By Brandi McMahan
I just returned from a Thanksgiving getaway spent with family. While Florida's sunshine and warmth were undeniably beautiful, coming back to the Outer Banks felt like a homecoming. There’s something about the OBX—its unique vibe, cooler temps, and serene atmosphere—that feels just right this time of year. A snowbird I am not.
As Thanksgiving fades into memory and Christmas quickly approaches, the holiday chatter ramps up, along with all the hustle that comes with it. But lately, I’ve found myself thinking less about gifts and more about my recent vacation.
It wasn’t the food or the destination that made it so special—it was the time together. The laughter, the shared stories, the moments we took to simply be with one another. Those memories far outweigh anything that could fit inside a gift box.
Exchanging presents has its place, of course, but do we really need more things? So much of the holiday stress comes from brainstorming about what to buy, tracking down the perfect gifts, and wrapping them all up. That’s a lot! And for what? Things that might be forgotten before the decorations come down?
Instead, why not focus on giving the gift of time together? Imagine the joy of planning a family getaway—a chance to reconnect, share laughs, and create memories that last far longer than anything you could wrap. After all, it’s not about the price tag—it’s about the value of the moments you’ll share.
This season, consider giving less things and creating more memories. The Outer Banks is the perfect place to do just that, whether it’s a cozy winter escape or planning ahead for a summer adventure. Time spent with loved ones is a gift no one will forget.
What are you gifting this season? If you are planning to visit us here on the OBX, let us show you what is happening around town so that you can make the most of your visit!