Uncategorized Archives - Atlantic Realty Outer Banks

June 24, 2022June 24, 2022

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

John White assumed the carvings meant that the Roanoke colony moved inland to Croatoan, or south to what is now Hatteras Island.
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.
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.
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.
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!

May 4, 2022May 31, 2022

4th of July Celebrations Around the OBX

There has never been a better place to celebrate the 4th of July than the OBX (Outer Banks) of North Carolina. Our barrier island community was the site of the first attempted colonization in the “New World,” 20 years before Jamestown. You and yours can celebrate our country’s independence right from America’s First Beach! 4th of July celebrations in the OBX boast incredible beach weather, warm ocean temperatures, and plenty of fellow travelers searching for a bit of a slice of historical paradise.

Atlantic Realty has all the best OBX house rentals, perfect for starting your barrier island experience. Since 1982, generations of families have found relaxation, fun, and a place to truly get away from it all during their OBX vacations with help from our talented team of local experts! This 4th of July season, enjoy an affordable and adventure-packed vacation with many can’t-miss festivities along the scenic coastline. Keep reading for more details—

Girl on Beach with Fireworks — Spend Independence Day on the Outer Banks

Spend Your 4th of July in the Charming OBX

Of course, you can always indulge in some peaceful 4th of July relaxation at one of Atlantic Realty’s many gorgeous family vacation rentals. All of our properties are equipped with complete kitchens, so whip up a delicious OBX-inspired dish and gather with family for a patriotic feast! Staying in oceanfront NC accommodations? We recommend bringing along beach toys and games, in addition to the two complimentary beach chairs you’ll receive with our Fun N Sun Perks Pass. Check out our “What to Bring” page for more useful vacation planning tips before Independence Day.

Seeking some adventure with your family and friends? A 4th of July road trip to see all the best OBX festivities from Corolla down to South Nags Head will be just up your alley. See our recommend event lineup below:

Corolla:

Historic Corolla Park will be the site of the Independence Day Celebration, packed with live music, food, drink, and fireworks! Activities begin at 5:00 p.m. with free admission, parking, and a plethora of family-friendly activities.

Duck:

The Town of Duck has an annual 4th of July Parade that winds through the neighborhood behind Scarborough Faire. This year’s parade will begin at 9am on Monday, July 4, 2022.

Kill Devil Hills:

Folks love watching the stunning fireworks show held annually at the beaches around Avalon Pier in Kill Devil Hills.

Nags Head:

You and yours can head a little south, catching the showstopping Town Of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular, blasting off over the ocean waves. Fireworks are even sometimes visible from Nags Head rental homes!

If you are traveling with all adults (21+), consider participating in the Independence Beer Mile, presented by the Outer Banks Brewing Station on July 3. Start a new family vacation tradition and come celebrate the 4th of July with Atlantic Realty this summer. Our amenity-filled rental homes in the OBX are well-maintained and perfectly suited for all families and large friend groups. Save money by booking directly on our website today!

May 7, 2021May 31, 2022

The Top 3 Breweries in the Outer Banks

It’s time to explore the great Outer Banks’ eccentric breweries. Take in the gusty beach weather while enjoying a fresh brew. Our local breweries pride themselves on providing quality craft ales and lagers. These three breweries in Outer Banks are community staples, and we hope you will check them out during your stay with Atlantic Realty. No matter which part of the island you decide to visit, you will find that these Outer Banks breweries are ideally located for your vacation convenience.

Enjoy the craft beers of the Outer Banks

Outer Banks Brewing Station

Outer Banks Brewing Station is located in Kill Devil Hills, near several Atlantic Realty rentals. This cool brewery is America’s first wind-powered brewpub, with its own windmill on-site. Summer, winter, fall, or spring—you will be treated to delicious seasonal handcrafted brews. Try the “Shazaam Brown”, an easy-going ale for a novice brew enthusiast. If you’re craving some sweet hints, pair their “The Cobbler,” a strawberry peach cider, with homemade hushpuppies.

Northern Outer Banks Brewing Company

Staying up north? Swing on by Northern Outer Banks Brewing Company in Corolla, a small brewhouse run by Kathleen McNubbins. Here, you will find beer brewed onsite by Kathleen and her husband. You will love their signature Swan Beach Honey Pale Ale or their classic Corolla Lager. If you like small mom-and-pop breweries, this is a good choice for you!

