Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla, North Carolina

12 April 20258 April 2025

From the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, we had a beautiful bird’s eye view of Currituck Heritage Park below. The 39-acre property includes the lighthouse as well as the Whalehead Club located along the sound. Our walk was a short stroll from the light. Through the parking lot, we traveled towards the footbridge crossing over the pond to explore the waterfront.

It was a great change from a day at the beach as we strolled among the breezy 80 degree weather. Various water fowl gathered in the shallow end of the marsh looking for their afternoon snack while tourists were securing their life jackets for a short kayak trip around the Currituck Sound.

Overhead we noticed an osprey flying towards the Whalehead Club, so out of curiosity, we followed it and watched it come to rest at the crest of the rooftop. Fragments of thick, tall grass draped over the roof which suggested there was a nest. Walking further away from the building, we had a clearer view of the tiny beaks stretching up towards the sky. The children mimicked the birds with their necks distended trying to catch a glimpse of the baby birds. They lit up with excitement as their father put each one on his shoulders so they could have a clearer view and a few minutes to watch the baby chicks.

The Whalehead Club was built by Edward and Marie Louise Knight in the 1920s. During this time, it was not uncommon for the wealthy northeasterners to build hunt clubs and invite their friends for some recreational waterfowl and duck hunting. The former mansion is available for tours by appointment.

Following the walking path, we passed by the main pond where we noticed a family taking their chance at crabbing. They added a piece of chicken to the end of a string and waited for a crab to clamp down. It wasn’t long until one of the young boys, about seven years old, pulled up on his twine and a little crab was holding tightly to the end of it. We were just as excited for him as he handed over his catch of the day.

Throughout the park were beautiful outstretched oaks that provided adequate shade for a picnic or solitary space to relax. There were several walking trails that followed along the saltwater pond, led to the canal that feeds into the sound and directed visitors to waterfront vistas and boardwalks.

Displayed outside of the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education was the skull a whale that had washed ashore in September of 2009. By the time it was discovered, it had already decomposed to the point that its bones were exposed. The placard notes that the whale was “found to be a male, sub-adult approximately three years old and twenty four feet in length.”

Additional exhibits showcasing the Outer Banks’ ecosystem continued inside the 5,000 square foot complex. There were numerous attractions and artifacts as well as an 8,000 gallon aquarium. A life-sized demonstration of the saltwater marsh duck-blind was a reminder of Currituck’s history of water-fowl hunting.

Have you visited Currituck Heritage Park? Have you attended one of their events? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Currituck and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Currituck Heritage Park
1160 Village Lane
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 0221

Admission Fee: There is no fee to enter the park.
Hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Amenities: fishing, picnicking, nearby Currituck lighthouse, rental of the Whalehead Club, kayaking, bird watching
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the sound from the bridge; beautiful views of the area from the lighthouse.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Where to Stay:

Inn at Corolla Light
9606, 1066 Ocean Trail
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 3340

Where to Eat:

Outer Banks Boil Company
Timbuck II Shopping Village
9501 Suite D, 785 Sunset Blvd.
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 6578

We ordered the shrimp boil pot which included jumbo shrimp, Louisiana spicy andouille sausage, red bliss potatoes, corn on the cob and Vidalia onion which are all cooked together in a pot.

Duck Donuts
1190 Duck Road
Duck, NC 27949
Telephone: 252 480 3304

Try their maple bacon donut!c

What to Eat:

Crab Benedict at Sam and Ornies on Nag’s Head
Frogmore Stew Steamer Bucket from Armstrong’s Seafood in Nag’s Head
Donuts at Duck Donuts
Carolina Barbecue at Pigman’s BBQ on Nag’s Head

What to Read:

Hatteras Blue, by David Poyer
Early from the Dance, by David Payne
Surf Men by C.T. Marshall
Murder at Hatteras by Joe C. Ellis
Return to the Outer Banks by Diann Ducharme

Photo Guide for the Outer Banks

Pea Island Wildlife Refuge for capturing local birds
Jennette’s Pier to photograph local fishermen and beautiful sunrises
Ocracoke Horses
Triangle Shipwreck at Kill Devils Hill
Shipwreck artifacts at Seagreen Gallery
The Cape Hatteras lighthouse at Cape Hatteras
Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo

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Point Reyes National Seashore: The Lighthouse

5 September 202223 September 2024

During a previous stay in San Francisco, I tried to reach the Point Reyes National Seashore to watch the sunset, but I had failed. Not anticipating the hour long, intense drive of switchbacks and winding roads, I knew I was not going to reach the lighthouse in time for the sunset. I was so disappointed and began the drive back in hopes to make this trek again in the near future.

A couple of months later, I found myself leaving from San Francisco driving north to Marin County. This is not a road for the faint of heart, but I was determined to make it this time, on time and with enough time to reach this spectacular view.

