Winter has settled on the Outer Banks. We had our snowfall, and we may get a bit more, but really what winter means is things slow way down.
This is the time of year when local business owners figure January and February are good months to vacation. So they close their business two or three weeks and head out to parts unknown.
Some of the best restaurants on the Outer Bank are closed right now. The Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills—looks like they're not going to reopen until February 10. The Saltbox Cafe, on Colington Road is about to reopen on Tuesday after taking two weeks off.
And so it goes.
It’s one of the things we learn to adjust to on the Outer Banks. People work insane hours and two or sometimes even three jobs during peak season, but when things really slow down, it’s time to recharge.
Can it be frustrating at times? Of course, a little bit. But to a significant degree, that’s part of the charm to living here year round. Maybe the first choice to grab a bite to eat is closed, but usually the second choice is open and the difference between first and second choice usually isn’t very much.
All of this doesn’t mean the entire Outer Banks has rolled up the sidewalks, locked the door and headed to Costa Rica for the winter. Far from it. There are still some great things to do.
Art’s Place on the Beach Road in Kitty Hawk has an open mic every Wednesday. Hosted by local musician Monte Hooker it’s a great time in a setting that feels almost like a neighborhood bar.
Jack Brown’s in Kill Devil Hills still has live music happening. So does Poor Richard’s in Manteo. It’s not every night like it in the summer, but there are still things happening.
Looking to relax? The offseason is a great time to enjoy the Outer Banks and a Brindley Beach Vacations home is the ideal place to be.