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Outer Banks Retirement Homes

Choosing the Perfect OBX Retirement Lifestyle

Retiring to the Outer Banks is a bit different than moving to a traditional, age-restricted retirement community. That is exactly why people love it here. Instead of isolated senior compounds, the OBX offers vibrant, age-eclectic neighborhoods where active retirees live side-by-side with year-round locals.

Because of our unique coastal geography, finding the right home layout is the most critical decision you will make for your "Golden Years." Between navigating elevated stairs, exploring the convenience of single-level ranch homes on high-elevation lots, and evaluating the long-term utility of residential elevators, your property choice dictates your comfort. Use our specialized breakdown below to explore current OBX property listings tailored for low-maintenance, long-term senior living across Dare and Currituck counties.

The Outer Banks does not really have any purely retirement communities. There are areas, mostly on the westside of the big road, populated mostly with year round residents, affectionately referred to as locals. There are no communities composed of only seniors. A couple of communities tried starting out that way but they failed and then became homoginzed mix of old and young. The Outer Banks tends to attract the more active seniors who want to live in an age eclectic neighborhood. We humans tend to reflect our environment so living around younger people can have a positive effect.

Everybody has their own ideas and aspirations about how they will spend their retirement years. You have probably already spent a lot of time figuring out what you will be doing in your Golden Years. This is probably why you are here looking at retirement homes.

The Outer Banks has a lot to offer to retirees. Low taxes, low crime, great community senior centers and plenty of flat level nature for those who want to get outside and stay active.

I am not going to tell you how or what to do with your Golden Years, I am sure you already know, but I will share what years of experience have shown. The biggest commonality amongst people is the deteriorating condition of our knees. None of our knees are getting any better which brings up our first topic.

Stairs

The Outer Banks is full of stairs, and stairs, like my forehead and prostrate, seem to be getting bigger every year. Stairs are one of the major concerns shared by soon to be seniors when shopping for their retirement home. Having hospitals and such nearby is great, but having to navigate stairs during the course of your routine day can make life miserable.

Add in an extra set or 2 of stairs to get up to the kitchen and living area on the top floor, and it can become insurmountable. These types of houses are commonly referred to as 'Reverse Floor Plans' and are best suited to the more physically inclined unless they are equipped with an elevator.

One Level Living

One of the better options is to retire to a house with one level living. When the kitchen, living area and ensuite are all on the same floor.

One level living can be found on the ground floor or the 3rd floor. If the house has an elevator then every floor can be one level living. You see this a lot with the reverse floor plans which are usually located where there might possibly be a water view.

The most popular style house for retirees is the ranch style homes. The entire house is situated on one floor built close to the ground. Minimal or no stairs to get in and no stairs inside. The only downside is they tend to sprawl as the square footage starts to increase."

You won't find many homes on the Outer Banks that are built directly on the ground. Our low elevation puts most of the OBX in some type of flood zone which requires the homes to be elevated.

If the ground is 10 feet above sea level then a house can be built right on the ground. The houses below are ranchers, scroll down further for other style houses.

Elevated Ranchers

There are areas on the Outer Banks where the ground has some minor elevation. If the ground elevation is 7 feet, which is very common, then a 3 foot high masonry foundation will supply enough elevation to meet the flood insurance requirements and shorten the entrance stairs.

You can have a rambler or rancher where everything is spread out on one level except that it is built a couple of feet up off the ground. The houses below should be those on masonry foundations with minimal elevation. Scroll down further for different style homes.

OBX Beach Box Homes

The Outer Banks traditional "Beach Box" offers one level living up on pilings. You still have to climb a set of steps to get into your house but once you are inside all of your living area is on one level. If your one of the lucky ones without knee problems this could be a perfect match for you.

