Enjoy Romantic Getaways in the NC Outer Banks

Romantic getaways in the NC Outer Banks are an enchanting experience filled with rich American history and the allure of coastal charm. Regarding accommodations, Atlantic Realty offers the best places to stay in the Outer Banks. Our vacation rentals offer a delightful blend of comfort and luxury for couples seeking a memorable escape in the Outer Banks. Choose the perfect accommodations for your NC romantic getaway from our portfolio with options that will suit every heart’s desire, from oceanfront views to even pet-friendly options. 

chairs overlooking the sunrise
Experience a romantic Outer Banks sunrise or sunset

5 Best Ways To Enjoy Romantic Getaways in the NC Outer Banks

  1. Stroll Along Some of the Nation’s Most Iconic Beaches

Embrace the magic the Outer Banks beaches are known for through long romantic walks together during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, golden light over the sandy beaches creates an enchanting ambiance, perfect for romantic getaways in NC. You can add an additional touch of romance with one of the picnic setups offered by Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass Program partners. Relax and let DREAMART OBX Picnic Co. or OBX Pop Up Picnics do the work for you. Or you could add a personal touch and enjoy whipping up some picnic recipes together in your vacation rental’s fully-equipped kitchen.

  1. Explore the Outer Banks With Horseback Riding Tours

Whether you and your sweetheart are horse lovers or want to enjoy a new experience together, the Outer Banks horseback riding tours are a dreamy choice for romantic getaways in NC. There is no experience required to enjoy this unique experience on the Atlantic Coast. You can also enjoy a wild horses tour to view these majestic creatures living freely in their natural habitats.  

  1. Try the Best OBX Restaurants During Romantic NC Getaways

Romantic getaways would not be complete without indulging in some of the best restaurants in the NC Outer Banks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Point, JK’s Restaurant, and Tale of the Whale Restaurant are some excellent choices for a truly special date. 

  1. Cruise the Alluring Outer Banks With Your Special Someone

Embark on a dreamy boat cruise to be surrounded by the tranquility of the open waters with your special someone. Many tour operators offer private and intimate cruises tailored for couples. There are also boat tours with engaging activities like crabbing, shrimping, parasailing, fishing, and much more.

  1. Romantic NC Getaways in Premium OBX Vacation Rentals

Sometimes, the most romantic getaways are when you are simply enjoying quality time together, and our NC Outer Banks have an impressive selection of amenities to make this time extra special. Book your stay with Atlantic Realty to spend a relaxed evening in the comfort of amenities such as private hot tubs, balconies with ocean views, or game rooms that create a romantic atmosphere.

Your Guide to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Exploring the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is like stepping into a time capsule that bridges the past and the present. Nestled on the picturesque Roanoke Island in North Carolina, this site holds profound historical significance, particularly due to its connection with the mysterious Lost Colony of Roanoke and the Civil War. This site is overflowing with things to explore while staying in one of the Outer Banks vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty.
Staying in the Outer Banks vacation rentals provided by Atlantic Realty is like discovering your own slice of paradise along the stunning North Carolina coast. Choose from our OBX vacation rentals with options featuring oceanfront views, theater rooms, and private pools. Some of our rentals are even pet-friendly! The Outer Banks’ rich history and beauty, combined with the comfort of our OBX rentals, create an unforgettable vacation.

The Fort Raleigh Park
Fort Raleigh offers walking paths and historical markers to enjoy at your leisure

Top 9 Activities at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

  1. Lindsay Warren Visitor Center: Start your trip to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site at the visitor center. This center hosts engaging exhibits on the Roanoke Island Freedmen’s Colony, the English, the Civil War Battle of Roanoke Island, the Algonquian, and Reginald Fessenden.
  2. 1896 Monument: This monument marks the start of preservation efforts at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, a Croatoan native Manteo baptism, and the birth of Virginia Dare. She was the first English child born in North America.
  3. Earthwork: Learn about the earthwork and metallurgical activity that was present on the site for centuries. 
  4. First Light of Freedom: This monument at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site commemorates what was an important haven for formerly enslaved people. The Freedman’s Colony was set up on Roanoke Island during the Civil War era. 
  5. Freedom Trail: Embark on a hiking adventure on this 1.25-mile trail through maritime forest, Croatan Sound views, and near where the Civil War forts and Freedmen’s Colony once stood.
  6. Thomas Hariot Trail: This shorter hiking trail in the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site explores the maritime forest and the Albemarle Sound. Along the way, you’ll find interpretive signs describing the habitat and the Algonquian food and resource gathering methods. 
  7. Waterside Theatre: Watch the mysterious story of the lost Roanoke Colony come alive at the country’s first and longest-running outdoor symphonic drama.
  8. Etheridge Point Beach: The water here tends to be calmer and warmer than the ocean, making this the perfect beach trip. Etheridge Point has one of the best views of the Outer Banks, with sights such as the Wright Brothers Monument, Jockey’s Ridge, and Colington Island.
  9. Fishing: Enjoy a delightful day of fishing at the Albemarle Sound, which is adjacent to the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. 

