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North Carolina’s Outer Banks: An Atlantic Coast Treasure

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Posted on August 16, 2023

The Outer Banks, a series of barrier islands that stretch along the North Carolina coast, is a unique destination that captures the essence of the Atlantic Coast. Characterized by its pristine beaches, rich history, and diverse ecology, this 200-mile-long string of islands provides visitors with a uniquely authentic coastal experience – perfect for an Outer Banks timeshare vacation.

One of the defining features of the Outer Banks is its geography. These islands form a thin line separating the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean; constantly being reshaped by wind and water, leading to an ever-changing landscape.

Outer Banks beach at Cape Hatteras

This dynamic contact between land and sea results in unique geographical features like shifting sandbars and tidal inlets. They host a diverse array of ecosystems, including marshes, dunes, and maritime forests, creating a haven for wildlife.

The region's beaches are renowned for their natural beauty and are some of the most unspoiled in the United States. From Corolla in the north to Ocracoke Island in the south, each section of the Outer Banks offers unique scenery and a distinct character. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore, in particular, has received accolades for its stunning landscape.

Rich Historical Heritage of the Outer Banks

Wright Brothers National Memorial on the Outer Banks

Steeped in history, the population of the Outer Banks dates back to the first indigenous Native Americans in the year 1000 and the earliest English explorers to the New World. In the 16th Century, Roanoke Island was the site of the first English colony in America, which famously disappeared, leaving behind the mysterious word "CROATOAN" carved into a post.

Centuries later, the Wright Brothers made aviation history in 1903 by achieving the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk. The Wright Brothers National Memorial, in nearby Kill Devil Hills, commemorates this momentous, world-changing event.

Lighthouses are an iconic symbol of the Outer Banks, with five primary ones standing tall along the islands. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in America, serves as a symbol of the region's maritime heritage.

Historically, the waters off the Outer Banks have been notoriously hazardous for ships, earning the nickname "Graveyard of the Atlantic." Hundreds of shipwrecks dot the ocean floor, some dating back to the colonial period. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras documents this maritime history.

The Outer Banks also played an important role in the Underground Railroad, with maritime workers aiding escaped slaves. The region's African American heritage is celebrated at sites like the Roanoke Island Freedmen's Colony.

Watersports and Recreational Activities

flying kites on the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks has long been a hub for maritime activities, with the most popular being fishing and recreational boating. Its waters are home to various species of fish, making it an angler's paradise. Sportfishing is popular in towns like Nags Head and Hatteras, offering opportunities to catch marlin, tuna, and other game fish.

For water sports lovers, the Outer Banks is a haven. The constant winds and waves provide ideal conditions for surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Kayaking and paddleboarding through the tranquil protected marshes offer a more serene experience.

For those who favor leisure activities on land, the Outer Banks boasts several golf courses that offer challenging play with beautiful ocean and sound views. There are also numerous bike trails, like the one leading to the historic Bodie Island Lighthouse, providing a fun way to explore the islands.

Outer Banks Ecotourism and Wildlife

The Outer Banks is home to a wealth of wildlife, including migratory birds, sea turtles, and dolphins. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, located on Hatteras Island, is a prime location for birdwatching.

Diverse ecological zones include sandy beaches, maritime forests, salt marshes, and freshwater ponds. This variety supports a wide range of plant and animal species, from the sea oats that stabilize the dunes to the wild horses that roam Corolla and Shackleford Banks.

wild horses on beach in Outer Banks

Several groups offer guided tours to observe the nesting of endangered sea turtles, providing an opportunity to engage with nature responsibly. Eco-friendly tourism is embraced in the Outer Banks, with numerous efforts to protect and conserve the local environment.

Dining Delights

The culinary scene in the Outer Banks reflects its seafaring heritage. Seafood is the star of many local dishes, with fresh catches of the day featured prominently on restaurant menus. Traditional recipes like she-crab soup and clam chowder, along with innovative contemporary cuisine, make dining in the Outer Banks a delightful experience.

Arts and Festivals

With a lively arts scene, the Outer Banks hosts local galleries, live performances, and annual festivals celebrating everything from music to seafood. The Outer Banks Seafood Festival in Nags Head is a highlight, showcasing local seafood and culinary traditions.

Time for an Outer Banks Timeshare?

Nags Head beach on the Outer Banks

North Carolina’s Outer Banks is more than a vacation destination; it's a celebration of nature's beauty, historical legacy, and a unique maritime culture.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, history buff, nature lover, or someone looking for relaxation, an Outer Banks timeshare offers an unforgettable experience. This captivating region continues to enchant those who explore its shores, providing a connection to a coastal heritage that is both timeless and continually evolving.

