Washington NC May Calendar of Events, Pamlico River
Keep your calendar clear: Every season in Washington, NC brings something new and exciting. Enjoy local festivals, area concerts, or waterfront adventure.
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This Week’s Events at Toucan’s Grill in Oriental, NC (Statute Mile 181)
Oriental is a wonderful place with friendly people and good food. And, if you do stop here, by all means, eat at our good friends at Toucan’s Grill and stay at Oriental Marina, a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
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Albemarle Plantation – The Adventure Begins With One Visit! Coastal North Carolina, Albemarle Sound, NC
An on-the-water retirement home or vacation home for those who love the rich cultural ports-of-call cruising waters of North Carolina, Albemarle Plantation Marina, a port on the Albemarle Loop and a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located just off the AICW on the northern shores of Albemarle Sound on Yeopim River/Creek.
enter your
‘golden summer’ era
on the sound.Sweet summer is just around the corner and Albemarle Plantation is one of the
best waterfront locations to enjoy the very best of of it. Set out on the gorgeous
Sound. Enjoy the dramatic retelling of the Lost Colony. Celebrate Independence Day
with a spectacular fireworks display in Ocracoke. Explore natural and historic
attractions, and get a taste of life on the Sound. Pack a bag and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this incredible waterfront paradise!
EXPLORE 120 new river drive. 4 BR | 2 FULL BATHS | 1 HALF BATH Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Albemarle Plantation! This stunning brick 2-story residence features 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing ample space for comfort and relaxation. The home has been recently renovated, blending modern amenities with timeless charm. You’ll find gleaming hardwood floors throughout the main living areas and a huge kitchen designed for the culinary enthusiast, with updated appliances and plenty of counter space. The primary living suite is a true retreat, offering a spacious layout that ensures privacy and comfort. Entertain guests in the large dining room, or work from home in the dedicated office. The enclosed back patio provides a serene space to enjoy your morning coffee, while the backyard deck is perfect for outdoor gatherings and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. 
plan your discovery tour. Enjoy a 3-day/2-night stay at the Inner Banks Inn in Edenton’s historic district.
Live like a local and sample Albemarle Plantation’s many amenities, natural
beauty and incredible water:• Round of Golf for 2
• Golf Cart, Bikes, Kayaks/Canoes
• Breakfast Each Day
• Dinner at one of our Onsite Restaurants
• Full Access to Fitness Facility and Classes and Pool Facilities (when available)
• Explore Downtown Edenton by Bike and Discover the Charming Waterfront
• Plus, Tour Homes, Neighborhoods, and See Our Latest Home Listings!book your visit now for only $249! 
Discover Albemarle Plantation | Plan A Visit | Contact us 
128 Lakeside Drive, Hertford, NC 27944 • (800) 523-5958 • (252) 426-4653 This Discovery Package is designed to acquaint you with Albemarle Plantation real estate opportunities. If married, both spouses must attend the property tour. Participants must live outside a 75 mile radius from the property. The $249 is paid to the hotel at time of booking. If customer does not cancel or reschedule within 14 days of arrival, the customer forfeits the $249 as a cancellation fee. Customer is responsible for any incidentals at the hotel. A valid credit card is required to reserve an Albemarle Plantation Discovery Visit. A limited number of packages are available. Subject to availability. Some blackout dates. Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Albemarle Plantation Marina
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Onslow Bridge Opening Experience – May 7, 2025
Stephanie on Love & Luck provides this update on the Onslow bridge opening as of May 7, 2025
Just passed onslow going north. The bridge opens on demand between 12pm/1pm May 7th @ 12.30pm
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We Welcome You to Edenton This May! [Albemarle Sound, NC]
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, historic Edenton always has an exciting calendar of events and places to visit! Edenton is at the mouth of the Chowan River on the northwest shore of Albemarle Sound.
Hello, May brings warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities to do in Edenton! Whether you want to spend some time relaxing in nature or take in an exciting game at the ballpark, you’ll find that May is the perfect month to plan a trip to Edenton.
If you are thinking about spending some time in Edenton, our comfortable and convenient Bed & Breakfasts are ready to welcome you. Book a room and experience the Southern hospitality and comfort that define a trip to Edenton. You can even book a pet-friendly room!
This month, I’d like to highlight three items.
