Beach Buzz

Outer Banks Photo Booths for Weddings and Special Events

Sara — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:08:24 -0600

Outer Banks Photo Booths and More are the perfect complement to your Outer Banks beach wedding. A full service color/black and white photo booth will take pictures and dispense them to your guests in less than one minute. Here at Sun Realty, we had the pleasure of enjoying Outer Banks Photo Booths and More at our Holiday Party 2011. Our employees and their guests enjoyed the keepsake photo booth pictures and now our offices and desks are filled with them. We made a video of images from our Outer Banks Photo Booth experience so you could see for yourself how much we had! See below for the video.

Outer Banks Photo Booths and More also have a Flip Book studio that can be set-up at your Outer Banks beach wedding or special Outer Banks event. Participants can use a variety of props to create a 60 second flip book that is printed on site within minutes of the video. It’s truly a thoughtful keepsake.

For more information, check out their website www.OBXphotoboothsandmore.com

Outer Banks Wedding Expo Weekend - January 6-8

Sara — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:01:22 -0600

The Outer Banks Wedding Expo will be held this weekend, January 6-8, 2012. The 14th Annual Outer Banks Wedding Expo will feature over 200 vendors who will make your dream beach wedding come true. The Outer Banks Wedding Expo features three main events. Tickets may be purchased individually for each event or in an all inclusive package.

An All Inclusive $75 ticket includes:

Self-guided Tour, Reception Sites and Business Open Houses Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 9 am – 5 pm
Cocktail Reception with David Tutera, Duck Woods Country Club, Southern Shores Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 7 pm - 10 pm
Wedding Expo, First Flight High School and First Flight Middle School, Kill Devil Hills With an Appearance by David Tutera Sunday, January 8, 2012 from 10 am – 4 pm

Individual Cocktail Reception Tickets $55
Wedding Weekend Expo and Tour $20 each
Please pick up your tickets with your registration packet at the selected pick up location. Online Ticket Sales will close on January 5, 2012.

Your all inclusive purchase includes a Registration Packet that contains a self-guided tour brochure, the 2012 Outer Banks Bride Magazine, and an Expo Program.

Sun Realty is proud to represent some of the finest wedding and special event homes on the Outer Banks. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, our Event Specialists are here to help you select the ideal vacation home for your destination wedding.
Search our selection of Outer Banks Wedding and Event Homes or contact Elizabeth at 1-800-375-2755. We look forward to speaking with you!

Outer Banks New Year's Eve Events and Celebrations

Sara — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 09:09:41 -0600

Outer Banks New Years Eve Events and Celebrations

Outer Banks Brewing Station

Come join the biggest balloon drop and champagne toast on the beach this New Year’s Eve at the Outer Banks Brewing Station. The DC based band FUTURE will be on hand playing their funky New Year’s Eve set all night long. At midnight, the whole bar will enjoy a champagne toast. Cost is only $10 at the door after 10 pm, $5 if you enjoy dinner before the fun begins.

Ocean Boulevard Bistro and Martini Bar

Enjoy a 5 course meal specially prepared with the most upscale products and culinary techniques from the master chefs at Ocean Boulevard. This special menu is available only once a year and is offered exclusively on New Year’s Eve. Celebrate at midnight with a countdown, complimentary glass of champagne and a whole lot of noise! Ocean Boulevard is the perfect place to spend your New Years Eve if you’re looking for some quality time with loved ones or something a little more romantic.

Tortuga’s Lie Unofficial Blue Moon New Years Eve 5k

This annual tradition is the perfect way to spend your New Years Eve for running enthusiasts. The race starts at 11 p.m. and ends just in time for midnight. If you made a New Year’s resolution to run in a race, this is your last chance to complete it before ringing in 2012. The race is free and no registration is required. Just show up at Tortuga’s Lie on the beach road in Nags Head at 3014 S. Va. Dare Trail.

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern

Party favors will be provided at Kelly’s New Years Eve Party. You must be 21 and up to enjoy this party. DJ’s Fresh and Marshal will be on hand providing the dance tunes.

Pamlico Jack’s New Years Eve Celebration

The Walker Brothers and Sister Ali will be on hand jamming the night away at Pamlico Jack’s in Nags Head. Make sure you call ahead for dinner specials and reservations. The fun starts at 9 pm.

The Brine and Bottle

Join the Brine and Bottle on New Year’s Eve for a special 6-course prix-fixe tasting menu from 5 pm to 9 pm. Seating is limited, call 252-715-1818 or email Ashley@thebrineandbottle.com to make a reservation. The price to attend this event is $50 per person.