The range of accommodations offered by Atlantic Realty caters to various tastes and needs, offering an experience that’s not just about a place to stay but a gateway to an exceptional coastal adventure overflowing in history!

Top Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Exploring the many fun things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a journey that reconnects you with the raw beauty of the natural world. Tucked on the North Carolina Outer Banks, this protected stretch of coastline is a haven for those seeking a unique coastal experience. 

Book an unforgettable vacation to the Outer Banks with Atlantic Realty. Choose your Outer Banks vacation rental from our selection of OBX rentals featuring amenities like theater rooms, private pools, and oceanfront views. We can’t wait to welcome you to the trip of a lifetime! 

The natural beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Where Is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore?

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches over 70 miles of barrier islands along the NC Atlantic Coast. The area is often called the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to its numerous shipwrecks off its coast during its rich maritime past. 

4 Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Beach Activities 

There are plenty of fun things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches. You can enjoy kite flying, picnicking, and shelling on the almost 70 miles of beach. Three historic lighthouses have options for tours. Off-road vehicles are another great way to explore the Cape Hatteras beaches. When the sun sets, you and your companions can huddle up by a beach fire. 

Fishing at the Cape Hatteras 

Fishing is one of the most popular things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The spring and fall are the best time to enjoy fishing at Cape Hatteras, but motivated anglers can find catches all year round. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center in Nags Head has one of the eastern seaboard’s most modern and largest charter boat fishing fleets. The Avon Fishing Pier is world renowned for its many record-breaking catches, especially with Red Drum fish.

Hiking at the Cape Hatteras 

Exploring the hiking trails is one of the best things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore to see the most remote parts. The Buxton Woods Trail loop starts and ends at the Buxton Woods Picnic. It will take you up close to the diverse maritime forest ecosystem and some of the highest points on Hatteras Island. The Open Ponds Trail is 9 miles out and back and winds along maritime forests, dunes, and the British Cemetery. 

Nature Viewing & Photography

One of the most wonderful things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is wildlife viewing, where you can capture beautiful photos. Come and gander at a herd of banker ponies, wildflowers, over 400 bird species, and more. The Bodie Island Marsh Blind wildlife-viewing platform is a great spot for visitors to observe the natural and distinctive beauty of the Outer Banks. 

Book your stay in one of Atlantic Realty’s Vacation Rental Homes, just a short drive away from Cape Hatteras National Seashore and explore the endless adventurous things to do there! 

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!

Explore the North Carolina Outer Banks in Winter

The North Carolina Outer Banks are the premier vacation spot all year round, with a unique charm in the winter. During the winter you can enjoy mild weather, gorgeous natural scenery, and endless fun things to do in the Outer Banks. The Outer Banks are a true winter wonderland, but without the piles of snow and below-zero weather. 

The Outer Banks in Winter is the perfect time to visit

The team at Atlantic Realty is proud to call the Outer Banks home and offer guests a luxurious selection of oceanfront vacation rentals with plush amenities and guest perks. With theater rooms, private pools, Fun ‘N Sun Perk Passes, and pet-friendly options, you will have the best vacation ever in the Outer Banks this winter. Atlantic Realty has a team of local experts that are committed to offering guests superior customer service. That’s why we created this guide on the adventures you can find in the Outer Banks during the winter season.

9 Fun Things To Do in the Outer Banks in Winter

  1. At the Elizabethan Gardens, you can step into the time period when the first English Colony settled in North America. One of the most glorious Outer Banks traditions in winter is decorating the Elizabethan Gardens with stunning lights and holiday cheer.
  2. This winter in the Outer Banks, you can enjoy live music, holiday shopping, an elf scavenger hunt, and meet Santa at the Yuletide Celebration.
  3. Enjoy the annual holiday celebration at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Explore the exhibits, a model Winter Wonderland train display, and live entertainment this winter in the Outer Banks. 
  4. You can still enjoy the magnificent Outer Banks beaches in winter through horseback riding, taking a stroll, and watching for wild horses. Check out our guides on the best horseback riding tours and wild horse tours in the Outer Banks.
  5. If the weather gets a little too chilly for your taste, you can tour the thrilling North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.
  6. The Outer Banks is full of many stunning and historic lighthouses to explore in winter. 
  7. Venture through the tallest living sand dune along the Atlantic Coast, hiking trails, and enjoy kite flying at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
  8. During winter in downtown Manteo, you can enjoy Christmas tree lighting, a Christmas parade, caroling, holiday treats, Christmas decorations, and meet Santa.
  9. Every winter in the Outer Banks, the First Flight Society celebrates Wright Brothers Day to honor the first successful airplane flight in Kitty Hawk, NC.

