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2025 Beaufort Nature Spots 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.

OCEANFRONT SPECTACULAR !
4.5
(11)

Amazing beach front & ocean front duplex sleeps up to 28 comfortably!East-west beach with sun all day.Sensational sandy beach with great swimming & fishing. Very low density beach with no condos or high-rises anywhere on this beach. Great sand dunes with classic photogenic beach grass and sea oats.Deck, balcony, and sitting & sunbathing deck. Canopy shaded area at the end of the deck over the dunes.Weekly prices include linens, towels & cleaning!Telephone now and ask for 'Carolina Dream.'Keywords: Duplex House On The Beach!

  • Emerald Isle
  • 8 Bedrooms
  • 6 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 30
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.

Gorgeous Townhome w\/Ocean Views
  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

Oceanview Condo with Resort-Style Amenit...

Welcome to your ideal beach hideaway at Pebble Beach in Emerald Isle, NC! This roomy second-floor condo offers impressive ocean vistas from the living room and simple beach access, making it the ideal getaway for families and friends.3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms. Master Bedroom: Queen bed with en-suite bathroom, Second Bedroom: Queen bed, Third Bedroom: Single-over-double bunk bed – great for kids or additional guestsTotally equipped kitchen with everything you need to prepare meals. Cozy living room with ocean vistas and plenty of seating. Private balcony to relax and savor the coastal breeze. Resort-Style Conveniences:Indoor & Outdoor Pools – swim year-round!Tennis & Pickleball Courts – for some friendly competitionOutdoor Grills & Picnic Areas – ideal for a oceanside cookoutPainless Beach Access – just steps away from the sandPrime Location:Steps from the Beach – soak up the sun and surfClose to Eateries & Stores – appreciate fresh seafood and local storesNear Local Attractions – mins. from the waterpark, mini golf, and fishing chartersWhether you're looking for a calming escape or an adventure-packed vacation, this Pebble Beach condo has it all. Book your stay today and experience the best of Emerald Isle!

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
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.

Unique 3BR  Home with great views|Beach ...
4.9
(12)

Appreciate a unique place has a style all its own. This brand new home features 3 en-suites, 3 covered porches, outdoor kitchen, laundry room and new furnishings. Only a couple blocks to the beach access and all the handsome sand and surf Atlantic Beach has to offer. It is close to Beaufort, Morehead City and Cape Lookout. There is ample parking for guest. The home provides plenty of room for people to have space and not be busy.Vistas galore. Every room lets you appreciate expansive vistas, watch the sunrise or the sunset while calming in this newly constructed home.Parking under the home and in the designated parking I front of home.We are available via text, e-mail or phone should a need arise during your visit.Very safe, family aligned area.If you have any questions please let me know so I can help answer them!- Hunting dog allowed outside in a kennel or in the storage shed- Crib available upon request. -2 family pets total allowed -There is a non-returnable fee of $150for the first pet and $150 for the second.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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!

Shorr Thing Oceanside 3-Bedroom Retreat ...

