If you enjoy Duck, Wine, and a Good Time | Travel Informed

This April marks the date for the Fourth Annual Duck & Wine Festival at the Duck Waterfront Shops in Duck, North Carolina. (A very unique, up beat, and popular community on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.) This Spring Festival features a duck & wine cook-off by local chefs, and restaurants. Each chef will create a special dish with the main ingredient being duck, provided by Maple Leaf Farms, that is then paired with a selected wine chosen by Coastal Catina.

Participants will vote for the People’s Choice awards while a panel of judges determine who wins the “Best Dish” category. It’s truly a wonderful, relaxing, spring event that is set perfectly in Duck. The views that the boardwalk provides are breathtaking, and simply pleasuring. Can you imagine yourself gliding down the boardwalk tasting new food, and sampling divine wine? While laughing, and sharing memories with those you love most, and/ or new faces? (It’s going to be a good time!)

Each ticket holder will receive a signature wine glass, and wine tote bag. Wines used in this event will even be available for purchase from Coastal Provisions at a special day rate!

Tickets are now available, and are filling up at a brisk pace! Get your spot today to experience a memorable, fun festival complete with Duck & Wine on the Outer Banks of North Carolina this Spring. Go to http://www.coastival.org/ for more details on purchasing a ticket for this event.

Southern Shores Realty still has available Outer Banks rentals for April 2012. Browse through our inventory to find the perfect home for a week at the beach with your friends, and family! Great food, wine, and friends on the Outer Banks this April. What more could you ask for?

See you April 28,

Southern Shores Realty

Follow us on Facebook!!

Upcoming “Couture By The Shore” | Travel OBX Informed

Amy Dougherty of the Outer Banks Relief Foundation accepts a check from Jo Whitehead of Awful Arthurs

Will you be on the Outer Banks at the end of April 2012? If so, SAVE THE DATE! The “Couture By The Shore” fashion show will be held on April 23, 2012 from 11 AM to 3 PM at Kelly’s Restaurant and Tavern in Nags Head, North Carolina. This is one exciting event, and last year was a hit, literally a sell out, for it gives us women a glimpse of fashion on the secluded yet wonderful OBX. Get gorgeous at any age, the show features runway models from 11 local retailers in the latest clothing, jewelry, hair, and makeup! It’s also a luncheon, and some other great aspects of the show include a silent auction, a raffle, and door prizes. Purchase your ticket today for only $40 at any of the participating fashionistas, whoops retailers! The French Door, Gray’s, Jewelry By Gail, Lady Victorian, Luxury, Plum Crazy, Sun Shack, and the Whalebone Surf Shop.

 

It  has been announced through a recent Press Release that the Awful Authors Oyster Bar will be a Major Sponsor of the show with all proceeds going towards The Outer Banks Relief Foundation. The OBRF has contributed over a 1/2 million dollars to support, help, and guide local citizens in crisis, or those who are suffering from debilitating disease, according to the press release. They have made Dare County a more compassionate, caring community. Life’s better together, right?

If you are interested in attending this event navigate over to our website to browse through our available Outer Banks Vacation Rentals. Style your week at the beach in one of our homes (you won’t be disappointed.) Hope to see you in April!

Your friends at Southern Shores Realty

4th Annual George Barnes Oyster Roast | Travel informed

Who’s ready for an Outer Banks Oyster Roast? Saturday, March 3, 2012 marks the 4th Annual George Barnes Oyster Roast, held at the Jockey Ridge State Park in Nags Head, North Carolina.

This year, not only will there be delicious food to indulge in, but also a day of creating new environments for oysters in the Jockey’s Ridge sound. By helping with the oyster environmental project this March, you’ll receive FREE admission to the post Oyster Roast Party!

Enjoy a long weekend on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and enjoy coming together with our friendly community to help create a better, healthier habitat for oysters. This is a great family event for our guest to participate in. Bring the little ones out to the Outer Banks for a weekend of fun on the living dune of the East Coast, an educational experience, new faces, and great eats for the adults!

Click here to browse Southern Shores Realty’s rental inventory.

See you in two weeks!

Friends at Southern Shores Realty

Scheduled Events for August 2012 on the OBX

This August there are some great events being held on the Outer Banks, perfect for fishermen, fishing ladies, families, theater lovers, and those interested in art, and music. It’s going to be one exciting month, full of sunshine, and friends! August is a busy month for both vacationers, and locals alike – but oh so worth it. Gorgeous summer days, a warm ocean, and a cozy vacation rental to cool off in. We hope to accommodate you, and your family this August.

