Hi there- I know there are many posts on the OBX. I'm so confused about location. Once I determine a location, my stress level will go down and I just need to find a place. I have two kids- one 3 and one 5. We're looking for a nice beach that's not too terribly congested, not too developed, that has shops and things that kids will enjoy (miniature golf, arcade) in the evening, and windsurfing for my husband that is in the same location or very close to where we would be staying. and good restaurants. We're willing to drive though for the restaurants and possibly the night time activities but not too far. Also, great ice cream place nearby is definitely a plus. Not too many requirements right?
we normally go to cape cod but I really would like to try something different this year. Oh and we are planning a trip the end of July or beginning of August. Thank you so much for the info.

Kill Devil Hills fits your requirements.

Thank you! I'll start my search there.

You might like Cape Hatteras B&B (http://www.capehatterasbandb.com ). This is a lovely B&B with neat rooms for four just a short walk from the beach. Kathy, the owner is always willing to give a piece of advice on the restaurants according to your preferences. There are gift shops, ice cream shops and mini golf within walking distance, so your kids will be entertained. And you won't have to drive anywhere to find a place for surfing - it is all nearby.
The place is very peaceful and relaxing, especially due to the opportunity of enjoying the ocean breeze at the deck. And at the same time there are plenty of activities to occupy oneself with.
You can review more recommended logdings in this area here: http://www.recommendedinns.com/find-...ina-Coast.html

For windsurfing you may want to be much closer to the so-called "Canadian Hole" (in Avon, for example) than in Kill Devil Hills or even in Nags Head although for all the OTHER things you want these two would be better,

There has been a lot of beach erosion in both places, depending on what part of the beach you decide on.

If I were you I would go to www.outerbanksconnection.com and ask this question there...you'll get a LOT LOT more up to date advice

How about something like these: http://www.vrbo.com/179089 It seems to be in a location that has all you want.

Thanks! I'll look into it all. I also posted on outerbanks connection.

I have been going to the OB for years and know the perfect location for you -DUCK! It has everything that you asked for and a lot more. The perfect oceanfront house, SeaMist, can be seen by going to SunRealtyNC.com and keying in 173-A. We went to Cape Cod last summer just to compare. While it was nice, OBX has so much more to offer. You could also try HomeAway.com (#190299)or VRBO.com (#284842). Have a wonderful memory-making vacation.

The southern OBX beaches are definitely a more popular destination for windsurfing, especially Avon, but offer a bit less of the other things you're seeking. They're certainly the least busy of all the OBX beaches b/c they're the longest traveling distance for the majority of visitors.

And while above poster is obviously advertising their own property, Duck (or somewhere immediately nearby) is a good choice for you all. Windsurfing the sound side in the OBX may not give your husband quite the same adrenaline rush as ocean side, it's definitely an option. There are lots of homes to chose from, many with pools. Duck itself has a good share of activities and restaurants but is also close enough to other towns to enjoy what they have to offer as well.

You are probably aware that the weather in the OBX will be a bit warmer and more humid than you're used to in Cape Cod.

Meant to add:

outerbanksconnetion.com is a great resource, as is this forum. Good luck with your search and have a great trip!

Everyone will have a favorite, and there is probably not a really bad choice that you can make. That said, my family has vacationed in and around the Duck area for 20 years. When my kids were small, we really enjoyed Corolla. They have a lot of family activities planned every day at the ocean front pools, and there are many more restaurants and shops available up that way than there used to be. Check out Corolla Light.

http://www.corollalightresort.com/