Slice Pizzeria, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Hand Tossed Pizzas at the Beach

by Betsy Haas | July 26, 2010

Growing up in South Jersey, I formed my tastebuds for pizza at at place called Scotto's. Scotto's served authentic hand tossed, pizza-oven baked "pies" made to order or by the slice. For me, the best slice of pizza is one you can fold in half so that the runny mozzarella doesn't slide to your elbows as you eat it. Scotto's crust did just that, and I have been a Scotto's-style-pizza-snob ever since. Putting it mildly, …

The Full Moon Cafe & Grille, Manteo, NC

Downtown Waterfront Dining on Roanoke Island

by Betsy Haas | July 23, 2010

My Mom's recent move to the Manteo waterfront has given us a lot of chances to discover and re-discover some of Manteo's great eateries. We have been fans of the Full Moon Cafe for years, often eating a special lunch here on our "Manteo Day" on vacation.  This smart, eclectic blend of local artwork, cobalt blue glassware displayed in window shelves, linen table cloths and brick facades is located on a …

Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center, Hatteras Island, NC

See Native American Art, Culture and Artifacts

by Betsy Haas | July 19, 2010

The Frisco Native American Museum, located on Hatteras Island, is a wonderful collection of authentic Native American pieces assembled by founder Carl Bornfriend. The property has evolved over time and now contains a gift shop, two story research and preparation area, a nature trail and a natural history center. Galleries are chock-full of artwork and information about the earliest inhabitants of Hatteras Island.

One local find is an original dug-out canoe found …

Hatteras Heros: History & Mystery, Avon, NC

Story-Teller Danny Couch Brings History to Life.

by Betsy Haas | July 17, 2010

History made interesting? You betcha. Historian Danny Couch keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as he spins tales and yarns about the Outer Banks in this one-man production. Using multi-media and engaging story-telling, Couch takes you from the very beginning of the geologic formation of the barrier islands through the history of the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" and beyond in this wonderful show that includes pirate lore, lighthouse stories …

Port O’ Call, Outer Banks, NC

Check out the Weekend Bands at Port O' Call

by Betsy Haas | July 12, 2010

There are several taverns and restaurants in the Outer Banks that feature live music on the weekends. From acoustic jam sessions to reggae, blues, top 40 dance music, and island music, getting your groove on in OBX is EZ. Places like the Outer Banks Brewing Station, Kelly's and Port O' Call offer separate entertainment areas from their restaurants where local and national bands are booked year round.

At …

An Ocracoke Scavenger Hunt, Ocracoke Island, NC

A fun scavenger hunt that leads you around the island

by Betsy Haas | July 09, 2010

Last week I received an email from the Lucas family inquiring about a scavenger hunt in Ocracoke. They will be traveling in December, and wondered if I knew of any fun scavenger hunts on the Island. Since I didn't, I made up one.

This is a five-location hunt that will take you to famous historical locations on the island; any family who completes it by emailing pictures to me from all five …

The Castle Bed and Breakfast on Silver Lake, Ocracoke, NC

A Historic B & B on Ocracoke Island

by Betsy Haas | July 05, 2010

Standing on the edge of beautiful Silver Lake on Ocracoke Island, NC, is a historic Bed and Breakfast known as The Castle. This regal French-styled rendition of a classic Outer Banks cottage sports dormer windows, a widow's walk and crows nest, and tell tale cedar shingling on its exterior walls. Inside the original red oak paneled walls and floors are still intact, harkening back to its beginning as a rich man's …

Corolla Chapel, Corolla NC

A Worship and Wedding Destination.

by Betsy Haas | July 03, 2010

Corolla, NC is located in the upper most corner of the Outer Banks. This quiet, elegant community began its history in the late 1880s but found its following after a road in 1984 opened the northern part of the island to tourists. Pieces of its early history remain among the new subdivisions and top drawer restaurants. The most visible piece of history of course is the Currituck Lighthouse (scroll down for an article …