Duck Summer Music Series

For seven weeks, free concerts featuring some of the area’s best known musical talent will be featured at the Duck Town Park Gazebo Stage. Shows begin at 6:00 p.m. and are on Thursday evenings from June 28 through August 9. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, a picnic dinner and enjoy an early evening concert on the town green. The concerts are free. June 28-Aug 9.

11th Annual OBX Sandbar 5k

Set on the wide flat sands in front of the historic ‘Old Station’ public bath house in Kitty Hawk. August 5.

23rd Annual Alice Kelly Memorial Ladies Only Billfish Tournament

Leading up to the Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament the ladies get their turn to reel in the Big One! The Alice Kelly Tournament is an annual event the Sunday before the Billfish Tournament. The 23rd Annual Alice Kelly Tournament, held August 12th with registration on August 11th, is a fundraiser event for the Outer Banks Cancer Support Group. With an entry fee of only $500.00 per boat it is a great way to help out your community and have a great time on the water. August 11-12.

29th Annual Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament

The 29th annual Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament, August 13th-17th, 2012, is a world-class event and home to the State Record Blue Marlin caught on the 25th Anniversary of the tournament, weighing in at a whopping 1,228.5 pounds! August 13.

New World Festival of the Arts

A juried exhibition featuring 80 selected artists from Vermont to Florida exhibiting and selling their works on the Manteo Waterfront. This two-day outdoor art show has been held since 1981. August 15-16.

See you in August!

Southern Shores Realty

 Start planning my Outer Banks Vacation

Outer Banks vacation rentals

July Events 2012

This July, visit us on the Outer Banks of North Carolina for memories, lots of fun, family time, and new traditions. This is the most popular time of year to visit, everything/ everyone is buzzing with excitement, smiles, and new friends.

Duck’s 8th Annual Fourth of July Parade

The one-mile parade route begins at the crest of the hill on Scarborough Lane going eastward, continues down Ocean Way, and then turns onto Christopher Drive. No part of the parade is on Duck Road (SR 12). Please plan to arrive at least 1/2 hour early to get the best parade viewing spot! A community social following at the Duck Town Park featuring music by Ruth Wyand & Friends, refreshments and the awarding of parade trophies. July 4th on Duck Road. Visit last years recap.

OBX Killer Dunes 2 Mile Run/ Walk

Come join us on Wednesday, July 4th at 8:30 AM at Jockey’s Ridge in Nags Head for the 7th Annual OBX Killer Dunes 2 mile run / walk & kids fun run. The event is a benefit for Easter Seals UCP of North Carolina & Virginia, a non-profit that helps people with disabilities lead fuller lives. All skill levels are welcome. Advanced runners can challenge themselves to complete the sand dune course without stopping. Or simply stroll through the course and take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Roanoke Sound, and the rest of the Outer Banks. There is even a kids fun run where 12 and under can run up a dune and back. June 4.

See you this July!

Southern Shores Realty

I want to start planning my Outer Banks vacation

Browse through Annual Events.

 

June Events

Vacation this June to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. For many reasons other than making memories to last a lifetime like the fun, family oriented events! Enjoy an OBX paddle palooza to learn the ins and outs of Stand Up Paddleboarding, the Triple S Invitational to watch professional kiteboarding, or the 30th Annual Rogalla Kite Festival. See our list of the top reasons why you should vacation this June.

 

75th Anniversary Season of the The Lost Colony

Waterside Theatre, Roanoke Island. Monday – Friday, 8:30 p.m. 2012 marks the 75th anniversary season of the nation’s longest running symphonic drama, The Lost Colony. Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Paul Green’s The Lost Colony recounts the historical events leading to the disappearance of the first English colonists who settled on Roanoke Island over 400 years ago. Come see live theatre under the stars performed by a professional company of more than 100 actors, dancers, singers and technicians. From epic battles and Indian dances to the pageantry of the Queen and her court, The Lost Colony educates, enriches and entertains! Inquire about weekend performances and special rates. Children 12 and under free on Monday nights when accompanied by a paying adult. Backstage tours at 7:30 p.m. June 1st.

