CrystalCoast.com

2025 Beaufort History Guide

Crystal Coast Map
Emerald Isle Indian Beach Pine Knoll Shores Atlantic Beach Shackleford Banks Beaufort Morehead City Cape Lookout Cedar Island Harkers Island New Bern
Lookout Cruises

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.

First-Floor Condo with Courtyard View, W...
5.0
(1)

A Place At The Beach 190Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'A Place At The Beach offers broad amenities and one of the best family getaways imaginable - there's practically no reason to ever leave the resort grounds! Can’t you just see the excitement on your kids’s faces as they approach the outdoor swimming pool and water slide or the nine-hole putt-putt golf course? Don't forget about the hot tub, the shuffleboard, the tennis and basketball courts, the game room, and the gas grilles. There's even an indoor pool should the rain ever decide to move in. Ready to hit the beach? You can follow the walkway to the handsome, white sand of the Crystal Coast and ride the waves, soak up the sun, or collect seashells. This condo is located on the first floor with a courtyard view, offering all the amenities of home! With plenty of seating in the living room for the whole family, you can appreciate your favorite shows on the enormous flatscreen cable TV or watch DVDs with ease. Step outside, have a seat on the balcony, and relax in the fresh ocean air. You'll also find a completely equipped kitchen with all the necessary major and modest appliances (including a stacked washer/dryer in the closet), a dining table for four, and additional seating at the counter. The primary bedroom features a TV, private balcony access, and a private bathroom with a stall shower. Additional amenities include a second bedroom, a second full bathroom, a sleeper couch, and complimentary WiFi throughout the condo. Things to Know Full kitchen No smoking allowed This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina, LLC.Parking notes: There is parking available for a fee and charges will apply for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 1.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Kitty Hawk Kites

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.

R&R, Oceanfront House in Emerald Isle, N...

R&R is an 8 bedroom oceanfront home, with Private Pool and Private Hot Tub. Totally modernized in 2023, this home has been refreshed with the latest in styling, furnishings and technology. It is ideally located close to all eateries, grocery stores, the pier, miniature golf and other such attractions.With a Tesla charging station, keypad entry system, ample parking (some covered), an elevator that accesses ground level to 2nd level, theater room, game room and additional room, this modern home is sure to please even the pickiest person in your event. If you are looking for a modren place to host a huge family gathering, a company celebration or simply a group getaway, this home is for you! We offer 7 bicycles for your use, beach chairs, and sand toys! Get ready: the unbelievable sweeping vistas of the ocean from the main level and top floor await you!First Level (Lower):- Parlor area- Kitchenette w/ refrigerator and dishwasher- Theater Room- (2) Full Baths- (3) bedrooms, each with (2) Queen bedsSecond Level (Main):- Kitchen- Laundry Room- Living Room- Powder Bathroom- (2) King bedroomsThird Floor (Top):- (3) King bedrooms, each with own bathroom and private deck- (1) Bonus RoomThe first level has a lounge area with gaming system, billiards table, decadent theater room and leads directly out of the pool and beach. A kitchenette and full-sized refrigerator are the ideal partners for outdoor grilling, chilling and al fresco activities. There are also 3 bedrooms on this level—each boasting (2) queen beds and its own 55” Roku TV—ideal for kids and couples alike. The 2 full baths on this level are roomy enough to service both the bedrooms and those taking advantage of the amenities on the same level.The main/ second level—the main hub of the home-- displays a gourmet kitchen and living room with a gas fireplace that completely supports your sizable event. It’s a chef’s dream, complete with a commercial-grade gas stove and double oven. All needs will be met with a huge-capacity constructed-in ice maker and even a Margaritaville machine. We have 2 enormous fridges, 2 dish washers and offer both a Keurig and a multi-cup coffee maker where you can grind your own beans. Washer/dryer and half bath are also on this level.Here on this same second level, there are 2 king bedrooms, both which have their own in-suite bathrooms and own Roku TVs. One of the king bedrooms faces the ocean, leads out to a deck and has its own large corner Jacuzzi tub. The other king bedroom is handicap/ wheel chair accessible and only a few steps away from the elevator.All three bedrooms on the 3rd/ top level have their own in-suite bathrooms, 55” Roku TV and own PRIVATE deck with impressive broad vistas of the Crystal Coast Ocean. This top level has a drink station in the hall, made complete with a Keurig and Mini-refrigerator. Imagine waking-up to a sunrise on your own deck, with a cup of coffee from the beverage station located just steps-away...or a nighttime-cap from the mini-refrigerator while looking at the starts and planning your next day adventures!Outside one of the king bedrooms is a Bonus Room with a Full bed—ideal for that infant or kid that doesn’t yet like to sleep far-away from his parents. Another of the bedrooms has an additional twin bed inside a giant walk-in closet—again, a great place for that infant, infant or kid.These are the most cavernous king bedrooms you’ll find, and each has a lot of drawer storage and big closets for all of your belongings! These rooms are all big enough to escape the hustle of the activity of the home and savor that afternoon nap you never get while at home. We even offer (2) robes for before/after your hot tub use! In our king bedrooms, you really are a King (and Queen)!A brand-new outdoor shower awaits your return from the beach and ample outdoor loungers allow you to soak-up the sun poolside. The pool can be heated for $650/week + tax and is the ideal place to appreciate family time, float around or watch the kids swim.The covered deck accepts for a way to escape the sun without missing any of the action. There is also a gas grille and a picnic table for your use. After the sun sets, enjoy the nighttime-time ambiance with outdoor event lights and a calming time in the hot tub!High Speed Wireless Internet Access Included!Appreciate the boat launch facility and access to the sound at the new Emerald Isle Boat Launch Facility located less than 2 miles away! Between Mile Marker 17.5 and 18 on Highway 58, adjacent to Chapel By The Sea.This home historically rents quickly for all seasons, book NOW and get ready to enjoy the best that Emerald Isle has to offer!Linens & Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly and Nightly stays.This is a non-smoking home.Up to 2 Dogs Accepted with the 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 Saturday - Saturday. Rents Nightly with a 3 nighttime minimum 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 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
  • 8 Bedrooms
  • 7 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 16
Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway - Crystal Coast