Outer Banks Distilling

Last but not least is Outer Banks Distilling, known for their popular Kill Devil rum. Their motto is “From Molasses To Glasses,” and they were the first legal distillery on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Take a trip to this historic spot in downtown Manteo for some award-winning rums, along with local beer and wine. Their Wheel House Lounge is open Tuesday through Saturday, allowing you the opportunity to relax and sip some tasty mixed drinks.
You now are equipped to have the best brewery experience in Outer Banks! Make sure you book your stay at one of our many Atlantic Realty vacation rentals, from oceanfront views to comfy condos. Check availability now and book online!

March 8, 2021May 31, 2022

Vacation Rental Week March 8 – 12, 2021

Atlantic Realty Outer Banks is thrilled to participate in the second annual Vacation Rental Week! We’d like to use this opportunity to highlight the value and key benefits of professionally-managed vacation rentals for guests 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, with additional space, privacy, convenience, and amenities for no extra charge! Vacation rentals offer a cleaner, more socially-distanced experience as well, with less touch points and outside interaction compared to hotels, which is a key benefit as we navigate the last mile of the pandemic.

Vacation rentals also present you with a unique opportunity to create a more personalized, memorable vacation experience when compared with traditional hotels. 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, full kitchens, laundry rooms, and even private amenities such as pools, game rooms, theater rooms and more!

Ready to book your Outer Banks vacation rental? Let one of our helpful Vacation Planners find the perfect place for your family today! Give us a call at 800-334-8401 or visit weAReOBX.com to start your vacation rental search.

October 21, 2020May 31, 2022

Top 3 Wild Horse Tours in the OBX

When was the last time you saw a wild horse? Most people have become accustomed to seeing these magnificent creatures at petting zoos, fairs, and parades. However, you can go on wild horse tours in the OBX and witness them in their natural habitat when you book an OBX rental at Atlantic Realty.

The wild Spanish Mustangs of Corolla roam the beaches freely.

Why Book a Wild Horse Tour in the OBX?

If you’ve seen one horse, you’ve seen them all, right? Well, not quite. The Corolla wild horses are unlike any other domesticated horse you’ve seen. When you book an OBX wild horse tour, their guides will know all the best and safest places to appreciate these teams of stallions, mares, and foals. Plus, you’re bound to see other natural wildlife in the area and learn a thing or two about their history. If you’re interested in booking a tour, here are the top three guides near your Outer Banks condo rental:

Wild Horse Adventure Tours

Feel the salt wind in your hair and traverse dunes in Wild Horse Adventure Tours open-air hummers. You’ll have exclusive access to the Wild Horse Sanctuary, witness spectacular sights, and get the inside scoop on the lore of these descendants of Wild Spanish Mustangs.

Corolla Wild Horse Tours

Learn local history and visit fantastic sites with Corolla Wild Horse Tours. They have over 20 years of experience, and specialize in guided family tours, perfect for children of all ages. This two-and-a-half-hour trip will take you across 25-miles of off-road riding, where you’ll see wild horses in small harems scattered across 7,500 acres.

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours

Hop in an open-air safari truck and get ready to venture the Outer Banks, NC, with Back Beach Wild Horse Tours. Another family-friendly establishment, Back Beach Wild Horse Tours, promises marvelous sights of horse harems, fun facts, and an excellent time. Their crew knows how to entertain and keep their group engaged—whether their posse includes young kiddos or seasoned travelers.

OBX Wild Horses & Adventure Await

The wild horse in Corolla, NC, are among the top attractions of the area. Consider taking advantage of this once in a lifetime experience when you reserve an Outer Banks house. Please call us at 877-858-4795 if you have additional questions about horses at Corolla or would like to make a reservation.

October 7, 2020May 31, 2022

Celebrate the Season with an Outer Banks Vacation

This holiday season, gift your loved ones the present of a lifetime: an Outer Banks vacation at Atlantic Realty. Give thanks, celebrate religious holidays, or ring in the new year with family and friends in your private Outer Banks house rental. While the idea of holiday travel might make you balk, there’s nothing quite like a relaxing getaway to enhance the spirit of the season.

