- Air Tours
- Amusements
- Bike Rentals
- Birding Spots
- Boat Ramps
- Boat Rentals
- Boat Tours
- Campgrounds
- Crabbing
- Crafting Activities
- Diving
- Educational Activities
- Entertainment and Shows
- Ferry
- Fishing
- Fishing Charters
- Fishing Piers
- Golf Courses
- Hang Gliding
- Hiking Spots
- History
- Horseback Riding
- Indoor Activities
- Jet Ski Rentals
- Kayak Rentals
- Kayak Tours
- Kid Friendly Activities
- Kitesurfing Lessons
- Marinas
- Miniature Golf
- Nature Spots
- Nightlife
- Paddleboard Rentals
- Paddleboarding Lessons
- Paddleboarding Tours
- Parasailing
- Picnicking
- Rainy Day Activities
- Sailing
- Sailing Tours
- Scenic Spots
- Surfboard Rentals
- Surfing
- Surfing Lessons
- Swimming
- Tours
- Wakeboarding
- Water Skiing
- Wild Horse Tours
-
Beaufort Historic Association's Summer Party
July 12th, 2025 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM -
Annual Crab Cake Cook-off
July 18th, 2025 6:00 PM -
Carteret Community College Spanish Mackerel & Dolphin Fishing Tournament
July 18th, 2025 - July 26th, 2025
Visitors can enjoy the Crystal Coast’s most coveted and hard-to-reach shorelines, or just embark on a breezy cruise of the open waters in search of dolphins and sunsets, with a trip that’s guided by Lookout Cruises. This local tour company that calls the central town of Beaufort its home port offers a far-reaching range of adventures that will have coastal fans of all ages soaking up the sun and enjoying the best of the Southern Outer Banks.
Welcome to Where Isle Be—the ultimate beach hideaway for families looking to relax, recharge, and soak in those ocean vibes! This gorgeous 4-bedroom, 4-bath duplex has everything you need for a ideal coastal escape, including a hot tub and a cavernous deck for calming with a drink in hand.On the ground level, you’ll find the game room, equipped with a flat-screen TV, foosball table, futon, mini refrigerator, and a full bath. Just step outside to savor the patio with a picnic table, gas grille, and, of course, the hot tub.Level One is all about comfort! The first bedroom features a king bed, flat-screen TV, private bath, and deck access with comfortable furnishings. Bedrooms 2 and 3 each have queen beds and flat-screen TVs. Bedroom 2 shares a full bath with Bedroom 3, which also opens onto a deck with seating.Level Two is where everybody comes together! This open space features the living area, kitchen, and the fourth bedroom. Bedroom 4 has a queen bed, flat-screen TV, and deck access with lounge chairs for those morning coffee moments. The kitchen is completely supplied with all the essentials—oven, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator with a constructed-in ice maker, bar seating, and a table for 8. The living area has a flat-screen TV, Blu-ray player, and access to a deck with a retractable awning—ideal for dining al fresco.Bonus Conveniences: High-speed Wi-Fi, 6 flat-screen TVs with cable, Roku, gas and charcoal grilles, outdoor shower, washer/dryer, ceiling fans, and central heat and air. Plus, that handsome game room with foosball and the hot tub to wind down after a day at the beach!2 family pets allowed, $150 fee per pet.
- Emerald Isle
- 4 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
Founded as the world's first hang gliding school in 1974, Kitty Hawk Kites has grown into a beloved retail and outdoor recreation venture with more than 28 locations up and down the east coast! With more than 50 years of teaching the world to fly, Kitty Hawk Kites is proud to serve the Crystal Coast as a premier retailer of kites, wind art, toys, apparel, and accessories. Shop great brands like Reef, Prism, Natural Life, Yeti, HeyDude, and more! Visit our locations in Beaufort and Atlantic Beach today.
