2023 Activities Guide

From visitors who want to launch on a deep sea or Bogue Sound fishing adventure, to mariners who want to enjoy an on-shore break exploring the sites and attractions of the Crystal Coast, the Anchorage Marina has a lot...

Morehead City visitors can enjoy a decadently elite and intimate bar atmosphere without ever venturing outside the downtown area with a visit to the Arendell Room. This posh little bar that’s found just off of...

Located in a charming but unimposing brick building in the heart of downtown Morehead City, the Arts Council of Carteret County is the region’s premier resource for discovering a wealth of local talents that call...

Explore some of the remarkable sites that the Graveyard of the Atlantic is known for through this local diving company that allows Morehead City and Crystal Coast scuba divers access to one of the most infamous...

Trust the expertise of one of the oldest surf shops on the Crystal Coast, and head to Atlantic Beach Surf Shop for all your required beach gear. From surfboard and stand-up paddle board rentals to literally cool attire...

Both divers and anglers can get onboard for a wild adventure on the water through Atlantis Charters – a local Atlantic Beach charter company that’s distinctive for its pink fishing vessel, the...

History and good times combine at the Backstreet Pub – a cool and almost hidden little pub in the heart of Downtown Beaufort that’s tucked away behind the equally iconic Clawson’s Restaurant...

From beach umbrellas to beach-worthy bicycles, visitors can load up on everything they need with a quick visit to Beach Wheels Bike Rentals. Boasting a catchy motto of “Different Spokes for Different Folks,&rdquo...

Cruise through the Crystal Coast shoreline in style with a stop at Beachside Bikes. Offering a wealth of scooters and bike rides for the beach, this all-encompassing bike shop is the perfect destination to pick up a...

Beaufort has distinctly regal roots, so it should come as no surprise that one of its most popular local tours is the English-style Double-Decker Bus Tour. Operated in conjunction with the Beaufort Historic Site, these...

Regardless of whether visitors are exploring the Beaufort Old Burying Ground via one of the area’s in-depth and fascinating tours, or simply passing by on a self-guided expedition of the historic Downtown area...

Beaufort is a community that’s best explored from the water, and paddlers of all skill levels can find an adventure or two in store through Beaufort Paddle. Located in between the towns of Beaufort and Morehead...

Beaufort Parasail offers parasailing adventures above the Crystal Coast. See the shoreline of Shackleford Banks and Carrot Island, aerial views of historic landmarks like Cape Lookout lighthouse and Fort Macon National...

Take a walk on the wild side with a downtown adventure that’s commandeered by the fantastically fascinating Beaufort Pirate Walk. This tour company leads visitors through the streets of “American’s...

Come join us for a "Stay-cation!" You just have to stay for a month, and we would be excited to have you.We are self-contained, isolated enough that you can feel just as safe and comfortable at your property as you can...

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...

Spring and summertime visitors can take in a ballgame without ever leaving the Crystal Coast with a visit to the Big Rock Stadium. Also known as O’Neal Field, this stadium is home to the Morehead City Marlins...

Anglers can embark on a full-steam ahead adventure with a ride onboard the Bill Collector - an inshore and offshore charter boat service that launches from Morehead City. Commandeered by Capt. Stephen Draughon, a local...

Artists and art aficionados can happily combine and celebrate the local arts scene at Blu Sail Gallery, Artists' School & Pottery Studio. This all-encompassing stop for creative minds offers a wealth of classes...

The Bogue Island Fishing Pier is a legendary landmark for long time Emerald Isle vacationers. Built in the late 1950s, and operated by the same family for well over 40 years, the fishing pier is a paradise for anglers...

Visitors can enjoy a decadent taste of the North Carolina golfing scene without venturing too far from the Crystal Coast shoreline or the historic communities of Beaufort and Morehead City with a visit to the slightly...

Anglers who want to explore all the waters of the Crystal Coast and beyond can book a fantastic inshore, nearshore, or even offshore charter trip with the experts at BreakDay Charters. Helmed by Captain Justin Ragsdale...

The waterfront Cahooque Creek Recreation Site, located at the very corner where the Hancock and Cahoogue rivers meet up with the expansive Neuse River, is a water and boat lover's dream destination. With easy access to...

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...

Visitors who want to experience the Outer Banks of centuries ago, or get an up-close view of the distinctive black and white diamond patterned Cape Lookout Lighthouse can simply hop aboard a ferry from Harkers Island to...

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is one of the most distinctive lighthouses along the Outer Banks coastline, due to its black and white diamond-patterned exterior, as well as its remote location along the Cape Lookout...