May 6th – Cupola House Speakers Series
Edenton is well-known for its historic contributions to American history. While you’re visiting Edenton, you’ll enjoy exploring many historic sites. On May 6th, the Cupola House will host another installment of the 2025 Spring Speakers Series, where you can learn more about the unique history of the Cupola House and Gardens. This free event will be held at the Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library, next door to the Cupola House, and all are welcome to attend! Reserve your seat today.
May 29th – Edenton Steamers Home Game
Edenton’s iconic collegiate-level summer baseball team will kick-off their 2025 season with a home game on May 29th. Join the fun at Historic Hicks Field as the Edenton Steamers face the Greenbrier Knights at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the gate, and there will be plenty of refreshments to purchase while watching the game. Come enjoy a night at the ballfield!
May 31 – Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon
The Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club will host the annual Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon on May 31st to raise money for the Devine Intervention Cancer Fund. This triathlon is designed for competitors at all levels and will include a 2-mile kayak through the waters of Edenton Bay, 15-mile bike ride, and 5K run through the country roads of Chowan County. Pre-register if you’d like to participate in this event or join the crowd of spectators at Queen Ann Park to cheer on the participants!
In addition to these events, you can enjoy shopping, historic tours, and tasty cuisine in downtown Edenton during your visit. Also, check out our Calendar of Events to see more of what’s happening this next month. We hope you’ll take advantage of the beautiful spring weather to plan your trip to Edenton in May!
We can’t wait to see you soon,
Thanks for reading! If you loved it, tell your friends to subscribe.
101 W King St, Edenton, North Carolina 27932
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor City Docks
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Albemarle Plantation – The Adventure Begins With One Visit! Coastal North Carolina, Albemarle Sound, NC
An on-the-water retirement home or vacation home for those who love the rich cultural ports-of-call cruising waters of North Carolina, Albemarle Plantation Marina, a port on the Albemarle Loop and a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located just off the AICW on the northern shores of Albemarle Sound on Yeopim River/Creek.
the adventure of a lifetime
begins with one visit.Breathtaking. One-of-a-kind. Life changing. We invite you to visit and discover
ALBEMARLE PLANTATION and see why it is loved by so many families and friends.This 3 Day / 2 Night Special Discovery Visit could change your life.
Explore trails and natureDine at one of our onsite restaurants Play spectacular golf Soak in the happy, healthy vibe Explore the gorgeous Albemarle Sound See a wide variety of propertiesPlus– Enjoy bespoke
accommodations in Edenton’s
historic district at the luxurious
Inner Banks Inn.
Discover Albemarle Plantation | Plan A Visit | Contact us 128 Lakeside Drive, Hertford, NC 27944 • (800) 523-5958 • (252) 426-4653 The information contained herein is for information purposes only and may change at any time without notice. AP Realty Company, LLC/Broker 
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Albemarle Plantation Marina
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Historian David Cecelski: Carolina coast still worth the fight
From Coastal Review – Historian David Cecelski: Carolina coast still worth the fight.
Support CoastalReview.org
Put your business in the Sponsor Spotlight.Historian David Cecelski: Carolina coast still worth the fight
The recent shackling of the Environmental Protection Agency “foreshadows the breathtaking descent back into the worst days of our coastal past, when our estuaries, our beaches, our fisheries and the sources of our drinking water were a free-for-all, open to plunder, pillaging and poisoning.”More News of the Coast
New Brunswick County bridge opens Thursday to traffic
Visit CoastalReview.org 
Copyright © 2025 North Carolina Coastal Federation, All rights reserved. Be the first to comment!
April OBX Park News: Celebrating Our OBX National Parks!
Your April e-news preview: 
Hello, friends! I’m thrilled and honored to join Outer Banks Forever as its next Director! This organization has been doing great work in our community since 2019, and I’m excited to join with Outer Banks national park supporters like you as we work together to protect and enhance these special places – Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial – now and forever.
