Off the Beaten Path: Bodie Island in the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a series of barrier islands with over 100 miles of beaches and seaside communities packed with unique attractions, boutique shops, and fresh seafood restaurants. The most popular accommodations are large weekly vacation rentals, often occupied by the same families year after year. There are only two roads connecting the mainland to the islands, so traffic on the changeover days can get pretty congested. To see the entire region, take a mini road trip from the northernmost community of Corolla, home of the famous wild horses, to the laid-back island of Ocracoke.

One of our favorite spots is Bodie Island, which is actually a peninsula located in the Nags Head area and home to the stunning Bodie Island Light Station. During the summer months, you can climb to the top of the lighthouse or book a tour offered by the rangers of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Travel Tip: The Outer Banks is a unique destination geared towards spending time with friends and family. Many of the small hotels are still family operated, as are the popular breakfast spots and local seafood restaurants. There is no shortage of things to do— a few of the more unique experiences include horseback riding on the beach, night fishing from a historic pier, and hang-gliding above the dunes.