Ye Olde Pioneer Theater, Downtown Manteo, NC

Affordable First Run Movies, One at a Time.

by Betsy Haas | June 28, 2010

The Pioneer Theater on Budleigh Street in downtown Manteo holds the distinction of being the oldest theater that has been run continuously by the same family in the entire United States. Opened in 1908 by George Washington Creef, The original Pioneer was a block away from its present location and actually showed silent movies accompanied by a live pianist. The current theater opened in 1934 and is still run by the …

The History of the Lost Colony, Roanoke Island, NC

A National Treasure

by Betsy Haas | June 25, 2010

Last week I encouraged you to attend a showing of The Lost Colony, and gave a little history of the colony that was lost. Today's article focuses on the history of the play itself, for its history is just as amazing as the story that inspired it.

In 1937, the good folks of Roanoke Island, NC (population 547) decided to commission a play to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the birth of …

Outer Banks Brewing Station, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Wind-Powered Brew-Pub at the Beach.

by Betsy Haas | June 21, 2010

The Outer Banks Brewing Station is located in a modern interpretation of an old fashioned Life Saving Station, appropo for those moments on hot summer days when only a cold, home-brewed beer can save your life. If you look closely at the bar, you will see that its a livesaving boat poised on "tracks" to be pulled quickly across the sand to the sea to save a sinking ship. The "tracks" are actually …

The Lost Colony, Roanoke Island, NC

A MUST-SEE for every visitor.

by Betsy Haas | June 18, 2010

The Lost Colony is an outdoor theatrical production that has been telling the tale of the first English settlers to America since 1937. This rich narritive was penned by Pulitzer Prize-winner Paul Green at the request of Roanoke Island residents, who longed to tell the story of the brave men, women and children who landed on American soil long before Jamestown or Plymouth. This marvelous combination of choral singing, drama, exquisite …

The Currituck Golf Club, Corolla, NC

Rees Jones Golfing on the Outer Banks

by Betsy Haas | June 14, 2010

What do you get when you mix the natural beauty of the Outer Banks with the golf genius of Rees Jones? You get the Currituck Golf Club, located in Corolla, NC. Rated one of the "Ten Best New Places to Play" by Golf Magazine and one of the "Top 25 Courses in NC" by Golf Digest, the Currituck Golf Club offers 6,885 yards of golfing bliss. The diverse coastal terrain includes wetlands, sand …

Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Cape Lookout National Seashore, NC

OBX's Most Remote Beacon

by Betsy Haas | June 11, 2010

The lighthouse on Cape Lookout National Seashore is a challenging destination. Located three miles off shore, it requires a boat trip. Only the Visitor Center, located on the eastern end of Harkers Island is reachable by car. Personal boats and privately operated ferries can dock at Cape Lookout. While the lighthouse is not climable, the tower is currently under construction for visitor access. Completion is anticipated this summer. There is a …

America Celebrates:  Fourth of July Fireworks, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo, NC

Join us for a real Independence Day blast!

by Betsy Haas | June 07, 2010

George M. Cohan music, picnic baskets, cool summer evening breezes and fireworks can only mean one thing: July 4th. Join the good people of Manteo this Independence Day for an evening of festivities at Festival Park on Roanoke Island. This year the celebration will include a concert by the musicians of East Carolina University performing George M. Cohan at 8 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. and seating at the Pavilion is on …

Ocracoke LIghthouse, Ocracoke Island, NC

Short and stout...that's what its all about.

by Betsy Haas | June 04, 2010

The lighthouse on Ocracoke Island is the second oldest operating lighthouse in the nation. Built in 1823, it sits on two acres on the southern point of Ocracoke Island. It is the shortest light on the Outer Banks, standing only 75 feet tall. The distinctive solid white brick exterior was originally made by mixing lime, spanish whiting, salt, rice, glue and boiling water and applying it to the brick while still …

