waterspouts 101

Waterspout with Rodanthe in the foreground. Photo USA Today.

Beautiful to some, certainly dangerous and generally misunderstood, waterspouts are fairly common on the Outer Banks. We love this great piece by journalist D. Creeksong for the Ocracoke Observer, that shares one visitor’s encounter with some wiley waterspouts. It’s full of great info and reminds us just how little is known about these open water phenomenon. “Visiting photographer Summer Brown… Continue reading waterspouts 101

beach access vs bird nesting update #998

Cape Point, Cape Hatteras.

We’ve all been following these beach closure stories on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands seemingly FOREVER. In this latest update on this ongoing battle, it appears that a compromise between nature and beachgoers may be in sight. Check out the deets in this great article by Jeff Hampton for The Virginian-Pilot. “A pair of amorous oystercatchers prevented beach… Continue reading beach access vs bird nesting update #998

is buxton headed for beach nourishment?

Hotel in Buxton 12/8/14. Photo courtesy of Jake Dempsey.

Dare County is looking to launch a beach nourishment project in front of the motels at the north end of Buxton. It’s what some would say is a long overdue effort to protect Highway 12, which has been taking a beating at this spot for years. This great article by Irene Nolan at the Island… Continue reading is buxton headed for beach nourishment?

events for everyone at wright brothers national memorial

Launch your vacation by attending a ranger program at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills! Listen to the story of the Wright Brothers while viewing a replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer, test yourself to see if you are faster than an airplane, or discover the exact spot the Wright brothers took off… Continue reading events for everyone at wright brothers national memorial

how the government shutdown is affecting the outer banks

Photo by Don Bowers.

Usually, the OBX feels like its long way from Washington DC, but not today. The first government shutdown since 1996 is having some annoying affects on visitors and locals, especially those that were counting on accessing National Park land. Irene Nolan over at the Island Free Press has written a great piece that explains what… Continue reading how the government shutdown is affecting the outer banks