Having navigated through the challenging landscape, I turned into the entrance of the park. I was surprised to find that I was driving through private farmlands, but continued to stay on course. Posted signs clearly explained that the cattle farms were under the purview of the California government.

The roadway through the park continued until I finally arrived at the entrance to the park, a short distance from the lighthouse. The parking lot was practically empty with only a couple of cars and I noticed ahead there was a gate at the entrance to the lighthouse. I was confused but started my hike when I was welcomed by a herd of deer grazing alongside of the path.

I continued along the paved pathway noticing the spectacular view of the seashore to my right. Within a few hundred feet and around the bend, I noticed what appeared to be living quarters. Thinking that I may be trespassing on private property, I thought about turning back towards my car. At that time, a young girl was driving towards the house and mentioned that I was heading in the right direction to see the lighthouse.

It was turning out to be a great time to view the local wildlife. Within a few hundred feet, I noticed a hawk-like bird sitting on the power line.

As I edged closer towards the Point Reyes Light, I was reminded of why I love west coast sunsets. Having lived in Southern California, I couldn’t wait to head down to San Clemente pier each night to watch the sun disappear into the horizon. The reflecting colors of the sun through the cloudy sky creates a different experience each time.

Around the corner, I noticed a fenced off area and as I approached closer, there was a set of stairs leading to the lighthouse. While I had a great view through the fence, I wished I could have visited when it was open. I’m just not sure if I could handle a third attempt on those crazy roads, but it won’t be anytime soon.

Have you been to the Point Reyes National Seashore? Were you able to visit the lighthouse? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my trip to Point Reyes National Seashore. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Point Reyes National Seashore
1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Telephone: 415 464 5100

Admission Fee: There is no entrance fee to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.
Hours: Open all year from 6:00AM to 12:00AM; Bear Valley Visitor Center is open (March through October) on weekdays from 10AM to 5PM and on weekends and holidays from 9AM to 5PM. From November to February on weekdays from 10AM to 4:30PM and weekends and holidays from 9AM to 4:30PM
Amenities: Lighthouse, visitor center, parking, camping, boat-in camping, ranger-guided programs, habitat restoration program, yoga classes, salmon spawning (seasonal)
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the coast from the hiking trails and this is the perfect place for watching the sunset.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The road to reach Point Reyes National Seashore from San Francisco may affect those that are prone to car sickness. The length of the trip (1 hour each way) is long, so provide enough time if you are interested in watching the sunset. Bring plenty of water and snacks and ensure that your vehicle has plenty of fuel for the drive. You can take the hike to the lighthouse or an easier option to park near it and take the short trail. Summer is the best time to visit due to fog.

Where to Stay:

Tomales Bay Resort & Marina
12938 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA 94937
Telephone: 415 669 1389

Where to Eat:

Saltwater Oyster Depot
12781 Sir Frances Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA 94937
Telephone: 415 669 1244

Did somebody say oysters? I was ready for about a dozen raw oysters on the half shell! As if that was not enough, Peter and I split the Shellfish Risotto….crazy amazing!

Lighting Up Michigan’s Shores!

7 May 201918 September 2024

Since Michigan has the most lighthouses than any other state in the US, it only made sense to check out a few while we were on vacation. We couldn’t wait to explore The Holland Michigan Lighthouse, Grand Traverse Lighthouse and Old Mission Point Lighthouse.

We made a stop in Holland, Michigan which was the perfect detour on our way to the vacation rental in Traverse City. We strolled the beach and walked the pier while enjoying a cool breeze coming from the lake. We felt renewed after having driven four hours from Ohio watching the sailboats navigate the channel while passing by the lighthouse.

The Holland Harbor Light is known as Big Red by the locals. The lighthouse provides warning to ships and boats as they near the channel. The placard nearby provides an interesting overview of how the Dutch persevered in completing the channel by digging the waterway themselves when government funds ran dry. Access to the lighthouse is limited and is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the middle of the morning to sunset.

Later in the week, I chose to visit The Grand Traverse Lighthouse on Leelanau Peninsula. It was a rainy day and the landscape was exceptionally green. To reach the lighthouse, I had to first pay a fee to enter Leelanau State Park before continuing the coastal drive to the tip of the peninsula.

The lighthouse that stands today was built in the late 1850s. To enter, there is an additional fee in addition to the cost to access the state park. Visitors can reach the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

Closest to where we were staying, Mission Point Lighthouse is about a 15 minute drive from downtown Traverse City. As we entered Lighthouse Park, we found the parking lot and made our way toward the light with a quick stop at Hessler’s Log Cabin with plans to explore the house on our way back.

What makes Mission Point Light so unique is that it is located along the 45^th parallel which is halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. According to experts, because of its location, this part of the state is optimal for growing grapes which is why Michigan also produces wine. The placard listed a few other locations along the 45^th parallel to include Bordeaux which is famous for its wine production in France.