NC Aquarium Weddings, Roanoke Island, NC

Take the PLUNGE!

by Betsy Haas | May 31, 2010

Speaking of the Aquarium on Roanoke Island.....(see last week's article):

The Aquarium is a beautiful place to be married! Surrounded by tanks of fish, the Albemarle Sound, fountains and picturesque walkways, the NC Aquarium is a unique venue that would make any wedding memorable. Up to 1000 guests can be accomodated, or a small, intimate affair can be hosted. Imagine having your wedding on the sandy beach of the sound at sunset, …

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Buxton, NC

The Nation's Tallest Light

by Betsy Haas | May 28, 2010

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a famous and beloved symbol of the State of North Carolina. This image can be found all over the state. We North Carolinians are proud of our lighthouse heritage, and especially of this, the tallest lighthouse in America.

The light can be seen over 20 miles out and has served the coastline for over 100 years. It warns sailors of the dangerous Diamond Shoals, the …

North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island, Manteo, NC

Where Fish are Friends, Not Food

by Betsy Haas | May 24, 2010

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is 68,000-square-feet of aquatic beauty. Home to alligators, sharks, river otters and lots of FISH, the aquarium is part of the North Carolina Aquarium group. Permanent exhibit galleries include Open Ocean, Marine Communities, Hurricanes and Northeasters, Coastal Freshwaters and Close Encounters. This summer a special Shark Exhibit has been added to the 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit. The exhibit includes an underwater …

Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NC

A Beautiful Beacon Gets a Facelift

by Betsy Haas | May 21, 2010

The history of the Bodie Island Lighthouse is a lesson in the phrase "if at first you don't succeed, try and try again." The original Bodie (pronounced "body") Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1847 on the south side of Oregon Inlet on Pea Island. This first attempt was abondoned twelve years later because of a poor foundation. A second version was built in 1859 but was blown up in 1861 by Confederate troops who …

Endless Summer Begins Memorial Day, Cape Hatteras NC

Let's Go Surfing Now...

by Betsy Haas | May 17, 2010

Have you ever wanted to learn how to surf but were afraid to try? Have you ever watched the classic surf cult movie Endless Summer and wished you could go back to '66 when the boards were long, surfing was king, and the perfect wave was just behind the next set?

All your surfing fantasies can come true this Memorial Day weekend at the Endless Summer Weekend at Cape Hatteras, NC on …

Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Corolla, NC

The Northernmost OBX Lighthouse

by Betsy Haas | May 14, 2010

Located in Corolla, NC the Currituck Beach lighthouse was built in 1875 to fill in the 40 mile “dark spot” on the coast of North Carolina between the lighthouse at Cape Henry to the north and Bodie Island to the south. Because it was the last of the lighthouses along the Outer Banks, a lot of thought went into the exterior. The other lighthouses are some variation of white and black, and finally …

Wedding Venues in the Outer Banks, NC

A premier East Coast wedding destination!

by Betsy Haas | May 10, 2010

Weddings on the Outer Banks have seen an explosion in the last decade. As brides are choosing beautiful beaches and outdoor destinations, the Outer Banks has responded by creating picturesque venues on both the Sound and the Ocean. The first place to start when planning an OBX wedding is the Outer Banks Wedding Association. This is a non-profit trade marketing group of over 200 members who represent the Outer Banks wedding industry.

Wedding …

Visit an Outer Banks Lighthouse, Outer Banks, NC

Five Beautiful Beacons!

by Betsy Haas | May 07, 2010

Probably the most prominent icon of the entire Outer Banks is the lighthouse. It appears on advertising, billboards, corporate logos, directional signage; you can even find minature ones in people's back yards. Five lighthouses still exist along the Outer Banks, harkening back to a time when mariners traveling along the dangerous, rough waters of our coastline depended on the lights to get them safely throught the deep channels along the Diamond Shoals. Hundreds of ships …

The Sanderling Spa, Duck, NC

Relax by the waves.

by Betsy Haas | May 03, 2010

The Sanderling Inn in Duck is a favorite destination of people looking for beautiful accomodations on the Outer Banks. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, the Sanderling offers award-winning cuisine at the Left Bank, as well as the LIfesaving Station Restaurant, located in a restored 1899 United States LIfesaving Station.

