Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle

SPRING 2017 DREAMSCAPES 35 While no one really knows what hap- pened to the colony, there are many stories—including an episode in the most recent season of American Horror Story. The Graveyard of the Atlantic is also located here in the Outer Banks, though its reputation is not as exciting. The area, which is prone to hurricanes during storm season, saw thousands of shipwrecks dating back to the 1600s. While some artifacts and shipwrecked dive sites can still be found, it's the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse that stands out the most—not just because it's the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States standing at 64 metres with 257 steps to the top—but also because it was one of five built to help prevent the constant occurrence of shipwrecks. POP CULTURE If you're still a fan of One Tree Hill even after it's been off-air for five years, you probably already know of all the notable landmarks in Wilmington. In addition to a number of houses and the Riverwalk, which runs along the Cape Fear River, both staples on any Tree Hill tour, this area also boasts filming loca- tions for such notable flicks as Iron Man 3, Safe Haven and We're the Millers. So, if you're a pop culture junkie on a filming tour of America, make sure you hit these stops along the way. ADVENTUROUS PURSUITS For those drawn to the water, coastal North Carolina is the place to be. Wrightsville Beach, one of Wilmington's beachside areas, is recognized as the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina dating back to 1909 when hollowed-out wooden boards were used in what was once considered a dangerous sport. Surf historian and author J. Skipper Funderburg described that surfing, lifeguarding and swimming all grew in tandem as more and more people took to the waves—and once you ride a few, you see the appeal. The surf culture is very real in this area, which includes Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. It has a laid-back feel and is not at all as cheesy as it is portrayed in movies. Although the entire culture is decidedly chill, there's a devoutness and respect for the ocean. Looking to learn? The Tony Silvagni Surf School is an easy choice for any novice and guarantees you will get up on your board and ride the roll right to shore—perhaps HURRICANE PARTIES If you're heading to North Carolina in the summertime, you should be on hurricane watch. When a storm heads toward the state, they will call for an evacuation of coastal communities, like the Outer Banks. What the locals won't tell you is that many of them hang back for what they call "hur- ricane parties." If it sounds dangerous, it is, but these wet soirees are apparently the must-be-at party for locals.

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