Beaches within five hours of Washington, D.C.

It’s mid-August and the days of summer are dwindling away. It's time for one last trip to the beach!

Five things to do in the Outer Banks

Sun and surf attract summertime beach-goers to North Carolina’s Outer Banks. But, this Atlantic coastline also offers visitors thrilling adventures, seaside sights and insights into America’s maritime and aviation history.

OBX breakfast at a fishermen’s haven

Since 1937, Sam & Omies Restaurant has been feeding fishermen in North Carolina's Outer Banks. Today, it also feeds hungry beach vacationers and longtime local customers at its cozy Nags Head eatery across the street from the beach and a fishing pier.

Ocean views over an OBX breakfast

At Nags Head Pier House Restaurant, it's a no frills, no thrills affair. The breakfast food is simple. The ocean view is spectacular.

Diverse menu at OBX nanobrewery

Fresh seafood and a microbrew were two of my dining goals for my recent trip to North Carolina's Outer Banks. I'm pleased to report that I found both at Full Moon Cafe and Brewery.

Photo Friday: Elizabethan Gardens in the Outer Banks

I kicked off my weekend in North Carolina's Outer Banks with a visit to the Elizabethan Gardens. It was a beautiful property to stroll and photograph