing! So if you are getting married on the Outer Banks in 2010 or anytime in the future you should really consider attending this event.

We have a new webpage devoted to Outer Banks Weddings!

More information on the event from the Outer Banks Wedding Association Website:

Starting Friday, our welcome centers will be open for your check-in, where you'll receive your packets including maps and info for Saturday's Wedding Tour. You can start that night by taking advantage of the great special offers our members have for you, discounts on dining and lodging so you can preview locations for rehearsal dinners, guests accommodations, catering menus, and more! Saturday morning start your tour of our outstanding venues from luxurious oceanfront event homes to historic sites, then break for lunch and sample something from one (or more) of our incredible restaurants and caterers. Along the way you'll have a chance to visit with many of our members who open their doors and welcome you into their business for the day.
That evening the party gets going at The Pointe Golf Club where you'll find a reception in progress, our chance for you to hear some of our finest musicians and sample fabulous foods while you get to meet and ask questions of many of our members.
And while you are sleeping in on Sunday morning we'll be putting the final touches on our booths and displays. When you're at the Expo you'll see our fabulous fashion show and be able to register for our 'Wedding of your Dreams' drawing to be given away that very afternoon!
For more info click on any of the links above then register to attend the Wedding Weekend or just our Expo. And if you register before December 12th you'll be eligible to win one of our two FREE Lodging packages for the Wedding Weekend. Come see why we say we are "Hours Away, But Worlds Apart..."
You Could Win An Outer Banks Wedding of Your Dreams!Each year, we give away an Outer Banks Wedding of Your Dreams, an incredible Outer Banks wedding package donated by our members and awarded at the Expo! You must be present to register and win.

November Nor'easter 2009 Outer Banks

2009-11-15T12:49:00.006-05:00

The Sunny Skies are finally out after 3 days of harsh winds, waves and rain. The November Nor'easter lingered around for several days producing severe flooding in some areas of the Outer Banks. A few homes in South Nags Head were lost into the ocean as result of the storm and many more homes across the island suffered flood and wind damage. Many roads were impassable over the last few days making it seemingly impossible to get anywhere. Thankfully the rain has stopped and the sun has come out, hopefully to dry up all the rain. Here are some photos of the November Nor'easter.

Kitty Hawk/Kill Devil Hills:

South Nags Head:
South Nags Head:
South Nags Head:

South Nags Head:
South Nags Head
Kitty Hawk Pier:
To see more photos of the Southern Beaches check out:
http://islandfreepress.org/2009Archives/11.13.2009-NightFallsOnIslandsBatteredByTheOceanAndSound2/index.html

Outer Banks Marathon

2009-11-09T16:35:00.010-05:00

The 2009 Outer Banks Marathon was officially a hit with beautiful blue skies and great temperatures, not too hot - not too cold, not to mention the thousands of runners who ran their hearts out! Congratulations to everyone who participated and/or volunteered!

Kitty Hawk Rentals Guests are FAST!!!

We would like to congratulate and recognize all of our guests who participated in the event!

Matt Marchese qualified for Boston with a time of 2:53:27 and a 12th place overall finish!

Shawn Ngheim finished in 4:02

Ed Paraiso finished in 4:15

Henning Kramer age 30 finished in 1:32:58

Half Marathon: Jason Smith Finish Time: 2:08:44

Full Marathon: Amy Mercer Finish Time: 4:26:32

Nicole Hastings: 4:20.17 Full marathon

Tracey Gordon: 3:19. half Marathon

Liz Henderson 2:17. Half Marathon

Cathy Rege 2:34 Half Marathon

Jeannette Gassie 6:15 full marathon

Ellen Womack 6:15

Jim Leavis 1:50:20

Cindy Hilliard 1:53:42

Malin Thorin 1:58:43

Karen Leavis 1:58:44

Maggie Kerrigan 2:04:12

Evan Johnson: 5 hrs 2 min

Andy Shepard 3:50

Nestor Pineda 3:34

Looking for the Perfect Gift for the Holidays?