Built in the late 1850s, the Hessler Log Cabin was once the home of Joseph and Mary Hessler. In the 1950s and 60s, it later became housing for local cherry pickers. The cabin was moved here so that visitors to the lighthouse could learn more about the lives of the first settlers on this peninsula.

Taking the scenic route of M-37, we looked forward to the beautiful drive back to Traverse City. We passed vineyards and cherry orchards before browsing the Old Mission General Store. We had such a great time visiting the Mission Point Lighthouse, but everyone was ready for a stop in Traverse City to order more of their amazing Grand Traverse Pie.

Are there certain attractions that interest you when you vacation? Are you a fan of lighthouses? I would love to hear about additional places to visit, so kindly leave a message in the comments section below!! Many thanks for reading about my trip to the lighthouses near Grand Traverse, Michigan! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Holland Lighthouse (Big Red Lighthouse)
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49423
Telephone: 800 506 1299

Grand Traverse Lighthouse
15500 Lighthouse Point Road
Northpoint, MI 49670
Telephone: 231 386 7195

Old Mission Point Lighthouse
20500 Center Road
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 223 7324

Restaurant Recommendation:

Grand Traverse Pie Company
525 West Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 922 7437

The perfect stop for soup, sandwiches, salads and of course pie!

The Fog Signal Building, Grand Traverse Lighthouse,1899

Beautiful view of Lake Michigan from the grounds of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Another view of the Old Mission Lighthouse, Michigan

Looking out from the Old Mission Lighthouse, Michigan

Inside the Hessler Cabin, Michigan

A Tour of San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro

21 May 201821 September 2024

San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is the iconic representation of a city rich with history and architecture. The fort, also known as El Morro, has lasted over 400 years, protecting the southwestern side of the island from invaders and pirates. But what was the reason that a fort was built here in the first place? It was strategically located between the continent of Europe and the New World where ships could seek shelter, water and supplies and it was determined, that occupation of this land would give wealth to the country that controlled this entrance into the Caribbean Sea.

It was in 1493 when Christopher Columbus came to the island and first claimed it for Spain. Puerto Rico would later fall to the British and Dutch, but only for very short periods of time. During the Dutch attack in 1623, hundreds of Dutch and Spanish soldiers gave their lives. It wasn’t until the 1800’s that Spain would cede ownership of the island to the United States of America, ending the Spanish-American War.

As I walked through the Greek-style entrance into the fort, I noticed the thick walls that gave an extra depth to the fortification of the city. It would take Spain over 250 years to build El Morro. The structure that stands today is similar to the how the fort would have looked in 1790.

I was so interested in the structure of the fort that I hardly noticed the large iguanas on the interior lawn of El Morro. I also noticed them climbing up the fortress wall and stopped a few times to take a closer look because they were camouflaged so well.

As I crossed the bridge into El Morro, I entered Level 5 of the six levels of the fort. Looking up from this level there were three flags representing the Spanish Army, Puerto Rico and the United States of America.

The cannons were a reminder of the importance of this fort in times when it was occupied to defend the island. Many of them used bronze 8-pound cannonballs that took eight to ten artillerymen to operate them. Their strategy was to fire the cannons every thirty seconds, reaching targets a mile away.

The kitchen was a very important part of the lives of the soldiers. Meals were prepared here using ingredients such as fish and cured meat that came from Spain. When the meat arrived, it was inedible so the soldiers soaked it with vegetables and spices creating a type of stew. It is said that this is the origin of sancocho, a stew that remains popular both in Puerto Rico as well as other Spanish-speaking countries.

After visiting many of the rooms, including the powder room, on the fifth floor, I took the ramp up to the sixth floor to see the area known as the “Land Defense”.

From the level six of the fort, it was easy to see why this floor would be considered a strong area of defense. With the evidence of cannons stationed here, there was little space between each one, guaranteed to hit their targets coming in from the sea.

It wasn’t until 1846 that the first of four lighthouses (two would be rebuilt) at El Morro were erected to provide safe passage for ships into and out of the harbor of San Juan. Prior to the restoration of the lighthouse that currently stands on El Morro, the previous house was made out of red brick and was in desperate need of repair.

I couldn’t help but notice the spectacular view from Level 6 of El Morro and imagined an invasion of ships heading toward us in the distance.

Next, I took the stairs down to the lower level. At this point, I was heading toward the Cannon Water Battery. It was here where I found the remaining cannons on display and the embrasures from which the cannons were fired.

There was a medieval watch tower in the center of the battery. Known as the Torre Antigua, some believe it may be haunted.

Looking over the wall, I could see another fort out into the horizon at the end of Isla de Cabras (Goat Island). This is El Morro’s sister fort, San Juan de la Cruz, translated as St. John of the Cross. It was strategically placed here to create crossfire in the event that ships would try to slip past El Morro on the far side of the channel. This small fort is also referred to as El Canuelo.

