A Brief Guide to Some of the Rich Outer Banks History

Few places in the nation are as rich in American history as the Outer Banks. From the first attempted English settlement to where the Wright Brothers made history with their first flight, the Outer Banks is much more than a premium beach vacation spot. Atlantic Realty is delighted to offer travelers a wide range of Outer Banks vacation rentals with a lot of bang for your buck. 

Many of our vacation homes and condos have premium amenities like full kitchens, private pools, theater rooms, and way more space than a hotel room could ever provide. Our Fun ‘N Sun Perks Pass lets guests enjoy complimentary activities and local discounts. Whether your heart desires a luxurious oceanfront property or an affordable condo rental, we have the perfect Outer Banks rental for you. 

Woman sitting on the Manteo Waterfront
The Manteo Waterfront features a boardwalk, shopping and restaurants

12 Places Overflowing With Outer Banks History

  1. Civil War Trail: Learn about the rich Outer Banks Civil War history on this self-guided trail of historical sites. 
  2. Elizabethan Gardens: Explore lovely gardens as authentic to the Elizabethan period as possible.
  3. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: the dangerous waters of the Outer Banks are called the Graveyard of the Atlantic, where over 600 shipwrecks have tragically claimed many lives throughout history. Shipwrecks are now rare today, but storms can uncover the remains of past shipwrecks along the Outer Banks beaches.
  4. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Visit the lighthouse that has protected some of the most dangerous waters on the Atlantic Coast.
  5. Chicamacomico Life-saving Station Historic Site: Learn about the history of the North Carolina US Life-Saving Service/US Coast Guard at this historic site in the Outer Banks.
  6. Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center: Explore the nature trails, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the original people who inhabited Hatteras Island.
  7. Island Farm: Experience the living history of people who lived in the Outer Banks during the 1850s.
  8. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site: Learn about the first attempted English Colony that mysteriously disappeared, the cultural heritage of Native Americans, and the Freedmen’s Colony established for formerly enslaved people. This is also where you can enjoy America’s second longest running outdoor drama – The Lost Colony.
  9. The Pea Island Cookhouse Museum: Learn about one of the most highly awarded rescue crews in the nation which was skillfully ran by an all-Black crew. 
  10. Roanoke Island Maritime Museum: Explore the rich Outer Banks’ maritime history.
  11. Roanoke Island Festival Park: Immerse yourself in living history through the Settlement Site, the Elizabeth II ship, the American Indian Town, and the Roanoke Adventure Museum
  12. Wright Brothers National Memorial: Visit where the Wright Brothers made history with their first flight off the shores of the Outer Banks.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Outer Banks by booking your stay with Atlantic Realty!

Explore the Dare County Civil War Trail

The Dare County Civil War Trail offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of events that shaped American history. The North Carolina Outer Banks overflow in American history spanning all the way back to the first attempted English Colony on American soil. Book your trip today with Atlantic Realty!

Atlantic Realty has provided travelers with a lovely array of Outer Banks vacation rentals for over four decades. Our team of experienced professionals has deep roots in the region and is dedicated to helping guests find their ideal Outer Banks vacation rental. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, Atlantic Realty has a diverse portfolio of OBX rentals to suit every need and budget.

First Light of Freedom Market at Fort Raleigh
First Light of Freedom Marker . Photographer: Tom Bosse

Venture on the Dare County Civil War Trail

Book your trip with Atlantic Realty to immerse yourself in American history!

Enjoy a Lovely Outer Banks Beach Picnic

The Outer Banks offer an idyllic setting for a beach picnic, with endless stretches of sandy shores, gentle ocean breezes, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic Realty has a plush selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals with fully equipped kitchens perfect for whipping up the tasty recipe ideas in this blog post. Find your ideal home away from home from our properties featuring private pools, oceanfront views, theater rooms, and even pet-friendly options!

Picnic Setup on the Beach
Plan your perfect beach picnic on the OBX — Photo courtesy of DREAMART OBX Picnic Co.

Two of Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass Program partners offer enchanting picnic setups. Guests can enjoy a 10% discount at DREAMART OBX Picnic Co., the top luxury picnic company in the Outer Banks. Guests can also receive a 10% discount from OBX Pop Up Picnics, which specializes in picnic setups for a wide variety of occasions. Book your stay today to experience pure bliss on an Outer Banks beach picnic. 