Begin your nautical adventure when you stay in Captain's Quarters West, a family friendly, 2-Bedroom, 1.5-Bath, Oceanfront Duplex, with a Childrens Alcove. Connecting Interior Door if rented with the east side! Captains Quarters West is equipped with High Speed Wireless Internet for your convenience.Ground Level: Parking.Level One: Living Area has Ocean Access. Dining Area. Kitchen area includes a microwave and dishwasher. Streetside Bedroom #1 has a King Bed with a Flat Screen TV and a Half-Bath. Oceanfront Bedroom #2 has 2 Double Beds with a Flat Screen TV and a Child's Alcove with a Twin Bunk Set.Conveniences include: Central Air and Heat, a Shared Exterior Washer/Dryer, a Microwave, Dishwasher, an Outdoor Shower, Open and Covered Decks with 4 Rocking Chairs, Beach Chairs, a Park-Style Charcoal Grille, a Blender, a Crock Pot, a Color Cable TV, and a DVD Player. To make sharing your vacation easier, a connecting door between duplexes, Captains Quarters East, accepts for convenient access and a shared living space when renting both halves.Linens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly stays.No Smoking.No Animals!Rents Weekly only Saturday - Saturday.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card supplied at the time of booking will be charged for the total. Guest will receive follow up communications including Management Company’s Vacation Rental Agreement for e-signature which is required for all stays.(2) Management Company reserves the right to deny stays less than 7 nights, if the arrival date is more than 30 days out from the booking date. Stays less than 7 nights, with an arrival date between mid-April to mid-October, are stringently prohibited unless approved by management.
- Emerald Isle
- 2 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 4
Visitors of all ages will have a blast at this destination that is designed for great times along the Crystal Coast shoreline. Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway is situated in the centrally located beach community of Salter Path, and is a favorite spot for families who want to have a little fun off the sand.
Sound of The Sea West 115 an Almost Oceanfront 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in the Sound of the Sea Community.Located on the first floor of Building 3, appreciate the modern light and airy feel of the great room including the living area with Double Sleeper Couch, covered balcony with furnishings and Atlantic Ocean vistas, Dining Area, and Totally Equipped Kitchen. The welcoming Master Bedroom offers a King Bed, TV and Private Full Bath. Bedroom #2 provides comfort and flexibility in sleeping arrangements with a Queen Bed, Twin/Twin Bunk Set, TV, and access to the Shared Full Bath.Conveniences: 3 Intelligent TVs with access to streaming apps; Wireless High Speed Internet; Central HVAC, Ceiling Fans; Entirely Equipped Kitchen with Coffee Maker, Keurig Coffee Maker, Fridge, Stove/Oven, Microwave, Dishwasher, Air Fryer, Slow Cooker; In-unit Washer/Dryer; Private Balcony with Furnishings.The Sound of the Sea Community offers on-site amenities sure to make your vacation fun and calming while the location provides painless access to many eateries, grocery stores, water park, mini golf, and unique stores!Community Conveniences: Gated Community, Two Outdoor Pools, Pool House, Outdoor Showers, Outdoor Grille Area, Tennis Facilities, Community Private Walkway to the Beach, Building Elevators, and No Smoking on Premises. Bluewater cannot guarantee Complex/Community Conveniences will be in service during the time of your stay.PARKING INFORMATION: Each reservation will receive 2 Gate Cards and 2 Parking Passes - Parking for 1 car at unit, 1 in general parking. 2 cars max - Sound of the Sea does not have overflow parking. Linens and Towels Included with Beds Made for Weekly and Nightly stays.No Smoking - this is a non-smoking community.No Family Animals.Rents Weekly Saturday - Saturday. Rents Nightly with a 2 nighttime minimum stay in advance during Off Season, last min. during In Season.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card supplied at the time of booking will be charged for the total. Guest will receive follow up communications including Management Company’s Vacation Rental Agreement for e-signature which is required for all stays.(2) Management Company reserves the right to deny stays less than 7 nights, if the arrival date is more than 30 days out from the booking date. Stays less than 7 nights, with an arrival date between mid-April to mid-October, are stringently prohibited unless approved by management.
