Vacation Rental Policies

You have chosen the Outer Banks for your vacation, now to select the home that best suits your vacation party and needs.  With over 12,000 vacation properties along the Outer Banks, this task seems daunting. We have narrowed the selection to 200 affordable accommodations including condos and homes, modest to luxury.  See our Vacation Planning Resources for vacation planning, vacation home information and preparation. 

We ask and expect that you treat your vacation home in the same manner or with greater care than your own home as it is someone’s home.   

Vacation Rental Agreement

Considerations:

Location, Location, Location

Distance to the Beach-All distances are approximate and intended for reference only.  Atlantic Realty is not responsible for inaccuracies. 

Home Furnishings and Equipment

Our homes reflect the personalities and styles of the individual owner.  Unless otherwise stated in the property description, all homes are furnished with cable TV, phones, pillows, mattress pads, bedding covers, and normal housekeeping-table settings, dishes, and cookware. 

Family Fun Program-Free Golf and More

Selected properties provide “activities” as an amenity that you can enjoy one each day or all activities each day.  Your check-in packet will include a program brochure, activity reservation information, and passcard. 
For more information, view Family Fun

Location, Location, Location

Your location will be important if your plans focus or center on specific activities. 

• Fishing 
• Golf 
• Kayak   
• Surfing

VACATION PROFILE

Definitions, Policies, Rates/Fees, Limitations, Reservations

Vacation rental weeks begin on Saturday or Sunday (see property description) for a minimum one week.  We welcome reservations on-line, by phone, and in person seven days a week from 9:00 am-5:00 pm (until 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday, June 1-September 1).

Partial/Mini- Vacations

Selective properties offer partial/mini-vacations with an $390 minimum reservation.  Partial reservations are accepted five days in advance of the desired period.

Pre-reservations/Tentative Reservations

We gladly accept your advance reservation for a subsequent year.  Given availability, you may book the property for the subsequent year with an applicable $20 non-refundable advance processing fee plus sales tax.  Vacation Rental Agreements are mailed in early December for all advanced reservations.  The signed rental agreement must be returned within 10 days accompanied by the advance rental payment.  Tentative/advance reservations not confirmed within 10 days will be cancelled automatically.  The advance processing fee is non-refundable and non-applicable.

Payment

Upon booking a property, you will receive a Vacation Rental Agreement for review, signing, and return with the advance rent payment and travel insurance (if not declined on the agreement document) within 10 days of booking the reservation.  Reservations are automatically cancelled without notice if the Vacation Rental Agreement and deposit/advance rental fee and travel insurance premium is not received by the end of this 10 day period. 

Balances

The balance of your account (second half of rental base, security deposit or waiver, additional fees, and taxes) is due 30 days prior to arrival/check-in. 

Reservations and Payment Under 30 Days of Arrival

Reservations made less than 30 days to the vacation period must be confirmed with full payment within five days of the booking. 

Means of Payment

The advance payment and balances (beyond 30 days of arrival/check-in) may be made by personal check, money order, cashier’s check, or credit card.  There is no credit card fee.

Less than 30 days of Arrival/Check-In

Personal checks are not accepted if received less than 30 days of the check-in date.

Day of Check-In

Balances remaining at arrival/check-in may be paid only by guaranteed funds with an additional $20 administrative fee.

Cancellations

All cancellations must be in writing and signed by the party booking the property and signing the vacation rental agreement.  A fee equal to 10% of the base and reservation processing fee is charged for canceled or changed reservations.  No refunds are provided until the property has been re-rented and confirmed with payment.  Should the property not be re-rented, the entire advance rent payment is non-refundable.  Changed/transfer reservations cannot be made if the reservation has been confirmed with funds and the advance payment fees disbursed to the homeowner. 

Check-in

Check-in is at 4:00 pm. Please report to our Duck Office if you are staying in a property located in Duck or Corolla. Please report to our Kitty Hawk Office if you are staying in a property located in Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and South Nags Head. For customizable directions to our offices, please visit our Directions Page.

Check-in is exclusive at the office.  Do not travel to the vacation property without checking in at the office as this will delay your check-in and the beginning of your vacation.

