How will celebrate St. Patricks Day? | Travel OBX Informed

March 14, 2012 By

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is known as a popular St. Patrick’s Day destination. With festive locals, and excited visitors- it’s a grand weekend for all. Not to mention, the annual happenings that will take place this year on the weekend of St. Patrick’s Day. (Follow through for a more detailed post on events.) It’s going to be one fun filled weekend on the banks! How will enjoy it? Read the following to learn how to create your own Irish fun on the Outer Banks of North Carolina in between the exciting, festive events that will be taking place!

To start, let me teach you how to give a St. Patrick’s Day toast the Irish way. No good day ends without some lucky words being passed around, and the Irish know just how to to do. It’s said that the best toasts out there have been stated by the friendly Irish, ones that really make you think then laugh in agreement!) Sláinte (pronounced (slawn-cha) which means health, and is equivalent to the American Cheers is a phrase you’re bound to hear if you’re parting like the Irish!

You can also trust the Irish to create some of the best brews around the world which you can grab at some of our local bars while your in town. Such as the famous Guinness. Or perhaps some Irish Whiskey including Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore Dew to top your day off just right. Did you know Ireland is also popular for shooters, and cocktails? (Man, the Irish know how to drink!) Yup, grab some Bailey’s Irish Cream for a smooth shooter, or whip up some Irish Martini’s for your green crew. Or, follow this link to learn how to create green cocktails.

The Green Beer however, is an American tradition that has made it way around the globe. It’s quite easy to prepare, and goes a long way. I’m assuming that’s why it’s the choice of drink in America on St. Patrick’s Day. Just put one drop of green food coloring into the bottom of a cold mug then pour in your choice of beer. This will surely put you right into the mood of the Irish this weekend!

If you’re looking to grab a beer on the go while on the Outer Banks be sure to stop into Kelly’s Tavern, or Mulligans for a green-like atmosphere.

So how will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Will you partake in some of the area’s festivities this weekend, or relax in an Outer Banks vacation rental with a cold mug of green beer, or green cocktails?

 

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

A Peaceful Vacation | Travel OBX Informed

March 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

How do you like to vacation? Are you excited to explore the Outer Banks to discover the fascinating attractions, and/ or historical locations? Or do you prefer to take it easy, and enjoy a week of resting at the beach? Even though the Outer Banks is a prime location for unique sight seeing, and adventuring in North Carolina, it is one of the most relaxing places on earth. This interesting beach provides a sense of security, if you will. The atmosphere is totally calming, inspiring even, to the extended point of never wanting to leave. From dawn to dust, rejuvenate everything about yourself.

Our mornings are superb, and fully awakening. The sun rises gorgeously over the large Atlantic allowing you to simply think while drinking your coffee, strolling down the beach in the cooled sand, or even cruising down the road on a bike. The Outer Banks offers some of the best sunrises along the east coast, and there is nothing more composing than taking it all in, however you please.

Days our warm, bright, private, and quiet on the Outer Banks. Enjoy one of your favorite reads on the back deck of your rented home, simply lay on a water float as the sun beats down on you, doze away in your big comfortable bed as the sun rays sneak in through the blinds, push the sunglasses down while you secretively nap in your beach chair, or even pour yourself a glass of wine as you watch your children become the best of friends with their cousins. The atmosphere on these unique barrier islands offers you perfect paradise throughout our summer days. Nothing but pure, affordable relaxation.

But don’t fall asleep yet, or tip over that glass of wine, because there’s still a must see awaiting you. At sunset catch one of the most stunning sights you have ever seen. The sky over the sound fills with an assortment of unbelievable colors, shadows, and the sun. (Be sure to put your name on one of those deck chairs.) The sun setting over our waters is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. This kind of afternoon is exactly what you have been seeking, trust me.

Anyway, vacationing to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is like becoming a new person, especially if you have never been. Enjoy 5 whole days of nothing but relaxing in your very own way. (Live the beach life that us locals do: easy going, and simply happy, everyday.) They say it’s more like a “stay vacation”; someone is going to end up having to force you back into your vehicle. I guess this is why, and how the Outer Banks has come to be what it is today. People came for extraordinary fishing excursions, and family time no more than 70 years ago, and didn’t want to go back to where they came from. (Kudos to the first guest of our beloved area!)