- Emerald Isle
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown Morehead City along Evans Street, patrons who utilize Morehead City Ferry Service for a cruise or a taxi ride to the outlying barrier islands will be treated to full afternoons of sun and fun along the pristine sand.
Lorelei East is a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom Duplex strategically placed on the Oceanfront in Emerald Isle. This pretty home is located within walking distance to the fishing pier as well as various local spots to dine and shop! The walkway to the beach attaches to a sizable gazebo and the home has dawn-to-dusk security lights on all decks and stairs!If you are visiting with a bigger event, this is still the ideal hideaway for you, with a connecting door that brings Lorelei East and Lorelei West together as one when rented together!GROUND LEVEL: While the garage is not accessible to guests, the ground level includes an enclosed hot/cold outdoor shower which is ideal for a calming post-beach rinsing!LEVEL ONE: Oceanfront Master Bedroom #1 has a queen bed, a private bathroom with a hottub tub, and access to a covered oceanfront deck. Streetside Bedroom #2 has a queen bed and access to a covered deck. Streetside Bedroom #3 has a double/twin bunk bed set and a single twin bed. This room shares a bathroom with Bedroom #2.LEVEL TWO: This level of the home features an oceanfront living area with a enormous, open deck and a huge-screen TV for your viewing enjoyment. You will also find the dining area and entirely-equipped kitchen/bar area on this level. Streetside Bedroom #4 has a queen bed and deck access with access to a full bathroom.Conveniences Include: This home is equipped with high-speed wireless internet for your convenience! This kid-friendly abode is the ideal home-away-from-home for your little ones with its own high-chair, booster seat, and pack-n-play. Savor a nice evening on a furnished deck while you watch the ocean waves roll by! Cookout on the gas grille and appreciate your feast on the outdoor dining table!Linens and Towels are supplied with Beds Made for Weekly stays.No Smoking.Up to 2 Dogs Accepted with our All-Inclusive Pet Policy for Weekly and Nightly stays - No fee! It is the responsibility of pet owners to ensure that they clean up after their family pets (i.e., picking up waste from property grounds). Should the guest fail to do so, an additional fee of $100 will be charged to the credit card on file. Rents Weekly only Saturday - Saturday.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card included at the time of booking will be charged for the total. Guest will receive follow up communications including Management Company’s Vacation Rental Agreement for e-signature which is required for all stays.(2) Management Company reserves the right to deny stays less than 7 nights, if the arrival date is more than 30 days out from the booking date. Stays less than 7 nights, with an arrival date between mid-April to mid-October, are stringently prohibited unless approved by management.
- Emerald Isle
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
Jump aboard the pirate ship "REVENGE" at 600 Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina. Our interactive voyages offer fun and adventure for families and swashbucklers of all ages. Come join our crew, take part in a pirate adventure, and enjoy festive music guaranteed to unleash your inner pirate. But be warned; we may need to enlist your expertise to man the water cannons and help defend our ship!
Here's a revised version of the property description, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and highlighting key features:Stunning 3-Story Home on Atlantic Beach CircleThis extravagant, professionally decorated single-family home offers the ideal beach hideaway. With 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and sleeping for up to 7 guests (including a new fold-out cot), it's ideal for families or groups.Features:Roomy & Stylish: 9-foot ceilings, high-end finishes, entirely furnished with a Queen bed, pull-out couch, and a 4-in adult fold-out cot.Private and comfortable - coffee pot, cooking silverware, plates, forks, cups and everything you need to make yourself at home. Welcoming locals, delicious seafood, bars & restaurnats close by - litteraly steps away. Clean, uncluttered and chic for your convenience. Prime Location: Steps from the public beach access, eateries, and bars on the Circle.Relaxing Retreat: Overlooks a handsome community pool with an outdoor grille.Cozy Conveniences: Cable TV, Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, linens, and towels supplied.Master Suite: Top floor with a Queen bed and full bathroom with shower.Guest Bedroom: Lower level with a Queen bed and full bathroom with tub/shower.Explore the Area:Close to Fort Macon, Beaufort, Morehead City and Swansboro.Take the fairy to the outer banks and see the handsome horses. Appreciate a spectacular 4-mile walk to Beaufort for impressive vistas, especially at nighttime.Nearby Attractions: Explore the aquarium, appreciate oceanfront dining, bars, live music, and indulge in local shopping.Beaufort & Morehead City: Just a 10-min. drive away, offering waterfront eateries, boat rides to uninhabited islands, and gorgeous sunsets.Book your stay today and experience the Atlantic Beach lifestyle!