My career as an executive spans more than 30 years. My nonprofit experience includes serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Chestnut Foundation in North Carolina and serving on the executive staff for the National Wild Turkey Federation in South Carolina. I’ve also had diverse experience working for state fish and wildlife agencies in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida, and as a wildlife instructor and research assistant for The Pennsylvania State University. I hold an Associate Degree in Wildlife Technology, a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Science from The Pennsylvania State University, and a Master of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology from Frostburg State University. While we await 2024 data for our Outer Banks national parks, did you know that in 2023, our national parks served nearly 3.5 million visitors and generated approximately $926 million in economic output in the gateway economies surrounding our parks? It’s a privilege to partner with people like you who understand the value (which extends far beyond economic value!) our Outer Banks national parks add to our community and, more broadly, to our nation and our world. I look forward to getting to know many of you and spending time in our national parks in the days ahead! Please feel free to reach out to me via email at bryanburhans@obxforever.org or by phone at 717-585-9643 (cell) or 252-423-4545 (office) if you’d like to say hello or set up a time to chat. Gratefully, 
Bryan Burhans
Director
Outer Banks ForeverSupport Our Parks 
We’re thrilled to introduce you to Bryan Burhans, our new Director! Bryan comes to us from Pennsylvania with a background in wildlife and fisheries science and biology, extensive experience working with both nonprofit and state agencies, and a passion for philanthropy. And he’s passionate about our Outer Banks national parks!
In his free time, Bryan enjoys turkey hunting, saltwater and fly fishing, hiking, backpacking, flying, and public speaking.
Meet Bryan 
This content is brought to you to by our National Park Service partners.Did you know that Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is located within a dense evergreen maritime forest on the north end of Roanoke Island?These forests are so named because they are located near the coast and are dominated by tree species that stay green all year.
To learn more about the trees and many other plants that make up Fort Raleigh’s evergreen forests, read on! Learn More We’re celebrating Spring in our Outer Banks national parks! National Park Week kicks off this Saturday, April 19, and runs through Sunday, April 27. Wright Brothers National Memorial will offer a fee-free day on Saturday – yes, you can visit our park for FREE! As a reminder, Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site are always free to enter.
We encourage you to get out and explore our parks (and parks closest to your home!) this weekend and throughout next week. Please remember to recreate responsibly and thank our park staff and volunteers!
An since Spring has sprung, that means Bodie Island Lighthouse climbing and ranger programs are starting up again! Make sure to check out these exciting opportunities and mark your calendars for these upcoming ranger programs: Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Bodie IslandBodie Island Lighthouse Climbing (beginning April 18): Climbing tickets are required. Ticket sales are begin online at 7 a.m. starting the day of the climb, with climbs available every 20 minutes from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Bodie Island Lighthouse: Lighting the Way for Over 150 Years (beginning May 5): Join a ranger to discuss the details and history of this beautiful sentinel!
Life on a Barrier Island: Bodie Island (beginning May 5): Wars, hurricanes, winds, and ocean currents have all had impacts on the shores of Cape Hatteras. Join a ranger to learn about the forces of change and the captivating world of life on an island.
Hatteras IslandThe Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Reflect on the Past, Preserve for the Future (beginning May 5): Join a ranger to discuss the details and history of this beautiful sentinel and learn about current restoration efforts. (Picture at right pre-restoration)
Life on a Barrier Island: Hatteras Island (beginning May 5): Wars, hurricanes, winds, and ocean currents have all had impacts on the shores of Cape Hatteras. Join a ranger to learn about the forces of change and the captivating world of life on an island.
Ocracoke IslandThe Ocracoke Lighthouse: Celebrating Over 200 Years of Service (beginning May 5): Join a ranger to discuss the details and history of this beautiful sentinel and the keepers that kept the light burning.
Life on a Barrier Island: Ocracoke (beginning May 5): Wars, hurricanes, winds, and ocean currents have all had impacts on the shores of Cape Hatteras. Join us to learn about the forces of change and the captivating world of life on an island.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Civil War Touch Table (available through April 27): Join volunteer Duane in the Visitor Center at his touch table of Civil War history items. With items ranging from uniforms to silverware to family photos, he will talk about the day-to-day life of a Civil War soldier and the the Battle of Roanoke Island in 1862. Ranger Program (through May 3): The programs will vary between a Lost Colony Walking tour and a Civil War/Freedmen’s Colony Talk each day based on staff availability. Call the park Visitor Center at 252-475-9001 in the morning to learn the program topic each day.
The “Lost” Colony – Walking Tour (beginning May 4): Delve into the history and mystery surrounding England’s first attempt to establish a colony in the new world. This easy walk follows paved sidewalks and is .25 miles in length. The “Forgotten” Colony – The Civil War on Roanoke (beginning May 4): During the American Civil War, Roanoke Island became a haven for formerly enslaved people. Discover the successes and challenges of the Freedmen’s Colony and the Civil War battle that shaped it. This is a 25-minute program beginning in front of the Visitor Center.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Wind and Sand (daily): Step back in history during this short walk to the actual site of the Wright brothers’ first heavier-than-air, powered flights! Discover why the Wrights chose Kitty Hawk for their flight experiments and what life was like in the Outer Banks, learn about the events that led to the first flight on that cold December day, and the lasting impact their first flight continues to have on the world today.