Welcome to "Shorr Thing," a impressive beach home that offers the ideal blend of comfort, relaxation, and coastal appeal. Located just steps from the sand with a private salt water pool and hot tub, this charming home provides everything you need for a memorable beach hideaway. Whether you're calming by the pool, walking along the shore, or exploring close by stores and eateries, you'll find plenty of ways to relax and make the most of your time by the sea!Shorr thing is entirely outfitted with an abundance of space for your family to appreciate. In addition to the amenities of the inside, you will be able to savor the fenced backyard with a private, salt water pool & hot tub during your stay. Shorr Thing is a very short walk to the beach & close to the pier. Located in the heart of EI, you will enjoy the close proximity to local eateries & stores. Private driveway that can allow for 4 cars max. There is no parking available on the street. Vehicles will be ticketed & or towed if parked there.The entire property is exclusively yours! The 3-bedroom getaway is never occupied simultaneously with the suite.LIVING ROOM✔ Cozy L-Shaped Couch with Pillows✔ Intelligent TV✔ Comfy Accent Chairs✔ Coffee Table✔ Board games under TV console✔ Access to the Outdoor DeckKITCHEN & DINING Shorr thing features a completely equipped kitchen with modern cooking appliances including:✔ Microwave✔ Stove✔ Oven✔ Toaster✔ Crockpot✔ Coffee Makers (Keurig Machine + Drip Coffee Maker)✔ Fridge/Freezer✔ Dishwasher✔ Sink - Hot & Cold Water✔ Trays for serving✔ Glasses✔ Silverware✔ Pots & PansDining:✔ Dining Table with Seating for 8✔ Breakfast Bar with Seating for 2✔ Eat in nook with seating for 4SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS – 3 BEDROOMS♛ Master Bedroom/Bedroom 1: King-Size Bed; pull out Queen couch (best for kids)♛ Bedroom 2: Queen-Size Bed♛ Bedroom 3: Queen-Size BedAll bedrooms are equipped with a similar set of amenities.✔ Premium Pillows, Linens, and Sheets✔ Extra pillows in each bedroom✔ Closets with Hangers and Shelves✔ Dressers with Roomy Drawers✔ Nighttime Stands with Reading Lamps BATHROOMS The home features 3 full bathrooms which each include:✔ Walk-In Shower✔ Vanity✔ Mirror✔ Toilet✔ Towels ✔ Hair Dryer✔ Hand soap✔ Bar of soap ✔ Toilet paper to start your vacationOUTDOOR DECK AREA✔ Charcoal Grille✔ Picnic Table ✔ Seating BACKYARD✔ Salt Water Pool with option to heat during certain months✔ Hot Tub✔ Parlor Chairs✔ Outdoor Seating Guest accessThe home is exclusively yours, without interruption during your stay, so relax, relax, and make yourself at home.Other than the already mentioned amenities, our home is also equipped with:✔ High-Speed Wi-Fi✔ Air Conditioning✔ Heating✔ Iron/Board✔ Washer/Dryer✔ Free Parking (up to 4 cars)✔ Wifi Locks with personalized codeOther things to note:NO FAMILY PETS ACCEPTED We appreciate those little (and not so little) furry bundles of joy. Sadly, our home is not suitable to accommodate them.NO SMOKING INSIDE Please refrain from smoking inside the home! Any smoking evidence will result in odor removal and additional furnishings cleaning costs.NO PARTIES/EVENTSWe kindly ask you to treat our home as your own to preserve its pristine condition for future guests and your return visits.Thank you very much for your understanding. Let us know if you have any questions. Happy Travels!

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
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.

OCEANFRONT COMPLEX, CONDO IS NEAR OUTDOO...
4.9
(8)

This oceanfront complex is full of fun with the only outdoor pool with a waterslide in Atlantic Beach. Other amenities include indoor pool, tennis & basketball courts, miniature golf and shuffleboard. Fun for the whole family!Principal Bedroom - Queen BedDen - Bunk BedQueen Sleeper Couch *2-3 WEEK RENTALS WILL CHARGE 1 1/2 FEES FOR LINENS & CLEANING PRICE WILL NOT REFLECT ON WEBSITE * * 1 MONTH RENTALS WILL BE DOUBLE THE LINENS & CLEANING PRICE WILL NOT REFLECT ON WEBSITE * * PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS *All prices are subject to a departure cleaning, linen and reservation fee, 12.75% sales tax and a $79.00 Vacation Rental Damage Protection Plan. All costs and taxes are subject to change without notice.NO SMOKING, NO FAMILY PETSAll prices and/or descriptions are subject to change. Although every precaution is taken, errors in prices and/or descriptions do occur on our web site and in printing. We reserve the right to correct any such error.** TWO OPTIONS FOR DAMAGE PROTECTION ** 1. Damage Protection Insurance – For an additional $79.00, this plan covers up to $3,000 in unintentional damages to the rental unit that may occur during your stay. Report the damage to us, we’ll take care of the rest!2. Security Deposit - $500 is immediately charged at time of booking. If the property is left undamaged, keys & parking passes returned, your security deposit will be refunded within 45 days after check out. ** PLEASE INITIAL ON YOUR PAPERWORK WHICH OPTION YOU PREFER ** ONE MUST BE SELECTED

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

The Heart of Emerald Isle

Unwind on the relaxing beaches of Emerald Isle and savor the comfortable ambiance of this enchanting three-bedroom holiday home. Located just an 8-min. walk from the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, this property offers a ideal blend of coastal living and modern amenities.As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a entirely supplied kitchen, complete with a stove, oven, refrigerator, grille, and all the necessary appliances to whip up delectable meals. Gather around the dining table and savor your culinary creations, or step outside and fire up the grille for a delightful alfresco dining experience.When it's time to relax, getaway to the cozy living room and appreciate the convenience of complimentary WiFi and a movie on the sizable TV. Refresh and rejuvenate in the 2.5 bathrooms, where you'll find plush towels and basic soaps. Catch up on laundry with the in-home washer and dryer, and keep your wardrobe fresh throughout your stay.Beyond the amenities of the home, venture out and discover the close by Croatan National Forest, just a 17-min. drive away, or visit the captivating North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, a 21-min. drive from your doorstep. End your days by calming on the beach loungers or appreciating the outdoor furnishings, soaking in the coastal ambiance.Whether you're seeking a relaxing hideaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this 3-bedroom vacation home in Emerald Isle has everything you need for an memorable stay.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
Pebble Beach B-306, Almost Oceanfront Co...