2009-11-05T13:53:00.006-05:00

Why not give the best gift of all - A Vacation to the Outer Banks!

Do you know someone that is truly in need of a vacation? A Kitty Hawk Rentals Gift Certificate may be the best, and most needed, gift your loved ones have ever received. Too often these days, people work year-round, 40-50 hours a week without treating themselves to a vacation. This is not good for the human spirit! Many times this is not due to lack of vacation time or lack of money to splurge on a vacation, most often it is due to lack of incentive to book a trip!!! Maybe all that your loved ones need is a little incentive to make it happen! This is why Kitty Hawk Rentals is inviting you to purchase a gift certificate so that your loved ones can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience on the Outer Banks in 2010!

Kitty Hawk Rentals provides luxury homes in great locations that are sure to lift your spirits and allow you to truly understand the meaning of vacation! So if you have grandparents that could use some R&R or parents that work too hard and never pamper themselves or if you want to get the whole family together by giving everyone a little towards a vacation, Now is the time to do it!!! Call Kitty Hawk Rentals today to get your holiday shopping out of the way, 1-800-635-1559.

Feel confident knowing that your gift will provide a lifetime of memories!

Let’s go sailing!

2009-10-29T13:24:00.006-04:00

The Albemarle Sound, located between the Outer Banks and the mainland, offers wonderful sailing grounds. Often times you will spot dolphin frolicking in the waves (they love to hear Jimmy Buffett tunes). If you have your own boat, you can launch it at one of the public boat ramps located on the Outer Banks. If you don’t have a boat, but want to include sailing in your itinerary, there are numerous sailing opportunities to take advantage of.

The 55-foot topsail schooner Downeast Rover departs from downtown Manteo and sails the Roanoke Sound. They sail three times a day for two-hour trips and offer additional private charters as well for weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties and family reunions.

For a more intimate cruise, try the beautiful Tartan Offshore Cruising Ketch Pomaika'i. Three cruising options offer great ways to enjoy the fun and adventure of Pomaika’i. 4 Hour Morning Cruise - Late day/Sunset Cruise - Custom Cruise

Want to learn how to sail? The Outer Banks Sailing Academy offers adult and youth classes. The program features 9 Optimist prams and 4 Vanguard 420 dinghies that are on the water 5 days a week in morning and afternoon seminars. Students participating in the 420, and Opti Racer seminars will be invited to participate in the Outer Banks Sailing Academy—Roanoke Island Maritime Museum annual Small Boat Regatta.

We hope you enjoy your next visit to the Outer Banks and hope to see you on the water – GO SAILING!

Whale Sighting in Kitty Hawk

2009-10-19T14:15:00.005-04:00

A Whale of a Time in Kitty Hawk!

It is a rare sight to see two whales splashing around just off the shore south of the Kitty Hawk Pier in Kitty Hawk, NC. Local residents having lived in Kitty Hawk for 30 plus years claim that they have never before seen a whale so close to shore.

These whales must have been showing off (or exhibiting mating rituals) because they were jumping entirely out of the water and crashing into the water as you would expect to see at Sea World. Their fins were flapping as they slowly swam off to sea, as if they just came by to say hello!

It is hard to say how large or what type of whales we saw but it was surely something none of us watching will ever forget.

Mini Vacations on the Outer Banks

2009-10-14T08:51:00.011-04:00

The weather is cooling down for the fall season on the Outer Banks - ideal time for a mini-vacation! Pack up your bags for a long weekend and head out to the Outer Banks for a 3 or 4 night stay in a fabulous beach cottage. We understand that sometimes you need a long weekend to break up the time between the summer and holiday seasons, therefore we open our doors to you and your family for a partial week stay.

Not only are prices reduced drastically for off season weeks, but we will adjust the price even further to accomodate a mini-vacation. So if you are in need of a little R&R before the busy holiday rush please give us a call today at 1-800-635-1559 or visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/ to book your weekend getaway. Take a look at these homes offering mini-vacations:

Shark Washed up on Shore

2009-09-25T16:39:00.005-04:00

Check out this large sharked that washed up on shore on the Beaches of Duck near Sanderling.

