Outer Banks Beach Safety Tips

Welcome to the Outer Banks, a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches and breathtaking views. At Joe Lamb Jr & Associates, we want you to have a memorable and safe beach experience. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful destination while taking into account Dare County Beach Safety Measures.

Understanding Dare County Beach Safety Measures

Dare County has implemented various safety measures to ensure the well-being of beachgoers. These measures aim to enhance public safety and protect the natural environment. As responsible members of the community, Joe Lamb Jr & Associates fully supports and encourages visitors to adhere to these guidelines.

Know Before You Go

Before heading to the beach, it’s essential to stay informed about any current safety advisories or restrictions. Visit Dare County’s official website or social media channels for up-to-date information on weather conditions, lifeguard availability, and beach access points. Being aware of any potential hazards will help you plan your beach outing accordingly.

Observe Warning Flags

Dare County uses a flag system to communicate beach conditions. Pay attention to the color-coded flags displayed at various beach access points. These flags indicate the current conditions and any potential risks. It’s important to respect the flags and adjust your activities accordingly. Remember, safety should always be a priority.

Swim with Caution

The Atlantic Ocean is a powerful body of water, and even experienced swimmers should exercise caution. Always swim within designated areas and heed the advice of lifeguards. If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider using a flotation device or staying in shallow waters. Never swim alone and keep a close eye on children at all times.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

The sun’s rays can be intense, especially during peak hours. Protect yourself and your loved ones from sunburn and heat-related illnesses by applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and seeking shade when needed. Hydrate frequently and avoid prolonged sun exposure, particularly between 10 am and 4 pm.

Respect Wildlife and Natural Resources

The Outer Banks is not only home to beautiful beaches but also a diverse ecosystem. Show respect for the local wildlife and natural resources by following these guidelines:

  • Do not disturb or feed wildlife.
  • Dispose of trash properly to prevent littering and protect marine life.
  • Avoid walking on sand dunes, as they are fragile and essential for preserving the coastal ecosystem.
  • Leave seashells and other natural treasures where you find them.
Stay Hydrated and Stay Safe

Spending time under the sun can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Pack enough water for your beach visit, especially if you plan to spend extended periods outdoors. Staying hydrated will help you enjoy your beach day to the fullest.

At Joe Lamb Jr & Associates, we want your Outer Banks beach experience to be enjoyable and safe. By following Dare County Beach Safety Measures and applying common sense, you can make the most of your time on the coast while safeguarding yourself and the environment. Remember, responsible beachgoers help maintain the natural beauty and serenity of the Outer Banks for generations to come. Have a fantastic time exploring our beautiful beaches!

Disclaimer: This blog is intended to provide general information about beach safety on the Outer Banks. While we strive for accuracy, it is essential to check with official sources and follow local regulations and guidelines for the most up-to-date information. Joe Lamb Jr & Associates cannot be held liable for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.

Outer Banks Hurricane Preparedness

As the breathtaking Outer Banks coastline beckons visitors with its stunning beauty and rich history, it’s essential to be prepared for the region’s unpredictable hurricane season. At Joe Lamb Jr and Associates, we value your safety and want to ensure that your vacation is not only enjoyable but also worry-free. In this blog post, we will discuss hurricane preparedness, delve into the fascinating hurricane history of the Outer Banks, and highlight the importance of travel insurance. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Hurricane Preparedness on the Outer Banks

When planning your visit to the Outer Banks, it’s crucial to be aware of hurricane preparedness measures. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and the local authorities guidelines. Keep a hurricane kit stocked with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Stay informed by monitoring weather forecasts and heeding any evacuation orders promptly.

Hurricane damage on a road from a hurricane in the 1960s

Unveiling the Hurricane History of the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks has witnessed its fair share of historic hurricanes that have left lasting impacts on the region. From the notorious Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962 to the devastating effects of Hurricane Isabel in 2003, understanding the area’s hurricane history provides valuable insights into the region’s vulnerability and resilience. Discover the stories of legendary storms that have shaped the Outer Banks’ landscape and communities.

Importance of Travel Insurance

While we can’t predict or control the path of a hurricane, we can take measures to protect ourselves financially. Travel insurance is vital to vacation planning, especially in hurricane-prone areas like the Outer Banks. It covers trip cancellations, interruptions, or delays due to unforeseen weather events. Travel insurance ensures peace of mind, allowing you to recover costs and make necessary arrangements in the event of a hurricane.

