As screen time gets more and more overwhelming, many people are trying their hardest to do a digital detox, something that is harder to do than you might think. Reservations are made on computer screens, reading is done with tablets, and games have made their way to our phones, which we never put down. But an Outer Banks vacation can make it easy to put down those screens and concentrate on the important things in life.
What the Water Actually Does to Your Brain
The serenity of the sea isn’t just a figment of your imagination; the water actually does something to your brain. The “blue mind” is a meditative state that being near the sea can actually induce. It’s called a soft fascination, holding your attention without overworking your brain, something that gives your cerebrum the chance to relax. You may notice this effect as soon as you start your Cape Hatteras vacation, which is another reason choosing a vacation rental that sits on sandy beaches is such a popular thing to do.
Why Village Life Here Still Runs on Its Own Unhurried Rhythm
It wasn’t always this easy to find your way to Cape Hatteras, as bridges had yet to be built and the waters that surround our barrier island were quite treacherous to travelers. For centuries, the people of Hatteras lived a quiet life of geographic isolation, dependent upon Mother Nature for their needs, and some habits die hard. It is in our genes to live this way, and village life may never change, running on its own unhurried rhythm, forcing its inhabitants to be self-sufficient in ways that mainlanders may never quite understand.
Shelling, Tide Pools, and Beachcombing as the Original Slow Activity
Sometimes the easiest way to step away from the screens that invade every aspect is as easy as engaging in fun and wonderful Cape Hatteras activities. You may be surprised by how enthralling it can be to walk along the beaches of our barrier island home, searching for beautiful shells, exploring the life of sea creatures in tide pools, or simply beachcombing for wonderful treasures.
Metal detectors are for the hardcore beachcombers, often serving as a way of making some extra bucks from the stuff unwitting tourists have dropped in the sands. And shelling serves as a free activity that brings the seeker the most unique of souvenirs, souvenirs that don’t cost a thing either. These slow activities have held power over tourists for decades, and their appeal has never waned.
Why Learning Something Hands-On Beats Scrolling Every Time
In a world of instant gratification, our brains have become lazy. Why take the time to actually learn something new when all you have to do is type a few words into your search engine, and the answer magically appears? Learning something hands-on, however, works those muscles, rebuilding their strength and actually teaching us something.
The Ferry Ride to Ocracoke Is a Little Reset All on Its Own
If being near the water has such great brain benefits, can you imagine what being ON the water can do for you? The ferry ride to Ocracoke isn’t a Cape Hatteras activity, but the 60 to 75 minutes you spend crossing from Hatteras to Ocracoke will also provide another reset to your brain. Your time on the water will be a way to decompress as you admire and are enthralled by the beauty of Mother Nature, knowing that there is nothing you can do but sit and wait for the ferry to complete its journey.
The Best Places to Watch the Stars Come Out
Although Cape Hatteras isn’t technically a member of the Dark Sky Community, we are famed for having some of the darkest skies in the area, making star watching a gratifying experience. The best star watching sessions on your Cape Hatteras vacation are on isolated beaches near ORV Ramp 43 in Buxton, a point considered a prime star watching location. You may be able to enjoy the stars popping out in the sky from the balcony of one of our Cape Hatteras suites as well.
Why Simple, Screen-Free Evenings Come Naturally in an Oceanfront Rental on Cape Hatteras
The surprising thing is how easy it is to forget about your phone, your tablet, even your laptop while enjoying simple screen-free evenings at home with Lighthouse View. Board games are commonly stocked in these spaces, and as you hang with the family, playing Monopoly can just feel right. Our oceanfront lodging just lend themselves to family activities and is fully stocked with all the best amenities to enjoy during your Outer Banks vacation.
Book Today
Take a few moments to browse through our rental listings. Your heart will know when you find the one for you and your family, so click that book now button at the first sign and get ready to enjoy a vacation filled with all the best Cape Hatteras activities.