Another Great Rental Season... See what our Guests are saying about Kitty Hawk Rentals

2009-09-14T12:19:00.011-04:00

Here at Kitty Hawk Rentals/Beach Realty and Construction we pride ourselves in giving superior customer service to our Guests and our Homeowners alike. Our employees strive to exceed every expectation, therefore going the extra mile to make a lasting impression. If you haven't rented with us before, we encourage you to so that you can experience what these guests are saying;

Susan,
I’m wanted to write a letter thanking one of your employees for going above and beyond their duty. We have rented from Kitty Hawk Rental for several years and have always been pleased with our home and customer service. This last visit, we spent 2 weeks at the beach and we had to replace a bike tire while on vacation. My husband decided to order another tire and forgot to update the address, needless to say, the package was shipped to the rental house and we were already at home. I was thinking we would never get that package as it’s a rental and then Linda Everett called me to notify us that she had the package. The next challenge was finding UPS or Fed Ex to pick up the package and send it to a new address, never thought it would become such an ordeal. Linda was so helpful that she told me she would drop off the package at a UPS Store after work. I couldn’t believe it. As of now, the package is in route and I can’t thank Linda enough for making this happen.

We look forward to vacationing again in the OBX next summer and working with you. Thanks again for providing such a top notch employee!

Sincerely,
Linda

Greetings –

Just wanted to drop you all a line and let you know we had a fantastic time during our stay (Aug 22 – 29th). The house was great and we all had a wonderful time.

Thanks so much for all your help etc,

Take care,
Patrick McAllister & Family

Dear George and Andrea,

I just wanted to write a note to thank you for the EXCEPTIONAL service I received from both of you in helping me plan my trip to the Outer Banks...When I spoke with George, he was patient, kind, informed, helpful, and professional. I know it seemed like I was asking lots and lots of [stupid!] questions, but this is our biggest trip of the year and we want it to be great. It's not easy planning a trip from far away, to a place that you know nothing about--I just wanted to be informed. George was extremely calm in answering my questions, and he didn't make me feel rushed or stupid at all. Then, today, when I worked with Andrea, I was pleased again! She, too, was patient, upbeat, helpful, friendly and very professional. It was a great experience, and it made me happy that I am renting from you.
I am very excited to visit the OBX for the first time. I hope the rental and the location live up to the great experience I had working with George and Andrea.
Sincerely,
Tracy

Outer Banks Area ranks high!

2009-09-02T09:03:00.011-04:00

Coastal Living Ranks Okracoke #5 of America's Secret Beaches!

Coastal Living also ranks the Outer Banks #2 of 10 Best Road Trips!

Tropical Storm Danny Update

2009-08-27T08:49:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release
August 26, 2009
Contact:
Dorothy Toolan
Public Information Officer
252-473-8328
dorothy@darenc.com

Update Regarding Tropical Storm Danny

As of 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Tropical Storm Danny was located approximately 390 miles east of Nassau and moving west-northwest at 12 m.p.h. The storm is expected to turn toward the north on Friday and track approximately 150 miles offshore, moving past the Outer Banks early Saturday morning as a minimal hurricane.

Dare County Emergency Management will continue to closely monitor Tropical Storm Danny, evaluating updated information from the National Hurricane Center. Based on the current forecast, no protective actions or restrictions on entry are anticipated. However, all residents and visitors are asked to closely monitor weather reports as conditions may change. Updates will be available on the Dare County website at www.darenc.com or by calling 252-475-5655.

###

Beach Realty - Kitty Hawk Rentals Sponsors OBX Sandbar 5k

2009-08-09T13:00:00.016-04:00

Photos from the Outer Banks Sandbar 5K held early this morning.

The Outer Banks Sandbar 5K was a great success. This charity event benefits the Outer Banks Relief Foundation which raises funds to help people on the Outer Banks with debilitating diseases and families in crisis.