Hurricane flood damage in the outer banks with rising flood waters on a local street

Joe Lamb Jr and Associates: Your Trusted Partner

At Joe Lamb Jr and Associates, we prioritize the safety and satisfaction of our guests. Our experienced team is well-versed in hurricane preparedness and is committed to providing guidance and support throughout your stay. We offer a wide range of vacation rentals that adhere to the highest safety standards, ensuring comfort and security during your time in the Outer Banks.

Exploring the Outer Banks is an incredible experience, but being prepared and informed is essential, especially during hurricane season. By understanding hurricane preparedness measures, learning from the region’s hurricane history, and securing travel insurance, you can enjoy a worry-free vacation on this mesmerizing stretch of coastline.

Remember, your safety is our priority. Please plan ahead, stay informed, and let us take care of your vacation needs at Joe Lamb Jr and Associates.

Note: We kindly urge guests to stay informed about weather patterns in Dare County by signing up for the Dare County Emergency Management Alerts. By enrolling in this service, you will receive timely notifications regarding weather updates, ensuring that you are well-prepared and can make informed decisions during weather-related emergencies.

Ultimate Outer Banks Vacation Guide: Unveiling Hidden Gems

Welcome to the ultimate Outer Banks vacation guide, brought to you by Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates. If you’re seeking an unforgettable beach getaway, you’ve come to the right place. Explore the hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and abundant natural wonders that make the Outer Banks a dream destination. Let us be your guide as we uncover the best-kept secrets of this coastal paradise.

A brown horse walking on the sandy beach while waves crash into the shore in the Outer Banks

Uncovering the Charms of Corolla

From pristine beaches to iconic wild horses, Corolla is a family-friendly town that offers a picturesque escape from the everyday. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its coastline and take a wild horse tour to witness these majestic creatures up close. Remember to visit the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Embracing the Coastal Magic of Duck

Duck, with its laid-back atmosphere and coastal village vibes, it is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the charm of the Outer Banks. Discover outdoor adventures like kayaking on the Currituck Sound or simply relaxing on the beach. Indulge in a culinary journey at the waterfront restaurants and explore the unique boutiques for a delightful shopping experience.

A beautiful Outer Banks sunset

Thrills and History in Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head

For a mix of excitement and history, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head have it all. Explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial and pay tribute to the birthplace of aviation. Experience the thrill of water sports, sandboarding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or a horseback ride during a mesmerizing sunset along the shoreline.

Escaping to Tranquility on Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island beckons with its uncrowded beaches and natural beauty. This secluded paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts alike. Embark on a fishing charter, climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for panoramic views, or unwind on the pristine shores, letting the sound of crashing waves soothe your soul.

A child running along grassy sand dunes in the Outer Banks

Discovering Ocracoke Island’s Maritime History

To truly escape it all, Ocracoke Island is a must-visit. Accessible only by ferry or private boat, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat. Explore the island on a bike, visit the historic Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, and dive into the rich maritime history at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum.

With breathtaking beaches, rich history, and unspoiled natural wonders, the Outer Banks is a coastal paradise that promises an unforgettable vacation. From the wild horses of Corolla to the tranquil shores of Ocracoke Island, each town offers a unique experience. Let Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates be your trusted guide as you plan your dream vacation to the Outer Banks. Pack your bags, embrace adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Start your journey today!

Outer Banks Fourth of July Guide

The Outer Banks is a beautiful and vibrant place to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. With so many activities and events happening throughout the week, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you plan your perfect Outer Banks Fourth of July celebration.

Watch the Fireworks

A closeup shot of fireworks being fired over the Outer Banks

What’s a Fourth of July celebration without fireworks? The Outer Banks has several fireworks displays to choose from, including the Town of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular and the Avon Fireworks Display. Both events take place on July 4th and are sure to be a memorable highlight of your vacation. Check out the times and locations here!

Attend a Parade

The Outer Banks is home to several Fourth of July parades that are fun for the whole family. The Manteo Fourth of July Parade and the Corolla Fourth of July Parade are both popular events that feature floats, bands, and local businesses.

Hit the Beach

Overlook shot of a beach on the Outer Banks during the day with beachgoers and a flag waving in the wind along the sandy beach

The Outer Banks is known for its beautiful beaches, and what better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with a day on the sand? Pack a picnic, bring some sunscreen, and enjoy the sun and surf. Don’t forget to stay safe and follow beach regulations, including no fireworks on the beach.