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 isolated Cape Lookout National Seashore has a wealth of hidden treasures, from wild horses to incredible seashells, but one of the Core Banks’ most unique destinations is the Cape Lookout Village Historic...

Embark on a professional guided fishing expedition with Capt. Joe Schute’s Charters, and discover how local knowledge goes a long way in finding those big catches. Based out of Atlantic Beach, and conveniently...

From incredible gallery shows that highlight the talents of a local artist or two, to fun classes that are appropriate for creative students of all ages and skill levels, there are lots of fun ways to explore the...

Captain Joe has been fishing the waters of coastal North Carolina his entire life, a Crystal Coast native with over 30 years experience he has traveled the Eastern seaboard as a professional waterman and USCG licensed...

The Carteret Community Theatre is a talented local theater troupe that performs top-notch dramas, comedies, and musicals for a longstanding crowd of adoring local and visiting fans. With productions staged at the...

Carteret County Speedway, opened in September 2015, is the vision of track owner Bobby Watson.  Watson was a renowned Go-Kart promoter and a racer before that. With a lot of help, which included consultation with...

Cedar Island RV Park and Motel is the vacation destination that you and your family have been looking for! Our beaches remain one of the few areas along the east coast of the United States that remain completely...

Experienced Outer Banks travelers attest that a local ferry ride either to or from the barrier island shorelines is a huge part of the fun, and a relaxing 2.25 hour cruise across the Pamlico Sound is certainly a welcome...

The Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge is a Mecca for coastal fishermen, hunters, birdwatchers, and everyday explorers, thanks to miles of undeveloped terrain in a uniquely coastal location. Found just northeast of...

Emerald Isle vacationers who want to explore the wide waters of the Bogue Sound via a kayak, paddle board, or kiteboard rig can head to Cedar Street Park. This soundside park that’s almost hidden among the...

As the name would suggest, Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant has more than a century of history as a local grocery store, (and then a restaurant), in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Beaufort. The effortlessly...

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...

Trace the historic roots of Harkers Island and its centuries-long life on the water with a visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center. Located in the heart of Harkers Island along Island Road, (an...

Crystal Coast Axe Throwing is the newest entertainment spot on the Crystal Coast.  Whether you want to channel your inner lumberjack or just try out a fun and competitive hobby, axe throwing is a fun and unique...

The Crystal Coast Civic Center serves a variety of needs for coastal North Carolina's visitors and residents. As a popular venue for private conventions, weddings and events, as well as a public "meeting space" for...

Crystal Coast vacationers don’t ever have to venture off the island to enjoy a great game of golf, thanks to the local Country Club of Crystal Coast. Located in the center of the island in the small town of Pine...

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...

Crystal Coast Sailing Excursions is a customized, private charter sailing experience to the pristine and beautiful Cape Lookout aboard the spacious 47-foot sailing yacht, Bravado. With a maximum of 6 guests, Captain...

The Crystal Coast Tourism Authority has been instrumental in introducing newcomers to this picturesque stretch of barrier island beaches and barely-inland maritime communities, and serves as an essential tool for...

The Curtis Perry Public Park, which is also referred to as the Taylor’s Creek Boat Ramp, is one of the most popular launching areas for local and visiting Beaufort mariners. Located on the edge of Lennoxville Road...

When you want to find the big catches off the Crystal Coast, turn to a captain who has been a winner in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, Duck's Unlimited Tournament, and the Cape Fear Blue Marlin Tournament, and...

Davis Shore Ferry Service is one of the Southern Outer Banks’ few local ferry services that provides both passenger and vehicle transportation to the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Cruising across the Core Sound...

Water lovers who are on the hunt for a central and picturesque destination to launch a small vessel or kayak can head to Derwood’s Landing – a public park that’s known for its instant access to the...

From learning the basics of scuba diving and getting certified, to exploring some of the incredible sites that are found within the outlying Graveyard of the Atlantic, there are a lot of adventures that are waiting...

From the Roanoke River to the Cape Lookout National Seashore, there’s plenty of fishing to uncover with the help of Down East Guide Service. Based in Morehead City, this accommodating fishing charter provider...

Mariners who are cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway, the Newport River or the Bogue Sound will find a safe haven to call their “home port away from home” at the centrally located Dudley's Marina. Found...

Crystal Coast vacationers who are looking for a cool Happy Hour hang-out or a night of fun can head to the Emerald Club Tropical Beach Bar for an always entertaining world of ice cold drinks, good music, and plenty of...