From this vantage point, I clearly understood the importance of this area in defense of the island and how important it was for protecting San Juan.

The view from the top of the fort emphasized the complicated structure of El Morro. The worn away, weathered stone and its height gave it the sense of strength and might. The thickness of the walls provided a sense of wonder and impenetrability.

I came across a structure that seemed more updated and out of place. I learned that this was once an Observation Post which was used during WWII. After the Second War, El Morro would no longer act as a military base.

Continuing my climb up the fort, I noticed where the cannons would have been placed and the circular patterns that they created when moved to the left or right to hit their target out in the ocean.

El Morro is unlike any fortress I have seen throughout the United States. It was built and designed to protect the city and remains an iconic figure to San Juan. There have been several forts along the American coasts, but this is one of the most fascinating and well preserved.

Have you had the opportunity to visit El Morro? What are your thoughts about this expansive structure? I would love to hear what you liked most about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our exploration of El Morro and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo de San Felipe del Morro
501 Norzagaray Street
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 729 6754

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water).

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

I can’t resist ordering the local dish, mofongo where the main ingredient is fried plantains most likely served with a healthy helping of meat such as chicken, beef or seafood.

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

A sentry (lookout) at El Morro

Belltower at El Morro

The Restored Lighthouse at El Morro

The Layout of El Morro which resembles a bull

Stairs and ramps at El Morro

Beautiful View from El Morro

The Chapel at the Fort

Flags at the Fort

Seaside views from El Morro Fort

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, Portland, Maine

1 December 201716 September 2024

There is only a ten minute drive between the Portland Head Lighthouse to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in Portland. As we travel the coast into the South Side of Portland, the views are spectacular with sailboats in the cove surrounded by million dollar mansions.

The lighthouse was completed in 1897 and is one of 49 caisson-style lighthouses in the United States that visitors can walk to. It protects sailors from the dangerous ledge as they enter the Casco Bay and Portland Harbor, located at the end of the 950-foot breakwater.

Built by Thomas Dyer, the lighthouse measures 77 feet in height and was an integral part of protecting Portland’s growing harbor in the 1800s. It was lit by William A. Lane on May 24, 1897. The breakwater was added in 1951, built of 50, 000 tons of local granite.

The lighthouse was transferred to private ownership under the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 1996 and a trust was formed in 1998 to maintain Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and manage future restoration projects.

While visitors can walk along the breakwater for a closer view of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, guided tours begin after the Memorial Day weekend on Tuesdays and Thursdays and limited Saturdays from 11:30AM to 1:30PM as the weather allows. The cost is $5 per person. Private tours are also available for up to 12 people with a fee of $150.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse? Did you take the guided tour? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my wonderful visit to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
2 Fort Road
South Portland, ME 04106
Telephone: 866 570 5703

Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset
Amenities: Guided tours, beach nearby,
Length of Your Tour: 1 – 2 hours to visit
Tips for Your Visit: There is a beach and fort next to the lighthouse. There is a small fee to enter the lighthouse and call ahead to schedule a tour. Check the tide as it is best to visit during low tide. Small parking area on the community college’s campus.

Where to Stay:

Inn at St. John Portland In-Town
939 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04102
Telephone: 800 636 9127

Where to Eat:

DiMillos
25 Long Wharf
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 772 2216

What to Eat:

Seafood, especially lobster!

What to Read:

Delirium, by Lauren Oliver
Persuader, by Lee Child
Shelter in Place, by Nora Roberts
The Singing Trees, by Boo Walker
The Probability of Miracles, by Wendy Wunder

Photo Guide for Portland:

Boda Thai Kitchen
Casco Bay and the Portland Head Lighthouse
Crown Jewel
Drifter’s Wife
Eventide Oyster Company
Portland Head Lighthouse
The Press Hotel

Fort Williams Park and the Portland Head Lighthouse

3 November 201716 September 2024

A stunning coastline and the charm of New England drew me to Portland, Maine while on a business trip to Boston. With a few relaxing days, I would start my journey with a visit to the Portland Head Light and continue to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. Adding a stroll of downtown Portland, I would explore the charming coastal towns in search of the best roadside lobster roll in the state.

Fort Williams Park is a ten-minute, southeast drive from downtown Portland. The park offers a long list of activities to enjoy a beautiful afternoon along the coast of Cape Elizabeth. Trails lead to the ruins of Fort Williams and with 90 acres of outdoor space, it is the perfect location for a picnic of lobster rolls, a scenic bike ride or for taking your dog on a walk. The Portland Head Light was built by order of George Washington in 1791 and is closed to visitors. The nearby museum provides a great overview of the lighthouse and its history. The Goddard House, completed in 1868 is another beautiful location at the park to explore.

