There are two types of people: people who enjoy beaches such as Myrtle Beach and the Jersey Shore and people you enjoy the Outer Banks. I have grown up spending my summer hiking Jockey Ridges Dunes, spending hours playing corn hole on the beach, and eating seafood till my stomach hurts -all thanks to the Outer Banks. Here are 10 reasons why you need to vacation in the gorgeous Outer Banks
1. It is not flashy and touristy
I know that it is a vacation destination for many families, however, there are a lot of locals who live on the island. There is your occasional putt-putt, however, that is just about how touristy it gets! The Outer Banks is filled with southern charm, good food, and even better people. So ditch your typical clubs and Par 3s and go hike the dunes, walk the pier, or visit the lighthouses.
2. Corolla, Duck, and Carova
This side of the island is perfect for a day trip, but make sure you have your car in four wheel drive! Drive out on the beach and look for the wild horses or drop down your tailgate, pull out an American flag, and start playing some Kenny Chesney on the beach!
3. Duck Donuts and Booty Treats
Duck Donuts are a staple of the Outer Banks and trust me they do not disappoint! I recommend trying the chocolate and bacon with a fudge drizzle donut! If donuts aren't your thing, then head over to Booty Treats! This cute little ice cream and shaved ice shop will leave you wanting more! Get their signature Booty Treat - shaved ice with dippin' dots down the middle.
4. Jockey's Ridge
Okay, it isn't a trip to the Outer Banks without climbing Jockey's Ridge! These sand dunes are a State Park filled with kites and hand gliders. Walk over to Kitty Hawk Kites and try your hand at a stunt kite or bring a boogie board and go sledding down the dunes! Pro Tip: Go through the back entrance of Jocke's Ridge and walk along the Sound side and make sure to visit after 5 p.m. to avoid hot sand.
5. Roanoke Island
Across the sound. lies the historic Roanoke Island! This island in the 16th century was home to a colony and mysteriously disappeared giving it the name "The Lost Colony." While you are there go see the show "The Lost Colony" and take a visit to the North Carolina Aquarium!
6. The Wright Brothers
This monument and museum is located where the Wright Brothers took flight in windy Kitty Hawk, North Carolina! It is an amazing place to visit and go back in time to see what it is was like to be the first in flight - trust me it is just as windy now as it was in 1903.
7. Brew Thru
You have seen the shirts and now it is time to experience the Brew Thru! It is a drive thru convince store filled with everything you could possibly need - beer, t-shirts, and snacks. Drive through and grab a shirt and some snacks for the road!
8. Ocracoke Island
This tiny little island is about a 45-minute ferry ride from the bottom of Hatteras. It is the perfect day trip where you can explore the island, see the lighthouse, grab a quick lunch, and catch the ferry back over!
9. The Lighthouses
There are tons of lighthouses lining the Outer Banks, so take your pick! Personally, I love the Currituck Lighthouse. Regardless of which one you visit, make sure to make the hike up to the top - the view is definitely worth all those stairs.
10. The Beaches
The beaches are gorgeous and not overly crowded! You have plenty of room to play corn hole, people watch (admit it it's your favorite thing to do at the beach), and sing along to your neighbors' music. If you walk the beach in the evening, you are bound to stumble upon a wedding! These beautiful beaches cannot be beaten!
What are you waiting on? Schedule your vacation to the Outer Banks now, because you know you want to be the kind of person who vacations in the Outer Banks! Make sure to eat a donut for me while you are there!