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.

Beautiful Bogue Shores 1st Floor Studio ...
4.9
(65)

You need a nice vacation and we have what you are looking for! This open concept studio is ideally located on the sound-side and directly across the street from the beach. It's designed with vacation in mind and has everything you need for a memorable time. Just bring your clothes, your personal items and want to have a lot of fun. This first floor unit facing the pool sleeps four, with a convenient queen-sized Murphy bed and quell-sized pull-out couch bed. It is just steps away from a big pool and has a cute kiddie pool too for the little ones. Across the street is a private beach area with sandy beaches where you can soak up some sun, go swimming, build sand castles or just relax. In the evenings, you might want to sit on the sound-side of the facility under the gazebo, or on the gliding chairs and watch the boats go by. Like to grille out? There are grilles out on the lawn area where you can prepare your favorite foods or catch of the day if you go fishing. And speaking of fishing, you can charter one of many boats to take you for a fishing excursion you will never forget. There are also water taxis that can take you to local islands or go on a sightseeing adventure. You might see the wild horses on Shackleford Banks or even get a glimpse of Blackbeard! Visit the local parks, award winning seafood eateries, beach stores, hiking trails or water parks. Like history? Visit the Fort Macon State Park, the second most visited park in NC. Construction of the present fort began in 1826. Fort Macon was a federal prison from 1867 to 1876. You will walk through the fort and feel that you are back in time. Don't forget to visit the NC Aquarium. This striking aquatic adventure features dive shows, live animal encounters, and feeding programs. With so much to do, you will want to book your next vacation with us and come back time and time again.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Morehead City Ferry Service

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.

Popular   ~ Quaint. Bogue Shores Condo -...
4.8
(41)

A big value in a modest package. This 300 ft. studio condo is open concept with very nice furnishings and many "extras" to accommodate our guest. Located on the handsome island of Atlantic Beach, NC in the fashionable Bogue Shores Condo complex, you will be close to grocery stores, waterparks, hiking trails, historic sites, kiddie parks, putt-putt golf, NC Aquarium, Fort Macon, water taxis, kayak and bicycle units, water sport units, fishing excursions, specialty stores and so much more! The handsome sandy beach is just a few steps away and you can also savor the inter coastal waterway that is located behind the facility. Bogue Shores also boast one of the nicest pools on the island and a kiddie pool too. What are you waiting for? You deserve a vacation, RESERVE TODAY!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Beaufort Pirates Revenge

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!

Barefoot Beach: Spectacular Family Beach...