OBX Paddle Palooza

Three day Festival of Fun, so gather up the entire family and come try out Stand Up Paddleboarding, join in some fun races, and don’t forget your appetite for the Pig Pickin’ on Saturday night! June 1-3.

Triple-S Invitational

Cape Hatteras. Held every year in Cape Hatteras, widely acclaimed as one of the top 3 kiteboarding destinations in the world, the Triple-S crown is the most sought after victory on the professional kiteboarding circuit. This professional event attracts the top 24 men and women kiteboarders from around the world to compete in surf, slicks and slider disciplines. The schedule also hosts 7 parties and 7 bands to provide a very social atmosphere to go along with the competition. This allows spectators a unique opportunity to meet the pros and learn more about the sport of kiteboarding. June 2-8.

30th Annual Rogallo Kite Festival

Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Nags Head. This two day festival will feature our signature kite flying on the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge. Throughout the festival, exhibitions and demonstrations, including stunt and power kite lessons, are provided. June 9-10

Small Fry Fishing Tournament

The Small Fry Tournament is family fun time! Held annually around the 4th of July. Two categories of fishing for children 3-8 and 9-15. The entry fee is nominal and includes a t-shirt and lunch! Trophies are presented in each category for the largest fish caught. Target species are spot, bluefish, trout and flounder. Jan 28.

See you in June!

Also check out all of the Annual Events

Valentines Day events on the Outer Banks 2012

Are you retreating to the Outer Banks with your loved one? Looking to treat your other with an intimate, elegant dinner on Valentines Day? Possibly just an romantic activity to share together? The Outer Banks has the perfect setting for the love birds out there, and if you are lucky enough to be here, you are lucky. For the restaurants, and attractions prepare for this romantic day to give couples the backdrop, taste, and atmosphere they’ve been waiting patiently for. Not to mention the natural beauty, and seclusion our beaches have to offer you two. Here is a few tips on making this February fourth tenth a day to remember on the Outer Banks of North Carolina from your friends at Southern Shores Realty.

 

Reserve a table at Ocean Boulevard in Kitty Hawk, North CarolinaYou’ll both love it.

Stop in at Ocean Boulevard for an intimate, up- scale four course dinner for two. They have been providing a special Valentines Day menu for over a decade while creating the perfect atmosphere for couples in love. The cost is $55.00 per person, $85.00 with paired wines.

 

Reserve a table at Kelly’s Tavern in Nags Head, North Carolina - You’ll both love it.

From 6-8 PM at Kelly’s Tavern, enjoy soft, smooth sounds in the tavern by Kim Kalmen while you share laughs, moments, and dinner with your significant other.

 

Go to Trio for an Aphrodisiac Wine & Beer Tasting in Kitty Hawk, North CarolinaHe’ll even love it. 

Trio, who recently opened last summer, has been a hit on the Outer Banks. This Valentines Day participate in their popular Aphrodisiac Wine & Beer Tasting either at 5 PM or 7 PM. It is only $30 per person, with a limit of 12 individuals per tasting. Reserve as soon as possible to secure your spot.

 

Wake up early enough to share an intimate sunrise together - She’ll love it.

You will both enjoy cuddling to an Outer Banks sunrise, or even strolling down the beach hand in hand. They are very romantic, intimate while love is in the air. It’s something you’ll never forget.

 

Take your special someone horseback riding down the NC shore- You’ll both love it.

Enjoy a romantic ride down the beach with an experienced guide from Equine Adventures. They are hosting a Valentines Day Special – $100 per rider. Time’s vary, and spaces are limited; however, it’s worth the ride.

 

Haven’t reserved  your long weekend on the Outer Banks yet? Browse through our rentals.

See the two of you soon!

Southern Shores Realty

 

The Outer Banks Taste of the Beach 2012

For over 25 years, the Outer Banks Restaurant Association has been hosting the Outer Banks Taste of the Beach, held each year in March. This delicious ‘beach inspired‘ food festival will be on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend this year (March 15-18), and a fantastic reason to visit us here on east coast.

Have you ever wanted to try as many OBX restaurants as possible (there is over 160 locally owned & operated eateries), but seem to run out of time before doing so? Only have a chance to dine in at your favorites each trip down? Well, this is a great way to sample what each of them have to offer through dine arounds, tapas crawls, wine tastings, brewer tours, and even cooking classes. Also enjoy special menu presentations, as well as celebrity guest chef appearances! Here at the beach we are all about savoring the taste, freshness, unique dishes, making memories, and simply having a good ‘ol time! (Why do you think our guest love the area so much;)?) This is something you, your family, and your friends don’t want to miss out on. Pile in together, and make it a weekend of a lifetime on the Outer Banks!

