This stay was completely last-minute, and we were incredibly fortunate that Stuart generously allowed us to use his beautiful oceanfront home, Pinstripe Paradise (K1718) in Kitty Hawk, free of charge so our son could celebrate turning 15 with three of his closest friends.
The birthday plans were simple—exactly how a group of teenage boys would want it: watch the MMA fight and hang out. No big schedule. No activities to rush to. Just time together.
We assumed they’d take over the top-floor living area with the massive 85-inch TV. Instead, they immediately claimed the bottom-floor game room and barely came up for air for two full days—except for hot tub breaks and, yes… one brave (and slightly questionable) polar plunge.
That unexpected choice turned out to be a gift for us.
With the boys happily settled downstairs, we found ourselves with the top floor entirely to ourselves. Outside, the weather was doing its full Outer Banks winter thing—cold, windy, rainy, and dramatic. Inside, it was quiet, cozy, and peaceful. We sat watching waves crash against the shore, listening to the wind howl, and realizing just how calming it felt to be in a space designed to let the ocean steal the show.
Even with everyone spread out, we naturally met in the middle for meals, gathering in the fully stocked kitchen that quickly became the heart of the house. The boys even baked cookies on their own—and were kind enough to share—which honestly felt like a parenting win worth mentioning.
Experiencing this stay from the guest side gave me a new appreciation for the little details. Prior to arrival, the communication was clear and helpful—exactly what we aim for our own guests. We let visitors know what to bring to make their stay comfortable, because they’re staying in a home, not a hotel (something we talk about often—and why vacation homes offer such a different experience in our vacation home vs. hotel post).
So when we realized we’d forgotten laundry detergent, it wasn’t a problem at all. We made a quick run to nearby Publix, grabbed what we needed for wings, and picked up detergent while we were at it. And honestly? The fact that I even wanted to do laundry says everything. This house felt so comfortable, so livable, that it didn’t feel like a rental—it felt like home.
It was also one of those stays where all the small but important details were already handled. From knowing trash day, to having clear arrival information, to using keyless entry that made coming and going effortless—it was one less set of things to think about. Those behind-the-scenes details don’t always get noticed, but they’re exactly what help a vacation feel smooth from start to finish.
Another thing we truly appreciated was knowing that Stuart lives locally and makes himself available if guests have questions. His only disclaimer? Let me know if you need anything—unless it’s technology related. I defer that to the younger people. Which honestly made us laugh, because our service team has fielded questions like this countless times.
Of course, not all of our homeowners live nearby—which is exactly why they choose Beach Realty to help manage their properties. Having a knowledgeable, responsive team behind the scenes (and owners who care, near or far) makes all the difference in helping guests feel comfortable and supported.
Winter storms have a way of reminding you who’s really in charge out here. At one point, the beach access steps were completely buried in sand—and while we all silently wondered who was going to shovel them out, everyone agreed on one thing: not it.
What surprised us most was how little we wanted to leave.
Even though we live just 15 minutes down the road—in a home we thought we’d miss and be eager to get back to—we kept choosing to stay longer. More time in the hot tub. Cooking up wings. Sitting together watching playoff games on that 85-inch TV, with the sound of the waves rolling in behind us. It felt easy. Comfortable. Complete.
And not going to lie—we can absolutely see ourselves as future guests here. Getting to enjoy the pool during warmer months, along with the upcoming upgrades like the outdoor bar and TV, sounds pretty hard to beat. Watching a game or unwinding outside while soaking in the hot tub, ocean just steps away, feels like the kind of vacation experience people come back for year after year. You might want to book it before we do.
It’s easy—especially for those of us who live here—to forget why people come to the Outer Banks in the first place. This weekend was a reminder. Oceanfront homes aren’t just about sunshine and summer weeks. They’re about presence. Perspective. Space to slow down.
Pinstripe Paradise held all of us exactly where we needed to be—teenagers bonding downstairs, adults soaking in the serenity upstairs, and everyone coming together in between. Multiple living spaces made it easy to enjoy time together without ever feeling crowded. Even in the heart of winter, the experience felt special.
We’re heading home relaxed, happy, and a little proud that we weathered the storm—reminded once again that whether you live nearby or travel from far away, this is a place that makes you feel away the moment you arrive. And if a quiet winter escape sounds tempting, there are still weeks available to enjoy an oceanfront getaway before spring arrives.
View Pinstripe Paradise (K1718) & check availability
Written by Brandi McMahan
Social Media & Marketing Coordinator, Beach Realty OBX