Our Outer Banks national parks continue to face challenges like adapting to a changing coastline, preserving the many historic structures they manage, and budget and staffing cuts at a time when they continue to see high levels of visitors. Our parks need your support now more than ever. When you make a gift to our new Parks Forever Fund, you will be supporting important initiatives like: - Education and preservation through the creation of internships that engage the next generation in protecting our parks and the stories they tell, increasing our parks’ capacity to provide amazing experiences for you and your loved ones.
- Restoration and conservation of our unique barrier islands through much-needed invasive plant species removal.
- Enhancing the visitor experience by funding projects that address the needs of visitors of all ages and abilities, so everyone can learn about and enjoy the rich history and beauty of these places.
We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to these generous donors who have helped us raise more than $13,000 for our new Parks Forever Fund!
Zara Anderson
Sally & Charles Ayers
Susan & Jim Bacon
Betty Beamon
Barbara Benwell
Dr. Deborah Best
Malcolm & Patty Brown
Tony Bruno
Thomas & Debra Cafferty
Sarah Campbell
Martha Caswell
Brenda Cummins
Carolyn Driggs
Robert Elkins
Nicole & Levi Erickson
Richard Ghione
Christie & Mike Graf
Nick Graham
John & Lynn Hasteadt
Mary Hickling
Carol & Nev Jackson
David Johnson
Dennis Jones
Stephen Jones & Rebecca Burcher Jones
Lisa Joyner
Friends of Kitty Hawk Rotary
Ronald Knur
Marianne Krzywicki
Cat & Charlie Lineberry
Stephanie MadalenaPaul & Robin Mann
Jim & Betty Mast
Eddie Masterka
Donna McCaslin
Greg & Sally McDaniel
Jack & Paul Mertens
Shelley & David Olsen
Dr. Paul & Mrs. Amy Orser
Helen Pierce
Rodney Poole
Sandra & Ed Potocki
Michael Reddy-Miller
William Pendleton Sandridge, Jr.
Jean Scott
Cathy & Thomas Shirley
Leslie Skowronek
Rebecca Stiles
Nikki Stevens
Marie Sullivan
Sun Realty
David Tannahill
Joseph Temming
Monica Thibodeau
Peggy & Bruce Wackelin
Anne & John Walker
Shannon Winakur
Kathy Wisiackas
Elaine WoodMake Your Gift Today We send a printed newsletter each spring and fall with more in-depth project updates, behind the scenes stories, and special announcements. If you are not currently receiving our printed newsletter, please sign up via the button below to be added to our list! Sign Up Photo Credits: Bryan Burhans, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial.Connect With Us!
Copyright © 2025 Outer Banks Forever, All rights reserved.
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May/June Events at Toucan’s Grill in Oriental, NC (Statute Mile 181)
Oriental is a wonderful place with friendly people and good food. And, if you do stop here, by all means, eat at our good friends at Toucan’s Grill and stay at Oriental Marina, a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
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Dowry Creek Marina – Fuel Dock
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, Dowry Creek Marina is owned by the Zeltner family who want to roll out the red carpet to transients, offering whatever you might need during your visit. This highly praised and transient friendly marina lies off the AICW/Pungo River north of Belhaven, NC.
Dowry Creek fuel dock is open every day. Call for early or late arrival VHF 16/71 or (252) 943-2728.
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Latest Events at Toucan Grill in Oriental, NC
Click Here For More Information On Oriental Marina and Toucan Grill
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Boaters Who Are Looking to Enjoy All that Coastal North Carolina Offers – Special Offer
An on-the-water retirement home or vacation home for those who love the rich cultural ports-of-call cruising waters of North Carolina, Albemarle Plantation Marina, a port on the Albemarle Loop and a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located just off the AICW on the northern shores of Albemarle Sound on Yeopim River/Creek.
The only way to truly know if a community is right for you is to experience it for yourself! Visit and experience Albemarle living at its best: sail on the Sound, explore trails and nature, dine at one of our onsite restaurants, play spectacular golf and see a wide variety of properties. Plus—enjoy bespoke accommodations in Edenton’s historic district at the luxurious Inner Banks Inn. 
