Oceanfront paradise! Family-friendly condo with perfect unobstructed beach views

Welcome! We’re Chris and Karen, and we’re so glad you’re here.

We’re a blended family with six amazing kids and two wonderful grandkids. Chris grew up on the Outer Banks, and Karen, originally from West Virginia, has called this beautiful place home for the past 30 years. The Outer Banks is more than just where we live—it’s a place we cherish, and we love sharing it with others.

By day, we both work in the nonprofit world, but in our free time, Chris can be found playing in a couple of local bands, while Karen enjoys volunteering and helping with fundraising events. We also have a passion for travel, and our bucket list seems to grow longer by the day!

Whether you're here for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, we hope you enjoy your stay and make unforgettable memories. If you need anything—or want recommendations on our favorite local spots—don’t hesitate to reach out.

Welcome to the Outer Banks!

Chris and Karen Sawin

We love the neighborhood around First Flight Retreat, often referred to as Milepost 9. Chris's family owned and operated an oceanfront motel at Milepost 9 from 1972 to 2005, so this place truly feels like home to us.

The best part, of course, is the beach—there is literally nothing between your property and the ocean. The walkway to the beach is brand new, offering unbeatable access to the shore.

Right across the street are three of our all-time favorite restaurants: Jack Brown’s, Sal’s Pizza, and the Thai Room. Our neighborhood is also home to some of the best live music venues, including Jack Brown’s, the Outer Banks Brewing Station, and Bonzer Shack.

The stretch of Beach Road where First Flight Retreat is located is fantastic, lined with amazing restaurants and shops within walking distance. This walkable dining district begins about a mile south at Kill Devil Grill, one of the Outer Banks' most beloved restaurants, and Swells’a Brewery, known for its laid-back second-floor outdoor deck. Within a mile, you'll also find Food Dudes, Ten-O-Six, Stack ‘Em High Pancakes, Bob’s Grill, Captain George’s, Fuji Japanese Steakhouse, Khan’s Mongolian Grill, and Slice Pizzeria—all easily accessible in this safe, pedestrian-friendly area.

To the north, our little neighborhood extends to Stop N Shop on Ocean Bay Blvd. This small, locally loved convenience store has been a Kill Devil Hills institution since the 1960s. On the other side of Highway 158, Ocean Bay Blvd becomes Colington Road, which borders the historic Wright Brothers National Memorial.

As you can see, our neighborhood is truly the heart of the Outer Banks—steeped in history, filled with great food and entertainment, and blessed with the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.