Fresh, local catches from Corolla to Hatteras, straight from the sound and sea The Outer Banks, from Corolla to Hatteras (including Manteo and Wanchese), is an internationally known fishing destination so of course the barrier island chain hosts many local seafood markets with fresh, local catches like shrimp, crab, flounder, […]

How Outdoor Spaces are Redefining Vacation Rentals By Ann Wood As travelers become more selective in how and where they spend their time, vacation rentals are evolving to meet a new expectation: immersive outdoor experiences that let guests breathe in the salt air, soak up the sun, and truly feel […]

While some Outer Banks communities plan for resilience, others are confronting erosion in real time—where history, infrastructure, and rising seas collide. By Jes Gray / Photo above: Waves crash against the remaining panels of “Groin 3” at Old Lighthouse Beach on March 17, 2026. Photo courtesy Jes Gray. “Two ways. […]

How Best to Protect the Ever-Changing Coastline. Partners for Life: Man, Nature, and Duck Resiliency By Betsy DiJulio / Photo above: The impetus for the Town Park Shoreline Stabilization project was two decades of gradual but significant erosion of coastal marsh grasses intensified by hurricanes and tropical storms in 2011, […]

It’s been smiles all around in the early going for Ben Sproul. By Steve Hanf / Photo above: Kitty Hawk Elementary School Media Center Coordinator Ellen Bryson (right) shows off a donation check for a project to celebrate the 250th birthday of America. New Dare Education Foundation Executive Director Ben […]

How Dare County Built a Grassroots Celebration for America’s 250th Anniversary By Betsy DiJulio Unlike the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, a highly structured, top-down endeavor by elite delegates of the Continental Congress, the celebration of the signing of it in Dare County 250 years later developed naturally at […]

We’re excited to announce the results of the 2026 Outer Banks Coastal Life BEST of OBX Awards, determined through online nominations and voting held last fall. Now in its third year, the contest began with open nominations before moving finalists into the voting round. Readers could vote once per email [...]

Breath-taking scenery, unexpected encounters with wildlife and enjoyable hours spent with friends and families all serve as highlights for typical Outer Banks beach days. Photo above: Positioned along the windswept terrain of the Roanoke Sound, a most-challenging par-3 #15 at Nags Head Golf Links offers a dramatic, picturesque backdrop during […]

A new kind of high school is taking shape in Dare County—one built to combine the structure of high school with the opportunity of college in a more personalized setting. By Ann Wood / Photo above: Students and teachers arrive for their first day of school at the College of […]

By Steve Hanf When you live on the Outer Banks, you know things. Sunburns. Surf forecasts. Shortcuts to avoid tourist traffic. Storm prep. Wait. Let’s amend that last one. You know tropical storm prep. So, when you live on the Outer Banks and a winter storm approaches, what happens? Mostly, […]

SPONSORED CONTENT What makes Coastal Elements Heating & Cooling stand out to homeowners on the Outer Banks? Coastal Elements Heating & Cooling has built a strong reputation by serving both residential and commercial clients with reliable, honest heating and cooling services. Their mission centers on making homes healthier, safer, and […]

SPONSORED CONTENT What makes your window treatment business different? We take pride in our customer service, from consultation to installation. Our expert team handles scheduling, product discussions, and professional installation. We offer warranties and direct support, unlike large retailers. Our industry-specific software enables quick quoting, emailing, and ordering, adjusting to […]

SPONSORED CONTENT What makes OBX Boat Company different from other dealerships? OBX Boat Company was launched to deliver a better boat‑buying and service experience for Outer Banks boaters—especially families and first‑time owners. Founder Blake Milner carefully curated brands known for design, safety, and value, and built a service culture that […]

SPONSORED CONTENT What makes Beach Painting & Construction Group trusted names on the Outer Banks? Both companies have been serving homeowners from Ocean Hill to Avon since 1995, giving them decades of hands‑on experience with Outer Banks conditions. Their long history in the community has allowed them to build strong, […]