Atlantic Beach just made #16 in the list of Top 100 Beaches in the United States, beating out even beaches in Hawaii! Truly a hidden gem, as this part of the island doesn't have public access, beyond a few cars, so it's just folks staying right there.My favorite spots here are the broad with outdoor areas, including dining, humongous sectional couches, and fire table to savor as the sun goes down. I appreciate that I can hear the waves crash from here.The spaceYou will have access to two units in the same property with this listing, upstairs and downstairs:Unit A- King bedroom 1- King bedroom 2- Queen Murphy additional bedroom 3- Twin Trundles additional bedroom 3- Queen Murphy living roomUnit B- Queen bedroom- Twin bedroom (2 twins)- Two rollaway twinsPlease note there is an owners’ unit on site with separate entrance. Rarely used, but from time to time may have someone staying in it.Guest accessThe entire home, top and bottom, will be yours. The driveway fits six cars, and there is street parking as well.Other things to noteLess than 300 meters to miles of striking, sandy beaches! Located on Atlantic Beach between the ocean and the sound, this is your ideal hideaway for fishing, swimming, and more.Fort Macon State Park: This fort dates back to the 1800s, offers guided tours, hiking trails, & picnic areas.Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores: See a wide variety of marine life & exhibits.Fishing: You can fish from the beach, the pier, or charter boat out for deep-sea fishing.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 16
Mac Daddys

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.

Waterfront home with dock, rocking chair...

Living Water EstateOur calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Surround yourself with excellent vistas and the warm island breeze when you book a stay at Living Water Estate! Start your mornings by sipping on your ritual cup of coffee and swinging on the back deck's swing. If you're up early enough, the sunrise over the water is an memorable sight. Back inside, continue to appreciate the view from the cavernous living room, complete with ample seating and a Intelligent TV. Steps from here, the full kitchen features a full suite of stainless steel appliances and a center island/breakfast bar. You'll adore gathering around the wooden dining table for family-style meals. Your own haven of tranquility, the primary bedroom offers broad sleeping quarters and an en suite bathroom, complete with a enormous tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in shower. The home's additional three bedrooms are just as inviting with perks like central air-conditioning, ample natural lighting, and soft linens. A private washer/dryer rounds out Living Water Estate's striking interior perks. Outside, fish off the dock, visit on the rocking chairs, or head into town to indulge in the catch-of-the-day! Fort Macon State Park, Crystal Coast Civic Center, North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, and Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway are all less than 10 miles from your front door. House RulesCheck-in time: 4:00 PM.Check-out time: 10:00 AM.All guests shall abide by Vacasa’s good neighbor policy and shall not engage in illegal activity. Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.No smoking is allowed anywhere on the premises.There is no boat access with the docks. There is no use of boat lifts by the guests at any time. This home has surveillance cameras located on the exterior of the home; they are located on each corner of the home, and they aren't in use when guests are in the home.This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina LLC.Parking notes: There is complimentary parking available for 3 cars.Security camera details: Ring doorbell camera and backyard cameras on both sides of the homeDock details: Dock is accessible for guest(s) use. There is no boat access, or use of the lifts.Please note: this home resides in a noise-sensitive area and the owners participate in our Good Neighbor protection program. Our intelligent home technology will alert our team if excessive decibel or occupancy levels are detected, accepting us to reach out directly with a reminder of max. occupancy and peaceful hours. This technology is privacy compliant, and only monitors the presence of decibels and devices-not any personal conversation or information. Thank you for supporting our efforts to be good neighbors!Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 10
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises

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. 

Crystal Coast Museums

Considering that the Crystal Coast has centuries of history as well as one of the most unique environments along the North Carolina coastline, it should come as no surprise that the region is home to an array of fascinating and thoroughly engaging museums. For a fun and educational rainy day activity, (or just a little excuse to get out of the sun), be sure you check out these “must see” museums that are found throughout the Crystal Coast.

