OBX Taste of the Beach at Sanctuary Vineyards 2012 | Travel OBX Informed

March 16, 2012 By

The OBX Taste of the Beach 2012 has finally arrived, and we couldn’t ask for better vendors or weather for this year’s events. Temperatures feel as if it’s already summertime, and man do they have a great selection of courses. Yesterday I chose to visit Sanctuary Vineyards, located in Currituck, North Carolina, for their “Outer Banks Winemaking Revealed” class. There was a perfect amount of attendees with a perfect amount of wine to go around!

The Outer Banks Winemaking Revealed last about 3 hours long, but is well worth your dollars. We were practically winemakers ourselves by 5 o’clock! From the ground up we learned how great wines are crafted at this informative workshop. The class focused on the growing of premium grapes, even offered to show us some techniques for the production of wines, and included the basics of wine appreciation to judging.

John Wright, the master of this vineyards wine, guided the class through the cellar to taste a large variety of wine as we waited for the entire class to arrive. Then out to the vineyard itself where we discovered everything about the vines they are currently growing, the ground process, and other exclusive details about the growing of grapes. Mr. Wright then took us for a winery tour were he taught us the proper preparation of wine from the crusher to the barrel to the glass! We grasped a lot of insight during this section of the course. (What a neat job!) At the end of the class everyone broke up into teams to put our new knowledge to the test, and created our very own wine. It was a blast. You even get to keep your glass, and are given a free grapevine to take home with you.

Sanctuary Vineyard will be having the same course today at 2 pm until 5 pm. It only cost $25 to attend, and is well worth your the money, as I previously mentioned. If you can’t devote three hours, they’ll appreciate you stopping in anytime today for a free wine tasting. They are located at 7005 Caratoke Hwy. Jarvisburg, NC 27947. You may purchase tickets at the door!

Enjoy your preview from Southern Shores Realty,

 

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St. Patricks Day 2012 on the Outer Banks | Travel Informed

February 28, 2012 By Leave a Comment

St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching, and if you’re coming to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for the weekend you’re in for weekend full of fun, food, drinks, parades, runs, and lots of people. It’s like the kick start to Spring at the beach, and we’re all excited! (For the weekend, and Spring to arrive of course.) The scheduled events are also very family friendly!

The highlights of the weekend are as follows,

 

 

The Outer Banks Taste of the Beach

Millions travel to the Outer Banks for this fun, beach inspired, food festival complete with Outer Banks Restaurants. Take part in a number of classes, demonstrations, and around the table eats, and drinks from March 15-18. (Spots are filling up fast, get your ticket now!)

 

Kelly’s Leprechaun 8k Race on March 17th

Run, and/ or Walk like the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day in Nags Head, North Carolina. Discover race surprises from the secret leprechaun, and enjoy discovering the Town of Nags Head, and The Nags Head Woods Conservancy by foot on Saturday, March 17th. Also take part in the Post Race Hospitality Party which includes Irish Stew, Gaelic Soda Bread, Sugar Cookies, and Kelly’s Signature Sweet Potato Biscuits. Registration is open, and also filling up quickly. Reserve your spot today!

 

Kelly’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 18th

Celebrate The Outer Banks Hospital’s 10th Anniversary at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, “Health is Happiness”, on Sunday, March 18. The parade host over 100 entries annually with 8-10 thousands bystanders. Be here, Rain or Shine. Of course there will be a post-parade party at Kelly’s following!

 

If you haven’t made plans for St. Patrick’s Day yet, come to Outer Banks of North Carolina. We welcome you to have a great time with your family all weekend long at the beach. Browse our available Outer Banks vacation rentals and specials today!

See you in March,

Southern Shores Realty

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OBX Marathon Price Increase on March 1, 2012 | Travel informed

February 21, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Are you a die hard runner? Just enjoy the dedication of staying fit, and healthy? Have you heard of the Outer Banks Marathon? The Outer Banks Marathon Weekend is one of the top marathons held on the East Coast, and is a blast for everyone! Participate in a Marathon, 8K, 5K, Fun Run, and 4 Challenges that are great for all ages. Enjoy panoramic views of wooded, sound side areas, friendly faces, new friends, and your running shoes for an entire weekend on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Held on November 9-11, 2o12. Click here to view last year’s recap of the popular weekend.

