Carolinas Coastal Tour

By: Jessica Ewing

Here in the Carolinas Chapter, we love our mountains and curvy roads (especially in the fall!), but we decided it was time to explore our coastline. On March 25th, Audi Club Carolinas gathered as a group of 29 cars with 67 attendees to explore the beautiful Outer Banks. We welcomed not only Carolina members but also members from Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Virginia and even Pennsylvania. We all love our cars and driving events but this event was unique because it was more about taking in the sights, the beach, and spending time together and relaxing as a family. We broke into two drive groups led by Q models, which was a change from our normal more spirited drives.

Friday, we headed south on Rt. 12 to visit Bodie Island Lighthouse and then ventured to the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. A few members brought kites and were able to take advantage of the winds while visiting Cape Hatteras. The whole group then enjoyed a casual lunch at Angelo’s Pizzeria before breaking off for some down time before our dinner hosted back at the Hilton Garden Inn at Kitty Hawk. During cocktail hour, we listened to a presentation given by John Cece of N.E.S.T., a local non-profit that protects the natural Sea Turtle population of the Outer Banks. The group learned how volunteers monitor over 30 miles of beach multiple times a day looking for tracks and new nests, and upon discovering a nest, it is staked off and watched for almost two months for the hatchlings to emerge. N.E.S.T. also partners with the local aquarium to rescue and rehab sick or injured turtles. Over the weekend, we were able to raise $500 as a group to donate to this wonderful cause.

Saturday, we headed north to Duck to enjoy a freshly made donut or two along the south side of the island. Then as a group, we drove to Currituck Lighthouse in Corolla, where many took advantage of the ability to climb the stairs and enjoy the very windy view. A few ventured to the beach for more kite flying before heading south to the Wright Brothers Memorial. Those attending got to enjoy the museum and learn about the first flight and the progress they were able to accomplish. After our busy morning of sightseeing, we enjoyed some down time back at the hotel enjoying nachos and margaritas on the Pier. Later, the group enjoyed another private dinner that evening while watching the sunset.

Sunday morning many gathered for a breakfast buffet in the Pier before departing at our leisure.

Audi Club Carolinas would like to thank our sponsors for their contributions and help in making this a successful event, our host: Hilton Garden Inn at Kitty Hawk, N.E.S.T. and thank you to everyone who attended. Our sponsors for the 2022 Coastal Tour included Audi Charlotte, Audi Greensboro, Dynamic Auto Tune, GMP Performance, and Rennwerx.

For Spring 2023 we are hoping to base a tour around the Wilmington, NC or Charleston, SC areas. Keep an eye on our website for updates and news for future tours and events.

If you are interested in helping in the protection and conversation of our sea turtles please check out the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles website www.nestonline.org.