Barrier Island leaves a lot to be desired in the maintenance and updating area. Unfortunately, the developer remains in control of the HOA long after the resort has sold out. Amazingly, they even let the resort where they are still in sales, BIS-Kitty Hawk slip from GC to SC.
There is more going on in the central OBX than in the northern or southern sections, although still pretty laid back. If you want to be closer to more activities, try a resort between Nags Head and Kitty Hawk.