Tag Archives: outer banks things to do

07/15/11

Day Trip to Roanoke Island: Outer Banks Family Fun

Vacationing on Cape Hatteras is a wonderful treat for the whole family. From playing in the ocean waves, kayaking the sound, fishing the shoreline or just relaxing in a beach chair with a good book, your Hatteras Island vacation is sure to be filled with fun, sun and relaxation.

For those visitors who want to take one day and explore more than the shore, a visit to Roanoke Island may be what you are looking for! Follow us to Roanoke Island for our top recommendation for what to do, where to eat and what to see to make the most of your family vacation.

What to Do:
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a popular attraction on the Outer Banks.

The aquarium is the perfect place to bring kids of all ages who seek to learn more about the amazing aquatic marine life under the sea. The aquarium presents daily dive shows, films, animal encounters and feedings. It is one of the single best rainy day activities on the Outer Banks. (But take our local’s tip: for a less crowded aquarium experience, visit the North Carolina Aquarium during one of the sunny days on your vacation.) For more tips and information, visit: The North Carolina Aquarium. We hope to “sea” you there!

Where to Eat:
Big Al’s Soda Fountain and Grill is a blast from past!

Big Al’s is a great restaurant for families and is a unique dining experience! Take one step inside Big Al’s 50’s style diner and discover the thousands of coke memorabilia that line the walls and shelves.

Would you like to sit at a table, or the soda fountain? The soda fountain counter, which can seat twelve people, offers the full 50’s experience, including your own soda jerk to wait on you. The restaurant includes separate party rooms that can be reserved for any special occasion. Don’t forget about the juke box! Pick from hundreds of your favorite 50’s and 60’s hits. Out of all the dining experiences of your vacation, Big Al’s Soda Fountain and Grill will be one to remember. Don’t forget to order a milkshake to go, and stop by the gift shop on your way out and bring a little bit of the 50’s home with you!

What to See:
The Lost Colony is a beloved Outer Banks attraction and the ultimate history mystery!

As the sun begins to set, there is no better way to wrap up a fun-filled day than with an exciting live show, performed outside under the stars at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Here, you will discover the Waterside Theatre, home to world famous “Lost Colony” outdoor drama. Join actors from all over the country as they sing and dance their way through the dramatic and historical story of America’s beginning here in the new world. The Emmy nominated Lost Colony has been impressing audiences for 74 years.

During your Hatteras Island vacation, a daytrip to Roanoke Island is a glimpse into all of the fun things to do, see and discover in the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina.

06/24/11

Hatteras Island Events: This Week on the Outer Banks

We’ve compiled the best Hatteras Island activities, events and fun things to do on the Outer Banks for June 26 to July 1st. Below you will find events just for the kids, just for adults, family events, evening events and a lot of FREE activities to make your Hatteras Island vacation unforgettable!

    FOR THE KIDS

June 28, 29 & 30th
Kids Painting Workshop
Time: 10:30-11:45 AM. Location: SeaWorthy Gallery -58401 South Highway 12, Hatteras village

This unique art camp, instructed by Professional Artist, Elizabeth Eubanks, is designed to create a fun and relaxed art experience for your child, plus they get to create their very own take home painting each day. $15 Class Fee- Includes supplies. Call 252-986-6510 or visit seaworthygallery.com

June 27, 28, 30, July 1
National Park Service Program: Especially for Kids

Time: 11:00 am to 11:45 am. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. This program offers hands-on activities that allow kids to have fun learning about the seashore. Check at the visitor center to learn the topic of the day. Free for all ages.