Strolling along the rugged coastline, a sign dating over 100 years was painted into the rock announcing, “Annie C. Maguire shipwrecked here Christmas Eve 1886”. The Annie Maguire was a large, three-masted British barque ship that run aground along the shores near Portland Head Lighthouse. With the help from the lighthouse keeper and his son, all thirteen passengers arrived safely.

The Goddard Mansion, built for lumber magnate John Goddard, was completed in 1858. Designed by architect Charles A. Alexander, the Italianate-style villa sits atop of a hill with spectacular views of Casco Bay and the lighthouse. the Goddard family lived in the two-storied manor with a basement until his death in 1870. Three years later, the Army purchased land near the lighthouse and began building Fort Williams and by 1898 they acquired an additional 75 acres to include the home, converting it into military housing. Today, only the exterior structure remains and due to potential safety issues, it is not open to the public.

Before leaving Fort Williams Park towards Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, I returned to the Portland Head Lighthouse for a few additional photos. As I watched the sailboats dropping anchor at the cape, I noticed a couple of kayakers navigating Casco Bay. It was the perfect day with gorgeous weather and calm seas, so I decided to stay a few minutes more and enjoy a Lobster Roll with this spectacular view.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Fort Williams Park, the Portland Head Lighthouse and Goddard Mansion? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my time at Fort Williams Park and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fort Williams Park
1000 Shore Road
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
Telephone: 207 767 3707

Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset
Amenities: Picnic shelter reservation, free guided tours by resident Jim Rowe
Length of Your Tour: 2 – 3 hours to visit
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early before the crowds and be prepared to pay for parking.

Where to Stay:

Inn at St. John Portland In-Town
939 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04102
Telephone: 800 636 9127

Where to Eat:

DiMillos
25 Long Wharf
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 772 2216

What to Eat:

Seafood, especially lobster! Check out the many roadside shacks where you can choose your lobster, find a picnic table and bring your own beer and wine.

What to Read:

Delirium, by Lauren Oliver
Persuader, by Lee Child
Shelter in Place, by Nora Roberts
The Singing Trees, by Boo Walker
The Probability of Miracles, by Wendy Wunder

Photo Guide for Portland:

Boda Thai Kitchen
Casco Bay and the Portland Head Lighthouse
Crown Jewel
Drifter’s Wife
Eventide Oyster Company
Portland Head Lighthouse
The Press Hotel

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse, North Carolina

14 May 201716 September 2024

Standing at the base of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, I noticed the impressive, ominous tower of bricks reaching 158 feet towards the Carolina sky. My family and I had stopped at the historic Corolla Village to climb the 214 steps that leads to the gallery deck for phenomenal views of the North Carolina coast.

We could see the lighthouse from our summer rental home and the children were fascinated with watching the lights at night. Counting the seconds as the glow circled back to the house, the kids giggled at each passing of the light and jumped up and down in excitement.

It was a hot summer day and although the lighthouse cast a shadow as if to protect us in line, we realized it was going to be steamy climb on the inside. Slow and steady we climbed each step, reaching the tight circular deck at the top. From here we would be able to experience gorgeous views of the Outer Banks that reached all the way to the Virginia state line.

The metal, spiral staircase was secure but made us feel weak in the knees. The distance between each step was shallow, so we were more cautious to ensure that we would not trip nor lose our footing. Windows had been inserted randomly giving us a breath of fresh air to carry on with our climb. The breeze felt great but we could feel the sweat dripping through our clothes and we had not yet reached the top.

There were signs at each window that labeled the thickness of the lighthouse at each stopping point. With walls measuring 5 foot 8 inches at the bottom, the depth of the walls tapered off to 3 feet towards the top.

We loved the fact that the Currituck Beach Lighthouse had not been painted so the one million bricks were exposed. Compared to the other Outer Banks lighthouses, Currituck Light was the last major brick lighthouse built on the shores of North Carolina.

It seemed like eternity but we finally reached the top and were met with a stunning view and a gentle breeze. We carefully stepped onto the gallery and realized once again, we were weak in the from the height and instantly grabbed onto the rail. Cautiously walking the circular overlook, I too found myself white-knuckling the banister but soon become more comfortable enough to loosen my grip. We couldn’t get enough of the breeze and the spectacular panorama of the Atlantic Ocean, the Currituck Sound and the beautiful homes along the coast.

On the sound side of our view, the Whalehead Club stood out with its daisy yellow color and delicate dormers. The Currituck Heritage Park was beautifully landscaped with Carolina foliage and was home to native birds, such as the osprey.

I was fascinated with the untouched natural habitat that had not yet been commercialized by local real estate. I learned from the lighthouse curator that the area had been preserved from further development and generations of visitors will have the opportunity to experience this view.

Around the corner of the platform, the children were searching for the rental house where we were staying. The group of homes made it somewhat difficult to confirm, but it was fun to watch how easily the kids were entertained.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse was completed in December of 1875 and lit by the first lighthouse keeper, Nathaniel G. Burris. We learned that the lighthouse is known as a first order lighthouse meaning that it has the largest of seven Fresnel lenses.

