A Visit to the Outer Banks Beaches of North Carolina

My spouse and I recently returned from a vacation in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. For those not familiar with this region of our country, it is a unique place within the United States for it is the confluence and meeting points of two very distinct ecosystems. It is the place where the warmer waters of the gulf stream traveling north meet the colder waters of the Labrador Current flowing south and it is the mixing of these two waters that brings both northern and southern animal, bird and plant life all together in one place.

Extending more than 75 miles out over a chain of barrier islands, driving south towards Cape Hatteras requires the crossing of a multitude of bridges, some many miles in length and ferry crossings with one’s vehicle. The mainland drops away as one drives farther south and out into the warmer waters of the Atlantic and, as well, the area becomes laid back

Our base during the week we were there was in the quaint town of Duck, along the northern reaches of the Hatteras Coastline. With quaint shops and restaurants along the curvaceous and winding streets, it was the perfect place for us to enjoy an upscale area amongst a beautiful natural backdrop. I even had a couple of girl’s nights out on the town dining and a first time ever swimming at the resort complex’s pool! It was great that no one thought me other than a natal woman which made it so much easier to just relax, and enjoy the surroundings!  In girl or guy mode, I found the people to be friendly and personable as a whole and found no problems either way I presented!  I hope you enjoy this sampling of pictures and consider making this a place to visit or re-visit one day yourself!

Our resort at the Barrier Island Station Resort Complex: Standing where this picture was taken, we can see the pool complex and units in one direction and, turning around and standing in the same spot, the walkway leading to the veranda and steps down to the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.

Lighthouses Galore! On the top Carrituck Light Station, framed by Prickly Pear Cacti and on the bottom is Cape Hatteras Light Station, which was moved from its former location by a rail system created and the entire lighthouse lifted and rolled over a half mile in one piece in order to prevent coastal erosion from sweeping it away.

Kayaking along one of the many rivers punctuating the Hatteras Area, we were able to see a multitude of birds, animals and wildlife. Here we see some turtles warming themselves in the morning sunshine.



Boardwalks and paths through the estuaries and marshes provide for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Here we see an egret searching for fish in the warm waters of Currituck Sound.

                      

Crossing on the Ferry to Ocracoke Island - The 40 minute crossing is free and provided for by the state of North Carolina.  It is the only way, other than by private plane, to reach the island.

Duck Crossing! Golf Carts work well on Ocracoke Island - We parked the car and opted to rent a golf cart for the day.  Parking problems on the island solved!






 

My First Time Out in a Bathing Suit! No Problems! :)



                                                      



      Telephoto Across Currituck Sound at Sunset in Duck, NC

Sunset in Duck, NC