New Year's Resolutions - Outer Banks Style

Sara — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:33:35 -0600

If your New Year’s resolution involves spending more time with family, an Outer Banks beach vacation is the perfect way to connect with your loved ones. Whether you’re exploring the miles of uncrowded beaches or climbing a historic lighthouse, you’ll make memories to last a lifetime with your loved ones. Sun Realty is the largest Outer Banks vacation rental company and has a vacation home to suit your family’s needs and budget. Check out our affordable beach vacation rentals below with weekly rental rates under $2,000.

As Outer Banks locals, our New Year’s resolutions typically evolve around the beach. Check out a few of our staff resolutions below.

“This year I am going to wake up and catch the sunrise over the Atlantic more often than not. There is nothing like starting a day off with such a beautiful sight.”

“I am going to learn how to kayak on the ocean. I’ve mastered the calm waters of the sound, now it’s time for a challenge.”

“I’m going to catch a sunset with my husband every week this year. And while watching my worries from the day fade away I will be counting my blessings. “

“Offshore fishing! I live in the Billfish Capital of the world and need to take advantage of it. This year I am going to save my money and make it happen this fall.”

“My New Year’s resolution is to wear sunscreen everyday!”

Outer Banks Beach Vacations Under $2,000
Have a specific town in mind? Search for your perfect Outer Banks vacation here.

		Star of the Sea 230 4 bedroom Semi-Oceanfront in Kitty Hawk Pet Friendly & Linens Provided

		Sounds Good W-3 Oceanside 4 bedrooms on Hatteras Island Private Pool, Hot Tub

		Dolphins Watch (REG-A3) Oceanfront 3 bedroom condo in Kill Devil Hills Community Pool Weekly rate $720

Christmas on the OBX - The Elizabethan Gardens: Winter Lights

Sara — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:16:44 -0600

Every year for 18 days in December The Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island are turned into a winter wonderland of lights and floral displays.

From traditional Christmas displays to peacocks, butterflies, deer and other garden creatures created with flowers, seeds, and natural elements, there is something for everyone at The Elizabethan Garden’s Winter Lights festival. Each evening during Winter Lights, receive 10% off all items at the Elizabethan Gardens Gift Shoppe and plant sales. For the holiday season, a special holiday promotion is planned featuring many pre-wrapped gifts under $15.00. The garden plant sales will feature winter annuals, ornamental vegetables, forced bulbs, rosemary Christmas Trees, and conifers with bows. Friends of the Elizabethan Gardens receive an extra 10%.

Winter Lights is held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tickets are $9 for adults, $7 for youth (6-17) and $4 for children 5 and under.

Winter Lights is scheduled event for OBX-MAS weekends, sponsored by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.

Outer Banks Christmas:Town of Duck Yuletide Celebration

Sara — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 09:32:09 -0600

The Town of Duck is hosting their 1st Annual Yuletide Celebration on December 2 and 3, 2011. On Friday, December 2, 2011 join the festivities at local retailers with extended hours and enjoy holiday sales, seasonal decorations, refreshments, and entertainment. Please check with individual stores for hours and promotions. In addition to fantastic holiday sales during the Duck Yuletide Celebration, join local eateries for the Duck Tapas Crawl from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Participating restaurants will be serving one plate of tapas and a cup of holiday cheers for a special prices. This pay as you go event is a great way to try out some of Duck’s finest restaurants.

Restaurants participating include:

Aqua Restaurant

Baldies Burgers and Ice Cream

The Blue Point

The Red Sky Café

Roadside Bar and Grill

Sweet T’s Coffee, Beer & Wine

The Wave Pizza Café

Check out any of the great events listed below on Saturday, December 3.

Duck Yuletide Celebration from 3:00 p.m till…. Santa will arrive on a fire truck to the Duck Town Green around 3:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided in exchange for a donation to the Beach Food Pantry. Ruth Wyand will be on hand singing holiday favorites. Winners of the “Business Decorating Contest” will be announced and the town Christmas Tree will be lit.1200 Duck Road

The Roadside Bar and Grill Oyster Roast from 2:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. 1193 Duck Road in the back parking lot

Outer Barks 11th Annual Pictures with Santa Paws from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All of the proceeds from this event benefit the Friends of Pooh Canine $ Feline Cancer Fund. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling Outer Banks at (252) 261-6279. 1171 Duck Road

Come Meet Santa at the Annual Kites with Lights Celebration on the Outer Banks

Sara — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:08:25 -0600

This Friday and Saturday, Santa will be at Kitty Hawk Kites in Nags Head at milepost 12 across from Jockey's Ridge State Park. On Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa will be on hand for pictures and on Saturday, Santa will be available for pictures from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Join the fun from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, on Jockey’s Ridge State Park for Kites with Lights. This annual holiday event is a lot of fun. Grab a cup of free apple cider and a few cookies at Kitty Hawk Kites then walk over the dunes and see a spectacular sight. As the sun goes down below the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge, the sky will be filled with kites with strings of christmas lights rising into the air.