Now is the perfect time
to plan your visit.Explore homes and homesites.
Discover inspiring natural beauty
and our refreshing lifestyle. Enjoy
unforgettable experiences and
imagine your Albemarle Plantation
dream home!
Your Discovery Visit includes: - 3-day/2-night stay at the luxurious
Inner Banks Inn in Edenton’s
historic district. - Round of golf for 2
- Golf Cart, Bikes, Kayaks/Canoes
- Dinner at one of our onsite Restaurants
- Full access to Fitness Facility and
classes and Pool Facilities (when available) - Breakfast each day
- Explore downtown Edenton by bike
and discover the charming waterfront. - Plus, tour homes and see home plans!
Discover Albemarle Plantation | Plan A Visit | Contact us 128 Lakeside Drive, Hertford, NC 27944 • (800) 523-5958 • (252) 426-4653 This Discovery Package is designed to acquaint you with Albemarle Plantation real estate opportunities. If married, both spouses must attend the property tour. Participants must live outside a 75 mile radius from the property. The $249 is paid to the hotel at time of booking. If customer does not cancel or reschedule within 14 days of arrival, the customer forfeits the $249 as a cancellation fee. Customer is responsible for any incidentals at the hotel. A valid credit card is required to reserve an Albemarle Plantation Discovery Visit. A limited number of packages are available. Subject to availability. Some blackout dates. Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Albemarle Plantation Marina
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- 3-day/2-night stay at the luxurious
Lockwood Folly has a name as unique as its history – Coastal Review
Wake Community College history instructor Eric Medlin dives into the possibilities of how the river and inlet in Brunswick County earned its name.
Lockwood Folly has a name as unique as its history
02/26/2025 by Eric MedlinBe the first to comment!
Today’s Coastal Review: A boat is a boat, is a boat, is a boat … or is it really? Coastal Review
If you have or desire a boat that can do everything, you may wind up with a boat that can’t do anything — here’s how to know what you need.
Today’s Coastal Review: A boat is a boat, is a boat, is a boat … or is it really?
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Working Lives: The Herring Fisheries at Plymouth 1939 – David Cecelski
Herring seine on the Roanoke River, 3 miles above Plymouth, May 1939. The Kitty Hawk and Slade seine fisheries had been in operation for generations, but would close for the last time a few days after these photographs were taken. Photo courtesy, State Archives of North Carolina Read more at Coastal Review, coastalreview.org.
Working Lives: The Herring Fisheries at Plymouth 1939
02/07/2025 by David CecelskiBe the first to comment!
Downtown Edenton’s Welcoming Bed & Breakfast Inns, Albemarle Sound, NC
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, historic Edenton always has an exciting calendar of events and places to visit! Edenton is at the mouth of the Chowan River on the northwest shore of Albemarle Sound.
Hello, With the new year well underway, I’d invite you to schedule a visit to Edenton in 2025! Here you’ll find a welcoming and cozy retreat where you can relax, explore history and culture, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Albemarle Sound.
And there’s no better way to experience all that Edenton has to offer than by staying in one of our downtown Bed and Breakfast establishments!
In any one of our charming downtown B&Bs, you’ll be pampered with a unique and personalized experience. Each of our B&Bs combines historic charm with modern amenities so that you are surrounded in comfort and beauty.
Check out our new 2025 Visitor Guide for more information and our Calendar of Events to find out what’s happening each month here in Edenton.
They can help you plan your perfect visit, and our downtown Edenton bed and breakfast inns will offer the perfect home-away-from-home while you’re here!
We can’t wait to see you soon.
Visit our website!
101 W King St, Edenton, North Carolina 27932
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Explore Albemarle Plantation in Coastal North Carolina, Albemarle Sound, NC
An on-the-water retirement home or vacation home for those who love the rich cultural ports-of-call cruising waters of North Carolina, Albemarle Plantation Marina, a port on the Albemarle Loop and a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located just off the AICW on the northern shores of Albemarle Sound on Yeopim River/Creek.
The only way to truly know if a community is right for you is to experience it for yourself! Visit and experience Albemarle living at its best: sail on the Sound, explore trails and nature, dine at one of our onsite restaurants, play spectacular golf and see a wide variety of properties. Plus—enjoy bespoke accommodations in Edenton’s historic district at the luxurious Inner Banks Inn. Now is the perfect time
to plan your visit.Explore homes and homesites.