Check out Local Festivals

The Outer Banks has several festivals and events happening throughout the week of the Fourth of July. The Duck Fourth of July Parade and Community Celebration and the Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration are both popular events that feature live music, food, and activities for all ages.

Take a Cruise

If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, consider taking a cruise. The Outer Banks is home to several companies that offer sunset cruises and fireworks cruises on the Fourth of July. This is a great way to take in the beautiful views of the Outer Banks while enjoying the holiday festivities.

The Outer Banks is the perfect place to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. With so many activities and events happening throughout the week, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for fireworks, parades, or a day on the beach, the Outer Banks has it all. So come celebrate the Fourth of July with us, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to book your fourth of July getaway today!

Outer Banks Outdoor Guide

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a beautiful and scenic vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, rolling dunes, and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to the Outer Banks, be sure to set aside some time to explore the outdoors. This blog will guide you to some of the best places to see scenic sights in the Outer Banks.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The lighthouse in the Outer Banks illuminating the night sky

This 70-mile stretch of protected coastline is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Outer Banks. Visitors can hike along the dunes, swim in the ocean, and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is also located in this area and is a must-visit for those interested in maritime history.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park

This 426-acre park is home to the tallest natural dune system in the eastern United States. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Jockey’s Ridge is also popular for hang gliding and kite flying.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

A child running and playing on a grassy slope in the Outer Banks

This 13-mile stretch of protected coastline is home to diverse wildlife, including sea turtles, shorebirds, and seals. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the nature trails, go bird watching, or simply relax on the beach and take in the the great outdoors.

Roanoke Island

This historical island is home to several scenic spots, including the Elizabethan Gardens and the Roanoke Island Marshes Lighthouse. Visitors can also stroll along the Manteo Waterfront and enjoy views of the sound and surrounding landscape.

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

This 152,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to various wildlife, including black bears, red wolves, and alligators. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the refuge, go bird watching, or take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s wildlife and ecology.

Currituck Banks National Estuarine Reserve
A bird wading in the water of the Currituck Banks National Estuarine Reserve
White heron standing in the grass

This 965-acre reserve is home to some of the most pristine natural areas in the Outer Banks. Visitors can walk along the nature trails, go kayaking in the sound, or simply relax on the beach and take in the area’s natural beauty.

The Outer Banks is a beautiful and scenic vacation destination that offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors.  Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply taking in the scenery, there are plenty of places to see scenic sights in the Outer Banks. Be sure to add some of these locations to your itinerary and take in all the area offers!

Outer Banks Rainy Day Guide

The Outer Banks is a beautiful destination for outdoor activities and sunshine-filled days. But what do you do when the weather doesn’t cooperate and you’re faced with a rainy day? Don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun and interesting things to do in the Outer Banks, even when it’s raining. Don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation! Our Rainy Day Guide has plenty of fun and interesting activities to keep you entertained in this beautiful coastal region, no matter the weather.

A typical rainy day on the Outer Banks: overcast cloudy dark sky

Visit a Museum

The Outer Banks is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s history and culture. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s maritime history. The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills is another great option for learning about the Wright Brothers’ first flight and their impact on aviation.

Explore Indoor Attractions

In addition to museums, the Outer Banks has several indoor attractions that are perfect for a rainy day. The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a popular spot for families and features exhibits on local marine life. The Outer Banks Mall in Nags Head is another option for those looking to do some shopping or catch a movie at the local cinema.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

What better way to spend a rainy day than indulging in some delicious local cuisine? The Outer Banks is known for its fresh seafood and southern-style comfort food. Check out some of the area’s best restaurants and try out a new dish or two.

Relax at a Spa

Finally, rainy days are the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa. The Sanderling Resort and Spa in Duck and the Aqua Spa in Duck are both great options for a day of pampering.

While rainy days in the Outer Banks may not be what you had in mind, there are still plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits – embrace the opportunity to explore and discover something new.

Outer Banks, A Taste of the Beach

The Outer Banks is a culinary destination with a variety of flavor choices. The Outer Banks Restaurant Association hosts Taste of the Beach, an annual food and wine festival. The OBRA hosts culinary experiences that showcase the cooking and hospitality skills of the local Outer Banks community. As part of Joe Lamb Jr & Associates, we want to ensure you have the best beach experience possible and a full belly to enjoy. Spend one fun-filled weekend discovering the treasures of the Outer Banks!