Visitors rave about the unparalleled spa services at the Spa and Salon. Rejuvenation …

SHAG OBX, Pirate’s Cove, Manteo, NC

Shag the nights away, May 7–9.

by Betsy Haas | April 30, 2010

Make plans to come to Roanoke Island on May 7–9th for the First Annual SHAG OBX event.  Shagging is a popular dance from the 40's that combines smooth couples-dancing with bangin' beach music. The Carolina Shag is a type of swing dance native to South and North Carolina; in 2005, North Carolina designated the Shag as our official state dance. Shag dancing originated in open-air beach venues; the quick, smooth, close-to-the-floor footwork was …

High Cotton BBQ, Kitty Hawk, NC

Hickory smoked Eastern Carolina Barbeque at its Best.

by Betsy Haas | April 26, 2010

Barbecue wars began during the time of Cain and Abel (surely this was one of their many disagreements) and continue to this day. Southerners vary dramatically in their preferences; some worship at the Holy Grail of vinegar-based sauce while others feast at the altar of tomato-based sauce. For some the argument is more basic; does the best barbeque come from pork, beef brisket, pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, or whole hog? Then there rages the debate …

Beach Rentals on the Outer Banks, NC

Deciding Where to Stay in the Outer Banks

by Betsy Haas | April 23, 2010

One of the unique features of the Outer Banks is the easy accessiblity of beach rental homes.  From simple "beach boxes" to elaborate mini-mansions that house eight families, rental houses are a popular way to stay on the Banks. There are many options that should be considered before booking a rental home.

1. First, consider area. Do you want to be on the beach? On the sound? Somewhere near the beach? Close to restaurants …

The Outer Banks Daredevils Baseball Club, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Great Local Baseball!

by Betsy Haas | April 19, 2010

The Outer Banks Daredevils Baseball Club is part of the Coastal Plain League, a summer collegiate baseball league. This league is designed to help college players gain experience in the 'wood bat' environment and helps them hone their skills. Daredevil players come from all over the country; from Division I, II and III, junior colleges, and the NAIA. The CPL is sanctioned by Major League Baseball and the NCAA.

This …

8th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week, Outer Banks, NC

Scenic Riding, Cool Breezes, and Hot Bikers

by Betsy Haas | April 16, 2010

The 8th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week is revving up for a full week of scenic riding events, parties, food, and live music. Over 100 vendors will display their wares in five different locations on the Banks, and every night a local club is designated as "Official Party Central." Bike Week takes place from April 18 through the 25th.

A $1,000 Harley-Davidson shopping spree will be given away during the week. Participants …

Outer Banks, NC Beach Access Locations

Knowing where to go makes a great trip!

by Betsy Haas | April 12, 2010

Understanding Beach access points and knowing where they are is an important part of a successful Outer Banks beach trip. With 90 beatiful miles of sand, sea oats, dunes and waves, prepared travelers can select beaches with public access, lifeguards, and bathhouses (read: showers, changing areas, and potties!) for a safe and comfortable visit. Saving the dunes is important to the future of the Outer Banks' lovely beaches, and visitors are encouraged to …

Mulligan’s Raw Bar and Grille, Nags Head, NC

Featuring the "Best Burger on the Beach"

by Betsy Haas | April 09, 2010

What is a trip to the beach without a stop at a local bar and grille that boasts having the "Best Burger on the Outer Banks?" Mulligan's Raw Bar and Grille, located at Milepost 13 across from Jockey's Ridge on Bypass 158 in Nags Head, is the place to go for outstanding burgers, steamers and local fish. Cooked any way you want, Mulligan's feature "Best Burger" is a popular choice for …

