The July 4 week, typically considered the busiest week of the summer season on the Outer Banks, saw increased public safety agency work as anticipated, but some agencies reported fewer incidents than occurred during last year’s Independence Day week.

Outer Banks beachgoers from South Nags Head to Corolla reported sections of the Atlantic Ocean appearing neon greenish to yellow-hued over a span of several days in late June.

The Town of Nags Head is constructing lifeguard housing on property it owns to address one of the persistent challenges across the Outer Banks: Securing housing for seasonal employees. Lifeguards share their thoughts.

Outer Banks Insider compiled a list of all the lifeguarded beaches on the Outer Banks from north to south, with links to each ocean rescue agency as well as beach safety tips.

The Ocracoke Express passenger ferry that runs between Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island begins its seventh summer season next Tuesday, May 13.

The Bodie Island Lighthouse opens for climbing on Friday, April 18, and will be open daily through Monday, Oct. 13.