The small towns and communities in the Outer Banks each have their unique charm and character. Exploring these communities offers a glimpse into the local life, traditions, and coastal customs.

Timeshares in the Outer Banks tend to be congregated in towns such as Kill Devils Hill, Kitty Hawk, Duck, and Nags Head, so take a look at the most popular Outer Banks timeshares below for each town based on the inquires we received from our clients. 

Kitty Hawk

Beachwoods

Outer Banks timeshare unit

A new addition to the Hilton timeshare family, Beachwoods Resort offers a peaceful getaway with the excitement of an on-site waterpark. Adults can take advantage of the clubhouse, fishing spot, walking trails, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The beach is just a short walk away, and guests also enjoy the hot tub, splash pad, tennis, volleyball, and basketball, plus biking, fishing, and a game room.

The resort offers spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites, each featuring either a king or queen-sized bed, a sleeper sofa in the living room, and a TV/DVD player. The suites also include a full kitchen as well as either a screened-in porch or a patio for more outdoor relaxation.

Sea Scape Beach & Golf Villas

Outer Banks timeshare resort

Sea Scape Beach and Golf Villas caters to families, providing a number of amenities designed to entertain guests of every age. Just 2.5 blocks from the beach and neighboring the 18-hole Sea Scape Golf Course, the resort offers various accommodation options, including 3-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom, 1-Bedroom, or studio condominiums.

Guests can take advantage of numerous onsite amenities throughout the year such as an indoor pool, fitness center, arcade game room and theater room. Plus, two outdoor pools, hot tub, sports courts, playground and outdoor grills.

Kill Devils Hill

Outer Banks Beach Club

timeshare resort on the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks Beach Club Resort is an ideal launching pad for your North Carolina beach adventures, with its abundant beaches, natural landscapes, and trails.

Accommodations range from one to three-bedroom suites, turning your getaway into a vacation home retreat. Every spacious suite is equipped with a fully furnished kitchen that comes complete with major appliances and cookware, Satellite TV and a DVD player along with complimentary Wi-Fi. Indulge in the cozy Jacuzzi tubs found in all two and three-bedroom suites and relish the view from the select units with front and back decks.

Duck

Barrier Island Station Duck

Timeshare Resort in Duck on the Outer Banks

The first of two Capital Vacations timeshares in Duck, Barrier Island Station Duck offers a secluded getaway with access to sandy shores and Atlantic waters perfect for a calming stroll or swim.

With one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, guests can enjoy private balconies, complete kitchens, fireplaces, and Jacuzzis. Most units boast interior stairs, separate dining and living spaces, and spacious, cozy bedrooms. Unwind with comfortable furnishings and all units are equipped with air conditioning and WIFI. The resort also offers on-site amenities such as an outdoor pool, children's pool, playground, and tennis courts.

Ocean Pines

balconies in an Outer Banks timeshare resort

Tucked in this relaxing barrier island community, Capital Vacations’ Ocean Pines promises ocean vistas, delectable local seafood, and a serene ambiance ideal for a calming beach holiday.

With one and two-bedroom suites available, Ocean Pines provides spacious lodgings for groups of up to six people. These well-furnished units come complete with full kitchens, living areas, fireplaces, and private balconies, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed stay throughout your vacation. Enjoy an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, tennis courts, and a children's playground.

Nags Head

The Windjammer

overlooking beach from an Outer Banks timeshare balcony

Nestled in the heart of Jockey's Ridge State Park and just a brief stroll from the region's premier attractions, visitors to The Windjammer will find themselves enthralled by the stunning vistas of the Outer Banks.

All Windjammer condominiums come in either one or two-bedroom configurations and include fully stocked, well-equipped in-suite kitchens and awe-inspiring views from the balconies. Accommodations can host up to six guests, providing all the comforts of home but with the extraordinary advantage of being right by the beach. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and immediate beach access.

Several Outer Banks timeshares dot the region, more than the ones you see above. If you need more details about these or any other timeshares in the Outer Banks, or are even thinking of selling a timeshare, please call us on 877-624-6889 or send your questions to our licensed agents on our Contact Us page.

Author

Author Pic
Steve Luba
Chief Communications Officer

Steve manages the public relations and content creation efforts of the company. Previously the Chief Operating Officer for Perspective Magazine, he provided oversight and contributed articles for the five regional vacation ownership trade magazines under the Perspective Magazine banner. 

A contributor for industry publications such as Resort Trades and Developments Magazine, Steve Luba has 36 years of experience in various roles in radio and television, sales and marketing, public relations, media and government liaison initiatives. 

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