The Elizabethan Gardens, Roanoke Island, NC

Beautiful Blooms are busting out!

by Betsy Haas | April 05, 2010

Located on the same site where English colonists first landed in 1584, the Elizabethan Gardens are a beautiful and historic location nestled on the shores of Roanoke Island. This is the place where Sir Walter Raleigh sent his first attempt at a New World colony under the direction of Queen Elizabeth I. The colony only survived for three years and then was forever lost, disappearing without a trace. The gardens are …

North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island, Manteo, NC

A Great Day Trip, Rain or Shine!

by Betsy Haas | April 02, 2010

The North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island is a 68,000-square foot mix of tanks, walkways, exhibits, displays, a movie theater and lots and lots of fish. Exhibit Galleries include Hurricanes and Northeasters, Marine Communities, Oceans Revealed: Powers of the Planet, and Coastal Freshwaters. This summer, SHARKS arrive.

"SHARKS" will be the theme for the Aquarium beginning in June. They will be housed in the 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the Atlantic display. The sharks will be …

Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, Manteo, NC

One of the Outer Banks' lovely churches!

by Betsy Haas | March 29, 2010

The Outer Banks is blessed with a plethora of lovely historic churches. Many of our churches were built in the 1800s and are still open today. The Methodist Episcopal Church (now the United Methodist Church) sent circuit-rider preachers to the Banks to plant quite a number of little churches up and down the islands. One of the prettiest is Mt. Olivet UMC, located in historic downtown Manteo.

This church was …

North Carolina Aquarium, Roanoke Island, NC

Summer Camps for kids

by Betsy Haas | March 26, 2010

The North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island is a fabulous facility which features the many interesting and unusual inhabitants of the Outer Banks including sharks, alligators, sea turtles and river otters. Each summer a series of seasonal and day camps are offered to children who are rising first graders (Sea Squirts), age 7-9 (Jr. Aquatics) or 10-12 (Aquatic Adventurers). Families on vacation in the area are welcome to enroll their kids …

Weeping Radish Farm Brewery, Jarvisburg, NC

A Craft-Brewing, Master-Butchering, Farmer-to-Fork Palooza.

by Betsy Haas | March 22, 2010

In 1986 the oldest microbrewery in North Carolina opened in Manteo, NC on Roanoke Island. Master Brewer Uli Bennewitz named it The Weeping Radish and immediately began to produce German-style lagers according to the standards of the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516 (aka the Reinheitsgebot), which mandates that only water, malt, hops and yeast are allowed to be used in the beer production. Thus each Weeping Radish beer is unfiltered and made without …

Priceless Pieces Quilt Show, Manteo, NC

Handmade beauties on display.

by Betsy Haas | March 19, 2010

One of the favorite things my grandmother passed down to me is a turn of the century 'basket and triangle' quilt. Made by matriarchs in my family, it is a marvel of folk art, stitched by dexterous fingers and the unlimited patience of women who created a beautiful masterpiece. Everyone who owns a handmade quilt feels that they have 'priceless pieces' of a family's story.

The Art Gallery of Roanoke Island Festival …

Fly Into Spring and Easter Eggstravaganza, Nags Head, NC

Celebrate National Kite Month!

by Betsy Haas | March 15, 2010

Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head is the largest sand dune on the east coast and home to Kitty Hawk Kites' annual "Fly into Spring" event. This event will be held April 2 and 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the dune and across the street at the Kitty Hawk Kites store. Free kite flying lessons, lots of games, demonstrations and mass ascensions will highlight this …

Barefoot Bernie’s Tropical Bar and Grille, Kitty Hawk, NC

A Taste of the Tropics in OBX

by Betsy Haas | March 12, 2010

There seems to be a lot of confusion about the 'tropical' nature of the Outer Banks. Looking at a map, we are clearly not a warm, Caribbean tropical isle. But with the advent of houses painted in Bermuda colors and the importation of palm trees (which have to be covered in our winters) it appears that there is a longing to convert these rugged, windblown East Coast barrier islands into something closer to the equator …