Book your stay today with Atlantic Realty to explore the North Carolina Outer Banks in winter!

Explore History at the Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina

Take a step back in time to a golden age in English history when you visit the Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina. Come enter the time period when Queen Elizabeth I was the reigning monarch of England, and the first English colony attempted to settle in America. Explore the adventure, history, and sparkling blue ocean views in the Outer Banks when you book one of Atlantic Realty’s vacation rentals. The Outer Banks has something for all interests, and the Elizabethan Gardens are the perfect vacation activity for history buffs.

The Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island

The History Behind the Elizabethan Gardens

The Elizabethan Gardens are a memorial to the Roanoke colonists who lived on the site 400 years ago. This was the first English colony on American soil, but it did not last long. Shortly after the first English person was born in America, her grandfather returned to England for more supplies. He returned to find the colony abandoned and to this day, nobody is sure what happened to them.

During this time, Queen Elizabeth l was the ruler of England and the gardens are as authentic to that period as possible. Construction of the Elizabethan Gardens began on June 2, 1953, which is the exact date of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The Elizabethan Gardens opened to the public on August 18, 1960, which was the birthday of Virginia Dare, the first English person to be born in America.

Top 7 Things To Do at the Elizabethan Gardens

  1. Since the Elizabethan Gardens are part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, this is an excellent place for bird-watching.
  2. Admire the gorgeous bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth I. Her parents were the controversial King Henry VIII, and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Queen Elizabeth’s 45-year reign was among the most popular in English history.  
  3. Visit the marble statue of Virginia Dare that Maria Louise Lande sculpted in 1859.
  4. Explore the Sunken Garden, which features an antique fountain with stonework from 16th-century Italy.
  5. Check the events page for upcoming events like the seasonal Virginia Dare birthday celebration. 
  6. Tiny travelers can check out the John White Butterfly Center and Discovery Cottage.
  7. Educational group tours are available for guests who want to experience the Elizabethan Gardens with guidance from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Plan your next vacation in a place booming with history and gorgeous ocean scenery. Book your stay today with Atlantic Realty and choose from our selection of luxury vacation rentals, with many options featuring amenities such as hot tubs and oceanfront pools.

The History Behind The Lost Colony

The Lost Colony debuted on July 4, 1937, during the Great Depression. Despite the hardships many people faced, it was a full house! The show was only going to last one summer. However, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt saw the show, it created national interest that assured its continuation. 

Fast forward to 2022, The Lost Colony is now celebrating its 85th anniversary at Roanoke Island’s Waterside Theater. It is the longest running outdoor symphonic drama! The season started on May 27, 2022, and will conclude on August 20, 2022. Don’t miss your chance to experience American history! 

The Lost Colony Drama
The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama at Waterside Theater

Where to Stay

While getting your tickets, don’t forget to find a place to stay! Atlantic Realty has many great OBX vacation rental options that will exceed your expectations! We offer vacation rentals across the Outer Banks, from budget-friendly options to luxury condos.  

The Story Behind The Lost Colony Play

The mystery of the lost colony has sparked curiosity among historians and inspiration for TV shows, movies, and the annual play. The mystery began in 1587 when 117 pilgrims created the first English colony on Roanoke Island. Shortly after, Virginia Dare became the first English child born on American soil on August 18, 1587. Virginia’s grandfather, John White, returned to England 10 days after her birth to get more supplies. He never saw his granddaughter again.

He returned on his granddaughter’s third birthday to find the entire colony abandoned. The carvings “CROATOAN” and “CRO” were the only explanation left behind. Before he could explore further, a storm damaged his ship. He returned to England and never raised enough money to go back to Roanoke Island. 

5 Theories Of The Lost Colony Of Roanoke
  1. John White assumed the carvings meant that the Roanoke colony moved inland to Croatoan, or south to what is now Hatteras Island. 
  2. The First Colony Foundation found evidence that some colonists moved to or near Salmon Creek in Bertie County. The Choanoke king, Menatonon, permitted them to settle on designated lands where they could provide for themselves. 
  3. The Dare Stones are engravings from Roanoke survivors, with only the first stone found appearing authentic. It said due to illness and war with neighboring tribes; the colony dwindled to just 24 people who fled inland.
  4. In 1607, the Jamestown Colony members searched for information on what happened to the Roanoke colony. A Chesapeake leader told them he had all the Roanoke colony members killed in the Chesapeake Bay region.
  5. Historians Hugh Talmage Lefler and Albert Ray Newsome believe the Roanoke colony sailed back to England and got lost in the Atlantic ocean. In their book North Carolina: The History of a Southern State, they wrote that John White left a boat for them.

