We know that leaving the Outer Banks after spending time here can be sad. Heck, that's why we never left! But when the vacation is over, taking home a bit of the OBX is a great way to keep a part of your time spent here alive and to tide you over until your next visit.
If you enjoy shopping, as many do, you won't have any shortage of options here. There are so many places where you can find that perfect keepsake to place on your desk, or shelf at home to remember the great time you had. Whether you are looking for something unique, or a fun little tchotchke (yup that's a word)... you can find it! And the best part, you don't have to break the bank either!
So here are some ideas on what we think are great ways to bring a piece of the Outer Banks with you, every time you must depart.
Make Something!
If you are into shelling, or combing the beach for sea glass, then why not turn those treasures into something special? What a wonderful and practically FREE way to leave with the perfect souvenir! The only expense is the glue, our in-house crafters recommend E6000 Craft Adhesive, found in hardware stores and Walmart, where you can also pick up some inexpensive wooden cutouts in several shapes and sizes, even letters, for super cheap!
There are also some great DIY workshops where you can channel your inner Bob Ross, with a Painting Party, a Resin Art class, or maybe try an AR Workshop with endless ideas and keepsake items to choose from. These are both great options if you'd like to get out and socialize while crafting with some guidance on what you are making too!
Design Your Own Tie Dye Tshirt
Add your new favorite t-shirt to your wardrobe and make it yourself! A great way to show your love of the Outer Banks, and a ton of fun too! You can make your own tie-dye at Island Dye it Yourself.
Design Your Own Jewelry at Cloud Nine
You will have a great time sifting through all of the gorgeous beads to choose from, or if you find that perfect shell while on the beach or piece of sea glass, you can turn it into a special keepsake. Just bring it in, and Ginny the owner, will help you create something you will love and cherish forever! Head on over to the shop's Facebook page, and if you're in Nags Head stop in!
Family Photos on the Beach of course!
The beautiful backdrop of the Outer Banks graces the mantles of many family living rooms, no doubt. Why not take advantage while you have your loved ones gathered together in the same place at the same time, and have a professional photograph taken by one of the many talented photographers we have here. Make sure you schedule ahead of time, since they book up pretty quickly.
Purchase Artwork from Local Artisans
The Outer Banks is muse to many creative talents who have been lured to the area hoping to capture its beauty with either photographs, paintings, or other unique creations inspired by the sea, its inhabitants, history, and the majesty of human architecture from lighthouses to fishing piers, life-saving stations, and bridges. You will find their artwork displayed in art galleries, stores, restaurants, and coffee shops, or if you time it right, in an outdoor market during the spring and summer. Here are just a few that you will find that have captured the beauty of the Outer Banks, in their very own unique way.
Driftwood
A wonderful way to decorate your home or garden is with a piece of driftwood weathered smooth by the salt water, wind, and waves of the Outer Banks. If you aren't lucky enough to discover your own piece while here, then you can stop into a local shop like Seagreen gallery and purchase one or two!
A Hammock from Nags Head Hammock
Whichever Outer Banks town you vacation in, you will likely pass one of the three Nags Head Hammock locations along your route. Each shop has a variety of outdoor furniture and accessories of varying price points. If you've never experienced a hammock, it's a must! So stop in, even if just to browse or try one out!
A Unique Repurposed Creation from Seagreen Gallery
Get ready to be inspired and impressed when you step into one of the two locations, one in Duck and another in Nags Head. Not only can you find artwork from local artists inside, but you will also discover incrediblly repurposed creations from the gallery owner, from antiques to items washed ashore or forgotten by humans who fail to see the potential reuse of anything and everything. But alas, Custom creations are also possible, whether license plates made into a sign with your family name, or another memorable phrase, the possibilities are endless.
