“Mountains to Sea: A Family Adventure on the Outer Banks”Part 1: From the Mountains to the Sand – Outer Banks Arrival & Local Tips

Curious about the OBX? Whether you’re in it for beachcombing, lighthouse history, or just a break from crowds, this stretch of protected national seashore is the perfect escape.

After an 8-hour drive from our home in the mountains, we arrived in Salvo, a quiet town nestled between Nags Head and Hatteras, cats in tow. Our rental, The Crewe’s Nest, was pet-friendly, equipped with everything we needed (pool and hot tub included!), and the nearby boardwalk made for easy beach access. Heads up: there are a lot of stairs, your lungs and legs will thank you later!

If you love to cook while on vacation like we do, make sure to shop smart. The nearest full grocery store is Food Lion in Avon (15–20 minutes away), though Blue Whale and Waves Market & Deli are great for quick stops. For fishing, bait, or an Off-Road Vehicle permit, visit The Fishin’ Hole next door to Blue Whale—or grab your permit online at Recreation.gov.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where I share our shopping stops, bookstores, and our visit to three historic lighthouses…

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