As of February 14, all events have been added. They are filling up quickly, and some have already been closed due to full seats. If you follow this link you will a find a complete list of closed and open events scheduled for the weekend. Enjoy!

Southern Shores Realty has opened up partial week bookings for those interested in tasting the beach with us on March 15-18. Browse through several Outer Banks Vacation Rentals accepting reservations at this time. After doing so give one of Outer Banks experts a call to reserve at 1-800-334-1000.

Here is some information about the OBX Grande Tasting (held on Sunday, March 18 from their website:

The OBX Grand Tasting on Sunday, March 18th, will be the hottest

ticket in town with about 30 area restaurants and beverage vendors

serving a sampling of original hand prepared foods, fine wines and

beers from around the world. Restaurants will be competing for the 3rd

Annual TOB’y Awards; Best Booth Presentation, Best In Show, Best

Outer Banks Cuisine, and the two top awards, the Chefs Award and

People’s Choice Award.

 

 

Along with the Outer Banks Taste of Beach, we have many other fun, family oriented events being held the very same weekend. Yes, you can bring the entire family down for a weekend on the Outer Banks! The additional scheduled events include, the Kelly’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and the Annual Running of The Leprechauns 8k.

See you in March!

Southern Shores Realty

 

 

2012 St. Patrick’s Day Parade on the Outer Banks

The largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in North Carolina!

March 18, 2012 at 1 p.m- Rain or Shine

Virginia Dare Tail/ Beach Road,MP 11.5

Nags Head, North Carolina

This march enjoy the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade held in North Carolina on the Outer Banks with us. There are over 1,500 participants, and close to 10,000 spectators enjoying an afternoon at the beach with live music, floats, marching bands, and creative marching, walking, and motorized units. The kids will love it, and you’ll even have a blast! Southern Shores Realty provides over 600 Outer Banks Vacation Rentals for you to choose from. Start planning now, friends! March is closer than you think.

2012 Parade Theme?

‘A Healthy Outer Banks!’  Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Outer Banks Hospital.  Healthy Active Lifestyles through GREEN SPORTS- Running, Walking, Cycling, Kiteboarding, Surfing, Kayaking, Tennis, Racquetball, Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Football.

The Parade is known for holding a traditional post party at Kelly’s Tavern in Nags Head, North Carolina; however, no information on this has been released yet.

 

 

 

 

Want to fly with the pirates on the OBX?

Well, it’s that time again for another Outer Banks Sporting Event here on the unique barrier islands of North Carolina. The Flying Pirate Half Marathon/ First Flight 5k is right around the corner, and registration is now open to those interested in running with the pirates; argggg! Last year this amazing non-profit organization had a turnout of over 2000 participants for these two specific events. This year is expected to be even better. Find detailed information below on the Flying Pirate Weekend with OBSE!

April 20-22, 2012

Prices (Registration prices will increase closer to the event so register as soon as possible for the best deal)

Flying Pirate 1/2 Marathon: Sunday 22nd

First Flight 5k: Saturday 21st

NEW this year- Flying Pirate Challenge 5k Saturday + 1/2 Marathon Sunday

NEW this year- Family Fun Run: Saturday 21st


Have you attended an OBSE before? If not, I advice you to keep reading…

Visitors travel from all over the world to participate in annual events hosted by the infamous Outer Banks Sporting Events organization. Devoted runners? Yes, but that’s not the only reason individuals, families, and beach lovers come from miles away for multiple marathons, half marathons, and 5ks throughout the year. OBSE promotes a healthy living lifestyle, provides financial resources for needed relief, supports education, and contributes to economic development on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Plus, they make it fun; everyone is bound to have a good time, even the spectators, volunteers, and sponsors!

Basically when OBSE host an event, you don’t want to miss it! Especially during a month like April. Experience perfect running weather, pristine beaches that will still be empty, new faces, and create a healthy memory that will last a lifetime. Click to browse long weekend stays with Southern Shores Realty, or our entire online catalog of Outer Banks Vacation Rentals.

See you in April!