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant, Nags Head, NC

A Little Luck of the Irish at the beach

by Betsy Haas | March 08, 2010

While not an "Irish Pub", Kelly's Outer Banks Restaurant represents a wee bit o' the green in the sandy Outer Banks. As the host and sponsor for the Annual St. Patrick's Day parade, the annual "Running of the Leprechauns 8K" with it's Irish-themed post party (Irish stew and Guinness for the runners!), Kelly's takes the lead in bringing the emerald isle to this barrier isle.

While not Irish …

Kelly’s 21st Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Nags Head, NC

Going down the green mile.

by Betsy Haas | March 05, 2010

For 21 years, Kelly's Restaurant has sponsored an annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in the town of Nags Head, NC. This event is the largest St. Patrick's Day parade in North Carolina and attracts over 1,500 participants and over 10,000 spectators. This year the parade will be held on Sunday, March 14th at 1:00 p.m., rain or shine. The theme is "BlueGreen Outer Banks: Tomorrow Matters". BlueGreen Outer Banks is a …

College of the Albemarle: Dare Campus, Manteo, NC

College Credits Close to the Beach

by Betsy Haas | March 01, 2010

The College of the Albemarle is a comprehensive community college whose purpose is to provide training, re-training and accessible education for better jobs and better lives in the Outer Banks area. Serving the community is the top priority for the college. Addressing and meeting the economic needs of the community and finding ways to develop economic partnerships with local governments, businesses and industries is the means by which this priority is met. COA …

2nd Annual Running of the Leprechauns 8K, Nags Head, NC

Sign up Today and Go for the (Pot of) Gold!

by Betsy Haas | February 26, 2010

East coast runners have long known that the Outer Banks is a great place to find 5K, half- and full-marathons. New on the scene is the 8K option, or 5 (actually 4.97) miles for you Americans. Registration is being held right now for the 2nd Annual Running of the Leprechauns 8K on Saturday March 13th at 9:00 a.m. Sponsored by Kellys Restaurant, this race is held in cooperation with the Outer …

Taste of the Beach, March 11-14, Outer Banks, NC

Four Days of Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

by Betsy Haas | February 22, 2010

Hosted by the Outer Banks Restaurant Association in conjunction with the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, the Annual Outer Banks Taste of the Beach Weekend will be held March 11th through the 14th. Rated by Coastal Living as one of the "Top 10 Wine & Seafood Festivals in the United States", this four day food feast is a terrific way to sample the cuisine of the fine restaurants on the Banks. With over 50 events to select …

Freedmen’s Colony Blues Concert, Roanoke Island, NC

Enjoy a Blues Jam in Beautiful Festival Park!

by Betsy Haas | February 19, 2010

Come to the Roanoke Festival Park on February 26th for the 6th Annual Freedmen's Colony Blues Jam. Roanoke Island became a colony of former slaves during the Civil War, when the Island was occupied by Union soldiers. A Congregational minister from New England named Horace James was directed to establish the colony while serving as a chaplain in the Union Army. Thousands of former slaves, or freedmen, were brought there and they …

Travel Guide to the Outer Banks, NC

Why You Should Visit the Outer Banks!

by Betsy Haas | February 15, 2010

Top Ten Reasons To Visit The Outer Banks

10. Outstanding seafood. The Outer Banks boasts some of the East Coast's best seafood restaurants, using fresh local products such as blue crab, tuna, shrimp, salty oysters, tile fish and more. Try Owen's Kelly's, JK's, Hurricane Mo's, the Rundown Cafe; the list goes on.