Outer Banks Retirement Homes
OBX Ground Level Homes OBX Ranch Style Floor Plan
OBX Homes W/Inlaw Apartment
OBX Homes With Elevator

Dare County Senior Services

Manteo Senior Center

Hatteras Island Senior Center

Dare County Senior Games

Kill Devil Hills Senior Center

Currituck County Senior Services

$629,000
SOLD Price: $629,000
Closing Date 10/15/2026
3 bd
3 ba
Why wait for new construction when this like-new home in Glenmoor is move-in ready? Situated on a spacious ½-acre lot just minutes from the VA/NC line, this home offers the perfect blend of convenience and room to spread out. Designed for comfort and flexibility, the main level features an expansive primary suite with two large walk-in closets, along with two additional bedrooms. The finished room over the garage provides the ideal space for a guest suite, in-law setup, or game room. A welcoming foyer opens into an impressive great room with coffered ceilings and a gas fireplace, creating a bright and inviting living space. The eat-in kitchen is a standout, featuring an oversized upgraded island, quartz countertops, solid wood cabinetry, pantry, double oven, gas cooktop, and stainless appliances. Just off the kitchen, the dining area leads to a covered tiled porch overlooking the large fenced backyard--perfect for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. Thoughtfully upgraded throughout, this home includes a 30A generator hookup, expanded 6-person island, new carpet, and new ceramic tile in the kitchen and dining area. Conveniently located within walking distance to the Moyock Public Library and the new Tulls Creek Elementary School (scheduled to open August 2026), this home offers modern living in one of the area's most desirable and growing communities.
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3 bd
3 ba
224 sq ft
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and coastal charm at 1713 Bay Drive, a meticulously crafted home in the heart of Kill Devil Hills. Built in 2017 as a primary residence, this stunning craftsman-style home pays homage to the Outer Banks’ historic lifesaving stations with its signature nautical roof gables. Engineered for both high performance and elegant living, the home features durable composite lap siding, cable rail accents, and premium LVP/LVT flooring throughout. The open-concept main level is an entertainer's dream, featuring a vaulted living room with a gas fireplace, built-in cabinetry, and a spacious dining area highlighted by an illuminated coffered ceiling. The chef’s kitchen boasts a large, quartz-topped island, perfect for gathering.The flexible floor plan includes two main-level en-suites separated by a private flex space. Situated off of the Living Room is a spacious screened in back porch leading to a large fenced in backyard. Upstairs, a third bedroom and additional flex space share a custom-tiled bath. Designed for modern convenience, the home includes an attached garage with a 240v outlet for EV charging or campers, and a 199k BTU Navien tankless water heater with a recirculation pump. Situated on a prime lot, you can walk down Bay drive to enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Albemarle Sound along the common use path. With a paved driveway, close proximity to First Street ocean access, and quick access to local shopping, dining, and the Wright Brothers' Memorial, 1713 Bay Drive is the ultimate coastal sanctuary. Fantastic opportunity for primary home, investment property or 2nd home/vacation getaway. Available to show during turnover dates: August 31st-September 4, September 7-11 September 13-25. Video Tour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7CK---c7DM
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3 bd
3 ba
Almost an acre move in ready in Moyock, NC, where quality craftsmanship, thoughtful upgrades, and one-level living come together on a spacious homesite with NO active HOA and NO flood insurance required. A welcoming foyer opens to the impressive great room featuring a cathedral ceiling, gas fireplace, and an open-concept design that flows seamlessly into the dining area--perfect for entertaining or everyday living. The chef-inspired kitchen is a standout with upgraded cabinetry, quartz countertops, breakfast bar, wall oven, cooktop, wine refrigerator, and all appliances conveying. The split-bedroom floor plan offers privacy, with a spacious primary suite showcasing a tray ceiling, private access to the covered rear deck, a custom walk-in closet with built-in shelving, and a luxurious ensuite featuring double vanities, a soaking tub, separate shower, and linen closet. The oversized FROG provides incredible flexibility as a media room, home office, guest suite, or hobby space, while the walk-in attic offers abundant storage. Step outside and enjoy true Carolina outdoor living from the screened porch or expansive composite deck overlooking the large backyard. The property