Save the Date, and Register Today! (Prices are scheduled to increase on March 1st.) Go to the registration page, and don’t hesitate, for you’ll miss this incredible steal of a deal. You only have 9 days left to do so! While you’re at it, go ahead and browse through our Outer Banks Vacation Rentals for a chance to steal a great deal with us as well. (One & done, right?!)

Enjoy the remainder of February,

Southern Shores Realty

 

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Surfing the Outer Banks | Outer Banks Vacations

February 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

On your 2012 Outer Banks vacation what activities will you participate in? There is an endless possibility of fun here on the banks! One of our favorites at Southern Shores Realty would have to be surfing. Not only because the Outer Banks offers outstanding surf conditions considering the slick Atlantic wind swell, but it’s a sport that drives individuals to do their best. Did I mention it’s fun, too?!

Professional surfers visit from destinations all around the world to ride the nice waves that roll into North Carolina’s coastal line. With unique, ultimate surfing conditions year round, and gorgeous views it’s kinda hard to resist.

Surfing could be your next Outer Banks adventure, and we’ve got the right people to teach you. The area is full of experienced surfing pro’s who are willing to teach you the ropes by showing you the right techniques to use out in the water. You, your family, and your friends will learn how to surf a wave in no time!

Our local surf shops provide surfing schools, lessons, group lessons, and private lessons up and down the beach for individuals of all ages, and ability. Grab a lesson next time your in town for some beach fun. Be sure to let us know, and we’ll share your experience with other OBX vacationers!

See you soon?!

Browse Southern Shores Realty’s Rental Inventory.

 

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Getting Away Together

January 18, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Have you ever considered a vacation to the Outer Banks, but haven’t committed? Not sure whether to come or not? If that’s the case, you can take a look at the new PBS series, “Getting Away Together” which is focused on highlighting vacation destinations around the world by following a group of people staying in vacation rentals. Primarily putting the spotlight on families, and friends sharing vacation rentals to unwind together. Isn’t that what we all dream of? You know, getting away to a destination with those we love the most?

Yup, you have it right! One of the destinations filmed was the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and you can take a sneak peak on the Getting Away Together website. Complete with a Greek family experiencing the OBX for the first time. It’s very inspiring, and makes me feel so special to be a part of such an amazing destination in the United States. It’s truly a wonderful clip…

Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

Start planning my vacation!

Southern Shores Realty

Here is the full length video, enjoy!

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Outer Banks Wedding Expo Recap

January 9, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Hundreds of brides gathered together for the 14th annual Outer Banks Wedding Weekend hosted by the Outer Banks Wedding Association. We are a member of this brilliant association, and had a complete blast on Sunday at the Expo. Where brides get to actually meet over 150  vendors who are THE OBX wedding experts. You see, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a famous destination for beach weddings, and the expo gives the brides interested in being wed on our beaches a chance to meet, and explore every opportunity available before they begin their planning.

Catered tastings, center pieces, violinist, doves, formal wear, limo services, event venues, photographers, and equipment rentals are just the beginning of last Sunday, January the 8th. The expo was just gorgeous, and wow the selection! I couldn’t begin to imagine being one of the brides attending. It surely had to be a dream come true, before their weddings. And I’m positive it made their life 75% easier. Even the grooms were having a blast! I would even recommend the expo for non bride & grooms. Tons of great food, massages, and more. (Take a look at the video below for yourself.)

At the end of the expo, David Tutera announced the winner of the 2012 Dream Wedding ( a package worth $45,000). The winner was out of Greensboro, North Carolina, Shana B. Not only did Tutera announce that she was winner, but according to OBWA he also sat down and discussed her story. Congratulations Shana!

The point is The Outer Banks Wedding Association pulled off a great weekend for the Outer Banks. It was a perfect excuse for beach getaway, and the weather was wonderful (60′s.) Southern Shores Realty offers Outer Banks Vacation Rentals available for partial weeks. You can read about it on our main website. This event is a must attend, so we would love to cater to you and your companion next time around.

CHEERS to OBWA!

Southern Shores Realty

 

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Holiday music, lights, shopping, food, and..

November 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Join the Town of Duck, in cooperation with their local business community, for an entire town celebration of Yuletide Cheer this weekend! Mark your calendars for Friday and Saturday, December 2nd & 3rd!