The Outer Banks Marathon is just around the corner. Register Today at http://www.obxmarathon.org/

Need a vacation home for the event? http://www.beachrealtync.com/

Sea Turtles on the Outer Banks

2009-08-04T15:38:00.004-04:00

Summer is sea turtle nesting and hatching season, so it's especially important that tourists know
how they can help!

The Outer Banks of North Carolina represents the northernmost limit of the loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtle nesting ranges in the United States. The Outer Banks also occasionally is home to the rare Hawksbill and Kemp's Ridley sea turtles.

All sea turtles are protected by the federal Endangered Species Act. Avoid touching or interfering with turtle activity. Do not remove any dead turtle, turtle egg, or turtle part.

REPORT ALL NESTING TURTLES, TURTLE CRAWLS, stranded/dead turtles, OR HATCHING EVENTS on the Outer Banks to the NEST Hotline
252-441-8622

If you'd like to learn more about NEST, please check out our website:
http://www.nestonline.org/

Thank you so much for your help and support of our conservation efforts!

Planning a Fall Wedding on the Outer Banks?

2009-07-30T12:23:00.012-04:00

You're wedding is undoubtedly one of the most important days of your life. Everything has to be perfect, the weather, the location, the dress, the cake.. I could go on and on. When choosing the perfect location for the biggest day of your life, you need to do your research. Many brides choose to have their wedding on the Outer Banks, not only because we have some of the most beautiful scenery on the East Coast but because we have outstanding wheather, especially in the Fall.

The wedding industry is one of the top industries of the Outer Banks, second to tourism. There are many local businesses that are more than willing to cater to your every need.

Then venues are plentiful, you could choose to have the ceremony on the beach, at one of many landmarks such as the Whalehead Club or the Aquarium at Roanoke Island, or you could choose to to rent a fabulous event home, Oceanfront or Soundfront. Renting an event home is a popular choice amoung brides because of the convenience it offers. Event homes allow you to truely relax while everyone comes to you. You can wake up in the home, prepare for your exciting day, hold the ceremony and the reception all from the comfort of your vacation home. Once the day is over you can either shoot off to your honeymoon or enjoy a night in the master suite as newlyweds.

Kitty Hawk Rentals offers several event homes that will make your special day one to always cherish and remember. Give us a call today at 1-800-635-1559 to see how Kitty Hawk Rentals can assist you with all of your wedding needs!

7974 "Gertrude's Breakaway"

http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=7974

1010 "Beach Royalty"
http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=1010

644 "Bell of the South"

http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/house.html?ID=644

To see all of our wonderful event homes please visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/rental/outer_banks_event_homes.html

Outer Banks Real Estate | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals | Outer Banks Home | Outer Banks NC

2009-07-29T09:58:00.001-04:00

It's a great day at the Beach!

Outer Banks Real Estate | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals | Outer Banks Home | Outer Banks NC

2009-07-29T09:56:00.001-04:00

Outer Banks Real Estate | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals | Outer Banks Home | Outer Banks NC

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Vroom. Vroom. Second Annual Outer Banks Bike Fest 2009

2009-07-13T14:58:00.001-04:00

It seems like only yesterday the bikes were here, opening our season, and now they are gone, and a strange silence hangs in the air. The 2009 Outer Banks Bike Week was a huge success with over 20,000 bikers attending and participating in local activities and events geared towards motorcycle enthusiasts. Usually it takes a whole year for the Bikes to return to us in large numbers, but this year, things will be different.

October, 2nd – 4th, 2009 marks the second annual Outer Banks Bike Fest. With such a large turnout in April, the Bike fest in October is sure to be fun. Come experience the Outer Banks in the fall, when the weather is nice and the traffic dies down.

So com’on back bikers, and make some noise, because we know a noisy bike is a happy biker.

Great Customer Service makes Customers for Life!

2009-07-02T09:36:00.004-04:00

Here at Beach Realty and Kitty Hawk Rentals we pride ourselves in delivering excellent customer service. Making our guests happy puts smiles on our faces. Below are some happy guests of Beach Realty/Kitty Hawk Rentals:

Dear Management or Owners of Beach Realty:

For ten years or more we've been heading to OBX. We (I) waited to the last minute to book a house (yes, like I always do). After several failed on-line attempts with other companies, and yours, we were fortunate to get Dana Breashears to help us out. When she heard the frustration in our voices she quickly went into action and got us a house at a greatly reduced rate in the area we originally wanted to be, Corolla.

