Outer Banks, North Carolina

We had a week long vacation in June 2016 at this lovely house called King BEEch  in Southern Shores.   You can read more about  our traveling with a 5 months old here.  I have been  vacationing at the Outer Banks my whole life, and each return trip is pleasant and relaxing. Not much changes year to year, and the familiarity adds to the laid back vibe. 

Some of my Outer Banks favorites include:

• DUCK DONUTS DUCK DONUTS DUCK DONUTS! We used to stay at Ships Watch in Duck, and would go early early in the morning before the line got long, back when they only had one location.
• The Town of Duck is a little quieter than other parts of the island.  It's my personal  favorite!  They give free yoga/pilates or other types of group exercises on the green at the town hall.  I prefer the yoga, due to one particular morning of Capoeira which left me basically unable to walk for 2 days. Ouch.
• The Blue Point Restaurant in Duck.  Wonderful, seasonal fresh  menu is updated every time we visit it seems.  The atmosphere is quiet and sophisticated, but still easy going enough if you want to take kids for an early dinner.  If you're going on a date night, try to go right before sunset as you'll get a stunning view over the sound.  
• The Colington Cafe in Kill Devil Hills.  Charming little restaurant, off the beaten path.  But reservations are highly recommended! This restaurant is personally special to my family, we celebrated my sister's wedding reception here.  I usually get whatever the special is, and I've heard great things about the coconut shrimp (I'm not a shrimp person).