Check-In After Hours

If you are arriving outside our office hours, please notify us so that we can make arrangements.

Early Check-In (ECI)

A limited number of 1:00 pm check-ins are available.  A $50 administrative and housekeeping fee is assessed and due upon arrival.  This option must be clearly selected on the promptly returned vacation agreement.  By selecting the ECI service you agree to the fee.  Should you select the ECI service but arrive after 1:00 pm, the fee is due and payable upon check-in as the service was performed and the property was prepared.

EXCEPTIONS:

• Properties occupied by the homeowner the week prior to the vacation stay.
• Pet Homes.
• Homes requiring services.   

Check-out

Check-out is 10:00 am. Check out, including keys, in the office.  A drop box is available for early departures.

Check-out Responsibilities

It is only through a cooperative effort between homeowners, departing tenants, and staff that a clean and sanitized home can be provided to each arriving guest.  To ensure that our staff is able to complete their required cleaning duties, we ask for your assistance upon departure. To get on the road early you may wish to arrange for end of week cleaning service. Call 262.2154 at least two days prior to check-out. View Cleaning Services Section

• Wash and put away all dishes.
• Empty all food from cabinets and refrigerators.
• Remove all trash, soap, etc. and place in receptacles.
• Take trash receptacles to the end of the drive-way for pick-up (to dumpsters for designated condominiums and subdivisions).
• Make beds.
• Close and lock all windows and doors.
• Vacate premises and return keys by 10:00 am.

Family Group Vacations

Atlantic Realty provides vacation rentals exclusively to family groups per our obligation to our homeowners.  A family group is defined as parents, grandparents, children and extended family members vacationing in one home. 

We lease property without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap or familial status.  The minimum age to execute a lease with Atlantic Realty is 25 years of age. 

Non-family groups: unmarried young adults, high school, college, or any other group make-up.

Not Allowed: House Parties.  Weddings. Chaperoned or un-chaperoned fraternities, sororities, school, or civic group. 

Obtaining a rental unit under false pretenses is a criminal act under NC General Statute 14-100.  ID’s must be furnished upon request.  Violation is grounds for EXPEDICTED EVICTION WITHOUT REFUND. 

Occupancy

Home occupancy is determined by local health laws based on septic capacity.  Maximum occupancy listed for each home applies to children and adults.  Campers, tents, and motor homes cannot be on the property for extra sleeping.  Some community and home owner association covenants do not permit campers, motor homes, or additional structures on the property.  An expedited eviction WITHOUT REFUND will be performed for violation.

Parking

Parking is limited to the number of property bedrooms; i.e. a three bedroom home will typically have parking for three cars; a four bedroom home will accommodate four cars. Larger homes (5+ bedrooms) may not have the capacity for an accompanying number of cars.  The different towns and associations may have parking restrictions including parking on the streets or on lawns.  Parking on streets carries the risk for ticketing and towing.  Parking on lawns carries the same risk in addition to the risk of personal safety due to placement of drainage, utility lines, and septic tanks and the potential for the destruction or collapse of such elements. 

Telephones

In general, vacation homes provide local service only.  Long distance restrictions are in place in most homes.  For long distance calls, guests must use a cell phone, credit card, calling card, or call collect.  Any and all long distance charges incurred during the vacation stay must be paid with an additional $15 service fee.

Pet Welcoming Homes ($100 Pet Fee)

Homes allowing pets are denoted by the pet icon in the property description.  A pet is strictly defined as adult domestic housebroken dog-no puppies.  All dogs are to be declared at check-in.  Dog owners are liable for any damage.  Under no circumstances are dogs allowed in pools or hot tubs.  Expedited eviction without refund will be performed for violations of these policies.  As dogs may not be allowed on many beaches during the summer months, consult town ordinances. 

Pools/Spas

For your safety, you are strongly advised to familiarize all members of your party with the regulations for pools and hot tubs.  (link to separate document).