Discover inspiring natural beauty
and our refreshing lifestyle. Enjoy
unforgettable experiences and
imagine your Albemarle Plantation
dream home!Your Discovery Visit includes: - 3-day/2-night stay at the luxurious
Inner Banks Inn in Edenton’s
historic district. - Round of golf for 2
- Golf Cart, Bikes, Kayaks/Canoes
- Dinner at one of our onsite Restaurants
- Full access to Fitness Facility and
classes and Pool Facilities (when available) - Breakfast each day
- Explore downtown Edenton by bike
and discover the charming waterfront. - Plus, tour homes and see home plans!
Discover Albemarle Plantation | Plan A Visit | Contact us 128 Lakeside Drive, Hertford, NC 27944 • (800) 523-5958 • (252) 426-4653 This Discovery Package is designed to acquaint you with Albemarle Plantation real estate opportunities. If married, both spouses must attend the property tour. Participants must live outside a 75 mile radius from the property. The $249 is paid to the hotel at time of booking. If customer does not cancel or reschedule within 14 days of arrival, the customer forfeits the $249 as a cancellation fee. Customer is responsible for any incidentals at the hotel. A valid credit card is required to reserve an Albemarle Plantation Discovery Visit. A limited number of packages are available. Subject to availability. Some blackout dates. 
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Albemarle Plantation Marina
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- 3-day/2-night stay at the luxurious
January OBX Park News: Looking forward to another year of supporting our OBX national parks!
Your January e-news preview: 
A new year is upon us! For our team here at Outer Banks Forever, January is a time to celebrate the impact you helped us make in 2024, as well as a time to look ahead and plan our next round of projects in our Outer Banks National Parks.
Let’s celebrate together a few of the projects your generosity made possible in 2024:
We supported the production of a new video series following the progress of First Flight High School students who are a part of the Wright Flight Academy. These students are currently working to build an FAA-certified airplane in a workshop on the grounds of Wright Brothers National Memorial, the site of the first heavier-than-air, powered flight. The video series is available on our YouTube channel, so don’t miss it! At Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, the newly enhanced Freedom Trail was unveiled this past spring. This expanded educational experience, featuring artwork by Sonja Griffin Evans, life-sized silhouettes, and new educational signs, helps tell the story of the freedom seekers who risked everything to create a safe haven for themselves and their loved ones on Roanoke Island beginning in 1862.
This past fall, the new Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Pathway opened for public use! This multiuse pathway connects Route 12 to Old Lighthouse Beach and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The final part of this project – expected to be completed this year – is a new family-friendly, accessible restroom and shower facility at the Old Lighthouse Beach access. Recognized as one of the best beaches in the United States for surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, fishing and many other watersports, these upgrades were way overdue and thankfully in place by the next time you visit.The more people and businesses who support Outer Banks Forever, the better Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial can be on a consistent basis. At REAL Watersports, Watermen’s Retreat, and Watermen’s Bar & Grill, the companies I co-founded here on the Outer Banks, we make sure that what we roll out to our customers is better every year than the previous year. And that’s what we want to see happen with our Outer Banks National Parks. Every time a family comes back, we want them to say, “Wow, this wasn’t here two years ago when we were here. This is awesome!”
Outer Banks Forever can – and does – make that happen with the help of people like you and businesses like yours.
As we begin a new year of work together, we’re also seeking our next passionate Director to lead us in our mission to protect and enhance our Outer Banks National Parks. We will be forever grateful to Jessica Barnes, our founding Director, for her incredible leadership these past six years. Until our next director is hired, feel free to reach out to Nicole Erickson, our Interim Director & Development Manager with any questions or needs you have. I am confident that Outer Banks Forever is in great hands with our whole team – Nicole, Rachael Graf, and our dedicated Advisory Board who bring with them an incredible and varied list of talents and backgrounds.
We have an exciting year ahead full of new opportunities! We look forward to partnering with you and updating you often on the important work we do together.