also features two storage sheds, including one with electricity and a portable generator hookup. Garden enthusiasts will appreciate the fenced garden area beyond the backyard, while the 8-zone irrigation system keeps the landscape looking its best. Additional improvements include a lighted flagpole and a partially encapsulated crawl space with a dehumidifier for added peace of mind. Conveniently located just minutes from the Virginia line with an easy commute to Chesapeake, military bases, shopping, restaurants, and the Outer Banks, this exceptional home offers the perfect combination of luxury, functionality, and location. If you've been searching for a move-in-ready ranch home with premium finishes and outstanding outdoor living, This is a must-see! Call Today.
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Move right in to the stunning Applewood model in Keeter Barn Landing, one of South Mills' premier new home communities just minutes from the Virginia line. This beautifully crafted ranch-style home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience in highly desirable Camden County, known for its top-rated schools, lower taxes, and easy commute to Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Hampton Roads military bases.Designed for modern living, this open-concept home features upscale finishes throughout, including granite countertops, soft-close cabinetry, a spacious center island with breakfast bar, wall oven, built-in microwave, electric cooktop with vent hood, under-mount sink, and a large walk-in pantry. The inviting family room showcases an elegant electric fireplace and flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating an ideal space for entertaining and everyday living. The first-floor primary suite is a private retreat featuring dual vanities with granite countertops, a soaking tub, and a tiled walk-in shower with dual shower heads. Two additional bedrooms share a convenient dual-entry bath, while the Finished Room Over Garage (FROG) 4th bedtoom with full bath, provides flexible space for a guest suite, home office, media room, or playroom. Enjoy relaxing evenings on the covered rear porch overlooking your spacious homesite and appreciate the convenience of an oversized two-car garage. Located just a short drive from shopping, dining, Elizabeth City, the Outer Banks, and the VA/NC border, this move-in-ready home offers the peaceful lifestyle of Northeast North Carolina while remaining close to everything Hampton Roads has to offer. Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautiful new construction home in one of Camden County's most sought-after communities!
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$595,000
SOLD Price: $593,000
Closing Date 9/30/2026
3 bd
2 ba
Luxury One-Level Living on 1.26 Acres - 122 Elliott Road, Aydlett, NC. Experience the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and convenience , nestled on 1.26 beautifully landscaped acres. Thoughtfully designed with high-end finishes and exceptional indoor and outdoor living spaces, this home offers the lifestyle you've been searching for. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor plan featuring engineered hardwood flooring throughout, soaring vaulted ceilings, a stunning gas fireplace with custom built-ins, and abundant natural light. Every detail has been carefully selected, from the **high-end black cabinetry accented with brushed gold hardware to the upgraded black plumbing and lighting fixtures and elegant quartz countertops. The chef-inspired kitchen offers generous prep space, abundant cabinetry, and a spacious eat-in dining area, making it the perfect gathering place for family and friends. Designed for comfortable one-level living, the desirable split-bedroom floor plan provides privacy for everyone. The spacious primary suite is a true retreat, complete with a luxurious ensuite featuring a beautifully tiled walk-in shower, dual quartz vanities, and a custom walk-in closet with built-in shelving. Two additional bedrooms and a well-appointed guest bath are located on the opposite side of the home. Glass doors lead from the main living area into the spectacular 300-square-foot three-season room; where infrared heating & an electric fireplace creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for year-round enjoyment. Step outside to the open patio and unwind in the 8-person saltwater hot tub while taking in the peaceful surroundings.Outdo or enthusiasts will appreciate the *trails located just behind the property along with a public boat ramp just down the road, providing easy access to boating, fishing, and the beautiful Currituck Sound. Need space for your vehicles, hobbies, or toys? The impressive 1,360-square-foot (30' x 45') insulated detached garage/workshopfeatures 200 amp dedicated servivca a 12-foot overhead door an additional 8 foot overhead door, garage door openers, and plenty of room for boats, RVs, classic cars, or a workshop. An attached two-car garage and two concrete driveways provide exceptional parking and convenience. A 30 amp RV connection has also been added. Enjoy the peace and privacy of country living without sacrificing convenience. Grocery stores, restaurants, and everyday shopping are approximately 15 minutes away. the Outer Banks beaches are about 45 minutes away, and the Hampton Roads military bases are just **a little over an hour's drive**, making this home the perfect balance of rural tranquility and coastal accessibility. If you've been looking for luxury finishes, one-level living, acreage, and a property with room to live, work, and play. Truly offers the best of both worlds.