From enjoying a charter fishing trip that’s guided by an experienced captain and crew, to renting your own vessel to leisurely cruise the surrounding Crystal Coast waters, there’s a lot of on-the-water fun...

Emerald Isle vacationers don’t have to venture too far to discover an entirely different coastal environment via the community’s newest park, Emerald Isle Woods Park. Located just off of Coast Guard Road...

Embark on an exceptional inshore fishing or offshore charter fishing expedition with a trip that’s orchestrated by Energizer Sportfishing. Based out of Morehead City, this experienced charter fishing business...

Fin-S Charters LLC launched in 2008. Capt. Daniel Raeburn knows local waters well and enjoys taking everyone from first timers to hard core anglers. Fin-S Charters fishes mainly inshore waters for red drum, trout and...

Take a breather from an exploration of busy historic Beaufort and enjoy some stunning views of the local waterfront with a visit to Fishermen’s Park. This small park that is a popular launching point for easy...

Fort Macon State Park, located outside the eastern borders of Atlantic Beach, is one of the most visited and highly acclaimed destinations along the Crystal Coast, and for good reason. The expansive 389 acre park, which...

Frank and Clara’s Restaurant and Lounge is a relatively simple seafood restaurant that has a solid nightlife scene on the weekends, as well as a convenient location in the heart of Salter Path. Close to a number...

The Gibbs House is a picturesque home in the heart of Beaufort that has deep roots and a fascinating background. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, this eye-catching home is a popular destination...

For a lot of outdoor fun that’s found just slightly off the beaten path, head to the Golfin' Dolphin. This kid-friendly amusement park that’s located just inland of the Crystal Coast beaches has veritably...

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...

Adventure awaits. An authorized permittee of the National Park Service to take passengers on both boat and land guided tours to see the wild horses and discover great shelling on Shackleford as well as to visit the Cape...

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...

Harkers Island visitors who want to enjoy a waterfront expedition or just a little time on the sand can head to the Harkers Island Beach and Boat Ramp. Centrally located along the main road that heads to Harkers Island...

A relatively new addition to the Crystal Coast brewing scene since opening their doors in 2007, Harrika’s Brew Haus is a popular destination for good times and great tastes for Cedar Point area visitors and locals...

The Havelock Tourist & Event Center and Marine Corps Aviation Exhibit, located just off of US 70 and close to the Havelock Chamber of Commerce is a must-stop for travelers who are new to this region of the Inner...

Resembling a cross between a train depot and a mariner's port, The History Place is certainly an excellent first stop for anyone who wants to learn a little more about the fascinating inland and barrier island history...

Enjoy a sunny day of cruising along the open waters on your own speed, or enlist a local charter boat to show your party where all the good fishing holes are found, with a visit to the Homer’s Point Marina. This...

Take a trip to small and friendly Harkers Island for an opportunity to enjoy a chartered fishing trip that’s as casual or as targeted as you’d like. Able to cater to the die-hard fishermen as well as the...

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...

There’s a whole host of ways to have fun on the Emerald Isle waters with the help of Hot Wax Surf Shop. Located just off of Emerald Drive along Mallard Dr., this centrally located surf shop offers a lot more than...

Though it’s a quiet coastal community, there’s a lot to love and discover within historic Beaufort, and Hungry Town Tours is happy to launch visitors on a fun-filled adventure of everything this incredible...

From daily rentals to repairs, local and visiting cyclists alike can get moving with a visit to Hwy 58 Bicycles. Locally renowned as Emerald Isle's only complete bicycle shop, Hwy 58 Bicycles has been providing the...

Anglers who want an opportunity to reel in the big catches that the offshore Crystal Coast waters are famous for can count on Island Girl Charters. This Atlantic Beach fishing charter business takes fishermen of all...

Located in the heart of Emerald Isle, the Island Harbor Marina is a convenient resting spot for Intracoastal Waterway travelers who want to relax and explore the Crystal Coast shoreline without venturing too far from...

Take a break from strolling through the cool waterfront streets of Downtown Morehead City, and settle in for an ice cold drink and a remarkable view with a visit to Jack’s Waterfront Bar. Located in the heart of...

Morehead City's Jaycee Park is easily one of the most scenic parks along the Crystal Coast, and perhaps the region's busiest park in the summer season. Located adjacent to the waterfront, with wide open views of the...

Embark on an incredible fishing trip that skirts the waters off the Crystal Coast shoreline with an adventure that’s commandeered by Lady Faye Deep Sea Fishing Charters. Based out of Morehead City, and easy to...