Pebble Beach B-306 is a Third Floor Almost Oceanfront 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo only 1 building from the ocean located in the the professionally landscaped Pebble Beach Oceanfront Gated Condominium Community off Coast Guard Road within walking distance to family theme parks, kiddy race tracks, arcades & eateries.The Living Area has a Flat Screen TV, Queen Sleeper Couch (linens not supplied) and an ocean view balcony with furnishings. Dining Area. Kitchen/Bar has a microwave & dishwasher.Master Bedroom has a Queen Bed, a Full Bath and an oceanview balcony. Bedroom #2 has a Queen Bed and a modest balcony. Bedroom #3 has 2 Twin Beds and a modest balcony. Bedrooms #2 and #3 share a Full Bath. Central Heat & Air. Ceiling fans in every bedroom! High Chair & Port-A-Crib!Community Conveniences:• Wireless Internet Access• 2 Outdoor Pools• Heated Indoor Pool• Kiddie Pool• Outside Showers• Tennis Courts• Exercise Center• Outdoor Grille and Picnic Area• Beach Access Walkway• The Pebble Beach 2,000 Sq. Ft. Oceanfront Clubhouse can be rented for family get-togethers, weddings, receptions, etc. through the Pebble Beach Home Owners Association if you are a registered guest at the community! Note:-Parking limited to 2 cars - 2 parking passes per rental.-No elevators.-No golf carts allowed.-No family pets allowed.-No boats, trailers, or towed items allowed. Linens and Towels included with Beds Made for Weekly stays. Note: Linens for QSS not supplied.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
  • 3 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.

2br Loft River Fun for the Whole Family!

Summary:New Bern, a appealing city founded in 1710, is home to Fairfield Harbour, a community located on the banks of the Neuse River. Fairfield Harbour offers an array of amenities, including land and water sports, river cruises, live entertainment, and opportunities to discover New Bern's 300 years of historical treasures.The Space:At Fairfield Harbour step into your new home away from home. You'll appreciate your 2 bedroom Loft that is 1500 sq ft! The master bedroom has a queen bed, an attached en suite and jetted tub. The second bedroom and loft have 4 twin beds. The living room has a queen couch beds. This Loft can accommodate up to 8 guests!  A full kitchen and a dining room, accepts you the option to prepare your own meals and savor the convenience of dining in. It also includes a washer and dryer in-unit. With all the necessary amenities, and so much fun to have at the resort, you're sure to make many marvelous memories! Photos may not be of the specific suite you are renting and your suite may vary slightly from the photos.Guest Access:The Harbour Pointe Golf Course is open. The Shoreline Golf Course is closed. Please contact the guest services staff for more informationActivities CenterActivities DeskArcade GamesBarbecue AreaBasketballBoat DockBoat Launching RampBoat Slips (Fee)Bocce BallCasual DiningCatch-And-Release PondKids's PlaygroundConcierge ServicesConference RoomFire PitExercise CenterGame RoomGift ShopGolf Course (18-Hole)Golf Driving RangeHorseshoesHot Tub (Indoor)LakeLaundry FacilitiesLive EntertainmentLocker RoomsMarinaMiniature Golf (Outdoor)Movie UnitsPicnic AreaPool CabanaSaunaSunbathing AreaSwimming Pool (Heated/Indoor)Swimming Pool (Outdoor/Seasonal)Tennis CourtVolleyball CourtWi-Fi Internet AccessSome may incur a fee You expressly understand and agree that the resort may charge your credit card for any violation of the resort’s Rules and Regulations, including but not limited to violations of the smoking and pet policies and any damages to your room or the resort caused by you or your guests. Any violation of the resort’s Rules and Regulations may result in additional fines and penalties, including but not limited to the right to remove you and your guests from the resort premises without a refund.Family Animals are not allowed.Daily housekeeping might be available at an additional charges.No shows and early departures will not receive a refund. The entire balance (100%) will be forfeited.This is a non-smoking resortThe Neighborhood:Here are a few activities you can appreciate in New Bern:Bicycle UnitsBoatingKids's ActivitiesFishingGolfMuseumsGetting Around:Grocery store within 15 mins. Car recommended: some activities within walking distance, but most of resort is a campus-like settingBeach is about an hour’s drive awayIf you are using your car's GPS system or an online mapping service for driving directions, please enter the following address: 475 Broad Creek Road New Bern, NC 28560Other Things to Note:This is a time-share resort. You will be a guest of the owner. You might be offered a gift for listening to the Wyndham timeshare presentation. This is NOT obligatory.Photos and descriptions are accurate but might not match your exact room. Similar to a hotel, condos are assigned at check-in. Upon arrival, you may request a specific building, floor, or view, and the resort staff will do their best to accommodate based on availability

  • New Bern
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
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.