Sincerely,
Trip Forman
Co-Founder, REAL Watersports, Watermen’s Retreat, Watermen’s Bar & Grill
President, Outer Banks Forever Advisory Board
As you may have heard recently, the Bodie Island Double Keeper’s Quarters (Visitor Center) was impacted by a fire in the afternoon of Tuesday, January 7. Fortunately, the Outer Banks Forever store staff and park staff who were in the building at the time made it out safely, and the fire was extinguished without any reported injuries. Due to the interior damage the Double Keeper’s Quarters received from the fire, the building is closed indefinitely. The investigation into the cause of the fire, clean up, and repairs are ongoing. During this time, the park’s outdoor areas remain open for visiting. The annual Bodie Island Lighthouse climbing season, which typically begins near the end of April, will not be impacted by the current closure of the Double Keeper’s Quarters. We’d like to express our gratitude to the Nags Head Fire Department, the Roanoke Island Volunteer Fire Department, the Kill Devil Hills Fire Department, the Colington Fire Department, and Dare County Emergency Medical Services, who all responded to the fire.
“Cape Hatteras National Seashore is grateful for the timely response to this afternoon’s fire by multiple local fire departments,” stated David Hallac, Superintendent of our Outer Banks national parks, in a press release. “Their efforts minimized damages to this historic structure.”For more information, click here. How You Can Help: Our mission is to help protect and enhance our Outer Banks national parks, now and forever. That includes supporting our parks when they face unexpected challenges like this one.
If you’d like to support restoration efforts at the historic Bodie Island Double Keeper’s Quarters, make your gift today to our Parks Forever Fund. This fund allows us to pool funds from each of you, as well as our local business partners, to help our parks adapt to immediate needs as they arise and create a sustainable way to address longer-term needs.
We know how much you love the Outer Banks, and how many of you have a special place in your heart for Bodie Island in particular. To learn more about our Parks Forever Fund and to make your gift today, click the button below.Learn More 
This content is brought to you by our partners at the National Park Service.
In the sixth installment of the Wright Flight Academy, students are kicking of the second year of the build with the class seniors taking the lead!Over the next year, these students will be completing the build of their very own, two person “flying machine” on the very grounds where brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved their world-changing first flight on December 17, 1903!
We’re proud to support this program by sponsoring this video series created by Rayolight Productions. As videos are made available, we’ll be adding them to our YouTube channel, sharing them on Facebook, and including them in our monthly e-newsletters.
Learn More 
Our Meet Your Ranger series introduces you to the many amazing people who support our Outer Banks national parks every day! This month, we’re pleased to introduce you to Taylor Evans, Partnerships and Programs Coordinator for our Outer Banks national parks!
No two days are alike for Taylor as she meets with partners in the field, visits park staff, reviews and drafts agreements, and explores potential partnership opportunities in order to better connect our community to our three national parks.
In her free time, Taylor enjoys trying new things, whether that’s reading a new book, trying a new restaurant, or experiencing a new part of the beach! Meet Taylor 
If you’re an educator, we want to help you get your students to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial for field trips! Thanks to an Open OutDoors For Kids grant from the National Park Foundation, we are able to reimburse transportation costs (up to $1,000) for field trips for your students in kindergarten through 12th grade. We are thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to get your students out of the classroom to experience the unique history, culture, and environment our Outer Banks national parks preserve!
(And this is a great way for your students to learn about and explore our Outer Banks national parks in the winter!)Educators who are interested in participating in this program and scheduling field trips to our Outer Banks national parks can email Rachael Graf, Community Engagement Coordinator at Outer Banks Forever, for more information: rachaelgraf@obxforever.org. Learn More Photo Credits: Alisa Hardin-Lapp, Cody Hammer – REAL Watersports, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Rayolight Productions, Taylor Evans, Wright Brothers National Memorial.Connect With Us!Copyright © 2025 Outer Banks Forever, All rights reserved.
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Ushering in a New Year on the coast – NC Coastal Federation
As we dive into a new year here at the coast, we’re already gearing up for some exciting events for our members and friends. From annual oyster roasts to new exciting happenings, we have a lot in store for 2025 as we work to protect and restore the coast. – Your Friends at the Coastal Federation
In 2025 the Federation will ramp up our work to protect and restore the coast by collaborating with and engaging people from all walks of life who are committed to preserving the coast now and for future generations.