Launch on an extensive adventure that cruises the scenic waterfront borders of Downtown Swansboro and beyond via an expedition that’s hosted by the homegrown Lady Swan Boat Tours. Based in the heart of the...

Located in historic Beaufort, NC, the Beaufort Club Golf Club stands as the centerpiece of the Beaufort Club Club community. Beaufort Club is a world-class, top ranked 18-hole Bob Moore-designed championship golf course...

Set sail on an incredible exploration of the Crystal Coast’s ample waters and abundant unspoiled shorelines with an expedition that’s launched via Lookout Adventures. This Morehead-City based tour company...

The Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point located in Havelock is a local institution that was founded in July of 1941, just months before the attack on Pearl Harbor, and which celebrates an honorable tradition as a...

One of Morehead City’s newest amenities for its ongoing mariner visitors is the installation of the Morehead City Docks, which are found in the heart of the downtown area along Arendell Street. An easy stop for...

The Morehead City Marlins may be a relatively new North Carolina minor league baseball addition, but nevertheless, this local favorite team is making waves in a big way along the Crystal Coast. With an expansive and...

Visitors and locals of all ages can find miles of fun at the Morehead City Recreation Center. This complex of activities and attractions in the heart of town features ample ways to have a ball while experiencing...

The Morehead City Sports Complex is one of the largest destinations for active Morehead City locals and visitors who want to enjoy a little competition or easy-going fun off the sand. The 27.7 acre complex features a...

The Morehead City Yacht Basin was established on its prime locale more than a century ago, earning it the reputation of being one of the oldest marinas on the Crystal Coast. Today, that prime setting still attracts...

Crystal Coast vacationers who want to explore the surrounding waters in search of the big catches can sign up for a fishing charter through Mount Maker Charters. This local fishing charter business is spearheaded by...

The waterfront world of Beaufort, Morehead City, the Shackleford Banks, and everything in between is at a mariner’s fingertips when they launch from the Newport River Pier and Ramp. Located directly on the water...

The aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a top rated attraction for Crystal Coast visitors of all ages. A fascinating destination for kids and adults alike, the sprawling coastal facility, located along the Bogue Sound on...

Dive into a wealth of coastal artifacts, folklore, and legendary figures with a visit to the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort. Operating as one of three maritime museums along coastal NC, this distinctive site...

Discover a slice of play-worthy paradise in Beaufort with a visit to the enticing North River Golf Club found just a few miles north of the famed downtown area. Standing as the centerpiece of the surrounding North River...

A stop at the Oceanana Fishing Pier, and a stay at the adjacent Oceanana Resort, has been an Atlantic Beach family tradition for more than 60 years. A local icon for anglers and beach-goers alike, Oceanana Fishing Pier...

The miles of water off the Crystal Coast are even more beautiful under the surface, and scuba divers can explore this rich region with a dive charter that’s orchestrated by the Olympus Dive Center. Conveniently...

Take an engaging horseback ride along the pristine Southern Outer Banks shoreline with a trip to Cedar Island’s Outer Banks Riding Stables. This local horseback riding company may be a little out of the way for...

Emerald Isle vacationers can take a quick trip across the bridge to the beach to enjoy a scenic trek through a coastal component of the Croatan National Forest with a visit to the Patsy Pond Nature Trail. Located just...

Hitting the seashore in Atlantic Beach is an easy venture, thanks to a number of local public beach accesses, including the sprawling Picnic Street Park. With a prime locale that straddles the borders of the Fort Macon...

The Pine Cliff Recreation Area can certainly serve as a lovely picnic venue, a wide open area to take the pets out for a well-deserved walk, or simply a scenic locale to take a mile hike through sections of the Croatan...

Discover one of the “Best Kept Secrets” for Crystal Coast mariners and water lovers with a visit to the Portside Marina. Located just off of Arendell Street, and therefore close to veritably all regions of...

Step aboard an 18’ bateau (flat-bottom skiff) for a 2-person private tour through remote areas of the Rachel Carson Reserve. Your 3-hour tour begins and ends on the Beaufort Waterfront and explores the natural...

Located on the edge of the Bulkhead Channel which leads to the Back Sound, the Radio Island Beach Access is a unique and wonderfully convenient beach destination for both Morehead City and Beaufort visitors.

Captain Corbett welcomes you aboard his 34’ Bonner custom boat. He offers a multitude of trips, so there is something for everyone to choose from. Heading out up to 40 miles and targeting a variety of fish in each...