9 Recipe Ideas To Try On Your Outer Banks Beach Picnic

  1. Cheese Platter 

A cheese board is a picnic staple, and this recipe will walk you through how to personalize your own. Learn how to choose your favorite cheeses, find the perfect accompaniments, and arrange a visually stunning board.

  1. Charcuterie Board

A skillfully crafted charcuterie board will class up any beach picnic. This recipe is another comprehensive guide from Bake It With Love that will walk you through how to create a board that’s sure to impress. 

  1. Fresh Fruit Salad

There’s nothing that screams summer quite like a fresh fruit salad. Follow this recipe for a delicious and fruity picnic side dish.

  1. Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade

 This super easy recipe will be the perfect way to quench your thirst during your dreamy beach picnic. This recipe should take you less than half an hour to whip up!

  1. Easy Sun Tea Recipe 

Sun tea is a beloved summertime drink in the South. Although sun tea is usually safe to drink, those with a weakened immune system should be cautious. The sun won’t make the tea hot enough to kill bacteria, like boiling water will. 

  1. Hippie Juice 

This fun and fruity cocktail will add a nice kick to your Outer Banks beach picnic. It should only take you under 10 minutes to mix everything up. 

  1. Pigs in a Blanket

These adorable finger foods are perfect for any beach picnic. With just three ingredients, these will be quick and easy to whip up in your Outer Banks vacation rental.

  1. Picnic Pie

This is a delicious and unique meal to try out during your stay in the Outer Banks. This recipe is vegetarian and includes a colorful array of veggies.

  1. Picnic Pizza Cob Loaf

If you’re a meat lover, don’t think we forgot about you! This delicious recipe will surely be a hit during your Outer Banks picnic on the beach.

Enjoy a dreamy OBX beach picnic by booking your stay in one of the lovely and spacious vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty!

Come to the Outer Banks for the Best 4th of July Vacations

The Outer Banks are the best place for 4th of July vacations because of the area’s rich American history and endless adventures. There are so many reasons a trip to the Outer Banks will be one you will treasure for a lifetime. Atlantic Realty narrowed it down to just seven reasons there’s no better place to spend the 4th of July!

American Flag in sandcastle on the beach
Spend 4th of July on the Outer Banks

Atlantic Realty has an incredible selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals in Corolla, Duck, Manteo, Nags Head, and other vibrant OBX communities. Many of our OBX vacation rentals feature premium amenities such as theater rooms, private pools, game rooms, and pet-friendly options. Book your 4th of July trip in time with Atlantic Realty. The Outer Banks are one of the best places in the world for 4th of July vacations, so accommodations fill up fast!

7 Reasons the Outer Banks Has the Best 4th of July Vacations

  1. Rich American History 

The best destination for 4th of July vacations is where America first planted its roots. The first attempted English colony settled into the Outer Banks. However, the Roanoke Colony mysteriously disappeared and nobody is sure to this day what happened. 

  1. Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park

Enjoy a marvelous fireworks show, live music, and family-friendly fun at Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park. Watermelon eating contests, games, food vendors, and cornhole tournaments are just some of the fun you’ll have at the 4th of July party. 

  1. Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park

Come and enjoy the Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park. Have a blast at the 4th of July parade, with live music, refreshments, and parade float competitions. 

  1. Perfect Beach Weather

The perfect beach weather is one of the many reasons the Outer Banks are the best destination for 4th of July vacations.The ocean water temperatures average 72 degrees and are perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. 

  1. The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run

Work off the barbeque, parade candy, and popsicles at The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run. There will also be a backyard 4th of July party and t-shirts. 

  1. Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Watch a fireworks display at the scenic Avalon Pier. The Town Of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular is also incredible for watching fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean. 

  1. Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration 

The Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration is easily one of the best 4th of July events for guests to check out during their Outer Banks vacations. Enjoy games, activities, patriotic trivia, decorated bike competitions, apple pie contests, and more!

Book your stay with Atlantic Realty for the best 4th of July vacations!