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3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to 100 Nautical Lane, a spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home situated on a large corner lot in Currituck Landing. Offering plenty of space, character, and flexibility, this property has a layout designed for comfortable everyday living along with a truly unique detached Lighthouse Guest House. Inside the main home, you’ll find a spacious kitchen with abundant cabinet and counter space, pantry, wet bar, formal dining room, sunroom, gas fireplace, and a generous primary suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite bath. One of the standout features of the property is the detached Lighthouse Guest House, complete with a living area, kitchenette, half bath, and sleeping quarters with beautiful views of the Currituck Sound. Whether used for guests, extended family, a home office, studio, or additional flex space, it’s a feature you simply don’t find every day. Currituck Landing offers community amenities including a clubhouse and boat ramp for enjoying the surrounding waterways. Ideally situated in Currituck, the property offers convenient access north toward Virginia and south toward Elizabeth City, while keeping the beaches of the Outer Banks within easy reach.
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Discover 173 Laurel Woods Way, Currituck, NC 27929 | One-Level Living | Pond View | Laurel Woods Estates. Looking for one-level living with convenient access to both Chesapeake, Virginia and the Outer Banks?Welcome to a move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch-style home in the established Laurel Woods Estates community. Step inside to a bright, open floor plan designed for comfortable everyday living and entertaining. New LVP flooring gives the home a fresh, updated feel, while the open living, dining, and kitchen areas create an easy flow throughout the main living space. With all three bedrooms and both bathrooms conveniently located on one level, the floor plan offers the simplicity and flexibility many buyers are searching for. Outside, enjoy a covered rear porch and fenced backyard overlooking the community pond--a peaceful setting for morning coffee, outdoor dining, grilling, or simply unwinding at the end of the day. Laurel Woods Estates adds even more to the lifestyle with neighborhood walking trails, ponds, playgrounds, basketball and RV parking, giving residents plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors close to home. And the location is hard to beat. Situated just off the Caratoke Highway corridor, Laurel Woods Estates provides convenient access north toward Chesapeake and Hampton Roads and south toward the Outer Banks beaches of Corolla, Kitty Hawk, and beyond. Enjoy the best of Northeast North Carolina living while staying connected to nearby shopping, dining, recreation and coastal destinations. Just minutes away, Morris Farm Market and Back 40 Live which offers fresh local produce, baked goods, food trucks and live music featuring local, regional and national artists. Nearby dining options along the Currituck corridor add even more convenience. Whether you're searching for a Currituck NC ranch home, one-story home near Chesapeake VA, home near the Outer Banks, pond-view property, or a home in Laurel Woods Estates deserves a closer look. One level. Open living. Pond views. Fenced backyard. Covered porch. Convenient to Virginia and the OBX. Come see what the good life at Laurel Woods Estates is all about!
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$510,000
SOLD Price: $510,000
Closing Date 9/30/2026
4 bd
2 ba
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded 4-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2018 situated on 1.38 acres with no HOA and a HUGE workshop! Inside, you'll find stunning upgraded granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms, durable luxury vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas, and a spacious, functional layout perfect for everyday living. Step outside to your own backyard retreat featuring an above-ground pool surrounded by expansive decking, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Need extra space? The impressive 30x50 detached metal building offers endless possibilities with plumbing already roughed in, a mini-split system, and a generator plug that is perfect for a workshop, hobby space, home business, or future mother-in-law additional dwelling. Enjoy the privacy and freedom of country living while remaining just minutes from the Virginia line and local conveniences.