Mail/Messages

Mail and packages cannot be delivered to vacation properties.  All mail or packages must be addressed and directed to our offices for pick-up.  Only emergency messages (illness, accident, or death) will be delivered.  Anyone needing to contact you or a member of your party should be provided, the following information: property name/rental number/reservation number and name on the lease (the person signing the lease).  It is your responsibility to provide this information to anyone needing to reach you.  For night emergencies, you are recommended to provide the Dare County Sheriff’s office number, 252.473.3444.

Locked Closets

Home owners maintain a locked area for their personal use.  These are not intended for guest use.  We ask that these locked areas be respected. 

Grilling

Grilling is permitted only on concrete surfaces or areas clearly defined and prepared.  Do not use outdoor grills (provided by the property or rented) on decks, porches, or near wooded areas.  Clean grills and dump cooled ashes in designated area or container.  Gas grills requiring propane may require tank exchange.  This is available in numerous locations and is the responsibility of the guest. 

Fireworks

Fireworks are not permitted on the property-yards, walkways, decks, or driveways.

Damages

Guests/tenants are responsible for the care of the property and assume liability for any damages to the property and its contents during their occupancy.  Normal wear and tear is understood.   Upon taking possession of the property guests should review the property and its furnishings and report any obvious damage.  Damages occurring during the vacation stay must be reported to our offices.  Damages reported by the guest or discovered by our property inspectors after guest departure/check-out will be accounted for in an adjustment of the security deposit.  Damages exceeding the security deposited will be invoiced with full payment due in 30 days.  After 30 days a late penalty will be assessed. 

Damage Waiver

The damage waiver purchased in lieu of the security deposit covers accidental damage during the vacation stay up to $1,500.  The damage waiver does not cover intentional damage, gross negligence, pet damage, theft, Acts of God, any and all damages not reported in writing by the date of check-out.  These damages will be the responsibility of the tenant.  Complete details are found in the Vacation Rental Agreement.

Items Left Behind

Atlantic Realty is not responsible for any personal items left behind.  Any items left behind and found by staff, service providers, vendors, or subsequent guests may be returned upon request with a $25 service charge and COD expenses. 

Fees

Pets (Dogs Only)

A $100 non-refundable fee is required for all homes allowing pets, limited to two domestic, housebroken dogs.  This fee covers extermination services performed upon departure. 

Security Deposit

A minimum $300 security deposit is required on all properties.  Exceptions to this standard are noted in the individual property description (but cannot be less than $100).  The security deposit is due and payable with the account balance (typically the second half of the rental payment) 30 days prior to check-in.  Properties are inspected immediately following check-out. The security deposit is returned in full 45 following the departure date if there are no damages.  The security deposit less charges for the cost of repair for reported/found damages is returned 45 days following the departure date.

Damage Waiver

A damage waiver option is available in lieu of the security deposit.  The damage waiver can be purchased to provide up to $1,500 accidental damage coverage at the price of a non-refundable $50 fee.  Some properties do not participate in the program and only  accept the security deposit; see property description. The waiver addresses accidental damages only.  Guests will incur repair expenses for damages resulting from intentional acts, negligence, and lack of care for the property.  Complete details are found in the Vacation Rental Agreement.

Travel Insurance-Trip Preserver

While you take a vacation, life does not.  This includes the unfortunate situations of illness, death, accidents, employment related issues, personal obligations and weather.  No refunds are provided for weather and disasters, natural or man-made, including those leading to mandatory evacuation.  To protect your vacation investment, travel insurance is provided. 

Travel insurance is automatically added to your reservation and cost at the rate of 6.9% of the base rental.  This premium is due with your initial/advance payment.  If you wish to decline this coverage, delete the charge and clearly and specifically indicate your denial of coverage on the vacation rental agreement. 

Coverage

Financial protection for trip expenses, cancellation, or interruption resulting from but not limited to hurricanes, job loss, injury, illness, death, and accidents prior to or en route.  View the entire plan and coverage.  For additional information, call 1.866.890.6499/visit www.trippreserver.com. This program is offered by Red Sky Travel Insurance.