2nd-Floor Oceanfront Condo w/Shared Pool...
4.0
(2)

Dunescape Villas 221Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'This second-floor oceanfront condo has superb ocean, beach, and pool vistas! The primary bedroom includes a king bed, a flatscreen TV, access to the private balcony, and an en-suite full bath. The second bedroom has a queen bed. The third bedroom has two twin beds, a flatscreen TV, and a private half bath. In the living room, you'll find a sizable flatscreen TV, a DVD player, and a sleeper couch. The screened-in balcony is a great place to savor an al-fresco meal while taking in the magnificant vistas. Other amenities include a completely equipped kitchen, a full bath in the hall, a wet bar, a private washer and dryer, and complimentary WiFi. Dunescape Villas community amenities include four oceanfront pools, elevators, and access to Bogue Sound. Things to Know Free WiFi Please note that all pools are seasonal This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina, LLC.Parking notes: There is complimentary parking available for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 2.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Ocean View Condo on the 2nd Floor with W...
4.0
(2)

A Place At The Beach 281Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'A Place At The Beach offers broad amenities and one of the best family getaways imaginable - there's practically no reason to ever leave the resort grounds! Can’t you just see the excitement on your kids’s faces as they approach the outdoor swimming pool and water slide or the nine-hole putt-putt golf course? Don't forget about the hot tub, the shuffleboard, the tennis and basketball courts, the game room, and the gas grilles. There's even an indoor pool should the rain ever decide to move in. Ready to hit the beach? You can follow the walkway to the handsome, white sand of the Crystal Coast and ride the waves, soak up the sun, or collect seashells. This second-floor condo is positioned to overlook the resort courtyard and the outdoor swimming pool. Appreciate two bedrooms, a private balcony, your very own washer/dryer, two TVs, and complimentary WiFi to make your stay comfortable, painless, and convenient. Things to Know Full kitchen No smoking allowed This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina, LLC.Parking notes: There is parking available for a fee and charges will apply for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 2.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari

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. 

Crystal Coast Vacation Rentals

Visitors who are heading to the Crystal Coast will find a scattering of hotels and motels throughout the shoreline and inland communities, but will soon discover that the primary type of accommodations available are vacation rentals. Located all along the Crystal Coast beaches from Atlantic Beach to the town of Emerald Isle, a vacation rental is the generally preferred accommodations option for vacationers thanks to ample space, exceptional locales close to the water, and plenty of homes and condos to choose from.

Point Emerald Resort Retreat: Walk to Be...
4.7
(17)

Map out your East Coast escape to this inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bath vacation rental located in breathtaking Emerald Isle. This family-aligned condo offers a beach-themed interior with a wet bar, private balcony, as well as access to a multitude of community amenities including 2 pools and dedicated beach access! Whether you're here to tan on the beach, bring the kids to the Salty Pirate Waterpark, or cast a line off the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, this condo is the ideal North Carolina home base!-- THE PROPERTY --1,300 Sq Ft | Community Amenity Access | Private Balcony | Central A/CDesigned with couples retreats and family beach retreats in mind, 'Coastal Blessing' offers all the beach essentials, ample space, and a prime eastern Emerald Isle location!Bedroom 1: Queen Bed | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed | Bedroom 3: 2 Twin BedsPOINT EMERALD VILLA AMENITIES: Charcoal grilling space, picnic tables, dedicated beach access (short walk), 2 pools, sun chairs, gated communitySTEP OUTSIDE: Private balcony w/ high-top chairs, lounge furnishings & lightingINDOOR LIVING: Flat-screen cable TVs, wet bar, ceiling fans, dining table, en-suite bathroomsKITCHEN: Entirely equipped, brand new appliances (installed 2022), breakfast bar, dishwasher, drip coffeemaker, cooking basics, dishwasher, Keurig coffee makerGENERAL: Linens & towels, complimentary WiFi, beach chairs and sand toys included, brand new carpetingPARKING: Complex (2 cars)-- THE LOCATION --SOAK UP THE SUN: Emerald Isle Beach (on-site access), Beach Access Inlet And Channel Drives (0.8 miles), Emerald Isle Beach (3.7 miles), Eastern Regional Beach Access (7.9 miles), Circle Regional Beach Access (20.7 miles), Radio Island Public Beach Access (27.3 miles)GOLF THE DAY AWAY: Star Hill Golf Club (5.6 miles), Crystal Coast Country Club (17.7 miles), Brandywine Bay Golf Club (18.7 miles), Heaven Point Golf Course (27.4 miles), Sound of Freedom Golf Course (30 miles)NATURE PRESERVES: Emerald Isle Woods Park (1.5 miles), Patsy Pond Nature Trail (10.3 miles), Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area (15.1 miles), Rachel Carson Reserve (30.4 miles), Onslow County Parks: Oakhurst Landing and Nature Trail (31.8 miles), Cape Lookout National Seashore - requires a ferry (50.4 miles)FAMILY ATTRACTIONS: Fun World Motorsports (1.9 miles), Salty Pirate Waterpark (2.1 miles), Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier (3.7 miles), Golfin' Dolphin (4.4 miles), Mac Daddy's (4.4 miles), Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway (12.4 miles), North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores (16.4 miles)AIRPORTS: Coastal Carolina Regional Airport - EWN (40 miles), Albert J Ellis Airport (41.1 miles), Wilmington International Airport (78 miles)-- REST EASY WITH US --Evolve makes it simple to find and book properties you'll never want to leave. You can relax knowing that our properties will always be ready for you and that we'll answer the phone 24/7. Even better, if anything is off about your stay, we'll make it right. You can count on our homes and our people to make you feel welcome — because we know what vacation means to you.-- POLICIES --- No smoking or vaping- No family pets allowed- No events, events, or enormous gatherings- Must be at least 25 years old to book- Additional costs and taxes may apply- Photo ID may be required upon check-in- NOTE: No boats or trailers are allowed in the parking lot