Since 1939, the beacon’s light has been automated, illuminating at dusk and ending at dawn. It can be seen for 18 nautical miles.

For more information about the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, visit the museum and lighthouse exhibits on the ground floor. Learn more about the Fresnel lens, the shipwrecks and history of the lighthouse keepers.

Check out the website for the lighthouse to learn more about upcoming events such as educational series, wine tastings, historical sessions, and a Halloween event.

Email the lighthouse directly at info@currituckbeachlight.com or call 252 453 8152.

What to See and What to Do:

Curritick Beach Lighthouse
1101 Corolla Village Road
PO Box 58
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 4939

Where to Stay:

Inn at Corolla Light
9606, 1066 Ocean Trail
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 3340

Where to Eat:

The Oceanfront Grille
1197 Franklyn Street
Corolla, NC 27927
Telephone: 252 453 4748

The Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops were drizzled with teriyaki sauce, which I ordered as an appetizer. For my entree, I wanted to try the Filet Mignon as well as the Crabcake which was available as a combination meal.

What to Eat:

Crab Benedict at Sam and Ornies on Nag’s Head
Frogmore Stew Steamer Bucket from Armstrong’s Seafood in Nag’s Head
Donuts at Duck Donuts
Carolina Barbecue at Pigman’s BBQ on Nag’s Head

What to Read:

Hatteras Blue, by David Poyer
Early from the Dance, by David Payne
Surf Men by C.T. Marshall
Murder at Hatteras by Joe C. Ellis
Return to the Outer Banks by Diann Ducharme

Photo Guide for the Outer Banks

Pea Island Wildlife Refuge for capturing local birds
Jennette’s Pier to photograph local fishermen and beautiful sunrises
Ocracoke Horses
Triangle Shipwreck at Kill Devils Hill
Shipwreck artifacts at Seagreen Gallery
The Cape Hatteras lighthouse at Cape Hatteras
Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo

Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks, North Carolina

9 April 201716 September 2024

Driving south towards Ocracoke on Highway 12, I caught a glimpse of the Bodie (pronounced “Body”) Island Lighthouse in the distance. I was halfway there, but decided to take the side road to have a closer look. Towering over 156 feet, there are 214 steps to reach the top with spectacular views of the Albemarle Sound, the Oregon Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse recently reopened in 2014 after an extensive renovation and is the third lighthouse to stand in this place.

Bodie Light initially opened in 1872, under the recommendation of Lieutenant Napoleon L. Coste who was tasked with deciding the placement of lighthouses along the North Carolina Coast. It was his opinion during his 1837 examination that “more vessels are lost there than on any other part of our coast” resulting in Congress’s decision to allocate funds to the project.

Unfortunately, the first lighthouse built on the site met with many challenges from the purchasing of the land and lack of experience to complete the project. At 54 feet in height, the initial lighthouse was not only leaning, it would have cost more for the repairs than to start from the ground up. This lighthouse project was abandoned in 1859. That same year, a second lighthouse was constructed in close proximity to the first light reaching 80 feet in height. Unfortunately, with the start of the Civil War, Confederate troops destroyed the lighthouse in fear that Union soldiers would use it in battle.

The lighthouse that stands today on the 15-acre site is north of the original lighthouses and was completed in 1872. Surrounded by saltwater ponds, marshlands and maritime forest, it too had its problems as geese were known to have been flying into the lens and adequate grounding had not been installed to absorb the electric from lightning strikes.

The lightkeeper’s quarters was completed in 1872 as well, but due to its isolating location, the family lived off site during the cold winter months. Eventually, there would be an improvement to access on the island and the families would live at the Keepers’ Quarters year around. Once the light was electrified in 1932, the former keeper’s quarters was eventually converted into the visitor’s center. Public tours of the lighthouse are permitted each year by purchasing tickets online.

Have you visited the Bodie Island Lighthouse? Did you climb to the top to see the spectacular views? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Bodie Island Lighthouse and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bodie Island Lighthouse
8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road
Nags Head, NC 27959
Telephone: 252 441 5711

Admission Fee: There is a fee for climbing Bodie Lighthouse: $10 for adults (13+) and $5 for children 12 and under.
Hours: Visitor’s Center open daily from 9AM to 5PM, with the exception to Christmas; Bodie Island Lighthouse Climbing; Open 3^rd Friday in April through Columbus Day
Amenities: visitor center, lighthouse climb
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Hatteras coastline from the top of the lighthouse
Length of Visit: less than 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and be careful climbing the lighthouse

Where to Stay:

Scarborough Inn
524 US-64
Manteo, NC 27954
Telephone: 252 473 3979

Where to Eat:

Fish Heads Bar & Grill
8901 S. Old Oregon Inlet Road
Nags Head, NC 27959
Telephone: 252 441 5740

What more can you want? Ocean views, seafood and a variety of craft beers? Starting with the conch fritters, I enjoyed the light breading on the outside, yummy conch on the inside with a side of Napoleon Complex Pale Ale from Wicked Weed Brewing in Ashville, NC. For my main meal, I decided on the crabcake without the bun and it was prepared perfectly! I ordered the Pineapple Cider from Austin Eastciders Collaboratory from Austin, Texas, which had a refreshing tropical taste.