Customer service on this level is very rare to find. As a business owner I know all too well the importance of having great emissaries. Dana should be commended for going above and beyond to help us out.

As a result, Beach Realty, now has a customer for life. We want to thank Dana. First for diffusing a frustrated prospect, secondly for sparing me the deadly blows from my wife and third, for getting us down to OBX again.

Thank you Dana, for a job well done. If you're in the area when we're there, feel free to stop by for some Yankee hospitality.

Ken & Deb Brown (and family)
Hanover, PA

Hello Last week (6/20 to 6/27) we stayed at Dolphins Run # 1300 We had a wonderful time and would like to thank the owners for opening their beautiful home for us to enjoy. And to thank them for the delicious cheesecake they sent to us! We had it for desert one night and breakfast the next day. Just wonderful! We can't wait to come back to KDH again soon! The LaVia Family

Hi,
My family and I really enjoyed our stay at Toby's Place! Thanks for all you do, we appreciate it!
Kelly Jones (used to be Hall, got married)
Kyle Jones

My family really, really enjoyed the stay at this house! The quality and comfort of the beds and furniture was outstanding. It was likea home away from home! We look forward to calling you all again!

Ms Breashears, We had a wonderful time. Everything was in order, and our stay was fine. Many thanks to you and your staff, for a job well done!!!!

For the purposes of the survey form, all were rated excellent by me.

Thanks again, and God Bless you and your staff.
Sincerely,

Michael G. Hutchins

The reservation process was a breeze, much easier than I had expected. It was also very helpful to have the automatic second payment option. Online property search was very helpful and gave great photos. The check in process was super easy, didn't take longer than 2 minutes and we were on our way to our house. Everything was clean and neat when we arrived. We loved the living area and the large living room couch. The whole family could gather in the great room and not be over crowded. Loved the space. Having multiple bathrooms was a nice bonus to have. Great location and great living space. Easy access to the beach and very helpful to have beach chairs and umbrellas to use. The rental process and house was wonderful. The house was just as great as it was in the photos online. I'd defiantly recommend this property and Kitty Hawk Rentals to anyone looking for a great OBX vacation.

Sandcastles Galore!

2009-06-30T12:45:00.003-04:00

2009 Outer Banks Sandsculpture Festival

The public is invited to the 2009 Outer Banks Sandsculpture Festival at Kitty Hawk Sports located in Nags Head, NC at Jockey's Ridge Crossing. Highlights include a free "how-to" clinic hosted by sand sculpture professionals, and a kids contest. The event begins July 1 and runs through July 3, 2009.

The Second Annual Outer Banks Sandsculpture Festival will be held July 1st through 3rd in front of Kitty Hawk Sports. Kitty Hawk Sports is located in the Jockey’s Ridge Crossing Shopping Center at Milepost 12 ½ in Nags Head. Team Sandtastic, a professional sand sculpturing company with a Guinness World Record in its portfolio, will be sculpting a 50 ton sand masterpiece. The sculpture will have a “Woodstock” theme and feature the Peace Frog character.

At a time of year when many families flock to the beach for their first rays of the summer, this event will help educate them on the importance of sun protection. The Outer Banks Hospital will be on hand to provide free skin cancer screenings and public education. Peace Frogs has also designed a limited edition sandsculpture t-shirt which will be sold at Kitty Hawk Sports. A portion of t-shirt sales will be contributed to The Outer Banks Hospital’s Cancer Resource Center in support of its services and programs.

There will be a free Sand Clinic on Thursday, July 2nd at 2:00 pm, conducted by Team Sandtastic. They will offer the public a chance to learn Tips, Tricks, Tools, and Techniques of the pros. On Friday, July 3rd from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, there will be a free Sandsculpture Contest sponsored by Gateway Bank for kids 6 to 12 years of age.