The question still lingers on… Do you come for a week of simple nothings, or do you prefer to explore the endless possibilities?

Filed Under: Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Welcoming another property into our program | Travel Informed

March 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment

We’re welcoming another Outer Banks Vacation Rental into our program, bringing our total to a whopping 635. Help us say Hey to “Sunset Views”, located in the Tuckahoe community in Duck, North Carolina!

This absolutely stunning vacation rental is set in a private cul-de-sac, giving you the time you need to relax without the bustle of other vacationers. The house is OVER 3,000 square feet, 7 complete bedrooms; giving families a chance to get together for some much needed quality time. With the numerous decks surrounding the home you’re able to catch some spectacular views of the sunrise over the Atlantic, as well as sun sets over the calm sound. Did I mention you can gaze at the sound from every single deck?

Discover that your children will remember the trip for their entire life, and so will you.  Can you recall becoming best friends with your cousins? They will too. Sunset Views is located in a prime spot with easy access, and endless possibilities. Grab a string and some chicken legs to crab off of the recently build Duck boardwalk, or head out to the beach to play in the sand. Duck Shopping, and Dining is also only a bike cruise away. (The shops & eats in Duck are recognized as some of the best on the beach.) The Tuckahoe Community also provides amenities for you to take full advantage of. Enjoy a community pool, tennis courts, soundfront pier, gazebo, ocean access, plus parking!

Summer weeks are still available at Sunset Views; however, they are beginning to fill up fast. So hurry over to reserve your stay with Southern Shores Realty, The Outer Banks Experts!

Filed Under: Did you know?, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Leaping into a 2012 Vacation | Travel OBX Informed

February 29, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Hello February 29th, we haven’t seen you for some time now!

Here on the Outer Banks we’re celebrating Leap Year by jumping right into the life of vacations. Something we all have to agree on loving. Who doesn’t enjoy a vacation by the shore, especially the shores of North Carolina. The beaches here are secluded, pristine, and absolutely stunning; however, that isn’t the only thing that makes the shore of North Carolina so wonderful. Our guests, our vacationers, our travelers, and our tenants are what complete the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We wouldn’t be able to enjoy such a place without sharing our soft sand with you. So if you haven’t planned your Outer Banks vacation for the year of 2012 do so now! For this is the year to live, reach all limits, and simply enjoy yourself. Why? Because it’s Leap Year, and we’d like you to leap out on the beach with us!

For those of you who have never vacationed in an Outer Banks vacation rental, keep reading…

Breathing in the fresh beach air lets you know that you’re here, you’ve made it… it’s finally time for a week full of good times, and memories will be made to last. After a long drive to the Outer Banks there’s nothing better than feeling a sense of total freedom when you step into your spacious, private, gorgeous vacation rental. There are many benefits to reserving a vacation rental, rather than a hotel room, hands down. To enjoy a true relaxing vacation you’ll need privacy, space, family/ friends, and…

  • Amenities that vary from having a place to rest your head to large hot tubs, game rooms, in home theaters, private pools, and much more that you can’t always find at a hotel, at least not to yourself.
  • A location that will give you the freedom you’re seeking. Stay in an oceanfront rental overlooking the Atlantic ocean, or a sound side rental that offers panoramic views of the sun setting over the sound. Perhaps you’d rather be near shops, dining, and local attractions for a busy week on the banks? The point is, you choose.
  • An affordable vacation, one where you’ll save money. Find a deal with Southern Shores Realty then split the cost between extended family, and friends. Now we’re really talking about savings. Vacations are about being together, and there’s nothing more special than actually spending time together as one. (In one home NOT 5 rooms.) You will even save on entertainment, and dining costs. For you have those amenities to choose between that will keep everyone busy all week long, and a full kitchen to share moments around the dinner table.

