The Field Research Facility in northern Duck is known for its 1840 foot long pier and its internationally recognized research. It’s mission is “Advancing coastal knowledge through observation and discovery.”

Established by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1977, FRF is part of the Field Data Collection and Analysis Branch headquartered in Vicksburg, Mississippi and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Along with the pier, also essential to FRF’s operation are instruments that regularly record the changing waves, winds, tides, and currents and specialized vehicles like the unique, three-wheeled “CRAB.” Though it appears top-heavy, this 35-foot tripod with a wide base and liquid-filled tires is able to operate “in all but the most severe storms,” says FRF.

The observatory’s ongoing projects include studies to improve emergency response to cyclones, a coastal flood hazard analysis for FEMA and nearshore ocean depth (bathymetry) surveys, unmatched worldwide in their accuracy and coverage. Particularly important to the Outer Banks is new FRF technology that will help researchers better predict how hurricanes and nor’easters change our beaches.

FRF encourages the use of its facilities and data by other government agencies, universities and private companies throughout the year.

A visit to FRF’s homepage will give you more info on its operations, as well as daily stats on weather, water temperature, waves and warnings on any current coastal hazards. The facility is closed to the public.


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Sandy Run Park

Sandy Run Park

Sandy Run Park leads its visitors through the heart of Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, one of the largest maritime forests remaining in North Carolina. Completed in two phases, the park now encompasses 1600 acres of marshland, waterways and maritime forest. The park features a wooden boardwalk, two gazebos, a fishing and many more amenities for the enjoyment of the area's natural beauty and wildlife. On a stroll through the park you will likely run into many of the area's indigenous creatures and plants.Just after entering the park, and next to the ample parking area you’ll find a covered picnic pavilion, a putting green, cookout grills and a basketball half court. Below the pavilion is a canoe and kayak access deck. Beyond this recreation and picnic area is a half-mile loop, mostly boardwalk, that will take you on a scenic and educational tour of a large section of the Preserve, where wildlife and plants are identified by plaques placed along the route. At the first gazebo stop is another kayak and canoe access where you’re sure to see many yellow-bellied slider turtles swimming all around and an Osprey family nesting above. Other creatures you may get a glimpse of include deer, otter, egrets, raccoons and even a nutria. Also along the boardwalk you’ll find an observation deck and a pier for fishing (license required). The fishing pond is stocked with several varieties of fish, including brim and bass..Sandy Run Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Although the cost is free, the natural serenity and beauty it offers is priceless.

Resort Realty

Resort Realty

For more than 30 years, Resort Realty has been providing unforgettable Outer Banks vacations. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, Resort Realty offers nearly 550 Outer Banks vacation homes that range from cozy 1-bedroom condos to exquisite 13-bedroom luxury estates. Whether you’re counting down to a beloved family vacation, getting away for a long weekend, or planning a special event, our homes represent a variety of lifestyles and locations, with amenities and furnishings such as elevators, private pools and gourmet kitchens to more simple pleasures like wraparound porches, dune-top gazebos, and oceanfront hammocks made for afternoon naps.

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