Housekeeping, contact 252.261.2154

Midweek or end-of-week housekeeping services are available during your stay or at check-out.  Pricing is based upon the individual vacation home.  To arrange for either or both service options, complete the request form and confirm with payment (cash only)  by noon Monday.  Cleaning services will not be scheduled unless paid in full.

Services

• Floors swept/vacuumed
• Whole House Dusting
• Beds Made
• Bathrooms-sanitized and floors mopped
• Countertops and appliances cleaned; floors mopped
• Sliding glass doors, cleaned.
• Trash, removed.

Mid-week Clean: Spruce up during your stay
Saturday rentals: Cleaned Wednesdays between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm
Sunday rentals: Cleaned Thursdays between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm
End of Week Clean: Let us clean for your departure saving you time the morning of departure.

FISHING | GOLF | KAYAKING | SURFING

Activities by Location

Fishing

Southern beaches - Southern Shores to South Nags Head

Guided fishing outings and charter fishing primarily operate out of Pirates Cove and the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center.  Pier fishing is only available on the southern beaches:  Kitty Hawk Pier (located at the Hilton Garden Inn   (MP 2); Avalon Pier  (MP 5.5); and the Nags Head Fishing Pier (MP 11.5).  Fishing is very popular on Colington Road and on the bridges from Nags Head to Manteo along the Causeway.  Surf fishing is popular along the entire Outer Banks.

Fishing Licensure
FISH FOR FREE July 4th!

A valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL/saltwater fishing license) is required for coastal and joint waters for all anglers age 16 and older.  The CRFL is administered by

NC Wildlife Resources Commission and NC Division of Marine Fisheries

Purchase your fishing license on-line prior to arrival by calling 1.888.2438.6834 8 am-5 pm Mon-Fri.  Saturday and Sunday hours, May 1-Sept. 30, are 8 am-5 pm.

http://www.ncwildlife.org/fs_index_01_license.htm

A brochure of this information is included in your check-in packet.

A license is required for:

• Charter Boat Fishing unless the charter boat has purchased a “blanket” license allowing everyone on the boat to fish in coastal and joint waters without a license.
• Pier Fishing-public or private unless the pier (public only) has purchased a “blanket” license. 
• Shore Fishing
• Using Gigs and Castnets to harvest finfish recreationally.
• Private Boat Fishing-any angler age 16 and over must have their own individual CRFL license.  Private boats cannot have blanket licenses. 

A license is not required for individuals:

• Holding a resident/non-resident, infant, youth, adult, over 70, disabled sportsman, lifetime comprehensive fishing license.
• Holding a hunting/fishing basis disabled veteran or hunting/fishing basic total disabled license issued by the Wildlife Resources Commission before Jan. 1, 2006.
• Holding a lifetime legally blind or adult care home license.
• Harvesting crabs, mussels, clams, lobsters, shrimp and other shellfish. 

A CRFL license permits the harvesting/recreational fishing of finfish for personal consumption.  This license does not permit selling any catch.

Fishing License FAQ  http://www.ncwildlife.org/fs_index_01_license.htm
http://www.ncfisheries.net/license/index.html

Golf

Northern Beaches

The Currituck Club, voted a “must play” by Golf Digest.

Southern Beaches

Duck Woods Country Club, public-private, Southern Shores; Seascape Golf Links, Kitty Hawk, free golf provided by homes with the Family Fun Program; and Nags Head Golf Links, Nags Head.

Just across the Wright Memorial Bridge...

You may find pars and birdies at The Pointe and Carolina Club.

Kayak launch sites

Corolla

• The Whalehead Club
• Corolla Marshes-Timbuc II Shopping Center, at Kitty Hawk Watersports
• Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary-Turn into Sanderling Racquet and Swimming Club-and proceed to wooden pier.

Martin’s Point and Kitty Hawk

US HWY 158 Bypass at base of Wright Memorial Bridge-Kitty Hawk Kayaks-no fee but ask permission prior to launching – to the rear of the building.  (Landmarks-Islander Flags and Victory Chevrolet).

Colington

From US 158 Bypass Turn Right onto Colington Road (just pass the Wright Brother Memorial), for three miles, cross second small bridge and park in waterfront lot on your right.  Launch from parking area.