Don’t miss out on the great deals at Kitty Hawk Kites all weekend long.

Keep Your Pet's Healthy this Holiday Season

Sara — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:43:45 -0600

The smells of Thanksgiving and the holidays will soon fill the home and everyone’s mouths will begin to water, including your pets. With our wide selection of Outer Banks pet friendly vacation rentals available this holiday season, we’d like to share some information about a few holiday related food items to be aware of for your pet’s health.

• High fat foods, such as ham, gravy, butter, and desserts, may cause inflammation of your dog’s pancreas. Pancreatitis causes intense abdominal pain and vomiting and requires hospitalization to recover. Keep foods securely sealed and enclosed in a high space or the refrigerator. Secure the lid on the trash can to avoid garbage raiding.

• Bones: chewing on bones, particularly turkey bones, can cause splintering. Once swallowed, the splintered bones can cause trauma to the intestinal tract, requiring surgery. Ham bones, while they tend to not splinter, are hard and can fracture teeth during chewing.

• Onions and onion powder: in large enough quantities can cause a sudden onset of anemia.

• Foreign objects: such as string (used to tie the turkey), skewers, plastic bags and turkey poppers. Your pet does not have self-restraint or the common sense to avoid these objects that drip of meat juices.

If you're looking to get away this holiday season, don't forget your pets! Sun Realty offers a large selection of pet friendly vacation rentals across the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Begin your search online now or call one of our knowledgeable vacation specialists at 1-888-853-7770 to find your perfect holiday vacation rental.

Black Friday on the Outer Banks

Sara — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:50:41 -0600

Black Friday on the Outer Banks is the perfect day to catch a deal at all your favorite Outer Banks stores. We’ve compiled a list of local shops their Black Friday promotions to make planning your biggest shopping day of the year easier than ever.

The Whalehead Club – Corolla – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Black Friday Porch Sale: Discounts on everything in the store. There’s something for everyone with samples of locally made preserves, a raffle, children’s prizes and a bake sale.

The Culinary Duck –Duck – 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Select items are 10% to 40% off. Each customer will receive a free hand made gift bow with their purchase. Customers who spend $50.00 or more will also receive a free designer candy cane while supplies last.

Mom’s Sweet Shop – Kill Devil Hills – 9:00 am to 9 pm

Spend $30 or more on any hand-poured Outer Banks Candle Co. products, and receive a free votive. Spend $30 or more on any handmade, organic bath & body product and receive 2 free bath salts. All new cotton is half off when you purchase any local brand tee at full price.

The Home Depot – Kitty Hawk – Opens at 5 am

Free donuts and coffee and lots of last minute Black Friday Specials and you will be greeted by their Elves,

Birthday Suits – Corolla, Duck, Nags Head, Hatteras Island – 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Great deals and discounts at all locations with tent sale at Nags Head location.

Pet Gallery – Kill Devil Hills – 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Stop by for a special bag of holiday doggy treats, samples and big savings on all your pets favorite toys.

Foxy Flamingo – Nags Head – 8:30 am to 6:00 pm

Pick an ornament off the Foxy Flamingo Tree and receive the discount listed on the ornament (up to 50% off)

The Cottage Shop/Kellogs Supply Company– Duck and Kill Devil Hills – 8:30 am to 6:00 pm

75% of select items including Lindsay Phillips Switchflops & Shoes AND 20% off Store-wide (some exclusions apply, see store for details, prior purchases do not apply)

Outer Banks Sporting Events

On Black Friday, sign up for the 2012 Outer Banks Marathon or Half Marathon and save $15 with this promo code "BF15OFF" Valid on Black Friday only.BF.vALI c15OFF

2011 Outer Banks Marathon Recap

Sara — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:29:11 -0600

The Outer Banks Marathon was a huge success in 2011 with over 5,000 runners competing in the full and half marathon. The Outer Banks Marathon takes runners across the central beaches of the Outer Banks to Roanoke Island. Runners run along the sound through Kitty Hawk, the Wright Brothers Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head and the race finishes on Roanoke Island where family and friends help celebrate and kick-off the Pirate Jamboree along the waterfront in Manteo.

In the marathon, Tim Surface of Raleigh won the men’s with a time of 2:38:40 and Megan Hovis of Charlotte took the women’s, finishing in 2:54:38. In the half marathon, Julius Kogo of Chapel Hill was the men’s winner, clocking the a time of 1:04:17, Mulu Seboka won the women’s division at 1:13:20.

If you’re interested in running in a marathon on the Outer Banks, consider the Flying Pirate Half Marathon which takes place every April or come back next year for the Outer Banks Marathon in November. Below is a video with highlights from along the Outer Banks marathon course.