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...

Enjoy a comfortable stay without ever leaving the heart of the Crystal Coast at this marina which has a host of amenities for both short-term and long-term mariners. The Sea Gate Marina features 70 rental slips, (which...

Enjoy the Crystal Coast region from a while new perspective, thanks to the array of tours and expeditions that are provided by Seavisions Charters. With tons of on-the-water territory to explore, visitors will just be a...

Embark on an incredible exploration of the offshore waters of the Crystal Coast with a fishing trip that’s orchestrated by the well-named Sensation Sportfishing Charters. Based out of Morehead City, which is just...

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...

Let the kids enjoy a day off the beach while still having a blast with a visit to Morehead City’s Shevans Park. Found within a city block that’s just west of the heart of the downtown area, this kid-friendly...

Explore the stunning inshore and nearshore waters of the Crystal Coast with an expertly commandeered charter trip or boat tour with Shore 2 Sound Adventures. Based in the small coastal town of Swansboro, and guided by...

More than 120 coastal communities oppose offshore drilling- the coast has spoken, and we are determined more than ever to protect our coast. Communities, elected leaders, and impacted businesses and residents along the...

With classes, equipment, personal trainers, and an Olympic size swimming pool, Sports Center in Morehead is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for fitness fans from all across the Crystal Coast region...

The Star Hill Golf Club is found in the small community of Cape Carteret, just across the bridge to Emerald Isle, and is renowned as one of the oldest and most established golf courses along the Crystal Coast. Opened in...

Take off on an expedition that cruises to the deep waters where the big catches can be found with a fishing trip that’s guided by Sunrise II Fishing Charters. Owned and operated by Capt. Daniel Brisson – a...

The small town of Swansboro is surrounded by wide, calm waters, which makes it a perfect destination for tackling a new kayak, paddle boarding, or boating adventure through Swansboro Paddle Boarding. Conveniently...

Take a break from the sun, or cure a case of late-night boredom, with a stop at one of the coolest dive bars in town, the Tackle Box Tavern. Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach along The Circle, this understated...

For an incredible offshore fishing trip that departs from the heart of Emerald Isle, turn to locally owned and operated Teezher Charters. This local charter business that specializes in light tackle live bait fishing...

We are a Veteran owned Boat Rental service offering premium 21ft center console boats. They're perfect for cruising the intracoastal, fishing, visiting Shackleford Banks and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Many also enjoy...

With a prime location on the edge of Downtown Beaufort, and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and local attractions like the Cape Lookout National Seashore, The Boathouse Marina is a great launching point for...

Crystal Coast visitors who want an easy-going day on the seashore can head to one of the most convenient public beach accesses in the region, the Circle at Atlantic Beach. Known as the main “Town Beach” and...

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...

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...

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...

Visitors can start a vacation off with an ice cold drink in hand as soon as they hit the beach with a Happy Hour stop at Tipsy Turtle Tavern. Located on the southern terminus of the Atlantic Beach Causeway, and close to...

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...

Discover some of the top wreck and dive sites off the North Carolina coastline under the professional guidance of experienced local divers with a charter provided by Tortuga Dive Charters. This local diving company that...

Marinas who need a temporary home away from home can enjoy a well-deserved rest at Town Creek Marina, a full-service marina that is conveniently located next to a wealth of Crystal Coast beaches, sites, and attractions...

Fishermen, kayakers, and mariners will all find a reason to return to Town Creek Water Access. This Beaufort water access site that’s located just outside the heart of the Downtown area is a refreshing destination...

Vacationers who want to enjoy a family-friendly day of watery entertainment off the beach can head to Emerald Isle’s own water-themed amusement park, Water Boggan. Located in the heart of town, just a hop, skip...

Indian Beach and Emerald Isle vacationers can enjoy hours of fun on the water at their own pace with a rental or excursion that launches from Water Sports Rentals. Easy to reach for island vacationers, this effortlessly...

Water lovers who can’t get enough of the amazing wildlife and scenery that the Southern Outer Banks coastal region has to offer can book a cruise or tour with the educational, engaging, and downright fun Waterbug...

Though the Webb Memorial Library and Civic Center is a historical destination in its own right, this spacious and engaging library is also an entertaining destination for young and adult visitors alike. Featuring a...

Embark on an incredible offshore fishing trip that targets the warm waters of the Gulf Stream with a fishing charter that’s commandeered by Yellowfin Sport Fishing. Based in Morehead City, and easy to reach for...