Driving along the narrow, sandy roads of the Outer Banks, you will see many large houses lining the shore. Sloping roofs point toward the sun, and white-fenced balconies wrap around every floor of this looming resort-like homes. Some may feature the added ambience of personal trappings scattered on porches or driveways - a pair of sandals drying in the sun, or a colorful beach towel draping over a railing. Others are more stately in their quiet setting, waiting for a family to come and enjoy a summer of fun on the beach.

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular destination for families; each year brings thousands of visitors to the thin strip of coast for weeks of sun, fun, and activity. While many motels are seen along Currituck and Dare counties, unless you make reservations well in advance chances are you will see only "No Vacancy" signs as you drive. The best alternative, especially for an extended stay, is to rent a home on the beach.

The advantage to a vacation rental in the Outer Banks is the freedom it provides the family, to say nothing of added amenities one won't find in a simple motel. Many of the vacation rentals in the area are equipped with high-end furnishings and large bedrooms. A family of four or five will be able to stay more comfortably in a rental, with each child enjoying a private room while the parents may enjoy their own solitude. Taking into consideration that pets are part of the family, a check with an area rental agent will determine which vacation homes allow dogs and cats to stay on premises.

Many vacation rentals here come with outdoor grills, so that guest may enjoy a sunset cookout rather than wait in long lines at area restaurants. Nearby grocery stores offer the essentials, but for a classy dining experience one may also visit Bacchus Wine and Cheese in Currituck or the Knotts Island Market for gourmet items. Frog Island Seafood Company sells the best of the Chesapeake Bay, so families can enjoy an old fashioned fish fry or crab boil on the deck of their vacation home.

People with disabilities who wish to visit the beach will find that a vacation rental is more to their advantage. Many homes along the Currituck and southern shores are equipped with wide doors and elevators, allowing for simple access for the wheelchair-bound. As many of the rentals in the Outer Banks are situated above garages (keeping the living quarters raised in the event of storms), an elevator is almost a necessity for some.

Private pools and hottubs are other amenities one will not find in a motel. In a vacation rental, one can relax after a long day of sightseeing in relative privacy.

For a quiet vacation, it is recommended to rent a home where private beach access is available, away from the populous areas of the shore. Currituck County and Duck offer the most isolation, away from the larger towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills, yet are close enough to drive to for a day of attractions and shopping. VisitCurrituck.com, the official site of Currituck Outer Banks tourism, offers an extensive listing of area real estate agents who handle vacation rentals. Here you can research what you need to enjoy your Outer Banks vacation.