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Duck Merchants will be keeping their doors open late for all those shoppers on Friday, December 2nd. Remember locals, we should support our local businesses so come out to do some holiday shopping. Everyone has the chance to enjoy Holiday sales, refreshments, and live entertainment as they make way through the town. The entire Village Commercial District will be celebrating the Yuletide also by decorating with lights and festive decor! We can’t wait to see the creativeness! As well as what business wins this “Business Decorating Contest.” Aren’t contest just your favorite? :)

Oh, and guess what? You won’t have to make dinner arrangements for the afternoon, because Duck eateries are hosting one of their FAMOUS Tapas Crawls from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Participating restaurants will be offering a delicious plate of tapas with a cup of “Holiday Cheer” at one affordable/ small price!

mmm sounds like the yummiest shopping experience ever to me..

The Town of Duck has many festivities, activities, and fun for the entire family on Saturday December 3rd (you might want to go alone on Friday to grab some good presents.) Festivities include the Yuletide Celebration with an arrival of Santa, sounds of Ruth Wyand, refreshments prepared by local restaurants, and much more to put you right into the Holiday season. Also, the winner of the Town-wide Business Decorating Contest will be announced on Saturday.

Furthermore, don’t forget to bring some items to donate to our local Beach Food Pantry. They are in much need for this Holiday season. Every item donated is another smile created on a Mother, Father, Daughter, or son. So please, remember to donate! Find all the items needed for the Holidays here.

We’ll see you this weekend,

Cheers!

Southern Shores Realty

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Outer Banks Marathon 2011

November 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment

OBX Marathon 2011

I first want to give a shout out to all the runners who attended the 6th annual Outer Banks Marathon, hosted by Outer Banks Sporting Events. Everyone did a fabulous job, and let me tell you, it isn’t easy. There is nothing more inspiring than the drive, dedication, and strength of a runner, especially the ones who sweat for hours to prepare for a marathon. Kudos to you!

Let me fill you in on the events of this prior weekend on the Outer Banks, in Southern Shores Realty’s eyes at least. Thousands of familiar and new faces, OBX vendors/ sponsors, numerous volunteers, runners, families, supporters, and spectators made everything possible from Friday through Sunday. Individual training experiences, SUPPORT, and the love for running was in the air. It was one of those Outer Banks Events that we wish every soul had a chance to experience. Again, nothing more inspiring!

This year’s marathon races included the Outer Banks Fun Run (kid friendly), Outer Banks 8k, Buccaneer 5k and the full on Outer Banks Marathon. The races began on Saturday, and finished up on Sunday. The Full Marathon is exactly 26.2 miles! Wow! Can you believe it? The 2011 top athlete finished 2 hours & 38 minutes which completely blew everyone at Southern Shores Realty away. The half marathon, 5k, and fun run was also a success for Outer Banks Sporting Events. Oh, the spirit of all the young runners!

Want to know the best part of the Marathon weekend? The Expo! Southern Shores Realty complemented the all around ‘pirate theme’ by bringing along a Johnny Depp stand up board, and two pirates pop outs for attendees to grab a photo with us, mega-phones for the spectators, a GARMIN watch free give away, and a instant win drawing for Southern Shores Realty travel mugs as well as gift certificates to four different local restaurants. Anne C. from Durham, North Carolina won our Garmin Watch give away- we hope she gets great use out of it! Congrats! She ran the Half Marathon on Sunday- great job!

We would also like to congratulate one of our very own employees, Melanie, for completing the half Marathon (she has been training for quite some time) with an outstanding time! Another important aspect of the weekend is that the weather was perfect. We couldn’t have asked for anything more wonderful, mother nature really treated the Outer Banks well with warm temperatures, and clear skies.

Check out the video below if you missed out on this Outer Banks event. Feel free to comment below on your own experience running, we would love to hear your success stories! Furthermore, if you want more- check out our Facebook Album, and tag yourself in your pirate photos! Thanks guys!

Thanks for the fabulous weekend Outer Banks Sporting Events!

Southern Shores Realty

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What holiday events will you participate in year on the Outer Banks?

November 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Are you excited for the Holidays? They are right around the corner, and this years holiday events couldn’t be better on the Outer Banks! Being on the quiet beaches of North Carolina during this season is calm, relaxing, joyful, and gives you everything that you could ask for during a holiday vacation-including fun festive activities for the family. If you are going to be here with us, you sure are lucky! I would recommend coming if you are not already scheduled ;)

You can get into spirit on the Outer Banks with the fun events scheduled for families, and children who can’t get enough of this time of year! Southern Shores Realty is pleased to highlight a handful of Outer Banks happenings during the months of November and December.