What to Eat:

Crab Benedict at Sam and Ornies on Nag’s Head
Frogmore Stew Steamer Bucket from Armstrong’s Seafood in Nag’s Head
Donuts at Duck Donuts
Carolina Barbecue at Pigman’s BBQ on Nag’s Head

What to Read:

Hatteras Blue, by David Poyer
Early from the Dance, by David Payne
Surf Men by C.T. Marshall
Murder at Hatteras by Joe C. Ellis
Return to the Outer Banks by Diann Ducharme

Photo Guide for the Outer Banks

Pea Island Wildlife Refuge for capturing local birds
Jennette’s Pier to photograph local fishermen and beautiful sunrises
Ocracoke Horses
Triangle Shipwreck at Kill Devils Hill
Shipwreck artifacts at Seagreen Gallery
The Cape Hatteras lighthouse at Cape Hatteras
Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo

Holland, Michigan: True to its Dutch Heritage

30 April 201615 September 2024

As my family continues to grow, our vacations are typically based on two factors: driving distance to our destination and space for all of the kiddos. If we can find a beach (lake or ocean) and a list of fun attractions, that is also a plus. After coming up with several ideas and narrowing our search, we all agreed to spend our summer vacation near Traverse City, Michigan with an overnight stop in Holland.

I had recently visited Holland during a visit to the city’s annual Tulip Time Festival and recommended it as the overnight stop for our trip. I was impressed with the local attractions, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as its absolute charm.

Our first stop in Holland was the city’s state park. After strolling the beautiful coastline and watching the locals fish from the pier, we headed downtown for an early dinner. We could not have asked for better weather with sunny skies and a cool breeze.

The fish were biting and we saw a young boy taking his catch to the end of the dock to drop it into a bucket. Lake Michigan is full of fish including bass, trout, catfish, perch, walleye, bass as well as salmon.

On the way back from the pier, we took a closer look at the beautiful red lighthouse on the opposite side of the channel. We learned that the locals call it “Big Red” , but its official name is the Holland Harbor Light. It plays an important role for guiding the boats through the channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa.

Strolling along the beach, we worked up an appetite and decided it was time to find a restaurant that could accommodate all of us. The trip into Holland did not take but a few minutes and we were able to find parking on 8^th street, the main shopping and restaurant district of town.

We decided on Crust 54 where we ordered pizza and pasta. The place was packed, but we were able to find seating for our group of six. We stepped up to the counter to order and they brought our food to us when it was ready. The Chicago Special pizza with Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers and onions was abundantly cheesy and delicious.

The sun was beginning to set and we had a little time to shop before reaching the hotel. Holland is typical small town America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has won several awards and was ranked by the well-being index as the second healthiest/happiest town in the United States. CNN ranked it as one of the top five places to retire in 2006.

Have you vacationed in Holland or live here? I would love to hear your suggestions for where to eat and shop if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my family vacation stay in Holland! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Holland State Park
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49424
Telephone: 616 399 9390

Holland Harbor Light
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49424
Telephone: 616 399 9390

Where to Stay:

Baert Baron Mansion
120 S. Church Street
Zeeland, MI 49464
Telephone: 616 748 1953

Where to Eat:

Crust 54 – Downtown Holland
54 E. 8th Street
Holland, MI 49423
Telephone: 616 394 3002

Where to Drink:

What to Read:

Holland, the Tulip Town, by Randall P. Vande Water
Boats Made in Holland: A Michigan Tradition, by Geoffrey D. Reynolds
Holland, Michigan: From Dutch Colony to Dynamic City, by Robert P. Swierenga

Photo Guide for Tulip Time and Holland:

The Fields of Tulips throughout the city
DeZwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Polder Molen Windmill at Nelis’ Dutch Village
Dutch Dancers
Nelis’ Dutch Village: landscaped gardens, canals, carousel, brick walkways, gardens of tulips, petting farm, Carillon Bell Tower, The East Gate, Dutch houses
Windmill Island Gardens, merry-go-round, carousel, dutch dancers

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A Young Boy and his Fish

An Amazing Weekend in San Diego

11 June 201531 August 2024

It was a successful conference in San Diego and I stayed a couple of extra days in Southern California to explore this amazing coast. My plans were to snap some photos of the local scenic views, hike the Anza-Borrego, shop Coronado Island and sneak off for a couple of hours in Tijuana. My home-base hotel would be the Wyndham San Diego Bayside (with amazing views of the bay), the perfect location for enjoying the beach and hanging out on the south side of town.

