Hi, I'm the Beachin’ Vegan

Hi there! I’m Tracie—a lifelong New Jersey native who recently traded the snowy winters and suburban charm of the Garden State for the sun-kissed shores of the Outer Banks, North Carolina. After years of dreaming about a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle, my husband Greg and I finally made the leap. Now, we're embracing the laid-back beach vibe, becoming locals in this beautiful seaside community.

We’ve settled in Kill Devil Hills, right on the Albemarle Sound, where the sunsets are stunning and the water’s always calling. Some of our favorite local restaurants so far are Saltbox Cafe and Two Roads Tavern—they’ve been great spots to relax and start our foodie adventures.

My journey into veganism began a decade ago, driven by health concerns. Since making the switch to a plant-based diet, I've experienced remarkable improvements: my cholesterol levels have dropped, and my blood pressure has stabilized. But this lifestyle change wasn't just for me. Our youngest son, passionate about animal welfare, chose to go vegan in middle school after writing a research report on the food industry. I wanted to support him wholeheartedly.

Now, as we settle into our new home, Greg and I are on a mission to discover and share the best vegan options the Outer Banks has to offer. Whether by car or by boat, we're exploring it all and documenting our findings here on Beachin’ Vegan. It's a bit ironic—Greg isn't vegan himself—but he's incredibly supportive and fully immersed in this adventure with me. Together, we're seeking out delicious plant-based meals and embracing the vibrant local culture.

Join us on this adventure as we explore our new community, one plant-based meal at a time. Whether you're a fellow vegan, curious about the lifestyle, or just looking for delicious food recommendations, there's something here for everyone.

Feel free to share your favorite vegan spots or recipes—we’d love to hear from you!