Catch a sight you must see on the Outer Banks as Kitty Hawk Kites light up the sky with glowing kites, enjoy a delicious holiday dinner with Santa, participate in the Manteo Christmas Parade, catch a few holiday shows/ plays, and there is much more holiday goodness for guest and locals to participate in! This year is going to be fantastic- Southern Shores Realty can’t wait! If you would like us to put a spot light on any one of these events, comment down below and we would love to cover it for you!

’tis the season!

November on the Outer Banks:

Wings Over Wildlife Festival

The 15th Annual Wings Over Wildlife Festival will be held on November 8th – November 13th. Discover everything there is to know about Eastern North Carolina’s wildlife, and wetlands. This fall festival host over 85 programs! They have already started taking reservations; head over to their website for more information.

3rd Annual Manns Harbor Holiday Craft and Gift Show

This is a fun event at the Manns Harbor Community Center on November 11th and November 12th. From 10 a.m until 5 p.m both days, a little over 16 vendors will present Christmas gifts plus holidays crafts for the Outer Banks. Including dog treats, ceramics, Christmas wreaths, holiday home décor, and much more. This will surely get you pumped for the holiday season!

Outer Banks Marathon and Half Marathon

Southern Shores Realty has been a yearly sponsor of the OBX Marathon; we just couldn’t leave it out of our top holiday event picks! The Gateway Outer Banks marathon starts off in Kitty Hawk, and ends on Roanoke Island. Join over 8,000 runners on the OBX, participate in the 2-day race EXPO fun, group fun run, 5k, 8k, and a post marathon Pirate Jamboree. Feel free to book a mini vacation with us to attend this event!

Hangin’ With Santa

Kitty Hawk Kites located in Nags Head, NC will hosting a free event for children to have their pictures taken with Santa in a demostration Hand Glider on November 25th through November 26th. Friday 10 a.m until 2p.m, Saturday 1 p.m until 6p.m.

Kites With Lights

Here is another great holiday event with Kitty Hawk Kites at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park (mp 12.5.) On November 26th they will be lighting up the Outer Banks sky with lighted kites starting at 3 p.m until 6 p.m! Across the street you may join them for a cup of hot apple cider, and cookies at 4p.m at their store. This is an event you don’t want to miss, and sight to see!

UNCG Old Time Ensemble Christmas Performance

At the Indoor Theater at Roanoke Festival Park on November 26-27, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro will present two Christmas concerts as well as some holiday sing-a-longs. Tickets are $10 for adults, and $5 for twelve and under. Visit roanokeisland.com for more information.

 

December on the Outer Banks:

23rd Annual Festival of Trees:

Celebrate this holiday season with awesome lights, music performances, punch and homemade cookies, activities for the children, shopping for gifts, and pictures with Santa on December 1st until December 3rd. This is an annual holiday festivals that benefits crisis intervention pwww.obhotline.org for more information.

Downtown Manteo Christmas Parade

This Christmas Parade is an Outer Banks tradition, and has excellent turn outs each year. The parade will be held on December 3rd in Downtown Manteo.

Grand Illuminations- The Elizabethan Gardens

Help start off 19 nights of lights at the Elizabeth Gardens in Manteo. Spread the spirit with holiday foods and festive drinks while watching the glow of the season! They will also be holding a sale (10% off merchandise) in the Gardens’ Gift Shoppe. The Grand Illuminations will be on December 3rd, 6-9 p.m.

The Nutcracker

On December 10th, the Outer Banks Centre for Dance will be presenting the NUTCRACKER at 1p.m and 7 p.m at the First Flight High School. Tickets cost $15. We’ll see you there! Contact www.obxdance.com for more information.

The Art of Gingerbread Cookies with Laura Murden

From noon through 2 p.m on December 10th at the Elizabeth Gardens, learn about the art of Gingerbread cookies. This is a hands on workshop that the entire family will love participating in. It is limited to 20 attendees, so book your ticket ($25) asap! Visit elizabthgardens.org for information.

 Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Winter Climb

Climb the tallest lighthouse for FREE on December 10th! Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and you must be 42 inches tall to climb.

Dinner with Santa

On December 16th dine in with Santa at the “magically decorated Embellished Hall” at the Elizabethan Gardens. Dinner seating is at 6 pm, 7p.m, or 8p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults, and $25 for children. Bring your camera for pictures with Santa, and the wonderful winter wonderland outside for viewing.

