Department Beach Trip Returns: A Weekend of Fun and Reconnection

The department’s annual beach trip returned this past weekend (September 6-8), bringing back the joy of in-person connection, laughter, and relaxation. Roughly 60 faculty, staff, students and their family members joined us for the weekend at the Crystal Coast Oceanfront Hotel. Set along the beautiful coast, the event was a perfect blend of activities, team spirit, and downtime, providing everyone with a much-needed escape.

The festivities began on Friday evening with an optional welcome dinner at Surf’s up Grill and Bar 7 PM. It was a lively start to the weekend as colleagues reconnected over delicious food and shared their excitement for the days ahead.

Saturday: Activities and Adventure

Saturday kicked off with a game of kickball on the beach. Enjoying friendly competition in games, everyone embraced the spirit of fun and camaraderie. Laughter echoed across the beach, setting the tone for the rest of the day. Lunch was served inside the hotel at noon, giving everyone a chance to refuel and relax. 

The afternoon kicked off at 1 PM with the lively annual egg toss competition, followed by a cornhole tournament. The friendly rivalry added excitement, with teams competing for bragging rights. The atmosphere was lighthearted and filled with cheer, as everyone enjoyed these classic beach activities. 

At 3 PM, attendees had the opportunity to choose between two excursions. Some ventured to the local aquarium, while others opted for an unforgettable experience visiting the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. Both options offered unique and memorable moments, allowing participants to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.

Saturday concluded with another optional group dinner at 6 PM, where attendees gathered at the Crystal Coast Brewing Company to watch the NCSU v Tennessee football game. The evening was filled with laughter and reflections on the day’s adventures, while cheering on our football team over food and drinks giving everyone time to unwind.

Sunday: Wrapping Up the Weekend

The trip wrapped up with an option final brunch on Sunday at 11 AM. It was a relaxed and heartfelt conclusion to the weekend, with everyone expressing their gratitude for the time spent together. The brunch offered one last chance to enjoy good food and great company before saying goodbye.

Overall, this year’s annual beach trip was a resounding success. Reigniting a long-standing tradition, the weekend was filled with fun, connection, and cherished memories. Everyone is already looking forward to next year’s gathering, excited to continue the tradition that brings the department together year after year.

See the gallery full of fun here and even more photos here