5 reasons why a road trip to the Outer Banks reignited my travel confidence

While many of my colleagues have had the chance to fly in recent weeks, I haven't yet stepped onto a plane during the pandemic. However, I’m not ready to give up on travel! Instead of flying, I’ve been exploring the country by car, most recently with a 2020 Audi Q5 SUV loaned to me through a partnership with Silvercar.

After a smooth pickup from Silvercar in New York City and a delightful overnight stay at Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia, my Q5 and I ventured to one of my favorite regions in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. I traveled all the way down to our rented home in Frisco, located near the southern end of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which stretches a picturesque 70 miles from Bodie Island to Ocracoke.

My family has been coming to Cape Hatteras since my childhood, and although there has been some development over the years, the area has managed to stay clear of large shopping malls, countless chain restaurants, and towering hotels. In this piece, I explain why it’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a safe getaway during the pandemic and, hopefully, for future generations as well.

There is no commercial airport

Some of the best road trip destinations are those that aren’t easily reachable by commercial flights. Even without a pandemic, flying to Cape Hatteras wouldn’t be the most practical choice. During these times, that lack of accessibility helps reduce the number of visitors, as those who come must be prepared for a bit of a journey.

Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) is available for those who can access a private jet, but having a car is essential for getting around the Outer Banks, which diminishes the allure of private air travel even for those who can afford it.

Fortunately, aviation enthusiasts can still get their fill of aviation even while driving to the Outer Banks, with a stop at the Wright Brothers National Memorial located near Kitty Hawk.

There’s plenty of room to enjoy yourself

Driving all the way to Hatteras requires a commitment. On your way, you’ll pass through numerous bustling beach towns, but the extra hours on the road are well worth it. With fewer accommodations and the longer drive, the island never feels overcrowded, even during peak times.

To find similar open areas at more accessible locations like Wildwood, NJ, and Virginia Beach, VA, you'd have to visit the beach during the middle of the week.

On Hatteras, there's never a reason to get closer than six feet from anyone on the beach. For those seeking even greater isolation, you can take a ferry to Ocracoke Island, which is about an hour away.

Many local businesses are diligent about mask-wearing.

While tourists and locals tended not to wear masks when maintaining distance on the beach or on outer ferry decks, numerous businesses enforced mask mandates indoors, where it’s most critical to wear one.

Our favorite fish market, Risky Business Seafood, allowed only one group inside at a time, and patrons didn’t mind waiting in line for entry. Some restaurants offered indoor dining during my visit, but we easily avoided those situations and other high-risk environments by carefully choosing where we ate.

There's no nightlife to speak of.

After sunset, you'll find yourself without much in the way of entertainment, which, given the current risks of indoor bars and large gatherings, can actually be a good thing.

Thanks to my early nights, I was able to make the most of the sunshine during this trip—I made it a point to start my day just before 6:00 a.m. to witness the stunning sunrises on my long, tranquil morning walks.

You'll be staying in a private residence.

While I do enjoy a luxurious five-star hotel, I'm making a conscious effort to minimize contact with others right now. To make this easier, I’ve been reserving private homes whenever possible.

This is typical in Cape Hatteras: Although you can find a few motels and inns scattered about, the majority of visitors choose to stay in rental homes, all conveniently located within walking distance to the beach. Depending on your choice, you might rent a four-bedroom house for approximately $1,000 for an entire week through local agencies like Midgett and Hatteras Realty.

In summary

Cape Hatteras is nearly fully operational. You can legally engage in activities like playing mini-golf alongside other groups or enjoy indoor dining, although you might notice some patrons not wearing masks, particularly in larger retail stores. Nonetheless, by adhering to CDC guidelines, opting for smaller markets, ordering takeout, and keeping your distance on the beach, you can effectively reduce your risk.

Dining out used to be a cherished experience during my childhood visits to Hatteras, but we didn't miss it on this trip. I even prepared a sushi dinner using some incredibly fresh tuna we sourced from Risky Business.

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Nonetheless, there is a price to pay for traveling to certain areas of the U.S. at this time. Currently, some states, including my home state of New York, mandate a 14-day quarantine for anyone arriving from a few high-risk regions. Besides making a trip to get tested for coronavirus after I return, I spent all my time until my next journey confined to my studio apartment.

While the quarantine requirement can be quite inconvenient — especially considering my very low risk of exposure — I recognize the need for a uniform protocol right now, and I'm willing to adhere to it for the chance to travel occasionally. This experience also boosted my confidence to take more road trips along the East Coast, including one to Maine, again in partnership with Silvercar using an Audi Q5.