Valentines Getaways to the Outer Banks
Valentines Day is almost here, so why not surprise a loved one with a romantic getaway to the Outer Banks? The weather will be a bit brisk, and the ocean temperature cold, but that doesn’t mean that all activity has ceased. The area is alive with things you can enjoy with a loved one during a Valentines Day visit.
Elizabethan Gardens
Each season brings an array of vegetation and flowering plants amongst stone statues and architecture reminiscent of the 1500’s. Bring your significant other here to take in the sights and smells of this beautiful place. The Elizabethan Gardens is located on Roanoke Island within Fort Raleigh National Historic Site adjacent to Waterside Theatre. For more information please call 252-473-3234.
The Lost Colony
America’s longest running outdoor drama is hosting a Valentines Day dance. This romantic evening will feature an elegant dinner, dancing and fun. Live dance music and a silent auction will keep the party hopping. Tickets are $48 per person with proceeds benefiting the theatrical and educational efforts of the Roanoke Island Historical Association. For tickets and more information please call 252-473-2127.
A little relaxation
No Outer Banks romantic getaway would be complete without a trip to the spa. Spa Koru in Avon has many different specials to help you relax with your loved one on Valentines Day. Their spa experts will have you feeling at peace and relaxed. For more information, please call 252-995-3125.
Labels: OBX Valentines Getaway, Outer Banks Activities, Outer Banks Romantic Getaway
Tips to help you save money on your next Outer Banks vacation
Plan ahead
One of the best ways to save money on a vacation is to plan ahead. Start at least 6 months before your departure. If you plan to go somewhere popular during a peak time such as Christmas, or Spring Break, you may want to increase the planning time table to a year. The fact is, the less time you leave yourself, the more of a chance you have to pay higher prices. As it gets closer to your dates, you will typically find that air fares rise and accommodation selection becomes less available and more expensive.
Drive or Fly?
Sometimes it can be very difficult to decide whether to drive or fly. With fluctuating gas prices, maybe the gas and the added wear and tear on the family sedan is not worth it if you are traveling a long distance. But if your destination is a one gas stop journey, you can save some money by not having to rent a car like you would when you fly. There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding. Price is obviously the a big factor, but time can be more significant. If you are going on vacation for only a few days, does it make sense to spend half of your trip in a car? When time is of the essence, the added of expense of flying can be worth it if it means spending more time with family enjoying activities together.
Rent a House
With money being tight for so many families, there is an increasing trend for whole families to rent an entire house or some version of the vacation rental. These types of accommodations give the traveler a bit more flexibility when it comes to a vacation. Many times you can save money because you can rent them by the week instead of a day to day rate like a hotel. Also, with a vacation or home rental, you have the option to cook in instead of eating out like you would have to do at most hotels. Eating in can save you money so you are able to afford an extra activity on vacation. This could mean an extra parasailing trip, jet ski rental or round of golf.
Peak Season
Traveling during less popular times can save you extra money, instead of traveling during busier times such as Christmas week, Presidents Day weekend and Spring Break. Many areas will offer better deals during their off-season because they are trying to attract more guests. You will often find that during these times the area will be less busy and you will be able to do more activities because rates are often discounted.
Labels: Outer Banks, Travel Tips
Dare County 2009 Taste of the beach
This year’s Dare County Taste of the Beach will prove to be spectacular. It takes place from March 5-8 and is sponsored by the Dare County Restaurant Association. This festival features over 40 food and wine tastings, and has been named to the top 10 Seafood and Wine Festivals in the nation by Coastal Living Magazine.
Some activities that will take place during this 3 day festival include:
• Professional cooking classes
• Wine tasting
• Special menu presentations
• Guest chef appearances
• Brewery tours and more
To see a full of schedule the happenings please visit:
http://www.obxtasteofthebeach.com/scheduleofevents.htmTo ensure that you are able to attend the individual classes, you will need to book ahead of time because ticket numbers are limited, and once they are sold out, it will be closed. Prices range from $15 to $85 per adult per session. Some sessions will allow children to participate.
If you are planning on visiting the Outer Banks during this time, you should check out this event. Many local restaurants will be participating, so you will be able to experience Outer Banks dining at its best, all in one place. Make your reservations to ensure your spot!
Labels: Dare County, OBX Events, Taste of The Beach
Beach Safety in the Outer Banks
One of the main reasons people visit the Outer Banks is for the pristine beaches and access to the ocean. Spending a day at the beach can be a great way to experience the Outer Banks. While on the beach it is important to keep yourself safe. Here are a few things you should keep in mind before you visit the ocean.
You should understand that the flag system that was put into place to ensure safety.
• Green Flag – Low Hazard – Conditions are good for swimming and water sports, however beach-goers should still exercise caution when entering the water.
• Yellow Flag – Medium Hazard – Conditions are rougher with higher surf and stronger currents. The water is still safe for swimming and water sports, however users should exercise more caution and be aware of more dangers.
• Red Flags – High Hazard – Water conditions are rough and may contain rip currents and high surf. Swimming is not permitted when red flags are flying. Even if the weather is moderate, red flags can fly. The water conditions may be unstable and can be very dangerous if users ignore the no swimming direction.
• Purple Flags – Indicates Dangerous Marine Life – These flags will fly if certain types of marine life have been spotted in the area or if the conditions of the sea make it probable that certain sea life is present.
Beware of Rip Currents
These currents can be especially dangerous for swimmers. A rip current is when a strong surface flow of water returns back to the sea. These occur when there are breaking waves. The rip current can be recognized by a section of ocean that looks to be unusually calm where surrounding waters are rough. Additionally, the color of the rip current water can be different from the surrounding water. Many times the red flag will be flying if there is potential for rip currents. If you are not sure of your swimming strength or the possibility of rip currents existing, you should stay out of the water. For more information on water conditions, speak with the local lifeguard staff of the beach you are attending.
Labels: OBX Beach Safety, Ocean Safety Flags, Outer Banks Beach Safety