For starters, we will be implementing projects within several of our existing priority coastal watersheds like Lake Mattamuskeet, Stump Sound, and Bradley Hewletts Creek. We will also advance our work to retrofit failing stormwater systems through a new pilot cost-share program. In addition, we will work with our key partners to restore ditched and drained land to improve coastal water quality.Our salt marsh team will be digging deeper into the 5-year NC Salt Marsh Action Plan launched in 2024 and begin implementing projects to protect and restore the vital coastal marsh. Part of this work will include both large-scale shoreline restoration projects and smaller projects through our successful living shoreline cost-share program. In addition, we will kick start a project to restore about 600 acres of coastal habitat.For our oyster team, 2025 will result in the construction of another 40 acres of oyster sanctuaries in the Pamlico Sound and 10 acres of oyster habitat in the southeastern region of the state. The team will also be working with partners to begin construction on the first shellfish aquaculture hub in Carteret County, which, once complete, will support shellfish growers in a number of ways. The team will also work to expand the oyster shell recycling program with the goal of recycling 14,000 bushels of shells.The marine debris team plans to remove 26 abandoned and derelict vessels while working with partners to set up a long-term state program to streamline the enforcement, removal, and prevention efforts. Finally, our large-scale debris removal efforts will also continue, with the goal of removing 500,000 tons of debris from coastal marshes, creeks, and waters.We’re ready to get to work and combined, these efforts will make great strides toward protecting and restoring the coast.
In addition to all of the work our staff and partners are doing this year, there is also a chance for volunteers to be involved in our efforts! So roll up your sleeves and join us at one of the debris clean-up events happening in our three coastal regions.
On January 20, you can join volunteers for the Coastal Clean-up Crusade on Roanoke Island. Then the debris removal efforts continue on January 21, at Morris Landing Clean Water Preserve, and finally, we wrap up this month’s clean-up efforts on January 22, with a shoreline cleanup at Hoop Pole Creek Nature Preserve in Atlantic Beach.
While we’re working to clean up the shoreline, our contracted commercial fishing crews are scouring the coastal waters in the NE and CE regions looking for lost crab pots. This annual effort is critical to ensuring that our coastal waters remain clean and safe for wildlife and vessels.
Learn more about the Lost Fishing Gear Recovery Project, below.
Tickets to our annual Hatteras Island Oyster Roast are now available but are going fast! The February 15 event is not to be missed, enjoy fresh oysters, clam chowder, cornbread, and other refreshments.
If you can’t join in person there are still ways you can participate in this signature event. Our silent auction will open soon and you’ll be able to bid on incredible items from some of our favorite local stores, restaurants, and outdoor adventure opportunities. You can even find spectacular getaways. Remember, members get notified when ticket sales open, so join as a member to hear about tickets first!
Want to be an Oyster Roast sponsor? There are still opportunities to participate in this sold-out event! Email Catherine Snead at catherines@nccoast.org for more information on this and other sponsorship opportunities.
Buy Tickets Below
All proceeds from this event directly support our work.
Adopt an Oyster is back! We are once again offering this popular and perfect Valentine’s Day gift – adopting oysters for your special someone! We offer single oyster adoptions and group adoptions that are perfect for families, groups of friends, or classroom valentines!
When you adopt an oyster, you receive fun text updates about your oyster and a variety of benefits at different adoption levels. You can also request an adoption certificate to print at home at any time.
Get Yours Today!
For many of us, January is the perfect time to take stock, make resolutions, and get our proverbial houses in order. Updating your will or estate plans could be an important part of your January checklist, particularly if you have had any changes in tax status or anticipate any significant life events like a move, a marriage, or new grandchildren. Reviewing or updating your will in January can help set a course for the year and provide peace of mind all year long. An estate planning attorney can help you include loved ones and causes that are important to you in your will. Contact Development Director Sarah King with questions about including the Coastal Federation in your estate plans.
Looking for unique ways to promote your business? Visit our website to learn more about our Community Partners Program, which offers a wide range of promotion opportunities including this newsletter, print publication, and our online news service.
You can also promote your business – or a special someone – on our award-winning online news service, Coastal Review. Our new Supporter Spotlight opportunities start at $500 for a two-week ad feature in front of 60,000 readers per month. Promote your business or honor an anniversary, retirement or other milestone.
- Tickets are now on sale for Hatteras Island Oyster Roast on February 15 – Island Free Press
- Coastal Federation’s lost fishing gear recovery underway – The Outer Banks Voice
- From the archives: Groups clashed over Brunswick’s last undeveloped island in the 1990s – Star News
- Annual ENC Lost Fishing Gear Recovery Project is underway – Public Radio East
- Coastal Federation’s lost fishing gear recovery underway – Coastal Review
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3609 N.C. 24 (Ocean), Newport, NC 28570
Tel: 252-393-8185North Carolina Coastal Federation © 2025 All rights reserved.
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