Tryon Palace, Neuse River, Birthplace of...

Visit this modern and unique resort sitting along the banks of the Neuse River. New Bern is a gorgeous and historic city. Fun Fact: Pepsi was invented here! You'll appreciate the bustling downtown scene, watching the sunrise over the rivers, the walkability, and the art! Take a day and dive deep into the area's rich history at the many landmarks and museums or lace up your hiking boots and hit the Island Creek Trail. Whether your idea of fun is shopping, kayaking, or eating - you'll find it here!This cavernous 2 bedroom/2 bath condo sleeps 6 with a king-sized bed in each bedroom and a sleeper couch. It includes a full-sized kitchen complete with a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and oven, microwave, coffee maker, etc. We include all of the cookware and dishes needed to craft a 5-course feast! Convenience is the name of the game at Wyndham Fairfield Harbour and we try to make your life as painless as possible by including all linens, soaps, coffee, laundry detergent, and more! We offer a private resort feel with hotel-like customer service. Our 24/7 staff is always available to help.Resort Conveniences:- Sauna- Fire Pit- Horseshoes- Laundry Facilities- Golf Driving Range- Picnic Area- Volleyball Court- Catch and Release Pond- Bocce Ball- Hot Tub- Swimming Pools- Game Room- Tennis Court- Mini-Golf- Exercise Center& MORE!At time of booking, please provide the name of just 1 adult who will be present at check in. It is important to note that the guest whose name is on the reservation, must be the one checking in, and must be at least 21 years old at time of check in. This person can only have 1 reservation in their name. This is who the resort will give the keys to. Please be sure of the name you provide for checking in, as if this has to be changed, Wyndham charges $99 for a new guest certificate. Please also note that all condos do not have a fireplace, and are assigned at random by the resort unless you have a specific request. We really savor you booking your vacation with us and will assist in any way to assure you have a great vacation!Please note that while we offer multiple units in our condo listings, vistas (such as ocean or golf course vistas) are not guaranteed for every unit, particularly during peak dates.

  • New Bern
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

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. 

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. 

Grayden Paul Park

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.

Rachel Carson Coastal Reserve

The Rachel Carson Coastal Reserve is a stunning stretch of barely-barrier island shoreline that’s found just off the coast of historic Downtown Beaufort. Covering 2,205 acres, this collection of three islands that are found along Taylor’s Creek at the mouth of the Newport River can be easily and scenically admired from veritably any waterfront vantage point from the heart of town, and are a stunning and undeveloped addition to the vast wildlife scene of the Crystal Coast.

Island Ferry Adventures

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.

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 treks to the adjacent Rachel Carson Reserve is also a fine spot to pause, relax, and enjoy all the wild scenery that the Beaufort waterfront has to offer.

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, this popular local spot features plenty of great views, miles of water to explore, and plenty of sunny fun.

The Lazy Livin is a private charter docked in the historic port town of Beaufort, North Carolina.  We can comfortably accommodate 6 persons.  Our standard charter begins with a cruise down Taylors Creek where you can take in views of luxury yachts docked on the Beaufort waterfront on the port side and Carrot island ponies and maritime forests on the starboard side.  Then, we make our way to Shackelford Banks, part of th Cape Lookout National Seashore, where dolphin sightings are always enjoyed.  So bring your camera! If seas permit, we can venture into the Atlantic Ocean via the Beaufort Inlet and cruise along the oceanside of Shakelford Banks to Cape Lookout.  Once inside the Bight, keep and eye out for loggerhead turtles! The Lazy Livin' is a vintage 1971, 43’ Hatteras motor yacht that has been meticulously refurbished with all modern conveniences yet maintains her vintage charm.  The yacht is a fine example of early North Carolina yacht building craftsmanship and the Hatteras brand is still a major industry in eastern NC. The captain, Monty Groff, holds a 100 ton Master Captain’s license and has been boating on the waters of the Crystal Coast for over 20 years.  He’s also quick with a joke, but don’t believe all of his tall tales. If available, our cruises can also be customized for your special occasion, wedding proposals, anniversaries, small wedding. Captain Monty is also an ordained minister.  Let the Lazy Livin’ and crew welcome you aboard for a memorable and intimate coastal experience for your family and friends!

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.

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.”

Shackleford Banks Shelling & Wild Horse Expedition offers guests a chance to explore the best of nature on the Cape Lookout National Seashore.Board a ferry for a short, enjoyable road to the shore. Then spend a few hours viewing and tracking the beautiful wild horses that roam free here, exploring the beach, and searching for a variety of unique, unbroken shells that litter the shore.Our wild horse tour is offered at 8:30 a.m. daily and provides one of the best ways to spend a morning in Beaufort, NC!

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.

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