- Atlantic Beach
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
Located on the southern end of Emerald Isle, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the Crystal Coast, Mac Daddy’s is the destination of choice for countless fun-seeking vacationers of all ages who want a big dose of entertainment off the sand. Featuring a bowling alley, sports bar, arcade, and a sister miniature golf course – (the Golfin’ Dolphin) - visitors can expect plenty of good times when they make an outing to this all-around fun amusement center.
Bring your family and spend your vacation at our magnificent 3 story oceanfront beach home at 105 Janell Lane, Emerald Isle, NC 28594. If the description below doesn't provide the info you need you can reach out to the owner (202^607^9306 ). Units are weekly, Sunday to Sunday so that the cleaning and pool crew can do their magic. There are 4 main gathering areas. You can eat and be together in the open kitchen/dining/living room that has dining seating to accommodate sizable families or watch a movie together in the home theater room on the first floor. There is a full-size pool table if you are so inclined, or you can swim and eat together around the 15' x 28' swimming pool with hot tub and outside grille. For sleeping, there are two handsome king size, oceanfront master suites each with whirlpool tub and access to second floor deck along with a king bed middle room w/ocean front access. Other sleeping includes a bedroom on the top floor; with a double and 3 twin kids's bunk beds and a full bathroom across the hall. The main floor has 2 bedrooms accessible via the elevator, one with a queen bed and handicap accessible full bath, and a bedroom freshly upgraded with a king bed. The recreational room downstairs has a bedroom with a king and twin trundle bed and bathroom with a shower. Other amenities include elevator (from first to second floors) washer/dryer, high speed internet, 5 cable TVs, gas fireplace, dishwasher, and ceiling fans throughout as well as a piano for enjoyment! Property is located on a peaceful cul-de-sac with cavernous driveway parking and grocery stores, shopping, putt-putt, a bicycle path and eateries close by. One dog is allowed with a nonrefundable fee of $200 and a dog run was newly added. Heated pool is available with additional charge May - Sept. No smoking is allowed on the property.
- Emerald Isle
- 7 Bedrooms
- 5 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 18
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises is a 100 ft. custom yacht that can effortlessly provide a number of family-friendly expeditions to vacationers who want to enjoy this delicate chain of barrier islands and coastal territory to its fullest. Based out of Beaufort, the Crystal Coast Lady is specifically built for the purpose of sightseeing and dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful downtown beaufort are, plus unbeatable perspectives of the region’s vast array of wildlife, shorelines, and on-the-water views. The Crystal Coast Lady is equipped with a snack bar, and 2 restrooms onboard.
Though not as old as some as its neighbors - like the adjacent and more than 300-year-old town of Beaufort – Morehead City nevertheless has a unique history that’s evident around every waterfront corner. Envisioned by a governor, and eventually inhabited by residents fleeing a hurricane, the town of Morehead City stands out for its deliberate creation, as well as its slow but steady rise to fame as a maritime-oriented vacation destination.