The 2023 Season of The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama

The Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) produces The Lost Colony production to honor and celebrate the significant American history of Roanoke Island. It tells the story of the first English Colony in the Americas that mysteriously disappeared. The play debuted in 1937, and it is now the longest-running outdoor symphonic drama in the United States. 

The Lost Colony is the longest running outdoor drama

Book your vacation today with Atlantic Realty to experience The Lost Colony show for yourself. From plush oceanfront rentals to pet-friendly options, we have an impressive selection of spacious vacation rentals in the Outer Banks, perfect for every group size, budget, and personal taste. 

Immerse Yourself in American History

During this world-class performance, you’ll feel like you’re there in 1587 when the first pilgrims set foot on American soil. Witness the birth of the first English child in America, Virginia Dare. Become immersed in the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth I and her court. 

Continue the magic after you’re done watching The Lost Colony. Check out the Elizabethan Gardens to feel like you’ve entered a time of unmatched extravagance. These gardens are as authentic to the Elizabethan period as possible when the Roanoke Colony first set foot on the island. 

Experience the Lost Colony of Roanoke

The Lost Colony Tickets

Atlantic Realty Guests can get one free ticket per reservation to The Lost Colony performance with the Fun N Sun Perks Pass. Additional tickets can be purchased directly on The Lost Colony website. All sales are final unless you purchase Performance Cancellation Insurance. The show will go on no matter if there’s rain or shine, but if, for any reason, the show gets canceled, you can exchange your tickets for a different night.

The Performance Location

The Lost Colony stage is massive, and over three times larger than most stages you’ll find on Broadway in New York City. The address is 1409 National Park Dr., Manteo, NC 27954. 

The 2023 Lost Colony Play Season Dates

The Lost Colony 2023 season will run from June 2 – August 26.

Choose From a Plush Selection of Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

Atlantic Realty has a stunning selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals for you to choose from, including in Manteo, NC, where The Lost Colony takes place, and the nearby town of Nags Head, NC. No matter what your heart desires, you will find affordable options for your stay during The Lost Colony 2023 season. Choose from properties with oceanfront views, private pools, theater rooms, and pet-friendly properties. 

P.S… You can save even more money on other activities with Atlantic Realty’s Fun’ N Sun Perks Pass. Book your stay with Atlantic Realty today and enjoy The Lost Colony.

Book Your Stay for Two Free Kids Festivals in May

The stunning North Carolina Outer Banks are filled with rich history, endless adventure, and picturesque ocean views. It’s no wonder the Outer Banks are widely regarded as one of the best family vacation destinations. There are plenty of things to do in the Outer Banks with kids for a vacation everyone will remember forever. May is the perfect time to book your family vacation to the Outer Banks because there will be two awesome and FREE kids festivals. 

Enjoy Kids Activities on the Outer Banks

Book your stay in time for the upcoming kids festivals with Atlantic Realty. We have a quality selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals with premium options featuring oceanfront views, theater rooms, and pet-friendly rentals. Keep reading to learn more about the upcoming kids festivals you don’t want to miss!

Experience These Two Free Outer Banks Kids Festivals

The 34th Annual Artrageous Kids Art Festival

The Artrageous Kids Art Festival is one of the best kids art festivals in the Outer Banks and will be a day full of art activities, dance performances, live music, food vendors, and an artisan market. The festival’s 2023 theme is “Space to Create!” It will give the kids an open-minded outdoor space for their creativity to flourish. 

There will be a Young Artist Village to promote the artwork of artists ages 17 and under. They will be able to sell their handmade crafts to festival attendees. There will also be a place for adult artists to sell their work. Artrageous is one of the best free kids festivals in the Outer Banks for its commitment to helping youth let their creativity shine.

When: Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Dowdy Park in Nags Head, NC

The 14th Annual KidsFest

The Annual KidsFest is another one of the free kids festivals in the Outer Banks happening in May. Kids aged five and under can enjoy an exciting day of arts and crafts, snowballs, interactive music, fire trucks/police cars, bubbles, and more at this free festival! Each activity will have its own station the kids can explore. 

This is one of the best free kids festivals in the Outer Banks for families with very young children. A bonus is that the 34th Annual Artrageous Kids Art Festival is happening the same weekend! You’ll be able to enjoy a weekend of free family fun in one of the most wonderful places in the world.