June 28 – 30
REAL Kids Camp

Time: 10am – 4pm. Location: REAL Watersports in Waves village

Get your son or daughter into the water in a safe and positive instructional environment with the REAL Kids Camp! Let the coaches at REAL show your kids the ropes in and around the water. Surfing, Kiteboarding, Standup Paddleboarding and more. Ages 7-12. Call for information: (866)REAL-548 | (252)987-6000 or visit: REALWatersports.com

June 28
Free Kid’s Day with Kitty Hawk Kites

2 locations and times: 10am -12pm in Hatteras Village -at Hatteras Landing Shops, next to the ferry and 4pm – 6pm in Avon village
Shoot water guns, get your face painted, and try out the newest toys and games. For more information, visit kittyhawk.com

June 29
Free Kid’s Day with Kitty Hawk Kites

4pm -7pm at the Kitty Hawk Kites store in Rodanthe at Waves Village. Shoot water guns, get your face painted, and try out the newest toys and games. For more information, visit kittyhawk.com

    FOR THE BIG KIDS:

June 29
Adult Painting Class

Time: 1:00-3:00 PM. Location: SeaWorthy Gallery -58401 South Highway 12, Hatteras village

Professional Artist, Elizabeth Eubanks, shows you how to have fun creating a watercolor, landscape or seascape painting of Hatteras. The workshop is opened to all skill levels, beginners to advanced. You will have your own completed painting at the end of class. What a perfect vacation souvenir! $35 Class Fee-Includes all supplies. Class space is limited. Call 252-986-6510 to register or visit seaworthygallery.com

June 30
Sea Glass Wrapping Jewelry Class
Time: 10am – 2pm (Classes run 20-25 minutes and start on the ½ hour -reservations required!). Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

Learn to wrap a piece of sea glass into a necklace pendant with instructor Betty Kungle. Class size is limited to 8, so call early to make reservations! $10 per person plus a $5 kit fee which includes a piece of genuine sea glass! For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com

July 1
Water Color Painting Class with Vicky Lowe
Time: 10am – noon. Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

Even beginners can learn to paint with water colors. In class, Instructor Vicky Lowe will set up beach orientated and floral models from which students will be coached how to paint. The cost is $30 and includes all materials. Class is limited to 8 people, so please pre-register. (Ask about kids classes, too!) For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com


FOR THE FAMILY:

    July 1
    Beading Class -Make your own bracelet or anklet!

    Time: 2pm -5pm (Classes run 20-25 minutes and start on the ½ hour). Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

    This is a fun and enjoyable class for ages 7 and up! Students learn design and good color selection along with crimping skills so your jewelry will last a long time! The cost is $10 for the class and a $5 kit fee, which includes materials and use of tools. For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com

      SUMMER PROGRAMS

    The Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station and the National Park Service offer Daily Summer Programs. Below are some fun events for you to check out during your Hatteras Island vacation!

    WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN… Evening events on Hatteras Island offered by the Park Service

    June 28
    Evening Campfire

    Time: 8:00pm. Location: Buxton Lifeguarded Beach. -Spend an evening under the stars hearing stories of the Outer Banks. Topics may include shipwrecks, pirates, sea life, and legends. Bring a beach chair, a blanket, flashlight, and bug spray.

    June 29
    Night Lights

    Time: 8:30pm to 9:30pm. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Join a ranger for a short walk to search the tide line for glowing marine plankton and the sky for planets and constellations. Find out why protecting the dark is valuable to both people and wildlife.

    June 30
    Night Climb
    Time: 8pm and 9pm. Location: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Enjoy a guided tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. ..at NIGHT!
    You will need to pre-purchase Night Climb tickets in person between 8:15 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the lighthouse ticket booth Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday on the week you intend to climb. Each program is limited to 30 participants and tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are non-refundable and children must be at least 42″ tall. Bring a flashlight!