9. The Wright Brothers Monument. Operated by the National Park Service, the Wright Brothers Monument stands high above the horizon, marking …

JK’s Restaurant, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Wood Fired Steaks and Seafood in the Outer Banks

by Betsy Haas | February 12, 2010

Located in a low profile grey shingled building on the bypass in Kill Devil Hills (Hwy 158) JK's Restaurant is a landmark for Outer Banks diners. The fragrance of the wood fire grills hits you as soon as you walk in the door, enticing you to run to the nearest linen covered table and order, oh, everything. Established in 1984, JK's has come to be known for fresh regional seafood, aged Western beef, grain-fed …

Mardi Gras, Gloucester, NC

Laizzez le bon temps roulez in the Southern Outer Banks!

by Betsy Haas | February 08, 2010

The Unknown Tongues, a Cajun Zydeco Band, will host the 18th Annual Gloucester Mardi Gras celebration at the Community Club in Gloucester, NC on February 13, 2010. Modeled after the spirit of the rural Arcadiana Mardi Gras celebrations of Southwest Lousianna, this event has no horses or the stealing of chickens from farms for the gumbo. It is a time, however, to wear a costume like the Acadiana revelers to conceal your …

Restaurant Review: The Jolly Roger, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Food So Good It Should Be Pirate Booty

by Betsy Haas | February 06, 2010

Located just minutes from the historic site where the Wright Brothers flew their history-making first flight, the Jolly Roger Restaurant has been a beach favorite since 1972. That is the year the Carol Ann Angelos purchased "Dean's Place", the beach's first gas station and grocery store, built in 1937. Mr. Dean owned the only telephone on the island, and he took everybody's calls in the store. He sounded an airhorn with so many beeps …

Jolly Roger Restaurant, Kill Devil Hills, NC

A Super Game in a Super Bar!

by Betsy Haas | February 01, 2010

The Jolly Roger Restaurant has been a favorite in my family for 25 years.  On our two-week vacations here, everyone got their choice of their favorite restaurant one night and my youngest daughter picked Jolly Roger every year. My husband and I have enjoyed many hours playing trivia in the 'nightclub' area. We especially like the uber-friendly bartenders.

The nightclub is adjacent to the Restaurant in a beautiful glass ceiling and wall room that …

The Left Bank Restaurant, Sanderling Inn, Duck NC

Romantic Dining With a View

by Betsy Haas | January 29, 2010

The Left Bank Restaurant is a AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant located on the Sound side of the Sanderling Inn Resort in Duck, NC. The view is unparalleled, offering sunset scenes that look like beautiful Matisse paintings. Named for Paris' famous "Rive Gauche", the cuisine at the Left Bank comes from a showcase exhibition kitchen which allows diners front row seats to the cullinary masterpieces being created every night. Decorated with Doughty …

The Sanderling Inn, Duck, NC

One of the Outer Banks' Most Romantic Inns

by Betsy Haas | January 25, 2010

Several years ago on a trip to the Outer Banks I surprised my husband with a romatic birthday dinner.  I considered all my options, and finally chose the Left Bank, the restaurant at the Sanderling Inn. This location is one of the most beautiful and romantic spots on the Banks, as the Inn is literally spread from Atlantic ocean to the Currituck sound. Overnight guests can watch the sun rise and the …

Kill Devil Hills Cooperative Gallery & Studios, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Local Artists Shine!

by Betsy Haas | January 22, 2010

The Kill Devil Hills Cooperative Gallery & Studios is a collaborative effort of local aritists who own and manage the Gallery.  Featured works include pottery, photography, candles, ceremics, jewelry, paintings in oil, pastels and pen and ink, and even large pieces such as furniture.  Over 40 artists participate in the gallery, and art classes and workshops are offered to folks of all ages. Some of the artists work on site, including a resident blacksmith …

Outer Banks Family YMCA, Nags Head, NC

Y Not Get in Shape at the Y?

by Betsy Haas | January 18, 2010

According to a recent survey on aol.com, two of the top ten resolutions for 2010 are "Lose Weight" and "Get in Shape". If these found their way onto your list, you'll be glad to know about the Outer Banks Family YMCA, located in Nags Head on the By-pass.  This outstanding facility features a Fitness Center with treadmills (that's where you'll find me on these cold days!), elliiptical machines, and recumbent bikes, with a variety of TV …