When: Friday, May 12, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Where: Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo, NC

Book your family vacation in time for two free kids festivals with Atlantic Realty!

Vacation Home Ownership

Have you ever thought of owning your very own piece of “paradise on earth”?  Whether this is your first visit or your 50th, we see repeat renters who want to come back to the Outer Banks beaches year after year.  Maybe it is time for you to buy a vacation rental property.  

Vaction Rental Homes
Vacation Home Ownership has many positive benefits. Let Atlantic Realty show you!

You may ask, where do I begin? Will I get a positive cash flow? While we understand everyone’s financial situation is unique, we also know the answer requires an assessment of the real estate loan and the interest rate.  There are added costs of insurance, flood insurance, taxes, amenities and annual maintenance.  So, knowing most vacation rental homes in the Outer Banks do not generate a positive cash flow, there are several benefits to owning a second home here:

  • Appreciated Value
  • Rental Income
  • Family Use / Vacation Getaway
  • Control of Investment

Outside of cash flow, you would be encouraged to determine your long-term strategy, commitment and motivation.  Real Estate runs in cycles and most times should be considered a long-term investment.

What does a Professional Vacation Management Company like Atlantic Realty offer you:

  • Turn-Key Management including cleaning, light maintenance and off-season security checks
  • Dedicated Property Manager for communication, rental rates and annual care packages
  • Asset Management – Return on Investment
  • 24/7 local support along with high cleaning scores for rental ready properties
  • Partnership for best success

Perhaps, you would like to discuss vacation homeownership.  Please call our office at 877-505-8063 to be connected with a Vacation Home Property Management team member.

It’s Vacation Rental Week

Atlantic Realty Outer Banks is thrilled to participate in the fourth annual Vacation Rental Week! Professionally-managed vacation rentals provide value and benefits for guests and property owners alike. This celebration of Vacation Rental Week is our chance to highlight these and to encourage you to book a stay with a professional manager. As a guest, vacation rentals are a great alternative to hotels in every aspect, offering you much more for your money, including additional space, privacy, convenience, and amenities. Vacation rentals also present you with a unique opportunity to create a more personalized, memorable vacation experience when compared with traditional hotels.

Vacation Rental Week celebrates the value, privacy, and convenience vacation rental homes provide.

You’ll have the practical comfort of an actual residence, the ability to explore the neighborhood, and the opportunity to discover aspects of your destination you might not encounter when staying at a hotel. If you’re vacationing with family, vacation rentals are an excellent option, typically offering multiple bedrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and easy access to local entertainment.

Now is the best time to plan and book your 2023 beach vacation on the OBX. In addition to experiencing our beautiful beaches, local attractions plus numerous family fun opportunities, we encourage you to start your journey by browsing our website.  We offer accommodations from 1 to 28 bedrooms, oceanfront to soundfront with houses in between too.  Likewise, booking direct gives you access to the best pricing along with local staff supported communications from pre-arrival to check-out.  We are here for you.  We create vacation memories for you, OUR GUEST.

Atlantic Realty Vacation Homes offers:

  • Enhanced Safety
  • Best Value
  • Endless Options
  • Rental Ready and Cleaned to Industry Standards
  • Local Flavor – Our small team has 170 years of vacation rental management experience
  • Family Friendly accommodations
  • Event Homes for Weddings and Reunions

Let’s get started!  Call one of our vacation planners today at 855-421-4336

Check Out the Harley-Davidson Outer Banks Bike Week

The Outer Banks Bike Week is a week-long gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts every year in April. During the same week, there is also a bike rally to raise funds for Christmas presents to give underprivileged Dare County children. Atlantic Realty offers an impressive selection of affordable Outer Banks vacation rentals for your stay during the Outer Banks Bike Week. Guests can choose the Outer Banks rentals of their dreams with amenities such as hot tubs, theater rooms, game rooms, and pet-friendly options. Book your trip in time with Atlantic Realty to celebrate the love of riding in the breathtaking beauty of the North Carolina Outer Banks.

Outer Banks Bike Week is an annual event

All About the Harley-Davidson Outer Banks Bike Week

The Outer Banks Bike Week is a highly anticipated annual celebration in the alluring Outer Banks of North Carolina. Celebrate your love of riding with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean in an area rich in American history. Check out the Atlantic Realty blog page to learn more about the incredible things to see and do while you’re in town. 

