Crystal Coast Activities - 2017 Guide

There are literally endless ways to enjoy the water along the Crystal Coast, and AB Watersport Adventures has explorers of all varieties covered with a suite of rental equipment and gear to make an on-the-water...

Set sail on your own self-guided adventure and explore the miles of desolate barrier islands that are found just offshore with your own vessel from Ahoy Boat Rentals. This Beaufort-based rental provider is found just a...

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...

From framing your favorite paintings, to checking out the local works of Crystal Coast artists, to being inspired to sign up for a workshop or class, there’s a lots of ways to fuel your creative side with a visit...

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...

With more than 300 years of history, the small town of Beaufort certainly has more than its fair share of ghost stories, and visitors can explore these legends in-depth with the Beaufort Ghost Walk. Spearheaded by the...

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...

Beaufort Inlet Watersports 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...

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...

Swashbucklers of all ages can get into the fun and spirit of Beaufort’s reputation as a former pirate haven with an on-the-water expedition that’s commandeered by Beaufort Pirates Revenge. These boat tours...

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...

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...

Dive into a new sport that will get the blood pumping, or relax your worries away, with a rental or lesson provided by Blown Kiteboarding. This all-encompassing watersports company that’s based out of the small...

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...

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...

Explore the works of a locally acclaimed artist, or sign up for a class to get your own creative juices flowing, with a stop at Morehead City’s own Bridges Street Pottery. Located just off of Arendell Street in a...

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 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...

The Capt. Stacy Fishing Center provides a fun fishing experience from the moment passengers step off the docks and onto the 83’ ft. long head boat, the “Capt. Stacy IV.” Equipped with some of the most...

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...

Emerald Isle visitors who want to dive into the region’s hot paddle boarding and kiteboarding scene can book a rental, tour or lesson through the homegrown Carolina Kitesurfing. Based in the heart of the town of...

Crystal Coast vacationers can venture off the coast where the big catches are waiting with a fishing trip that’s commandeered by the Carolina Princess. Launching out of Downtown Morehead City, and easy to reach...

Fishing isn’t just a fun way to past the time in these parts. On the Crystal Coast, it’s a Carolina Tradition, and visitors who want to fully explore the inshore waters for a wealth of tasty and locally...

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...

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...

Visitors can embark on a big fishing expedition with the larger-than-life Voyager Deep Sea Fishing and Dolphin Cruises. Stationed along the Downtown Morehead City docks, this impressive boat fleet takes visitors on a...

Country Carriage Stables & Tours gives Crystal Coast visitors an in-depth look at the fringes of the Croatan National Forest through leisurely horseback rides that present the wild inland scenery at its natural...

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 Lady Cruises features one of the largest fleets of cruise ships along the Crystal Coast, and as a result, can effortlessly provide a number of family-friendly expeditions to vacationers who want to enjoy...

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...

Lift-off for an incredible adventure that soars hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Beach shoreline with a parasailing trip that’s spearheaded by Dragonfly Parasail. This friendly and experienced parasailing...

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...

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...

Riders of all styles, abilities, and tastes will find the board of their dreams at Flatwaters Paddling. This one-stop-shop for water adventures features a wealth of boards for sale and rent, as well as special guided...

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...

For breezy explorations of the Crystal Coast area’s most beloved sites and miles of open water, count on Good Fortune Sails. This sailing charter business has the unbeatable combination of an experienced captain...

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...

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...

Discover the best of the inshore charter fishing scene with an adventure that’s guided by the wonderfully experienced Highlander Charters. Based out of Atlantic Beach and Morehead City, and easy to reach for both...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Visitors taking a historic walking tour through Downtown Beaufort will want to take a quick pause and a photo or two at the Jacob Henry House. Tucked away along Front Street, this 1790s home is one of the many historic...

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...

Experience the Core Sound waters and barrier island shorelines from an entirely new perspective with a tour or a trip to the Cape Lookout National Seashore that’s chartered by Local Yokel Ferry and Tours. This...

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...

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...

Launch on a wonderfully fun adventure exploring the local ports of Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and beyond with an entertaining and friendly expedition with Mermaid Express Harbour Tours. This Atlantic Beach-based...

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 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...

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...

Emerald Isle visitors don’t have to venture too far to enjoy exceptional fishing opportunities, thanks to the island’s own Nancy Lee Fishing Charters. Located along the bridge to the beach, this experienced...

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...

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...

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...

From cool off-shore shelling and wild horse adventures to close-to-home walking tours that encounter centuries of ghosts or pirates, there’s a lot of adventures waiting for explorers via the Port City Tour...

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...

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.

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...

Swansboro, Cape Carteret, and even Emerald Isle vacationers don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fully-engaging fishing expedition or eco tour, thanks to the locally acclaimed Sandbar Safari. Located on the...

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...

From ultimate relaxation through a calming yoga class or deep massage, to leisurely explorations of the waters that surround Downtown Swansboro, the Crystal Coast is the perfect destination for catching a Second Wind...

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...

Dive into an adventure that’s teeming with local wildlife and exceptional beachcombing finds with a family-friendly adventure that’s provided by the Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari. As the name...

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...

Enjoy a hearty sample of the Crystal Coast golfing scene with a round or two at the Silver Creek Golf Club. Located in the inland community of Swansboro, and bordering the wide waters of the White Oak River, this scenic...

Treat yourself to a local bottle of wine and celebrate the coastal life with a visit to the homegrown Somerset Cellars winery. Specializing in private labeled wines and producing roughly 20 different types of wine at...

Experience a tour of the Crystal Coast shoreline unlike any other on land, literally, with an adventure through Southern Air Tours at MRH. This acclaimed tour company provides an aerial expedition that truly allows...

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...

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...

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...