A group of young adults have a picnic on the beach during a sunny day

Taste of the Beach consists of nearly 15 quaint venues that host over 40 events over three days. More than 20 iconic restaurants are participating throughout the OBX in this event. A broad platter of prepared delicacies will be served during this food-lover festival, including wine tastings, a 5k, food education, special multi-course menus, brewery tours, culinary tours, tapas crawls, and chef cook-offs. If you would like to view the schedule, you can do so by clicking here.

A picnic dinner on the beach complete fresh watermelon, cheese, bread and wine

Indulge your palate in a sampling of local handcrafted food, choice wines, and beers that serve for tasting. Local restaurants will compete for the TOB awards. These awards include best booth presentation, best in the show, best outer banks catch, the Chef’s Award, and the People’s Choice Award. We cordially invite you to have a taste of the beach and stay to enjoy it!

Discover the seasoning experience while you stay on the Outer Banks. The Outer Banks Taste of the Beach will be held March 24-26, 2023.

The Real Outer Banks Adventure

The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands spanning more than 200 miles along North Carolina’s northeast coast. A piece of paradise you may call it. As the series “Outer Banks” has grown in popularity on Netflix, viewers may notice some differences from the show. The real Outer Banks is not too far from what is depicted in the show. We are here to show you how you can relive some of the most iconic adventures.

Shipwrecked on a Sandbar
A boat on the Outer Banks being shipwrecked on a sandbar

In the show, John B follows the hunt his father once conducted to locate the treasure of the Royal Merchant. John and his friends discover a clue that leads them to the treasure his father never found.

The Graveyard of the Atlantic is another name for the Outer Banks. As a result of more than 3,000 shipwrecks off the Outer Banks coast, the area has earned its title. The Royal Merchant is not one of the lost ships. The many people who owned these ships included explorers, fishermen, and pirates. The Outer Banks was once home to Blackbeard, and legend says he buried his treasure here! No treasure has been found… yet.

Visit The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum to see shipwrecked souvenirs.

The Ferry Ride

A ferry is used in the show to transport Sarah and John B. to UNC-Chapel Hill. On the island, there is a ferry, but it doesn’t run to Chapel Hill. You can access the central portions of the island by driving over the bridges. The only part of the island that is not accessible by vehicle is Ocracoke. There is only one way to reach Ocracoke island and it is by ferry. A 60-minute scenic ride (weather permitting) that will keep you entertained. To learn more about the ferry schedule, please visit here.

The Surf

A person surfing the blue waves of the Outer Banks

During the episode, John B and his friends are seen taking their surfboards out on the water for a moment of peace. The OBX is one of the premier surfing spots on the east coast. The Atlantic waters provide constantly shifting sandbars that create incredible swells that make for a memorable story. Surfers from all over the country flock to the Outer Banks to paddle out. We have the most ideal surf check spot at one of Joe Lamb Jr. oceanfront homes.

Lighthouse CluesA tall lighthouse under the cover of surrounding trees

The Redfield Lighthouse provides a crucial clue for John B and his friends during their hunt. There are a total of five lighthouses located on the OBX that you can visit. As far as the Redfield Lighthouse is concerned, it doesn’t exist on the Outer Banks. On the island, you will find the tallest lighthouse in America, which stands over 200 feet tall. A few lighthouses still function to guide those on the waters.

Outer Banks Valentine’s Day Getaway

A bouquet of roses on the beach in the Outer Banks for Valentine's Day

‘Tis the season for love! Valentine’s Day this year is all about romance on the Outer Banks. Your favorite seaside destination is perfect for a romantic couples’ getaway. Whatever you plan to do on Valentine’s Day, we know all the things to do to make it extra special.

Rent a beach house

An aerial view of the Outer Banks

To start off your Valentine’s Day, there’s nothing better than a scenic view from your front porch. With one of Joe Lamb Jr.’s beach houses, everyone is welcome, whether it is with a partner or the whole family.  The beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina are the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart. Whether you’re staying for a long weekend or an entire week, you’ll have a great time.