This unit is located between Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle at one of the islands newest luxury properties in Indian Beach. Down the hallway from the elevator, accepting you painless access to the unit, you will find a well appointed 1400 square foot luxury ocean front villa with an broad balcony. The balcony provides impressive vistas of the ocean.Back inside the unit, the kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, loads of storage and all the extras you could hope for such as a toaster oven, coffee maker, blender, ETC. Around the corner from the kitchen you will also find a huge capacity front loading washer and dryer. There are 2 bedrooms. The huge master suite features a walk out to balcony, a heavenly king size bed and sizable en suite with whirlpool tub. The second bedroom features a queen bed and a twin for additional sleeping accommodations. With a sliding lock-off door, this becomes a private room with en suite ... All beds come made with luxury linens and bathrooms have a starter set of towels for you and your guests.There are multiple flat screen tvs in the space as well as wireless high speed internet access. No smoking. No family pets.You and your guests will appreciate the oceanfront Grande Pool and Pavilion with kids’s pool, as well as the oceanfront fire pit. Don’t miss a beat in your exercise routine in the health and exercise center overlooking the Atlantic Ocean; featuring state-of-the-art equipment, locker room, sauna and showers. Guests of all ages will savor the Sports and Games Parlor with billiards, foosball, video game center, wireless Internet access and enormous flat screen TV. Osprey Club Parlor with oceanfront terrace and fireplace. Free beach side chair and umbrella as well as charcoal grilles are available on premises. Parking is limited to two spaces per residence. NOTE, as a result of Covid-19, the exercise facilities as well as other inside/ outside amenities are not guaranteed. The state health policies and restrictions are changing daily. Please refer to local ordinances for further information. No boats, trailers or jet skis allowed on premises.The pool can be heated for you during your stay for an additional $50 per day. Requires 3 days notice.No smoking, no events, no pets and must be 28 to rent.
- Atlantic Beach
- 2 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 5
The historic Windsor House is a fast walk to the oceanside, stores, waterfront, eateries, and ferry (just 2 blocks from Front Street), The front porch is a favorite to sit on the porch swing and rocking chairs... ideal for appreciating breezy evenings or mornings with the birds. The bungalow offers 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, to include a queen bed, double/full bed, and 2 twin beds. The freshly modernized kitchen is equipped with microwave, dishwasher, stove/oven, toaster oven, refrigerator, pots/pans, dishes/silverware, and much more. The living room has a comfortable couch and chair, 32" streaming HDTV (Amazon Prime, Netflix, etc), Wi-Fi and wood floors. The dining room table sits 6, and two reading chairs. The utility room offers a washing machine and dryer for your convenience. There is also an outdoor shower that is ideal for hot days and after fun at the beach. Saturday morning farmers market and just around the corner.
- Beaufort
- 3 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
Take a quick and scenic ferry ride with your experienced guide over to the pristine Outer Banks Island of Shackleford Banks, which is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. There, you are introduced to the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. After the tour, you are directed to one of the best shelling beaches in all of North Carolina, where you can spend some time shelling your way down the beach with Cape Lookout Lighthouse off in the distance. Shackleford is well known as one of the best shelling destinations on the East Coast.
There’s much more than meets the eye in Morehead City. Though the town is known in most beach-going circles as the place to shop and dine before hitting the sand, Morehead City also has a treasure trove of attractions and activities that will make visitors want to linger and explore. From exciting live theater shows to secretive deserted islands that are hidden in plain sight, visitors will want to make sure they check out these “must see” attractions and things to do that put Morehead City on the vacationer’s map.
Classic oceanfront beach bungalow with open floor plan and expansive vistas in a striking setting. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Outside deck with pergola and picnic table. Private walkway to the beach and additional oceanside seating area perched above the dunes. Outdoor hot/cold shower, Charcoal grille. Wonderful location convenient to shopping and local attractions. This is a ideal spot on the beach and especially ideal for a single family. Bed linens and bath towels are included.Intelligent TV in living area, wireless internet, dishwasher, washer and dryer. AC and ceiling fans. Sorry, no family pets allowed.
- Emerald Isle
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
Discover a treasure or two to serve as a timeless reminder of your getaway to the Crystal Coast with a visit to one of the most unique jewelry stores in the Carteret County region, J Chalk Designs. Specializing in fine pieces that are truly one of a kind, this unique jewelry destination features a glittering assortment of pieces that will thrill and delight shoppers of all tastes.
