Amazing Four Night Family Vacation to The Outerbanks

We had FOUR fun filled days to the Outerbanks with two little kids and a tropical storm! Even with a tropical storm in the forecast, we managed to have an incredible trip to Pine Knoll Shores in the southern Outerbanks and make the most of every day there! We definitely came back feeling refreshed and revived 🙂

Drew’s aunt and uncle have a place in a wonderful community that has access to numerous pools, tennis courts, marinas, and beautiful landscape. Following our 9 hour car trip (the boys did wonderful!!), we biked up to the pool for a couple hours to get out all their energy. Reid and Walker both fished off the dock before dinner (and first thing Thursday morning).

BEST Way to spend FOUR nights in Outerbanks

Thursday morning, the tropical storm was set to hit so we planned indoor activities. We went to Beaufort, NC, which is a short drive away from Pine Knoll Shores. Beaufort has so much to offer in terms of restaurants, shopping, boating, activities and museums. We ventured to the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort where the boys went on a scavenger hunt around the museum. Apparently, they switch out the exhibits so it stays exciting and new for future visits. Upon completion of the scavenger hunt, the boys received pirate eye patches which was one of the highlights of their trip (haha!). Following the museum, we went across the street to eat and enjoy the beautiful views of the water even during a storm!

Friday, we were extremely lucky that the storm passed and left us with beautiful weather. We were able to go on bike rides, paddle board, treasure hunt and go to the beach. Drew’s uncle puts on the BEST treasure hunt for the boys and they LOVED searching from spot to spot to find the treasure. It really is the sweetest thing and the boys talk about the treasure hunt all the time.

Following the treasure hunt, we had a blast playing in the sand. We all had fun building big sandcastles to destroy and finding shells to decorate with. Drew dug a big “hot tub” for Reid which he enjoyed. The waves were huge so no playing in the ocean, but we had a blast on the sand.

While the boys took naps, Drew and I enjoyed some quiet time on the dock watching boats and kayakers go by. It is truly one of the most peaceful sights and time that I truly cherish. On Friday evening, Drew’s aunt and uncle watched the boys (about the sweetest offer ever!) while we went to dinner in Atlantic Beach. It was such a special treat to go on a date during vacation.

Saturday morning, we went paddle boarding on the sound. The boys love riding on front while Drew and I paddle. It is so much fun that they are at ages where we can take them out with us. Following the paddle boarding, Drew’s uncle took us on his boat to Beaufort. It was a pretty day and gorgeous boat ride. The boys love being on the water, as much as we do, which makes it so much fun.

Following the boat ride, we ventured to the pool until dinner time. Their neighbors were having a seafood boil and invited us along, which was very kind. On Sunday morning, we squeezed in a quick paddle board ride before packing up for the trip home.

The boys napped for 3 hours in the car and it is safe to say that we all had a great time! I truly treasure these moments with my family and love visiting Drew’s extended family. It is such a blessing to be able to travel freely again and I hope the boys remember these trips as much as we do!