Watch Sunrise on the Beach

A sunrise in the Outer Banks

The sunrise on the Outer Banks is unmatched. Stroll the island’s eastern side to watch a spectacular display of light shine across the Atlantic. Give your date a lifetime memory by sharing this experience! Enjoy the sunrise from the romantic comfort of one of our oceanfront homes while you catch a glimpse of the sunrise.

Watch Sunset at Jockeys Ridge

A sunset view at Jockey's Ridge

Jockeys Ridge is the largest sand dune on the east coast. Allowing for panoramic views of both the sound and the ocean. This time of year, there are fewer crowds on Jockey’s Ridge, which makes it an ideal spot to watch sunsets over the Roanoke Sound. During sunset, the sand dunes are unmatched.

Romantic Dinner

There are a number of different culinary experiences that you can enjoy on the Outer Banks. A wide range of dining options are available on the island, so you can choose the one that suits you best. In preparation for Valentine’s Day, many restaurants offer special dinner menus for their customers. We recommend making reservations (if possible) for your favorite local restaurant in advance.

Take a Stroll in the Gardens

The Elizabethan Gardens are located in Fort Raleigh National Park.  This garden has become one of America’s most beautiful and unique gardens since the first attempts to colonize America by England under Queen Elizabeth I. The Roanoke Sound’s tranquil setting makes this scenic year-round garden a perfect spot for a Valentine’s Day stroll. Find out more about the fascinating beauty of camellias as one of the featured flowers in February.

Star Gazing

Stargazing at night in the Outer Banks

Observe the Milky Way and shooting stars! Among the most popular things to do on the Outer Banks is stargazing. The Outer Banks have dark skies and limited light pollution, and are a romantic place to stargaze with your loved one. Valentine’s Day beneath the stars.

Book Direct, Why Should That Matter To You?

This person is booking a vacation on Book Direct day which is February 3rd 2021

Advantages of Booking Direct With Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates:

You might be wondering why you should book direct when there are so many online travel agencies with fancy online ads and tons of suggested listings. Here are a few huge benefits to booking directly with Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates: 

You will receive better rates and “from time to time” there are special offers by booking directly with us. It will be much easier to add different packages, add travel insurance, and filter your search. For instance, if you are looking for a home within a certain town, location, property type, or a home with specific amenities you can refine your search with the advanced search filter.

We offer more flexibility and an overall better booking experience when you book directly with us on our website. You will have direct access to our local staff that lives in the area and can offer knowledgeable tips and ideas about exploring the Outer Banks.

The best benefit of booking directly with Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is that you communicate with a live human so you will also get amazing one on one customer service while on your OBX Vacation, these are things that computerized OTA’s just can not match!

This is a frustrated woman trying to book a vacation using an online travel agency.

Things To Think About When You Do Not Book Direct:

When not booking directly with Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates not only do you not save money but you actually end up spending more! 

Online travel agencies are full of upcharges and fees, sometimes they are in plain sight and clearly explained but sometimes they are hidden and leave you feeling like a bait and switch just happened. That is no way to start your Outer Banks vacation!

Orange and pink color sky as the sunrises on the Outer Banks North Carolina with Jeanette's Fishing Pier in sight. Water a soft orange and pink glow along with the sand on the beach from the sunrise.

When you do not book directly you also miss out on the chance to learn about all the properties Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates has to offer in our inventory because OTA’s only highlight and feature a certain amount of beach homes or oceanfront condos for you to search.

We Have Made Booking Direct Easy!

Booking an Outer Banks Vacation Rental direct with Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is a simple process that we have worked very hard on making as streamlined as possible so you have the best user experience possible!

You can book direct with us using our desktop website or our mobile browser for those on the go or spur of the moment trips. Here you will find our powerful search feature that delivers your vacation rental search results quickly and efficiently. Our user-friendly layout means you can navigate through all of the different amenities you need in your vacation home as simple as clicking a drop-down from the menu and pressing search now.

Do you want to bring the family dog on your trip? No problem our website has plenty of choices. Need an oceanfront view to wake up to that beautiful ocean every morning? We have a search feature that covers that too! We encourage you to book your next family vacation directly on our website.

Whether you need to know about our check out procedures or want to know about what to bring you can find all the answers to your questions on our extremely detailed FAQ page, it gives you all info you will need so that you can feel confident in booking your Outer Banks vacation rental directly with us! We look forward to seeing you and your family on your next Outer Banks vacation!

 

Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades. 

Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.