Sandsculpting is both an art and a science, and how long a design lasts is dependent on the weather. It could be days or weeks. Last year’s sculpture lasted over a month and attracted thousands of viewers.Professional sculpting begins Wednesday, July 1st at 9:00 am and the public is invited to observe free of charge.

For more information please visit: http://www.outerbanksfreepress.com/sandcastle.html

An Active Outer Banks

2009-06-17T14:05:00.008-04:00

If you are looking for adventure, athletics or a new hobby, the Outer Banks may be the perfect fit for your next vacation. With many sporting events and activities in the area, year-round, there is no excuse to stay indoors and watch TV.

The 2009 Outer Banks Marathon
The Outer Banks Marathon brings over 4,000 runners annually to our beautiful beaches to run a course that is truly one of a kind. Running over bridges overlooking the sounds and breathing the fresh Outer Banks air makes you forget the pain and focus on the simple beauty of this area. Runners are encouraged throughout the course by mile marker sponsors that offer hydration and support for athletes partaking. You finish your enduring run in the heart of Manteo, NC., where your family and friends are waiting to congratulate you with open arms. The party doesn’t stop there, in fact, it has just begun. The Outer Banks Marathon committee has arranged for live music, food, beverages, photo ops, and an award ceremony that you won’t want to miss. The 2009 Outer Banks Marathon will be held on Sunday, November 8th, 2009. You can view more information or register to run at http://www.obxmarathon.org/.

Outer Banks Surf Pro 2009
The Outer Banks has always been a surfing hotspot. With consistent waves and warm waters it is a no brainer why surfers flock to our beaches. This year the Outer Banks hosts the 2009 Outer Banks Surf Pro on September 18th – 20th at the Comfort Inn South, Nags Head. The event will host 96 of the coasts finest surfers. This event will also play host to the annual Battle of the Banks where 12 prominent surfers from Virginia Beach take on 12 of best surfers of the OBX. For more information regarding this event and to register please visit http://www.waveridingvehicles.com/.

Kiteboarding
If running or surfing is not your style, why not try the new craze sweeping the nation - Kiteboarding. Now this is a sport that I suggest taking a few lessons for before you launch. From what I hear, it’s not easy, but once you get the hang of it, you will experience a thrill that very few of us have ever felt before. Have you ever dreamt you could fly? It’s very possible to literally fly over waves and soar many feet before touching down again. If there was a Mecca for Kiteboarding it would have to be the Outer Banks. Our consistent wind and calm sounds are great for learning and practicing the sport.

If you are not the athletic type, - don’t be discouraged. Being a spectator of these activities is unbelievable! I personally don’t run long-distance, surf, skim or kiteboard, but I take the most pleasure from observing these activities and snapping a panoramic photo from time to time. The Outer Banks continues to promote an active lifestyle and I recommend you to make a trip to the OBX should any of the above sound fascinating to you!

Shipwrecks!

2009-06-14T09:08:00.008-04:00

For us living in the modern age, shipwrecks are a fascinating part of Outer Banks History.
While devastating to the people back then, modern technology has all but solved that problem for us today.

Often called the “Ghost Fleet” the remnants and legends of the ships live on, and I’ll discuss some of their stories now.

The Lighthouses:
By far the most poplar aspect of shipwreck history, the treacherous shoals of the Outer Banks created a need for light houses. These Beacons of Hope were built about every 40 miles or so, and would alert Sailors as to which way to go to be safe. The

Outer Banks Light houses are:

Cape Hatteras

Bodie Island

Corolla

Ocracoke

Cape Lookout (not a true Outer Banks Lighthouse, but it usually is grouped together with ours)
Each lighthouse has its own rich history and you can read more about them here:
http://www.outer-banks.com/lighthouses.asp

Visible shipwrecks
These shipwrecks are usually visible on the various beaches through out the Outer Banks, no diving required:

Altoona (1878):

Laura A. Barnes (1921)

George A. Kohler (1933):

Margaret A. Spencer (?):

LST at Rodanthe (1948)

You can read more about these easy access shipwrecks here:
http://www.outerbankschamber.com/relocation/history/shipwrecks.cfm

Diving
For those who Dive, there is a multitude of shipwrecks hiding just below the surface, usually within 100 yards from the ‘hole’. (The ‘hole’ is that sudden drop off where the waves start to break.) The ships range from very old to quite modern. There’s even a German U-boat out there. (from World War II)

In Ocracoke, Blackbeard’s ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, was said to hang out there, (in the spot known as ‘Teach’s Hole) along with the infamous pirate’s headless body and even more famous treasure. To date, the treasure and the ship have never been found.

