Movers & Shakers: Winter 2026
By Ann Wood / Photo Above: Avon Fishing Pier, stretching 665 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean, dubbed “America’s Pier” by previous owner/operator Joe Thompson. Visible crooked bends are testament to the forces of Mother Nature over the many years.
Two local ownership groups have acquired iconic Outer Banks oceanfront destinations this past year: the Village Beach Club in Nags Head, with its oceanfront pool, tennis courts, beach access, and event spaces, and the Avon Fishing Pier property, including the historic pier, beach club, restaurant, and campground. Both groups plan thoughtful updates, refreshed programming, and expanded experiences for members, visitors, and the wider community.
The Avon Fishing Pier and Beach Club in Avon, NC
A longtime oceanfront landmark in Avon is entering a new chapter. In the summer of 2025, the 8.5-acre parcel including the Avon Fishing Pier, Pangea Tavern, beach club, and campground was purchased by RV and Julie Owens, Derek and Sharon Hatchell, and David and Jamie Hatchell. The families, deeply rooted in the Outer Banks, were drawn to carry forward a landmark long operated by the Thompson family. “Joe and Tami ran it as a family business, and that’s exactly how we operate as well,” Jamie Hatchell shared.
The property has been central to Avon’s story for decades. The original pier, built by locals in the 1960s, became a gathering spot for anglers, surfers, and families. The Thompson family expanded the site into a vibrant oceanfront venue, with a pool, beach access, concerts, events, and one of the island’s most eclectic restaurants.
Preserving the property’s character, the new owners have a careful plan for updates. The historic pier will remain open as a public fishing pier to support the public’s enjoyment of fishing, with winter improvements already under consideration. While the restaurant remains leased, it will be integrated into the broader vision. Plans for the beach club include bringing popular music events back this summer, with enhancements to food, beverage, and hospitality services under review. Club membership options will be announced once finalized.
With history honored and its future in the hands of local families, the Avon Fishing Pier property will continue as a cherished Hatteras Island gathering place. From pier fishing and beach club events to fellowship at the restaurant and overnight stays at the campground, the property offers a full spectrum of experiences that celebrate island traditions, all guided by families who call the Outer Banks home.
A look at the Village Beach Club before its transition to new ownership. Photo courtesy of Coastal Carolina Vacations.
The Village Beach Club in Nags Head, NC
The Village Beach Club in Nags Head is entering a new era. Earlier this year, the property was purchased by VBC Holdings, LLC, and is now being managed by VBC Nags Head, LLC. Together, they are leading a thoughtful revitalization aimed at elevating this beloved oceanfront institution.
Since its opening in the late 1990s, the Village Beach Club, known for its oceanfront pool deck, casual dining, tennis courts, and direct beach access with parking and a bathhouse facility, has been a favorite amenity for Nags Head homeowners and vacationers.
Renovations are already underway. Interior and exterior spaces are being refreshed to create more welcoming, functional, and modern environments, including updates to dining and event areas, hospitality suites, outdoor gathering spaces, and key guest amenities.
Phase one is on track to be completed before Summer 2026, with any future improvements to be scheduled during off-season windows.
Membership will remain central to the club’s identity, with a refreshed model offering both short-term and long-term options.
Members will be able to choose from several tiers designed to fit different needs and levels of access. The club will also continue to serve as a sought-after venue for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate gatherings, with designated event dates and guidelines that ensure member enjoyment remains a priority.
Looking ahead, the team envisions the club becoming a standout oceanfront destination brimming with memorable experiences. Expanded entertainment, kids’ activities, family events, holiday programming, and new wellness offerings are in development for the 2026 season. Enhancing the dining and hospitality experience is also a priority, with a refreshed menu and more vibrant dining settings planned for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and catered events.
With its history honored and its future reimagined, the Village Beach Club is poised to welcome both loyal members and a new generation of families to its next chapter.