It’s hard to place a value on a vacation, they’re priceless. Make memories to last your lifetime, and give the children a chance to become best friends with their cousins. (They’ll come forever to share the experience you gave them with their own children. Trust us.) Traveling to the Outer Banks will easily become one of your favorite family traditions. This is your year, Leap Year 2012, to travel, vacation, and have a good time! You deserve it, and we’d love to share our special banks with you.

Search affordable Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

I’ve booked my rental, and want to start planning my stay!

See you soon,

Southern Shores Realty

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Only 33 days until Spring! | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

February 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Can’t wait for Spring?

If you’re anything like us at the beach then you can’t wait for Spring time to arrive. I have some good news for you, and I – we only have 33 days left! This winter has been very warm, stress free, and surprisingly pretty busy; however, spring is so joyful, and pretty. Flowers begin to bloom, as well as the vacations for the season. It’s definitely Southern Shores Realty’s favorite time of  year.

How about you? What is your favorite season to be at the beach? Children scream for summer while fishermen scream for fall. What do you scream for? Calm, neutral mornings? Well, let me tell you something. (Spring. is. your. ticket.) There’s nothing more peaceful than spring mornings on the banks. Almost everyday is perfect, even the rainy ones. Bright, warm, and awakening if you know what I mean.

Visit us this Spring, we would love to accommodate your Outer Banks Vacation, to let the ocean wash your winter blues away. Our pristine beaches are still empty providing beautiful open spaces, and there are many events to attend like the Duck & Wine extravaganza. You can look through our Rental Inventory here.  Happy Browsing!

Also, check out some of our steals of the season: Specials

Adam’s Sunset Cove is offering an 8th night FREE when you book for 7 days before March 31st. Rent any full week (7 nights) and come in a day early or stay one more night for FREE. Subject to availability. This vacation rental is located on the soundside of the banks.

 

 

 

Seaclusion is offering a 10% discount towards any booking that is booked prior to March 1st. Hurry for you only have two weeks left to grab this deal! This vacation rental is located on the oceanside of the banks.

 

 

 

 

 

Southern Shores Realty

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Why should I purchase Travel Insurance?

February 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Why should I purchase Travel Insurance?

Whether or not to purchase Travel Insurance is a question for the majority of vacationers. Yes, it’s extra money, but it is very necessary for the insurance helps you in the event of a mandatory evacuation due to Hurricanes as well as any emergency reasons that would cause you to cancel, delay, or shorten your vacation. This is how you would be reimbursed as Southern Shores Realty is unable to give you a refund.

 

 

 

Prior to your trip the insurance protects your vacation dollars from loss due to:

  • Hurricanes
  • Illness
  • Injury
  • Existing conditions

During your stay the insurance protects your vacation dollars from

  • Trip delays & interruption
  • Baggage delay, theft, loss
  • Medical Issues
  • Mandatory Evacuations

After you have arrived back home

  • CSA provides responsive claims

Travel Insurance is an important investment when it comes to vacationing.  Whether you like it or not, illness can strike at any given moment, to any one guest staying with you. Hurricanes also interrupt our lives here on the Outer Banks of North Carolina during the late summer season, and the beginning of the fall. Sometimes pushing us to those dreadful Mandatory Evacuations. The answer to this common question, “Should I purchase travel insurance,” is yes, you should. When it comes to your money don’t just trust your gut, plan ahead for the unwanted interruptions.

Southern Shores Realty provides CSA Travel Insurance. Why? CSA insures millions of travelers each year, with the right no-hassle coverage and services before, during and after their trip. Trust us when we tell you that you can trust CSA Travel Insurance

Good Luck!

Southern Shores Realty

Return to the page I was on

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Hurricane/Storm Info, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s New Driving Regulations…

February 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is widely known as one of the most gorgeous areas in North Carolina while being a popular destination for many of our Outer Banks guests. Most tend to make a day trip out of driving down Highway 12 to Hatteras for a fun and different style of driving, fishing excursions, and lighthouse climbing. It’s one of the prettiest areas around, and is about a 2.5 hour drive from South Nags Head. Not too shabby considering several families make the drive.