The Black Pelican Restaurant, Kitty Hawk, NC

Excellent Dining in an Historic Life-Saving Station

by Betsy Haas | January 13, 2010

Panoramic views of the ocean, fresh seafood, wine and martinis served in a converted historic Outer Banks Lifesaving Station: sound perfect?  The Black Pelican Restaurant has been a local favorite of Bankers for 17 years, and a personal favorite of mine. The Black Pelican is built in the old 1874 United States Lifesaving Station #6.  Lifesaving stations were prevelent during the late 1800's when ships would wreck just beyond the surf.  What is unique …

Outer Banks Wedding Expo Extravaganza, Kitty Hawk, NC

Calling all Beach Brides!

by Betsy Haas | January 04, 2010

In November '08 my newly engaged daughter and I went to the Hilton Garden Inn in Kitty Hawk N.C. to check out their reception venues.  Purely by luck, that was the day the the Outer Banks Wedding Association was setting up for their Wedding Expo.  In just a few hours, we found our venue, D.J., photographer and cake lady.  And we were just there on set up day!  The Expo lasts an entire weekend …

New Year’s Eve Unofficial 5K Run, Nags Head, NC

Begin the new year right!

by Betsy Haas | December 28, 2009

Only in the Outer Banks would you find an "unofficial" 5K run.  And only in the Outer Banks would that unofficial run be in its 20th year. The Tortugas' Lie Unofficial 5K New Year's Eve Run will be held on December 31st at 11:00pm sharp.  There is no registration, no fee; just show up in your running shoes and be ready to pound out 3.1 miles with other crazy Bankers who like running at bedtime.

Boxing Day at the Elizabethan Gardens, Roanoke, NC

Winter is blooming!

by Betsy Haas | December 24, 2009

December 26th is celebrated in England as "Boxing Day" or St. Stephen's Day. It was the day when the alms boxes of the church were opened up after Christmas services and the monies were distributed to the poor.  Here in the Outer Banks, it is a great day to see the beautiful winter blooms in a garden built in the style of English gardens. The Elizabethan Gardens were built in 1951 as a celebration of the …

Outer Banks Music Showcase, Kitty Hawk, NC

Final week!

by Betsy Haas | December 21, 2009

It is not too late to treat yourself to a night of Christmas festivity.  The Outer Banks Music Showcase will have two final Christmas performances this week, on Tueday, December 22nd and Saturday, December 26th at 7:30pm. Join in the holiday fun with the cast of singers, instrumentalists, and comedians, and be dazzled by sparkling sets and even Santa himself. A sing-along of holiday favorites is a highlight of the evening and along with the hilarity, …

Paulos Family Christmas Lights, Outer Banks, NC

Featured on the Today Show!

by Betsy Haas | December 17, 2009

It isn't Christmas in the Outer Banks until you've taken the family to see the incredible Christmas light spectacular at the home of the Paulos family.  This was one of the "Al Be Home for Christmas" Today Show feature homes (Hosted by Al Roker) and has been delighting visitors for several years.  You can't help but get into the Christmas spirit with all of the flashing lights, scenes of snowy villages, hundreds of dolls and the …

Elizabethan Christmas and Trio de Mar at Roanoke Island Festival Park, Outer Banks, NC

Indulge in merriment

by Betsy Haas | December 17, 2009

Come to Roanoke Island Festival Park on December 19th from noon to 5:00 and experience a unique taste of a 16th Century Christmas.  You can learn Elizabethan dances, make decorations and taste period food and drink.  Interpreters at the Settlement Site will celebrate with simple decorations, a meal over an open fire, and many surprises. Festival Park is a permanent historic settlement site and provides a hands on look at the lifestyle of America's earliest colonists …