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Island Express Ferry Service

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.

The 7 Best Beach Chairs 2025

You’ve made the drive, gathered the family, packed the cooler with lunches and drinks, and you’re heading out onto the sand on a bright Summer day. You unfold your beach chair and SNAP, it breaks, or bends, or the rotting fabric rips. It happens to the best of us. We’ve checked dozens of chair reviews and features. Here are our picks for best beach chair.

Deep Water Canal, Fish from Dock, Walk t...

Welcome to The Beech Barn – your laid-back launchpad for salty adventures and sunny memories!Tucked along a deep-water canal with direct access to Bogue Sound, this coastal gem is made for boat days, beach calming, and good vibes all around. Tie up at the dock, roll your beach cart a few blocks to the ocean, or cruise down to the neighborhood’s private beach access (yep – parking supplied). What You’ll Adore:Sleeps 8 | K, Q, Q, and Twin over Full Bunk beds in the den1.8 miles from the Aquarium at Pine Knoll ShoresGame room fun for all agesTwo comfortable hangout spots: a den and a living roomFull kitchen with full-sized appliancesGas grille for laid-back cookouts Kayaks + beach gear + a beach cartParking for your boat trailer + a few carsPrivate neighborhood beach access w/ parkingNeighborhood boat ramp and parksSit on the deck and watch the boats drift by, kayak the sound, or hit the beach for a full day of sandy toes and salty breezes.Know Before You Go:No ensuite bathrooms – but 2 full baths for painless sharingKitchen’s cozy but gets the job done (and the refrigerator holds plenty of snacks!)No fence between the home and the canal – little ones need close supervisionDock is sharedWe follow our cancellation policy. Trip insurance is recommended. A signed vacation rental agreement and valid photo ID are required to complete the booking process.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Island Express Ferry Service

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.

Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari

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. 

Lookout Cruises

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.

North Carolina Maritime Museum at Beaufort

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 is known for its unique ship-worthy exterior, its vast collection of exhibits that span centuries, and its close ties with the Southern Outer Banks’ most famous resident, Blackbeard the Pirate.

Beaufort Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum

Soak up the centuries-old history of beautiful Beaufort with a visit to the Beaufort Historic Site. Renowned as the third oldest town in North Carolina, there’s a lot of history to explore in this quiet Southern Outer Banks community, and visitors can dive right in by touring a collection of 10 historic homes and structures that are located within the downtown region.

Port City Tour Company

Port City Tour Co. is your destination for entertainment, education, talented acting, and history! We can also deliver a catered experience for your special events.   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 Company. Attractive to history buffs, nature lovers, die-hard beachgoers, and everyone in between, this all-encompassing tour company features a veritable world of adventures both on and off the water for Beaufort adventurers of all appetites.

There's a reason why Beaufort earned the title of the "Coolest Small Town in the USA" by national publication Budget Travel Magazine, and one of the driving forces behind this honor is Beaufort's dedicated preservation of its history, orchestrated, mainly, by the Beaufort Historical Association.

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, the site is certainly worth a second look. Located off of Ann Street, which is just a block or two away from the waterfront, the historic grounds date back to the 1700s, and is a spooky and positively photogenic destination that’s covered by live oaks and native foliage, and which serves as the final resting place of some of Beaufort’s most well-known locals.

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 along a guided or a self-guided downtown walking tour.

settings->site_id=='1') { ?>