The NPS (National Park Service)  has developed an ORV (off road vehicle) management plan, and special regulations to comply with executive orders, as well as preserve the unique plants and wildlife of this dynamic barrier island ecosystem, while permitting the use of vehicles on designated ORV routes at the seashore. Makes sense, right? For we are truly a fragile section of barrier islands that needs to be taken care of. If not, the situation could in fact be worse. This regulation will become effective February 15, 2012. It requires all beach drivers to hold an ORV permit to operate on the routes at the seashore. You may obtain these permits at any three NPS permit offices on Coquina Beach, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center, and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. (Offices are open year round.) The cost of an annual ORV permit is $120, and is valid for one year. For a 7- day permit, the cost is $50. These Off Road Vehicle Permits are only valid for the calendar year in which you buy them.

Personally, I’d just head up to Corolla which is another off roading destination, home to the infamous Spanish wild mustangs. The access is located at the end of the road in Corolla, North Carolina, and provides a sense of mystery, relaxation, and amazing views. Just as the Cape Hatteras National Seashore does. If you decide to explore any of our beaches by car on your next vacation, please be respectful or all of the regulations, both old and new: get your permit if driving in Hatteras, stay at least 50 feet from the horses when you see them on the norther beaches, be cautious of other beach goers, and watch your speed. But most of all, have a safe, fun, and enjoyable vacation on the Outer Banks!

Southern Shores Realty

Filed Under: Did you know?, Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Top 7 reasons to vacation on the OBX in June

January 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

June is one of the most exciting months to visit the Outer Banks of North Carolina, believe it or not. If you plan your vacation right (reserving a week at the beginning of the summer) you have the benefit of beating the summer crowds, including traffic, experience beautiful spring like weather, locals are pumped to serve you at restaurants and shops, and there are some really cool family oriented events that you don’t want to miss out on! Keep reading for Southern Shores Realty’s top 7 reasons to vacation with us in June 2012!

 

It’s a new season!

The number one reason to book a vacation in the month of June on the Outer Banks of North Carolina is that it’s the bloom of a new season. Restaurant owners, shop owners, friendly locals, event planners, Southern Shores Realty, and other residents are ready to start the season off right! The entire Outer Banks looks forward to the upcoming season after a empty winter to see our friends from around the world. Everything is upbeat, exciting, and most of all fresh into a new ‘year’ if you will.

 

Breathtaking Atmosphere

Secondly, the weather is just fantastic during the month of June! Spring temperatures are still in the air which is known to brings the OBX one of the most breathtaking atmospheres you could imagine. Neutral spring temps with a soft breeze off of the shore is exactly what the majority of travelers look for in a vacation destination. It’s relaxing, calm, sensational, breathtaking, and.. I could go on forever. You get the point, right? When you mix a little beach with it, you got a perfect vacation for families, fishermen, couples, and especially golfers.

 

Your Chance

Another reason to visit our magnificent beach in June is that the beaches aren’t nearly as crowded as they will be in July, August, and even September. You skip the large amounts of traffic on your way into town, and are relieved of heavy crowds throughout the week. It’s your chance to enjoy what the Outer Banks is really about! Chat with the locals in one of unique restaurants, or enjoy one of those fun activities you couldn’t make it to on your previous vacation with us. Like catching a show at The Lost Colony, exploring the Wright Brother Memorial, and hang gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge. The possibilities are endless.

 

Soaring Kites

Your Fourth Reason to travel to the Outer Banks at the beginning of the season is that you can catch the Annual Rogallo Kite Festival! Have you ever seen kites soaring through the air? Maybe you have… BUT have you ever seen a signature kite soar over one of the largest living dunes in America? You won’t believe you eyes when you witness these fascinating kites fly over Jockey’s Ridge. The entire family will enjoy demonstrations, exhibitions, stunts, and power kite lessons from the experts. June 9-10 at Jockey’s Ridge.

 

 

Whats SUP?