At the turn of the 20th century, a ship carrying a shipment of chalk sank off our shores. Often, after a storm, you can find this chalk washed up on shore. It looks like a big white solid lump. When you touch it leaves a chalky residue on your hands. This is solid chalk.

Sometimes, (again, usually after storms,) you can find pieces of shipwrecks on the beach. They usually are rust brown in color, have embedded shells, and other ‘stuff’ on them. They are very hard to describe; but once you see one, they cannot be mistaken for anything else. These are a great find. (Adults should be the ones to touch them however, sometimes shells can be sharp!)

When you find a piece of shipwreck, you are touching the past. Enjoy!

Moonlight Legend Lore and Ghost Tours

2009-06-08T12:13:00.001-04:00

Explore the Moonlight Legend, Lore and Ghosts of the Whalehead Club on Thursday, June 11th beginning at dark. This guided tour is the most fun you can have for $14! Come dressed for the weather and carrying a flashlight to step back in time and learn about past residents of Corolla. To get there take Rt. 12 N, just past milepost 11, and see the entrance of the park. For those who want the fun of hearing the stories in a less “scary” environment, the Daylight Ghost Tour is available Monday through Friday at 4:00 pm for $7. Both the Moonlight and Daylight Ghost Tours require advance reservations at 252-453-9040 ext. 2. Visit http://www.whaleheadclub.org/ for complete details.

Biking in Sanderling and Duck

2009-06-01T10:11:00.002-04:00

Biking in Sanderling and Duck
Lunch hour is here and I take my bike out of my car for another daily adventure. I start my ride heading up north through the Sanderling community. As I ride along the bike path, the sweet and fragrant smell of flowers and bushes attack my senses. The sky is a pretty shade of blue and a cloud is not to be seen. The air is fresh and cool as it hits my face. I turn into the first section and realize that there are nature trails that I can ride on that will bring me into the next section. I continue in this fashion throughout Sanderling. The paths are clear cut and shaded. On the way back, I stop at one of the many beach accesses to sit down and enjoy the sunny day. I return back to the office feeling refreshed and ready for the second half of the day!

It’s Baaaaaack, The Outer Banks Marathon Returns in November

2009-06-01T08:49:00.001-04:00

Plans are underway for The Outer Banks Marathon in November. With a set day each year of Veteran’s Day Weekend, the Island will be full of action and activities for the whole family.

Saturday, November 7 is the Family Fun Run, a family friendly event where kids and adults can run and walk for the fun of it!

Sunday, November 8 will be the main events, with the 2009 USATF NC Association Marathon Championship, with varied terrain, coastal, scenic routes throughout the Island.

Also on Sunday, November 8 will be the second main event, the 2009 RRCA NC Half Marathon Championship, the course will be mainly flat and fast, walker friendly, coastal and scenic views.

Beach Realty and Construction/Kitty Hawk Rentals is a proud supporter and sponsor of the Outer Banks Marathon, and has been since the race began on the Outer Banks in 2006. Our team enjoys meeting the contestants and their families at our water stop area for the racers, as well as our booth in the Expo.

Take a look at us dressed as Pirates at the water station of last year's Marathon, "Argh!"

Visit the Outer Banks Marathon’s website for more information on the planned activities.

Gather your running shoes, the family and join the fun in November with the Outer Banks Marathon.

The Outer Banks Seal

2009-05-29T16:04:00.001-04:00

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.)

David Stick, You will be missed.

2009-05-27T13:19:00.005-04:00

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.