
Lighthouses of the Outer Banks, NC
While visiting the Outer Banks, NC during shoulder season recently, we were caught in a Nor'easter. One of the many things it allowed us to do was find a slew of things to do from the beach in the rain. Checking out one of the travel search sites, we were surprised to see the Super Wings stores as destinations.

Super Wings Super Beach Store Interior
You wouldn't expect a store to make a "best things to do" list and yet Super Wings does just that. When you walk in the door, it's utterly overwhelming. Seriously. If there's something they don't have when it comes to souvenirs or beach-going items, you probably don't really need it.

Home Good Souvenirs
Enter to a barrage of color, from floor to ceiling. Try to take it in small chunks so you're not too overwhelmed.

Super Wings Back Wall
While some members of our group looked for sunscreen or souvenirs, I headed to the saltwater taffy. It's one of those items that bring back childhood memories. And has great images of the local lighthouses on the box.

Salt Water Taffy Box Images
Then it was time to just look.

Sandy Feet Welcome Sign
They do such great work at the local Aquarium, I was glad to see rock turtles and sea turtles on display.

Sea Turtles
They have plenty of fun sayings on their signs. I'm not sure my husband would appreciate being called "an old crab" but the "best catch" works for both of us.

Funny Sayings You Can Take Home
I was impressed by the number of photo holders they had like this…

Lifeguard Chair Photo Holders
and this ...

Fun Photo Frames
and by the assortment of home goods for purchase.

Fun Memories
Some are useful ...

Starfish Salt & Pepper Shakers
even for drinks, on vacation or at home ...

New Favorite Coasters
Some just nice to look at.You've heard of snow globes, why not a sand globe?

Sand Globes
The number of beach items is unparalleled in the region.

Body Boards
So you needn't worry if you forget something or if inconvenient sizes make something like a body board difficult to pack. They're inexpensive enough to buy for a week and leave for the next guest.

Stuffed Wildlife, Ready To Be Cherished By Your Little One
They keep the kiddos in mind as well, with a cute section for plush animals ready for a naptime snuggle.

OBX Mugs
If you like traditional souvenirs, they have a wide selection of mugs. If you're like me and collect Christmas ornaments instead, they have those too.

Lifeguard Sweatshirt Station
For those of you who will be a lifeguard, or just want to look like one, it's amazing how small a section of the store this display covers.

Outer Banks Magnets
Some people like to collect refrigerator magnets to remind them of their travels.

Seasickness Magnets Anyone?
Or use magnets to help reduce seasickness when they're on the water.

Rainy Day Activities
When it rains like it did the week we were there, you're sometimes better off hunkering down at your condo (we enjoyed our time at the Whalebone Cottages!) and working on a puzzle and catching up with the people in your party.

Outer Banks Sailboats
My favorite item, though, were these sailboats. To me, they embody the nature of the islands, the reasons for our trip, and the fun of going on the next adventure.

Exterior of Super Wings store in Nags Head
For a beach item, a souvenir, or a practical joke gift,
Super Wings may just have it all.

"Thirst Aid"