Mark your calendar for the next upcoming Outer Banks Bike Week:

When: April 22nd – 30th, 2023

Where: The Outer Banks Harley Davidson – 8739 Caratoke Hwy, Harbinger, NC, United States, North Carolina.

Here are just some of the exciting activities in store for the 2023 Outer Banks Bike Week:

  • Local vendors
  • Live music
  • Food and beer trucks
  • Installs new and pre-owned bike inventory
  • Bikini contest
  • Bikini bike wash
  • Guided group rides
  • Gary Michaels – biker comedian and hypnotist

Watch the Battle of the Bands at Outer Banks Bike Week

You can witness the best local country and rock bands battle it out for the grand prize at the Outer Banks Bike Week. Battle of the Bands will be on April 27th and will feature incredible live musical performances. The grand prize for the best local band is a $500 cash prize, $500 in swag, bragging rights, and a shiny new trophy!

Don’t Miss the Dare County Motorcycle Bike Rally

During the same week as Outer Banks Bike Week is the Dare County Motorcycle Bike Rally from April 26–29. This bike show and competition will be at the Soundside Event Site in the beautiful beach town of Nags Head, NC. The primary purpose of the Dare County Motorcycle Bike Rally is to raise money for underprivileged children in Dare County to have Christmas presents. 

The bike rally fundraiser continues to grow each year. People come from as far as Canada to enjoy the impressive display of top-quality motorcycles. The Best of Show and Best of Show Bagger will both win a trophy and a $300 cash prize.Don’t miss out on the fun and book your stay today with Atlantic Realty!

Test Your Athletic Abilities With Blackbeard’s Revenge 100

The North Carolina Outer Banks area overflows with rich history and plenty of exciting events. Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 is an annual event in the North Carolina Outer Banks race where athletes can test their abilities with breathtaking views. The next upcoming race date is March 25, 2023. Join in on the fun by booking your stay with Atlantic Realty. Choose from our dreamy selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals with upgraded amenities such as theater rooms and private pools. Relax in the accommodations of your dreams after Blackbeard’s Revenge 100. 

Test Yourself With Blackbeard’s Revenge 100

The Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 race course is paved and will take you along the Outer Banks of North Carolina from Corolla to Hatteras with stunning ocean views. The course has few turns and only a couple of hills at the beginning. There will also be markers every 5-miles and plenty of aid stations throughout the course.

The Outer Banks are unbelievably stunning, but the March weather can be unpredictable. The lack of elevation also means you might be dealing with some sandy winds. If you come prepared, it’s a part of the challenge! Since relay race participants don’t have to run equal distances, this can be a fun activity for families and friends of various athletic abilities. 

Here are some highlights of information for the next upcoming Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 race on March 25, 2023:

Race Start Lines:

  • The 100 Mile race start line is at Historic Corolla Park, 1160 Village Lane, Corolla, NC. 
  • The 100k race start line is at Jennette’s Pier, 7223 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC
  • The race finish line is at Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, 59200 Museum Dr, Hatteras, NC

Race Start Times:

The Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 race will occur on March 25, 2023. 

  • The 100-mile individual and relay race option is from 5:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. EDT.
  • The 100-kilometer race option is from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. EDT.
  • The virtual race option begins at 12:00 a.m. EDT.

Grab Your Pirate Registration Treasures

The registration window ends on March 17, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. 

  • The 100-Mile race option costs $250. 
  • The 100-kilometer race option costs $150. 
  • The 100-mile relay race option costs $150. 
  • The virtual race option costs $60. 

There will be a Pre-Race HOKA Takeover the evening before Blackbeard’s Revenge 100. Here you can get your registration packet treasures, win some prizes, enjoy dinner, and more. There will be a mandatory meeting for 100-mile participants, but you can watch it virtually if you’re noy at the event. 

Treasures Included With Registration:

  • Official Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 shirt
  • Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 Finishers Medal 
  • The 100-mile participants get a belt buckle
  • Race bib with your pirate name on it
  • Well-stocked race stations and finish-line food

Book your stay today for Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 with Atlantic Realty!

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