If you visit the Outer Banks at the very beginning of June you can take a day trip down to Frisco, North Carolina for an eventful afternoon at the Paddle Palooza. Let the children try paddle boarding for a day! The learning techniques are educational, very safe, and seriously FUN! It’s a sport you can take back home with you, if you live near water of course. The Paddle Palooza is a three day festival with a pig pickin scheduled for Saturday night. June 1-3 in Frisco, North Carolina.

 

Waterfront Art Show

The 11th Annual “Under The Oaks” Art Festival will be held at the Currituck Heritage Park on June 21, 2012. This is an enthusiastic art show on the waterfront, and great for the entire family! Bring the crew down to Corolla to participate in a summer day with food, auctions, and children activities. Plus, it’s free!

 

Magical Happenings

On June 27, 2011, The Town of Duck kicks off their season at the Town Park by hosting a family magic show at 10:00 am. This is a great event for the entire family! If you rent a home in Duck, your only a short walk away from this festive park. There will also be live entertainment the following day which is the start to a lovely summer music series. Throughout the season there will be free concerts featuring local talent. The show starts at 6:00.

 

 

Explore our rental inventory by clicking here.

Thanks, we will see you in June,

Southern Shores Realty

 

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , ,

Valentine’s Day Retreat to the Outer Banks

January 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Well, Valentines Day is right around the corner, and there is nothing more special than packing the bags up for a long weekend, or even a week on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Enjoy romantic walks along the beach, cuddling in front of the fireplace, a big comfy bed to relax in together, elegant dining, and much more for the couple in love. Like catching an one of a kind east coast sunrise, or watching the sun set before your eyes with a bottle of wine. Plus, many of the restaurants that are closed for the winter months tend to open specifically for Valentines Day. How about that!

There is nothing like giving a vacation of a lifetime, especially on Valentines Day. Surprise your Valentine with a lovely Retreat to the beach by Southern Shores Realty. Reserve a week long stay, or a long weekend in one of our Outer Banks Vacation Rentals for a Holiday you are sure to never forget.

Hey guys! Are you planning to ‘pop the question’ this February? If so, the beach would be a lovely setting to do so. There is just something really romantic about the ones on the Outer Banks. They set the mood if you know what I mean. Let us know if you do by commenting below or visiting our Facebook page. We would love to hear your story!

Southern Shores Realty

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Oceanfront Rentals

January 12, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Have you ever visited the Outer Banks of North Carolina? If so, did you stay at an oceanfront property? Alright I know, they aren’t the easiest to book for they go pretty quickly. Although, it is still January which means other individuals are still browsing just like you. So you still have time to reserve an Oceanfront rental with Southern Shores Realty for the 2012 season. I believe vacationing right on the ocean provides benefits like nothing else, especially on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This area for one is the perfect escape. When you add a rental that is located directly in front of the ocean into the the mix- it gets ten times better. Your vacation that is.

 

Top 3 reasons to just go ahead and oceanfront that reservation:

Mesmerizing Sunrises

Each morning on the Outer Banks of North Carolina you can catch the sun rise above the gorgeous Atlantic ocean. An oceanfront property provides the perfect setting to relax as you are graciously mesmerized by the sunrise. Drink your coffee, catch up on that book you started on the way down, skim through the news on your I pad, or just enjoy the sound of the waves crashing before you. It doesn’t get better than this, believe me.

Easy beach access

Most Oceanfront rentals provide their own beach walk and/ or path to the beach. So no fighting with traffic & different public beach accesses to find a parking spot. Nor do you have to drag the family plus beach gear across Virginia Dare Trail. You just have to walk right out your back doors, and Wa la – the beach! The children will love it, as well as your self.

Quick escapes

With easy access to the beach you not only get out to sand quickly, but also come right back in just as quick  Sometimes it gets hot out there, and well Oceanfront homes allows you to walk back in for a quick escape, cool off, and return later.

Yes, I can come up with a thousands reasons why vacationing in an oceanfront home is wonderful on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. But it wouldn’t be fair for me to just tell you. You’ll have to come visit, with the family, to see for your self. I can tell you this- you won’t be dissapointed.

Here is a view of the beach from a rental in Southern Shores- Enjoy!

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Reservation Info Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,
« Older Posts