Nags Head Woods and Jockey’s Ridge

Town of Nags Head Public Boat Launch Site-non-motorized boats only, MP 16 on the Roanoke Sound beside Kitty Hawk Watersports.  24 hours/day

Jockey’s Ridge State Park on Soundside Road West.  Parking area closes at dark-verify park hours. 

Pond Island

Town of Nags Head facility (rest room available)-US 64/264 on Manteo Causeway-bulkheaded beach just south of small bridge-parking lot-dirt path leads to launch.

Roanoke Island-Shallowbag Bay to Broad Creek Trip

US 634/264 –across Washington Baum Bridge onto Roanoke Island-at traffic light turn left and follow side road under the bridge to parking area. Launch to the far left side of the boat ramp-bulkhead sandy beach.

Roanoke Island-Wanchese

Roanoke Island US 64/264 Junction –Turn towards Wanchese, approx. 1.25 miles to Route 345 at second traffic light, continue south for 4 miles, turn left into parking lot at Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant.  Launch from dock to the left –not boat ramp.

Roanoke Island-Manteo

In Manteo turn in front of Chelsey Mall, turn left onto Bowsertown Road, continue.25 mile –road ends-turn left onto California Street –public boat ramp parking lot is on the right. Unload kayak next to ramp prior to parking.

Durant Island

US 64/264 from Roanoke Island, cross William B. Umstead Bridge, turn at first right onto SR 1113/Mashoes Road, continue 1.5 miles, turn left –road leads to Long Point Boat Ramp. 

Alligator Wildlife Refuge

US 64/264 from Roanoke Island, approximately 20 miles to Buffalo City Road (look for sign); this is a two mile dirt road to the launch site.

Bodie Island-Oregon Inlet

From Whalebone Junction in South Nags Head take NC 12 south, 10 miles. Turn Right before the Oregon Inlet Bridge.  Keep right and follow road around to the public boat ramp at Oregon Inlet Marina. 

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

NC 12 south towards Oregon Inlet, cross Oregon Inlet Bridge to Pea Island and continue south 7 miles.  In the bend of the road, there is a sign “New Inlet” turn right at this sign into a pull-off. Unload kayak to the right of the ramp. 

Salvo, Hatteras Island

Just south of Salvo, NC 12, beach access ramp to the left-continue pass this ramp turn right into large field and follow road to the right to the parking area for the sound. You will need to carry your kayak a short way to the launch site.

Avon, Hatteras Island

South on NC 12 for ½  mile to paved parking area on the right. Launch anywhere on the beach.  If you arrive in Buxton you have gone too far.

Frisco Woods Campground, Hatteras Island

From the campground take NC 12 west for 3 miles, turn right into Sandy Bay sound-side access. 

Buxton Woods, Hatteras Island

From NC 12 turn into Sandy Bay sound-side access; paved parking lot; launch from sandy beach. 

Hatteras Island

NC 12 to Hatteras Island Landing Shopping Center-beside ferry docks. Follow boardwalk to the creek behind the shops and launch from the dock.

Ocracoke

From ferry docks take NC 12 for 8 miles to fourth bridge-Molasses Creek.  Park on grassy shoulder.  Launch site is down grassy embankment.

Surf Sites:

Atlantic Ocean Surf Spots
Avalon Pier, Kill Devil Hills
Third Street, Kill Devil Hills
First Street, Kill Devil Hills
Ramada Inn, Kill Devil Hills
Bonnett Street, Nags Head
Nags Head Pier, Nags Head
Jennettes Pier, Nags Head
Oregon Inlet –Coquina Beach-4 wheel drive vehicle required
Pea Island, Hatteras Island-Cross Old Oregon Inlet Bridge, take first left into parking lot.
Pea Island S Curves, Hatteras Island, just north of Rodanthe.
Rodanthe Pier, Hatteras Island
Salvo-Hatteras Island-first beach access past Salvo
Cape Point, Buxton, Hatteras Island
Frisco Pier, Frisco, Hatteras Island