Atlantic Realty Rentals

We have plenty of rental options within easy driving distance to Roanoke Island’s Waterside Theater and other historical landmarks. Make sure to book your vacation rental through Atlantic Realty today to experience the history of the Outer Banks yourself!

Have Some Fun ‘N the Sun with Atlantic Realty || OBX Vacations

Summers in the OBX (Outer Banks of North Carolina) will transport you worlds away from your everyday hustle and bustle. Our family-friendly vacation destination is made up of over 100 miles of wide-open shoreline, Southern hospitality, and a mix of quaint seaside villages boasting unique personalities and rich history. Although we are a short drive away from major cities and airports, our barrier island communities feel remote. The OBX is where our beloved country got its start, so it’s only fitting that your summer vacation traditions start here!

Enjoy the Ocean with an Outer Banks Vacation

The Best OBX Vacations Start with Atlantic Realty 

Atlantic Realty is truly where your barrier island experience begins, supplying families with the best places to stay in the OBX every year. Since 1982, multiple generations of families have joined us in enjoying waves of fun and quiet relaxation. We offer a wide range of OBX vacation rentals from Corolla to South Nags Head, centered on amenities, togetherness, and affordability. Whatever you’re searching for, we’ve got something in store for you. 

If you are looking for a family vacation spot void of crowded spaces and busy cities, we welcome you to start a new family tradition and indulge in a much-needed OBX vacation. This summer, the friendly Atlantic Realty team will help you get more bang for your buck with our guest perks. Get ready to stretch your OBX vacation dollars as far as they can go with our acclaimed Fun N Sun Perks Pass Program—

Vacation Like A Local with Atlantic Realty’s Fun N Sun Perks Pass

Our Fun N Sun Perks Pass elevates all OBX vacations, no matter the time of year. This program is an exclusive vacation amenity providing complimentary local attractions, activities, and discounts for guests staying with us. We offer such great value to ensure your OBX vacation goes beyond the doors of our fabulous accommodations and beautiful outdoors. Take your summer stay to the next level with one (or more) of our recommended recreational activities! 

Explore the Shore This Summer with Atlantic Realty

At Atlantic Realty, we already know you’re excited to head down to our barrier island community straight away to begin the best OBX summer vacation possible. With our Fun N Sun Perks Pass in your back pocket, your family and friends will be able to enjoy affordable fun. Book one of our stunning OBX vacation rentals online today! 

Plan a Paw-sitive Spring Break in Pet-Friendly OBX

There’s no time like the present to start planning your family’s spring break! As we enter a new year full of possibilities and hope, folks all over the country are looking forward to a nice break from work and school. You all deserve it, including your furry family members. This year, head to the pet-friendly OBX, otherwise known as the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Our barrier island communities offer a sweet reprieve from bustling crowds, hectic attractions, and essentially all things that can make spring break undesirable. The pet-friendly OBX will allow you to fully enjoy your short family vacation, with so many incredible attractions and activities. 

Kids and Dog on the beach
Pet Friendly Vacations are easy on the Outer Banks

Your barrier island experience begins when you stay with Atlantic Realty, where travelers consistently find the best places to stay on the Outer Banks. Since 1982, families have enjoyed spring breaks in our lovely OBX vacation homes, dotting the gorgeous shoreline. We’ll help you get more bang for your buck during your stay and we proudly provide several pet-friendly OBX vacation rentals. Follow our quick guide to a paw-some spring break adventure, all within perfect reach from your OBX vacation home—

Pet-Friendly Itinerary for Your OBX Spring Break

Your family’s spring break vacation can be rewarding for both humans and pets. The OBX has always been an incredible pet-friendly destination, drawing in visitors from all over! We have compiled a list of pet-friendly things to do to help with your vacation planning process. 

Where to Stay

Atlantic Realty has your vacation rental needs and wants covered! Our pet-friendly rentals ensure that you don’t have to leave your well-behaved pup behind this spring. We offer over 40 pet-friendly OBX homes, spanning from Corolla all the way to South Nags Head. There is something for every family, including great modern amenities and beautiful views. 

Where to Eat

What to Do 

Make sure to check out our helpful “Traveling with Pets” page for more valuable tips and tricks. You can also feel free to ask our knowledgeable staff for information! Book your pet-friendly OBX vacation home with Atlantic Realty online today—just in time for spring break!

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