    The Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station Summer Programs
    Time: All programs are at 2pm
    Location: Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station – 23645 NC Highway 12, or Milepost 39 ½ (Programs are outdoors and thus weather dependent. Programs are free with Regular Site Admission Fee)

    June 27

    Nights in Rodanthe the Movie — Behind the Scenes
    Nearly all exterior scenes were actually filmed right here in Rodanthe, where Chicamacomico is located. Site Operations Manager, Linda Molloy, was cast as Jill Torrelson opposite Richard Gere in a brief but pivotal role. Come get the scoop! Linda will autograph and personalize your book and DVD purchases here for a truly unique vacation souvenir. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 28
    America’s Forgotten Heroes
    Discover the forgotten yet fascinating history of the United States Life-Saving Service, the original “Storm Warriors” who were the predecessors of today’s U.S. Coast Guard… Absorb the unbelievable details of actual rescues done here, especially the dramatic SS Mirlo story- the most highly awarded maritime rescue in U.S. history, right here! Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 29
    The Real Taffy Of Torpedo Junction
    This fictional novel tells the daring antics of an independent young teenager living on Hatteras Island during World War II. ‘Taffy” was based on the real-life Carol Dillon, Hatteras Island native. She will enthrall you with her stories of what was fiction and what was not.Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 30
    Beach Apparatus Drill
    The U.S. Life-Saving Service required all stations to practice this rescue method weekly. Chicamacomico is now one of only two places in the country– and the ONLY one to be performed by active-duty US Coast Guard personnel–that performs the complete Drill. It is recommended to arrive by 1:30. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    July 1
    What Really Happened to “The Lost Colony”?
    Where did they go? Right here on Hatteras Island, where they actually first started. Scott Dawson’s compelling delivery will have you spellbound. Documentation & evidence abound. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    FREE Park Service Events:

The Cape Hatteras National Park offers FREE Hatteras Island events for the family and kids of all ages.

Daily in the Summer:
Sentinel of the Shore

Time: Daily 12:00pm to 12:30pm and 2:00pm to 2:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Learn about the rich history of, and future plans for, the park’s majestic lighthouses.

Daily in the Summer
Hatteras Island – Pirates!

Time: Daily from 4:00pm to 4:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -In the 1700’s, pirates frequently visited the Outer Banks. Find out why the area was so attractive to pirates and how the golden age of piracy dramatically ended.

June 27, 29, 30, July 1
Hatteras Island – Soundside Snorkeling

Time: 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -It’s not the Caribbean, but the shallow waters of the Pamlico Sound are home to an array of small fish, shrimp, and crabs. Limited to 20 participants.

June 27, 29, July 1
Civil War on the Outer Banks

Time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Join a ranger for a view of the Outer Banks’ role in the Civil War!

June 28
Old Days at the Weather Station

Time: 3:30pm to 4:15pm. Location: Hatteras U.S. Weather Bureau Station, in the heart of Hatteras Village. -Join this tour of the restored Hatteras Weather Bureau Station and hear about the villagers who worked there during both tranquil and stormy times.

June 28, 30
Graveyard of the Atlantic

Time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Countless ships have met their end off the Outer Banks. Learn how storms, shoals, war, and commerce have contributed to the wreckage, and hear stories of those who risked their lives to save the victims.

June 29
Explore the Shore: Beach Walk

Time: 8:00am to 9:00am. Location: Old Lighthouse site parking lot
Enjoy an early morning ranger-led walk across the undeveloped ocean beaches of Hatteras Island. Learn about this changing shoreline and the plants and animals that make this dynamic environment their home.

June 29
Cast Netting

Time: 9:30am. Location: Pre-register at the Hatteras Island Museum at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Casting a net from shore is one of the oldest methods of fishing. Give it a try or just come to observe the action. You’re welcome to bring your own cast net. Wear wading shoes. Limited to 25 participants.

June 29
Seashore Arts

Time: 11:00am to 11:30am. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Get in touch with your artistic side and create a lasting memory of the seashore! Bring a cotton t-shirt or pillow case to create a seashore-inspired masterpiece. Limited to 16 participants.

June 30
Coast Guard Station Tour

Time: 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -The U.S. Coast Guard and its predecessor, the U.S. Life-Saving Service, have a long and heroic history on the Outer Banks. Sign up today and enjoy a unique tour of an active U.S. Coast Guard Station. Limited to 20 participants.