The Crystal Coast is a well-known paradise for anglers, thanks to miles of water in every direction, and a famed distinction as the locale for some of the biggest fishing tournaments along the East Coast. From heading miles offshore to target the summertime billfish to checking out the two local oceanfront piers, there’s ample ways for fishermen to get their lines wet.
Adorable duplex by the sea. With a 4 min. walk to the beach and beautiful vistas of the sound spend days with your feet in the sand and nights on the deck watching the sunset. Just a stones throw to all the best eateries and stores. Take a bicycle ride to the circle to get a bite to eat or walk the elegant trails of Fort Macon. With the comfortable boho decor you’ll adore spending time in this sweet little bungalow at the beach.
- Atlantic Beach
- 2 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 7
The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown Morehead City along Evans Street, patrons who utilize Morehead City Ferry Service for a cruise or a taxi ride to the outlying barrier islands will be treated to full afternoons of sun and fun along the pristine sand.
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises is a 100 ft. custom yacht that can effortlessly provide a number of family-friendly expeditions to vacationers who want to enjoy this delicate chain of barrier islands and coastal territory to its fullest. Based out of Beaufort, the Crystal Coast Lady is specifically built for the purpose of sightseeing and dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful downtown beaufort are, plus unbeatable perspectives of the region’s vast array of wildlife, shorelines, and on-the-water views. The Crystal Coast Lady is equipped with a snack bar, and 2 restrooms onboard.
Island Express Ferry Service LLC is the only authorized concessionaire to drop off at Cape Lookout Lighthouse and Shackleford Banks! Offering departures from both Beaufort and nearby Harkers Island, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the link between the communities of the Crystal Coast and the spectacularly beautiful and isolated barrier islands of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Accommodating passengers who want to explore the miles of pristine beaches, exceptional fishing and shelling, wild horses, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the gateway for one of the most unforgettable adventures along the North Carolina coast.
Take a quick and scenic ferry ride with your experienced guide over to the pristine Outer Banks Island of Shackleford Banks, which is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. There, you are introduced to the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. After the tour, you are directed to one of the best shelling beaches in all of North Carolina, where you can spend some time shelling your way down the beach with Cape Lookout Lighthouse off in the distance. Shackleford is well known as one of the best shelling destinations on the East Coast.
An easy walk that is shaded year-round, and can be easily tackled by hikers of all abilities and in virtually any season, the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail is a great way for newcomers to uncover the more secluded natural landscapes of this otherwise resort town.
The Cape Lookout National Seashore is a 56-mile long stretch of the Southern Outer Banks barrier island terrain that runs from Ocracoke Inlet to the northeast side of Beaufort Inlet. Comprised of three separate islands – the North Core Banks, the South Core Banks, and the Shackleford Banks – this wonderfully remote destination can only be accessed by a personal vessel, or a privately operated ferry or water taxi. As a result, it’s world-renowned for its miles of undeveloped and scenic beaches, its remarkable fishing, its exceptional shelling, and its abundant wildlife that thrives in the undisturbed and inherently wild environment.
Just west of the town of Emerald Isle, and across a maze of marshy terrain off the coast of mainland Swansboro, lies Hammocks Beach State Park, an incredible refuge for beach lovers who want to forego the crowds, and enjoy a parcel of barrier island all to themselves.
Take a walk on Pine Knoll Shores' wild side with a visit to the pristine, undeveloped Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, an expansive 265 acre nature preserve, conveniently located next to the town's most visited attraction, the North Carolina Aquarium.
Beaufort explorers who want an easy launching point in the heart of town, or just a scenic spot to enjoy a quick picnic lunch and an incredible view, can head to the centrally located Grayden Paul Park. Tucked away along the waterfront on Front Street, this small park serves as one of the most popular launching destinations for kayaks, small boats, and a world of adventures on the local open waters.
