We grew up in central North Carolina, but we've called Hatteras Island our second home. Mermaid's Tears (another name for seaglass which is found naturally along the North Carolina coast) is just steps away from the sandy beach. One of our favorite things is sitting on the deck watching the dolphin (yes, we see them just about every day) and, of course, the wonderful sunrises and sunsets. Using our binoculars we are even able to identify the fish caught at the Rodanthe Fishing Pier, only 100 yards away.

Mermaid's Tears encompasses a reversed house plan which is very common to many homes along the Outer Banks. This simple means that the living area, ie, kitchen, dining and living room are located on the highest level.

Our second floor level of Mermaid's Tears includes a very large living open area (great for entertaining) with flat screen TV/DVD and CD stereo system. A large floral sectional couch and two chairs face the two 8' sliders for a magnificent view of the ocean. The dining area, open to the living area and kitchen, has seating for ten. The modern kitchen has all cooking needs should one decide never to venture out to any of the great restaurants in the area. There is also counter seating for four. There is a very nice king bedroom upstairs with connecting bath and shower. This bedroom has its own slider to the outside oceanfront deck. A flat screen TV and DVD are also in this bedroom.

Three of our bedrooms are downstairs, the master has a king bed and day bed with a large bathroom with a separate shower and jacuzzi tub. The slider leads to a covered deck which is virtually on top of the ocean. This bedroom has a flat screen TV and DVD. Another bedroom downstairs, very spacious with a king bed, has a large window and a slider to a covered deck over-looking the ocean. This bed and breakfast style bedroom has a flat screen TV and DVD. The third bedroom has two pyramid bunk beds. Both have a double bed; one with a pullout trundle. This bedroom has two windows; one with a view of the ocean, the other a view of the sound in the distance. This is truly a unique bedroom as it invites an aquarium decor. This bedroom also has a flat screen TV and DVD. This bedroom and the second bedroom share a full bathroom. Also, downstairs is a nice welcoming foyer and a full washer and dryer closet. While staying in Mermaid's Tears, exploring is a must. Hatteras Island is simply the most beautiful place on earth - where the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound is separated by a thin, fragile slice of land. Hatteras Lighthouse, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, small villages of Avon, Buxton, Waves, Frisco and Salvo are all within a short drive.

In Rodanthe, explore the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Museum, Civil War Battle of Chicmacomico Races, and try to identify each of the over 400 species of birds. Or simple lay back and enjoy reading and watching the surf.

FREE domestic long distance calling and wireless Internet access via Silicon Travel for this property (computer not provided, bring your laptop).