Outer Banks Events and Activities for the Family -North of Hatteras Island

    June 29 – July 1
    Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks Sand Sculpture Festival

    Location: Kitty Hawk Sports at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing shopping center across from Jockey’s Ridge MP 12 1/2 in Nags Head. -A professional sandsculpture company will be on hand to sculpture a huge sand creation. There will be fun events, raffles, and entertainment all day long. This is a benefit for the prevention of skin cancer. For more information, call 1-877-FLY-THIS or 252-441-4124 or visit kittyhawk.com

    June 28 & 29
    Outer Banks Daredevils Baseball Game
    The Daredevils are part of a summer collegiate baseball league offering experience for college players in a wood bat environment and a chance to refine skills for the pro level.

    Time: Gates open at 6 pm, game at 7pm. Location: First Flight High School Baseball complex. Just south of Wrights Bros. Memorial, off hwy 158 turn on Colington Road. For more information, call 252-202-1842 or visit: obxdaredevils.com

    Monday through Saturday
    74th Anniversary Season of The Lost Colony

    Time: 8:30pm. Location: Waterside Theatre, Roanoke Island. -Written by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Paul Green, The Lost Colony tells the story of 117 men, women and children who vanished without a trace more than 400 years ago. Featuring lavish costumes designed by five-time Tony Award winner William Ivey Long and directed by Robert Richmond, the story comes to life summer nights at the open air Waterside Theatre. Children 12 and under $10.00, Group rates for 10 or more. Complete the experience with a Waterside Sunset Picnic and pre-show Backstage Tour at 7 p.m. Reservations required. Call (252) 473-3414 or visit thelostcolony.org

05/17/11

Outer Banks Fishing & Family Fun at Jennette's Pier


Celebrate the Grand Opening of Jennette’s Pier on Saturday, May 21st and enjoy fishing, family and fun! The newly constructed, 1,000 foot concrete pier is part of the North Carolina Aquariums system and comes complete with a 16,000 square foot pier house with snack bar, tackle shop and gift shop. There are also classrooms and educational displays and programs that explore the North Carolina Aquariums’ mission to inspire appreciation and conservation of the state’s aquatic environments.

It is all about fishing, family and fun at the new Jennette’s Pier, located in south Nags Head near Whalebone Junction. Be sure to stop by on the way to your Hatteras Island vacation! Admission is free on Saturday, May 21st for the grand opening celebration. Free fishing will be available all day and night following the opening ceremonies. Bring your fishing poles or just stop by for a stroll on the pier, with unbelievable views overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Parking will fill up fast, so look for satellite parking with shuttle service at designated places nearby, such as the town of Nags Head municipal complex and the grass area south of the Dunes Restaurant.

On Sunday, May 22, Jennette’s Pier will launch the summer season with fishing 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are also working on summer programs and activities for all ages. For more information, visit Jennette’s Pier online or call 252-255-1501.

Jennette’s Pier and the North Carolina Aquarium- a New Chapter of Outer Banks History

Originally built in 1939, the pier was 754 feet long and 16 feet wide, with a 28-foot-wide “T” on the end. From the deck of the pier anglers cast their lines for more than sixty years, though numerous hurricanes and nor’easters battered the structure and caused it to be repaired and rebuilt from time to time.

The pier house was reconstructed on several occasions, later becoming a much larger facility with a restaurant, tackle shop, and arcade. Eventually, the Jennette family sold their interest in the pier. Years later in 2003, the pier was sold again to the North Carolina Aquarium Society so that it might be developed into an educational outpost for the Aquarium. But in September 2003, Hurricane Isabel swept the North Carolina coast, knocking down about 540 feet of Jennette’s Pier and practically shutting down an Outer Banks institution. It then became time to rethink the fishing pier concept, with the Aquariums taking the lead to rebuild Jennette’s as an all-concrete, 1,000-foot-long, educational ocean pier. On May 22, 2009, Governor Beverly Perdue led a gathering of legislators, local officials, and Aquarium leaders for a “sand-breaking” on the site of the new $25 million Jennette’s Pier, seventy years to the day from the first construction. Now, two years later, the pier will be opened to the public and an Outer Banks history lives on for many more generations to come.