by Starla Ross

Created on: February 14, 2008   Last Updated: January 24, 2009

Come Spring, everyone is ready to shed the winter coats, the grueling homework, and the work assignments and trade them for a little sun and relaxation. The Spring months are the perfect time for families to get away, if even for a few days.

Perfect for all ages is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina, also known as the Outer Banks. Located along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, the Outer Banks is 72 miles of small towns and untouched ocean views.

Accessible by car, plane, or boat, this string of small islands winds its way from Corolla at the most northern portion to Hatteras Village at the most southern tip. Even further south, Ocracoke Island (also considered part of the Outer Banks) is accessible only by small airplane, boat, or ferry.

Well known for both its historical and modern activities, there is something for every member of the family in the Outer Banks.

For those that enjoy the water, there is canoeing, kayaking, and waterboarding. Fishing, crabbing, and dolphin-watching are also popular. Parasailing, kiteboarding, and hang gliding make perfect day trips for teens and adults. In the evening, the entire family will enjoy a peaceful boat road on one of the calm, fresh-water sounds on a rented pontoon boat.

More adventuresome family members may enjoy a small airplane ride around the islands to explore all the barrier reefs have to offer.

Those more comfortable on land will enjoy lazy afternoon bike rides along the coast visiting the small retail and coffee shops. Visitors can follow the many bicycle paths to visit one of the five working lighthouses on the islands. The most popular lighthouse is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, fondly referred to as "America's Lighthouse." Standing over 200 feet tall, the lighthouse is open for climbing from Mid-April through Columbus Day.

History buffs will enjoy a walk along the "Civil War Trail," scattered with historical monuments. The Roanoke Island Festival Park provides an interactive experience for the whole family, with costumed sailors that help depict what life was like for the islanders several hundred years ago. In 2008, the Park will open a new American Indian Town and Cultural Education Center.

For animal lovers, the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island provides the perfect viewing of fresh water and salt water marine life. In addition, the many State Parks and refuges located along the Outer Banks are the perfect backdrop for bird and dolphin-watching.

When dining in the Outer Banks, families

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