It would be an understatement to say that the past few months have been rather rocky for everyone with the current pandemic. Here at Outer Banks Blue we want to ensure that you have a safe and wonderful vacation that you can remember for many years to come! Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your vacation while following the proper precautions.
1. Go Kayaking
Calm waters in the sound, serene sounds of the marshes, or the unpredictable action of the Atlantic. Kayaking offers an up-close-and-personal opportunity to really dive into the unique environment the Outer Banks has to offer. This is a great activity to take your mind off just about everything. If this is something you really want to experience, we've taken the time to write a blog that goes into far more detail: Discover the Outer Bank with Kayaks!
2. Go Fishing
Growing up on the Outer Banks, I spent many days fishing fresh, brackish and saltwater. Some of my best memories come from doing so. We have an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem that can lead to some phenomenal days to wet your lines. Surf fishing is always an option, but sound fishing and some of the tucked-away creeks can be hidden gems for a wide variety of fish as well. There is always the option to charter a boat and practice EXTREME social distancing out in the Gulf Stream and potentially land the big one too! This is a great activity for the family and can build everlasting memories for everyone. If you'd like to find out what is being caught currently, take a look at TW's Fishing Report.
3. Go to the beach!
This activity pretty much speaks for itself. The Outer Banks have (arguably) some of the most beautiful beaches on the Eastern Seaboard. Remember to follow the social distancing guidelines and you've got a perfect day!
*Pro Tip: If you really want to beat the crowds, make the trek a bit farther south and have the entire beach to yourself!
4. Visit Jockey's Ridge
Want to see the largest sand dune on the East Coast? We've got you covered! Excellent views, unique ecology, and perhaps the best kite-flying location on the Outer Banks; Jockey's Ridge is a great way to spend the day and have a bucketload of fun! You can learn more about the current park restrictions by visiting Jockey's Ridge website.
5. Become One With Nature
Most people come down here for the amazing beaches, however; there are also many trails and nature paths to experience the other side of the Outer Banks. Kitty Hawk Woods, Nags Head Ecological Preserve, and the Currituck Banks Reserve just cover a few. All of these remain open with some restrictions. Grab some water, bug-spray, and a camera to take some amazing photos and you've got a great family-friendly activity to pass the time and
6. Experience Outer Banks History
Well known for the Wright brothers, pirates, shipwrecks, and the Lost Colony; the Outer Banks has a rich and diverse history that goes far beyond those well-known topics. If you're a fan of history like I am there is an incredibly long list of places to visit that offer interesting facts about everything such as the first settlers, the role that our lighthouses played in the past, and even our historic life-saving stations. Not only can these be incredibly fun activities, but also very educational. Some of these activities are currently limited by Coronavirus restrictions. Fort Raleigh, Roanoke Island Festival Park, the Wright Brothers Monument, and the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum are a just a few of the activities that still remain open with restrictions.
7. Lounge Beside The Pool
This one may be overlooked but who doesn't want to sit poolside in the sunshine or float in the pool all day?! Not only will you be practicing social distancing, but you'll also be vacationing like a boss! If we are speaking your language take a quick look at our selection of vacation rentals with private pools.
8. Work On Your Photography Skills
One of the thoughts I always try to keep in the back of my mind is that you cannot have light without the dark. While we may be collectively experiencing a dark time, we cannot forget to focus on the beauty around us. The Outer Banks is brimming with opportunities for beautiful photos. Sunrises, sunsets, wildlife, the ocean, and the people around you all offer great opportunities to take photos that will last a lifetime and beyond. So, grab your camera, get out there and take some time to bask in the beauty around you! If I caught your attention at sunsets, here are some tips on Great Places To Take Outer Banks Sunset Photos.
We know that the return to normalcy could take some time but hopefully these tips can help you decide how to better enjoy your vacation and create some memories that you can keep forever. We're all in this together! As always, if there is any thing we can do to make your stay here more enjoyable and less stressful please do not hesitate to reach out to us!