Spend the Holidays with the whole family on the OBX

Initiate an Outer Banks Vacation Tradition

Understandably, most of us hold holiday traditions close to our hearts. However, it’s always good to shake things up from time to time. Cultivate a memorable, seasonal experience and plan an Outer Banks vacation with your loved ones. Just because you’re spending the holidays somewhere new doesn’t mean that all traditions are lost. With the help of the fully-equipped kitchens in our North Carolina rentals, you can still cook up a storm of holiday favorites.

Indulge in a Stress-Free Holiday at Your Outer Banks Rental

While we all love the opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends at holiday get-togethers, it’s no secret that hosting can become a bit stressful. Give up the grief of cleaning this year at our pristine accommodations where there’s enough room for everyone. No having to worry about whether or not you have enough space for your guests, and everyone can pitch in for food. Heck, we even have pet-friendly rentals so that your beloved pooch can join in the fun.

Embark on Area Adventures with Friends & Family

Luckily for you, there is a wide variety of things to do in the Outer Banks. Visit the Elizabethan Gardens, go bird watching at Pea Island, or hit the high seas for a dolphin watching escapade. If you’re the family who loves to get outside and go on adventures, consider our Explore the Shore Guest Program to get some excellent deals and discounts. However, there’s nothing wrong with lounging around your Outer Banks beachfront rental, playing board games, and relaxing with loved ones.

Your Holiday Getaway Starts at Atlantic Realty

Consider embarking on a road trip for some holiday travel this year and celebrate the season with an Outer Banks vacation. Our beachfront rentals can accommodate groups of nearly any size—from coupe’s retreats to family reunions. We even have a litany of specials, so you’re bound to find outstanding deals on your Outer Banks vacation. For more information on our oceanfront rentals, please give us a call at 877-858-4795.

September 11, 2020May 31, 2022

Embark on a Tour of the Best Outer Banks Lighthouses

For centuries, the Outer Banks lighthouses have served as a guiding light to seaborne travelers and merchants as they navigate perilous channels. These beacons of hope have become time-honored attractions. So, if you’re looking for things to do in the Outer Banks, embark on a self-guided tour of the best North Carolina lighthouses near your Atlantic Realty vacation rental.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

The Bodie Island Lighthouse (pronounced “Body”) you see today is the structure’s third iteration. The first commissioned lighthouse in 1837 had been abandoned due to structural issues and repair costs. Another attempt in 1858 became a casualty in the Civil War. After a new construction plan and relocation in the late 19th century, we have the black and white striped, 154-foot lighthouse that stands today. The wetlands surrounding Bodie Island Lighthouse are a popular spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

Get a bird’s eye view of the North Carolina Outer Banks coastline when you visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Climb to the top of this 162-foot structure, the light from which can be seen from 18 nautical miles. The conservators will gladly answer any questions you have. They even have a free book about this Outer Banks lighthouse, which you can download for free: To Illuminate the Dark Space.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

Often overlooked due to this smaller structure, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse quietly sits in a remote location at the east end of the Manteo waterfront. Similar to the Bodie Island Lighthouse, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse you see today is the third iteration of the structure. Even still, this picturesque beacon has led hundreds of people to safety over the years. Consider going for a stroll along the boardwalk and treating yourself to an exceptional sunset.

Outer Banks Lighthouses Await Your North Carolina Getaway

Learning about the rich regional history is one of the highlights of booking an Outer Banks vacation rental. Luckily for you, when you reserve a house or condo via Atlantic Realty, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the top area attractions. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, our diverse selection of North Carolina rentals will satisfy your needs. We even have a litany of exclusive deals so that you can get the most of your coastal retreat. For more information about Outer Banks lighthouses or making a reservation, please give us a call at 877-858-4795. Our resourceful staff is happy to assist you.

August 14, 2020May 31, 2022

Top 5 Autumnal Outer Banks Activities

Spring and fall are the perfect times to visit Atlantic Realty because the temperatures are less hot and humid, and there tend to be fewer people. While crowds have thinned, there’s still a plethora of fantastic autumnal Outer Banks activities to keep you entertained. Treat yourself and your loved ones to our beach house rentals, NC, and a tranquil coastal getaway.