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Families with little beach bums on the OBX…

October 19, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Image via Wikipedia

Are you visiting the Outer Banks as a family? Little beach bums enjoy the simple things in life like going to beach to dig holes in the sand, splash in the water, and to meet other little beach bums to build sand castles with. Well, I just wanted to point out that coming to the beach alone can fascinate a child, and they will easily turn into fun ‘beach bums’ without trying too hard. But can we really pass up adventuring the Outer Banks with our families? Enjoy the laziness of the beach, but there are multiple fascinating historical sites that you can introduce your new beach bum to. Not only can you educate the entire family in an engaging and exciting way (not going to lie, it pulls adults in too), but you can also head out to enjoy a 4×4 tour to Corova, climb one of the brilliant light houses, or test out some of the unique water sports on the gorgeous sound side of the Outer Banks.

 

I have put together a seven day agenda complete with different attractions that will pull your little beach bums, as well as the rest of family, into the land of their vacation destination. It’s pretty amazing to hear stories from our guests who have visited since the time they were young, remembering their first time exploring this unique area. Create that opportunity for your loved little ones.

Day 1

You may be exhausted, but nothing beats the excitement of driving over the Wright Memorial Bridge. YOU’RE HERE! The entire family is sitting straight up in their seats, taking in the gorgeous view so you might as well start exploring once you are checked into your Outer Banks rental. Southern Shores Realty recommends bringing everyone out on the beach for some exciting photos while you have everyone together (title your album later: “The start to a wonderful vacation!”) Grab a sand bucket, and go on a shell search! You can find many different sea shells on our outstanding beaches. Later on in the week you can make your own souvenirs to take back home with you out of the shells.

Day 2

Hatteras Island may be a little far of a drive to take while you are on vacation, but it is most definitely a sight to see. You have gorgeous views on your way down there, pristine beaches to get your toes in, and did I mention Hatteras is home to the tallest lighthouse in the nation? Yes, that’s right! The Cape Hatteras light house has a total of 257 steps to the top of it. It cost $7 for adults, and $3.50 for seniors/children under 12 to climb, not bad. You can also take time to visit the gift shop, and visitor’s center. The beach is right there so pack the towels!

Day 3

Exploring the Wright Brothers’ National Memorial can be very exhilarating for your family. Educate everyone with the facts on how Wilbur and Orville Wright succeeded with flight. Walk up to the actual spot where the legends conducted their flight experiments, view movies and extra educational exhibits in the Centennial Pavilion, climb the Big Kill Devil Hill for sensational views from the sea to the sound, and participate in programs such as “fun in flight.” There is always something exciting going on at the Wright Brothers’ National Memorial!

Day 4

Visit the North Carolina Roanoke Island Aquarium. Kids love this! Learn everything about what and who lurks within our waters on the East Coast. The aquarium is not only educational but extremely fun! Many programs take place throughout the day here so check their website for scheduled information (some are free others require a fee.)

Day 5

On the fifth day, you can head on out to Jockey’s Ridge Crossing to become familiar with the experience of Kitty Hawk Kites, and the “Living Dune”, which is the largest sand dune on the East Coast. Yes, it moves- you will have to adventure here to find out how and why this happens. The dune is across the street from the crossing shopping center (complete with fun kids stores.) They have a miniature museum to explore, and you can take a hang gliding lesson from Kitty Hawk Kites on this fascinating dune.

Day 6

Another fun thing to do on the Outer Banks with your family is to try one of many water sports offered in the area. You can’t test these challenging yet inspiring sports out anywhere. The sound side of the Outer Banks does complete justice for kite boarding, para sailing, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. Everyone will get a kick out of this! Find a service near your Outer Banks vacation rental for an easy bike ride, walk, or short ride.

Day 7

You have to save the best for last right? Well, here it is- out on our 4×4 beaches in Corolla, NC wild horses roam freely. There is an exhibit next to the Currituck Light house where you can discover the history of these amazing animals. Although, the best part is that you can take a jeep tour out to visit them!

 

This is just an example of how wonderful the Outer Banks is. Even with exploring the many attractions in the area (there are much more) you still have time to enjoy some sun rays on the beach and relax. You should also stay up-to-date with our calender of events for unique programs that are held throughout the different seasons. Hope this helps, guests!

Southern Shores Realty

 

 

 

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