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$629,000
SOLD Price: $629,000
Closing Date 9/29/2026
3 bd
2 ba
Beautifully Updated Coastal Home — Move-In Ready! Welcome to this beautifully updated, move-in-ready coastal home, situated on a spacious 12,500-square-foot lot in an X Flood Zone! This is one of the few coastal homes where you can enjoy easy access without the need for an elevator. Inside, you’ll find new flooring throughout, a massive kitchen with a spacious dining area, and plenty of room to gather with family and friends. The comfortable living area features a fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space to relax. Need storage? This home has an enormous attic storage area, giving you plenty of room for all your coastal gear and more. Step outside and enjoy your mornings or afternoons on the large front porch, surrounded by beautiful mature trees and a peaceful, relaxed setting. The property also features a huge fenced-in backyard, perfect for pets, entertaining, gardening, or simply enjoying your outdoor space. A storage shed provides even more room for tools, equipment, and belongings. Additional updates include a newer roof that was painted within the last two years, along with other improvements that make this home ready for its next owners. If you’re looking for a coastal home with space, storage, a large yard, a welcoming porch, and no elevator required, this one is definitely worth a look!
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MOVE IN READY!- BACKYARD OASIS • CUSTOM BRICK RANCH • $15,000 SELLER CONCESSION AVAILABLE • NO HOA • MINUTES TO THE VA LINE Why wait months for new construction when you can move into a home that already has what so many buyers are searching for—but rarely find? Just minutes from the Virginia line, this custom-built brick ranch offers something that's becoming increasingly difficult to find in Moyock: a private backyard retreat featuring a 21,000-gallon saltwater pool, expansive concrete patio, custom pergola, mature landscaping, and no HOA. Skip the expense, time, and hassle of building a pool after closing—it's already here and ready to enjoy. Seller is offering up to $15,000 in seller concessions with an acceptable offer, plus a one-year home warranty (up to $650), giving buyers added peace of mind and flexibility. Welcome to 147 N Point Blvd, where quality craftsmanship meets comfortable one-level living. This beautifully maintained custom brick ranch features three bedrooms on the main level plus a finished room over the garage (FROG)—ideal for a home office, media room, playroom, fitness space, or guest suite. Inside, you'll find an inviting living room centered around a cozy propane gas fireplace, creating the perfect gathering space. The kitchen features a Jenn-Air smooth-top range, abundant cabinetry, and convenient access to the backyard through brand-new exterior stairs, making entertaining effortless. The spacious primary suite offers a relaxing escape with a jetted soaking tub and dual closets. Need storage? You'll appreciate the fully floored walk-in attic, providing exceptional space rarely found in homes today. Outside is where this property truly shines. Spend your summers enjoying the saltwater in-ground pool, complete with a new chlorinator cell, entertain beneath the custom pergola, or relax on the expansive patio designed for outdoor living. The charming front porch pergola swing creates an equally inviting welcome home. Additional upgrades and features include: Custom brick construction No HOA Two-car attached garage Tankless water heater Water softener system Propane recently filled Fully floored walk-in attic for outstanding storage Located in the sought-after North Point community, this home offers an exceptional commute to Virginia while providing the space and privacy many buyers desire. Approximate drive times: 20–25 minutes to Chesapeake shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences 30 minutes to Norfolk International Airport Convenient access to major military installations, including Naval Station Norfolk, NAS Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, NAS Oceana Dam Neck Annex, and US Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City. Schedule your private showing today and discover why this home offers far more than just a place to live—it offers a lifestyle.