My friends suggested that I visit the Cabrillo National Monument for its scenic views of the bay and Navy Base. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo is credited as the first European to step foot on California soil in 1592. From the Mexican city of Navidad, Cabrillo and his ship, the “San Salvador” reached the west coast, what is known today as San Diego. At the top of the hill overlooking Point Loma is a statue of the Spanish explorer commemorating his voyage.

In addition to the monument, the New Point Loma Lighthouse is one of the main draws to Cabrillo. Replacing the original lighthouse where the memorial now stands, the new light shines from the Point Loma peninsula in San Diego. The tide pools surrounding the cape are home to an amazing number of sea creatures that include starfish, anemones and barnacles.

Only a thirty minute drive to Coronado, I left Point Loma, hopped on Interstate 5 driving south and crossed over the bridge to reach the famous Hotel del Coronado. Built in 1888 in grand Victorian-style, The Del was once the largest resort in the world. Its iconic red rotunda provides views of the bay, ocean and city of San Diego. Hosting numerous United States Presidents and British Royals, the Hotel Del was the place to stay for celebrities such as Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Katherine Hepburn and Ginger Rogers. The resort is best known as the backdrop to the movie Some Like it Hot starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon.

I enjoyed the rest of my afternoon hanging out at The Del and met up with some friends who were staying at the resort for the weekend. We enjoyed fruity drinks and light appetizers overlooking the bay. We booked a reservation at the restaurant and returned to the terrace to watch the extraordinary sunset.

I rose early in the morning to hike Anza-Borrego which was about a two hour drive from San Diego. The weather was spectacular and I could not wait to spend the morning there until meeting up with friends before they flew back to the east coast. While I really wanted to hike “The Slot”, I learned that I would need a four wheel drive vehicle, so I opted to explore the 3-mile Palm Canyon trail. Parking at the campground, it took me nearly 2 hours to complete the hike which included extraordinary palm groves, waterfalls and typical desert plants.

Arriving back at the Hotel del Coronado, we all agreed to make a quick run across the border into Mexico for some fun and margaritas. We parked on the San Diego side, crossed through border control and grabbed a taxi for Avenida Revolucion. Stopping by Dandy del Sur, we learned that this is the oldest bar in town. The drinks were cheap and strong and of course we had the most fun people-watching. We stayed for a couple of hours, found a taxi and stood in line to wait for border patrol. Street vendors were selling churros so we bought a few orders while we waited and finally made it across to the US.

I had another great weekend in San Diego and since I booked the red-eye, I packed up my belongings, ordered In-N-Out through the drive through and arrived at the airport in plenty of time. With so many things to do in SoCal, I never tire of visiting whether it’s for work or pleasure. One day I am going to hike The Slot at Anza and can’t wait to mark this off of my bucket list.

Have you visited San Diego and do you have a favorite place in town you like to visit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for catching up with me in one of my favorite US cities on the west coast and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cabrillo National Monument
1800 Cabrillo Monument Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
Telephone: 619 557 5450

Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118
Telephone: 619 435 6611

Anza-Borrego State Park
Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Telephone: 760 767 4205

Admission Fee: There is no charge for visiting Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk; The visitor center is open seven days a week from 9AM to 5PM.
Amenities: Camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, historical/cultural site, picnic areas, parking
Scenic View: The vista point provides scenic views of the park.
Length of Visit: Over 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: February and March are the best times to visit to see the spring flowers. Cellular and internet service may be limited at times. Make sure you have plenty of water and snacks and that you fuel up your vehicle before entering the park. Because this is the desert, make sure you have plenty of sunscreen as temperatures can be very warm.

Where to Stay:

Wyndham San Diego Bayside
1355 North Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
Telephone: 619 232 3861

Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118
Telephone: 619 435 6611

Where to Eat:

In-N-Out
3102 Sports Arena Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92110
Telephone: 800 786 1000

I either order the animal style burger with lettuce, tomato, mustard, pickle, extra spread and grilled onions or the protein style which is wrapped in lettuce rather than a bun.

What to Eat:

Mexican cuisine, especially tamales
California wood-fired pizza
Southeast Asian foods
Sushi
Seafood
Local Wines

What to Read:

The Dawn Patrol, by Don Winslow
San Diego Noir, by Maryelizabeth Hart
I So Don’t Do Mysteries, by Barrie Summy
Under the Perfect Sun: The San Diego Tourists Never See, by Mike Davis

Photo Guide for San Diego:

The Botanical Building and Lily Pond at Balboa Park
Greetings from San Diego mural on the sidewall of Belching Beaver Brewery
Sunset Cliffs
Old Town San Diego
Hotel del Coronado

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.