Why My Second Outer Banks Trip Outshone the First: A New Yorker's Honest Review
For nearly all my adult life, I've heard rave reviews about the Outer Banks (OBX). Friends, family, and colleagues have gushed about its pristine beaches, iconic lighthouses, and endless outdoor adventures. I finally made the journey from upstate New York a few years ago and loved it. But my second trip in August 2021? That's when I truly fell in love.
Getting there is a breeze: a short flight to Norfolk, Virginia, followed by a scenic two-hour drive into OBX. Stop at Trio Restaurant & Market for provisions and a delightful lunch with wine. On my first visit, friendly staffer Sharon from up North shared insider tips, like the proper pronunciation of Corolla and Bodie Island.
This time, I sought out Wild Pony White by Sanctuary Vineyards—a delicious Chardonnay blend that supports the Corolla Wild Horse Fund (thanks, Sharon!). Find it at Cotton Gin bottle shops across OBX or the vineyard itself, a relaxing half-hour detour inland.
In 2019, I stayed beachfront—a dream for this New Yorker, where such affordable luxury near home (like Jersey Shore or Long Island) is rare. For this trip, we opted for a new-build home just a three-block walk to public beach access, booked via Kees Outer Banks Vacation Rentals. They provided pre-check-in door codes, complimentary toiletries, coffee starters, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Endless Activities
OBX's uncrowded, gorgeous beaches offer free access—no badges or fees, unlike what I'm used to. A quick crosswalk over South Virginia Dare Trail led to the beach; drivers courteously stopped (unthinkable in Manhattan!). En route, we discovered a little free library—perfect for this book lover. I borrowed, read, and returned several titles during our stay.
Our week packed in highlights: kite-flying at Jockey's Ridge State Park with a stunt kite from Kitty Hawk Kites. Ditch your shoes at the entrance (they're safe!) and catch sunset for epic photos. Early visits to Wright Brothers National Memorial let us explore the museum, memorial, and flight site comfortably.
Home-Like Comforts
OBX feels like a real community, not a tourist trap. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and banks were nearby, and locals were incredibly welcoming. In Duck, snag fresh corn and tomatoes at Tomato Shack (don't miss the donuts!).
Lighthouses and Wild Horses
Landlocked in New York's woods, lighthouses are a thrill here. Favorites: Bodie Island (rustic boardwalk, ranger talks), Cape Hatteras, Ocracoke Light, Roanoke Marshes Light, and Currituck Beach Light's striking red brick. Book a wild horse tour for dune-bouncing thrills, horse sightings, and guides' tales of sea turtles and WWII history.
Planning Trips Three and Four
We kayaked marshes, shopped Manteo boutiques, toured Fort Raleigh, lunched at Caffey's Inlet Life Saving Station, and relaxed on the beach. So much more awaits—we'll be back for sure.