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The best beach living can be found at 178 Clam Shell Trail in Southern Shores. This home is located in Chicahauk. Drive through this neighborhood and see why many local Realtors and other professionals picked this subdivision as their home. This beautiful property is only about a half mile from the beach through Chicahauk’s trails. It’s also adjacent to well over 30 acres of protected maritime forest owned by the HOA. Worried about summer traffic? Residents here can get to the grocery store without going on busy roads. This home was custom built by the award winning Sandmark Construction Company and has been lovingly maintained since. If you want easy one floor living then this floor plan is for you! There are only four steps to get to the main living area where there are also two large ensuite bedrooms. The upstairs would be perfect for visiting family or friends with two bedrooms and a full bathroom. You’ll enjoy the large vinyl lined pool that is adjacent to that maritime forest. Privacy does not get much better on the Outer Banks. This home has just about everything for that current or future Outer Banker!
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4 bd
4 ba
Classic Southern Shores at its best...Waterfront with spacious single-story convenience. Direct access both creekfront and canal front to Currituck Sound on wide, deep Ginguite Creek. Walk out and hop on your boat...kayak, stand-up-paddle, ski, fish, crab right from your dock. Home naturally aligns with surrounding maritime waters. Life creek-side is soothing: birdwatcher's canvas with continuous scenes of waterfowl. Ospreys fish, great blue herons glide, eagles soar and ducks & geese take flight overhead. Hummingbirds, chickadees, blue birds and more hover and nest. INSIDE...Designed to maximize your waterfront lifestyle in comfort. Heavy duty insulated, UV treated Anderson windows inspire you with awesome, panoramic views. Home is truly unique with eye-catching features from hardwood floors to stone fireplaces (Living Room fireplace stones handpicked from Narragansett Bay) to bead-board ceiling in den. Kitchen with dining area and large island makes entertaining easy; Dining room invites guests to be seated. Layout enlarges as you move to library/den where reading or curling up to watch a movie is easy. Sun/Florida room looks out on vast expanse of privacy canal-side. Four bedrooms and four full baths; two bedrooms have ensuites. Each bedroom/ensuite has ample closets. Spacious laundry room with washer, dryer, built in ironing-board, utility sink, large counter space and storage. OUTSIDE...Boaters' dream location. Front yard has private dock and boat lift on deep canal. Boat, paddleboard, kayak or walk wrap-around deck from canalfront to creekfront. Longest private dock on creek (150') provides depth for larger boat with tie-up pilings and ample room for recreational boats. Ski, fish or crab right from back yard! Extensive decking length of home gives breath-taking views: Bask in nature's beauty from upper deck as Ginguite Creek flows directly into the Currituck Sound. Outdoor shower with direct access door to laundry room. "Boat house" to store skis, fishing equipment and garden tools...easy living! Outside closet with water faucet on creek-side deck gives room for gardening supplies. Landscape lighting both canal and creek-side. WHAT TO DO?...Experience the look and feel of being on a cruise with unlimited excursions! Cast a line and drop crab pots from dock or catch a game of croquet on front lawn, golf at Duck Woods Country Club nearby. Easy and direct access to the Currituck Sound. Water ski, kayak, paddleboard; boat out to fish, crab, dock, shop, eat and be entertained in nearby Duck or across the sounds in Manteo. From ocean sunrise to sound sunset: more to do than can be imagined. EASY ACCESS...From Ocean to Sound. Sidewalks and roads in Southern Shores connect to treasures of the Outer Banks. Dare County has excellent elementary, middle and high schools and hosts a community college and trade school offerings. Known for the location of the First Flight with the iconic Wright Memorial and Visitor's Center, the Outer Banks offers creative recreation...Jockey's Ridge State Park with hang gliding and kite flying, Parks & Rec with indoor and outdoor facilities, Library and Senior Center (Baum Center), bike paths and walkways. Everything for daily needs nearby. Most shops locally sourced; familiar names of larger stores dot the area giving it a spirit of the thriving, seasoned community it is. LOCATION...Skip the traffic. Easy ingress and egress when coming across Wright Memorial Bridge or heading to the mainland! Beautiful clean beaches and the surf of the Atlantic Ocean on the East—restaurants, shops, places of worship, activities in-between—and an amazing waterside home and dock on the West...93 Osprey Lane marks the spot: a treasure you will be glad you discovered on the Outer Banks!
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