Bird Shoal, Carrot Island, Sand Dollar Island & more! Dive into an exploration of some of the Southern Outer Banks’ most remote shorelines with an excursion that’s led by Island Ferry Adventures. Featuring both transport to the outlying islands as well as guided tours of some of the region’s most wild spots, this tour company has a lot to offer for shell seekers, nature buffs, and everyday adventurers alike.
Swansboro's Bicentennial Park may not be the grandest of most extensive park along the Crystal Coast's Inner Banks, but it is certainly one of its most scenic. Surrounded by the deep waters of the White Oak River and Swansboro Harbor, patrons to this park will enjoy endless water views, great fishing and a scenic boardwalk to take in the scene.
Though it’s located in a fairly busy section of Morehead City, the Calico Creek Boardwalk is a breath of fresh air for birdwatchers, nature fans, and everyday sightseers, thanks to its picturesque location on the edge of the slightly inland Calico Creek.
Visitors can enjoy a quiet view of the Calico Bay and Newport River from this refreshingly secluded spot that’s tucked away on the outskirts of the downtown Morehead City area. Conchs Point is a public water access point, but it also has a ton of natural features to make it appealing to sightseers and mariners alike.
Start your Crystal Coast adventure with a scenic trip exploring some of the Southern Outer Banks’ best beaches, courtesy of an expedition provided by Crystal Coast Ecotours. This experienced, educational and all-around fun company treats passengers to a bounty of natural beauty through cruises that venture past lighthouses, dolphins, wild horses, and everything in between
Glenburnie Park is a scenic public park that’s located just northeast of the heart of Downtown New Bern. Tucked along the Neuse River in a primarily residential section of town, the park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike who want to enjoy a wild and natural day by the water.
Latham Whitehurst Nature Park is one of the newest parks in Craven County, and was first opened to visitors and locals alike in 2011. Located in a quiet eastern section of the town of New Bern, the park is a popular destination for wildlife fans of all varieties, including hikers, kayakers, birdwatchers, fishermen, and everyone in between.
Enjoy a gorgeous sunset, a little birdwatching, or just a leisurely and short hike that hovers above the White Oak River with a visit to the aptly-named Riverview Park. Located along NC Highway 24 / Corbett Avenue, in between the central downtown Main and Elm Streets, this quiet and modest-sized public park might be close to all the downtown and waterfront action, but truly feels like its worlds away.
The Shackleford Banks is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, and is a barrier island system that is found just off the coast of Beaufort and Harkers Island, and which is a popular offshore beaching destination for summertime Crystal Coast visitors. Accessible only by a private ferry, water taxi, or personal vessel, the beaches are nevertheless popular with longtime Southern Outer Banks vacationers for their unspoiled beauty, exceptional fishing and shelling, and famed herd of wild ponies, known as the “Banker Horses” or “Banker Ponies.”
Head to the very western edge of Emerald Isle to discover an iconic spot that’s been popular with longtime vacationers and locals alike – The Point. This informally named stretch of beach is where the borders of Emerald Isle ends, and where the Bogue Inlet begins, and the surrounding shoreline, which circles from the ocean to the Bogue Sound, is renowned as a paradise for fishermen, beachcombers, sightseers, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys a miles-wide and on-the-water view.
Kayakers, mariners, and any visitor who adores an endless waterfront view will want to make a convenient but secluded stop at the boat ramp and launching area at Thorofare Bridge. Situated in the heart of Cedar Island, this little-known destination is a popular spot for local mariners to explore the wild waters that the Crystal Coast is known for.
Take a quick pause along the Beaufort waterfront near the NC Maritime Museum and you’ll spot the small but scenic Topsail Marine Memorial Park. This tiny parcel of land is a fine spot to take a pause from a self-guided walking tour, and to admire the views of Taylor’s Creek, the Rachel Carson Reserve, and the stunning waters that Beaufort is renowned for.