1. Perfect Weather for Beachy Outer Banks Activities

The average temperature highs during September and October range between 73 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which is prime for swimming, hiking, fishing, biking, and other outdoor ventures. If you’ve booked a Nags Head rental, consider hosting a bonfire on the beach. You’ll have to get a permit to do so, but it’s worth it. Roast corn, hot dogs, and marshmallows over a peaceful bonfire while watching the moon rise over calm, Atlantic waves.

2. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

Hit up a local pumpkin patch for that authentic autumnal experience. Meander through farms with a hot cider in hand, sign up for an oxen ride, and pick out your favorite pumpkin. You can even make use of your private Outer Banks house rental to paint or carve your pumpkins.

3. Sip Some Autumnal Outer Banks Brews

While the classic IPA’s of summer are super crisp and refreshing, there’s something comforting about the spiced lagers, ales, Belgians, and porters that hit brewery taps in the fall. Whether you prefer a sweet pumpkin ale or a classic lager, you’re sure to find a brew to your liking at a nearby OBX brewery. There’s a wide variety of price ranges and on-tap selections, so don’t shy away from trying out a few in order to find your favorite.

4. Check out the Outer Banks Fall Events

Just because the crowds have thinned doesn’t mean there aren’t many local events to partake. It’s quite the opposite! If you love seafood, their Seafood Festival is a must-go Outer Banks activity. Find out what other festivities might pique your interest:

5. Dune Climbing at Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Autumn is the perfect time of year to take on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. They’re much easier to climb when the sun doesn’t burn as hot, and you’ll be rewarded with outstanding views. Plus, the park is open all day, so the possibility of bumping into other tourists is slim.

Your Ideal Fall Getaway Awaits at Our OBX Vacation Rentals

Plan the perfect autumnal vacation at our Outer Banks house rentals via Atlantic Realty. Take advantage of the local festivities, gorgeous weather, and our fall getaway specials. To learn more about seasonal Outer Banks activities, or to make a reservation, please give us a call at 877-858-4795.

July 8, 2020May 31, 2022

The Best OBX Dolphin Tours

Who doesn’t love a beachside vacation? Your toes wiggling in the soft sand, watching gorgeous oceanic sunrises, sunsets, and marvelous marine life. Our Outer Banks vacation rentals at Atlantic Realty are perfect for outdoor, aquatic adventures. Whether you’re vacationing with your partner, family, or friend group, consider going on a dolphin tour in the OBX.

Dolphin Tours are a fun Outer Banks experience for the whole family

What to Expect from Your OBX Dolphin Tour

Embark on a nautical adventure near our Kitty Hawk vacation rentals. Outer Banks dolphin tours will show you all manner of marine life you wouldn’t be able to experience otherwise. Learn interesting facts about the area, snap a few Instagram-worthy photos of some friendly dolphins, and bond with your loved ones under the warm sun.

Captain Johnny’s Outer Banks Dolphin Tours

Join Captain Stuart Wescott for the cruise of a lifetime. Choose between a morning, afternoon, and sunset OBX dolphin tour options. If you’re looking for a romantic evening out on the water, we recommend choosing their Sunset Dolphin Cruise.

Harbor Star Dolphin Tours

If you’re looking for a dolphin tour in the OBX that the whole family will love, consider booking a cruise with Harbor Star Dolphin Tours. Spend a spectacular couple of hours watching bottlenose dolphins as they show off their best moves. If you’re a fishing family, you might also want to look at the fishing charters they offer at this establishment.

Nags Head Dolphin Watch

You’re in for a unique ecotour experience when you book a cruise with Nags Head Dolphin Watch. Local biologists lead these tours, so they’ll be available to answer any questions you may have about the wildlife. In addition to seeing bottle-nosed dolphins and other marine creatures, you’ll have an inside look at how scientists conduct their research. The Nags Head Dolphin Watch cruise is perfect for those who love marine biology or have kiddos who love science.

The Best Outer Banks House Rentals for the Family

Treat your family to the best North Carolina oceanfront getaway at Atlantic Realty. Our cozy vacation rentals can accommodate groups of most sizes. We even have pet-friendly rentals so that you can bring your beloved pooch. You’ll also have easy access to numerous Outer Banks attractions, like OBX dolphin tours. Please call us at 877-858-4795 to make a reservation.