CrystalCoast.com

2025 Museums 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.

Sutton Cottage-Ocean Front Home

Welcome to Sutton Cottage, where coastal appeal and modern comfort harmonize effortlessly. Positioned gracefully along the relaxing shores of the ocean, this five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom sanctuary invites you to immerse yourself in relaxation and rejuvenation.The roomy living room, adorned with plush furnishings, offers expansive vistas of the azure ocean, providing the ideal backdrop for gatherings with adored ones.As the salty breeze beckons, venture onto the broad deck, where you can revel in the mesmerizing sights and sounds of the sea. Whether you're appreciating morning coffee or toasting to impressive sunsets, this outdoor haven offers a serene setting for every occasion.Indulge in the luxury of privacy with five well-appointed bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and an additional powder room. Convenience is seamlessly woven into your coastal escape.Feel coastal living at its best at Sutton Cottage, where every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance your oceanside hideaway.BED CONFIGURATIONS:1 King Bed, 2 Queen Beds, 6 Twin BedsLOCATION:211 Ocean Ridge DriveAtlantic Beach, NC 28512WHAT IS PROVIDED:Spectrum Rental Properties will provide sheets and bath towels. Beach towels and equipment is not supplied. If you would like information on beach equipment units, we are more than happy to provide you with a list. Properties will be included with a starter kit in each full bathroom and kitchen. Each kitchen starter kit will contain a modest bottle of dish soap, two dishwasher pods, sponge, and two fragrance complimentary laundry pods. The kitchen will also have one additional trash bagEach bathroom starter kit will contain a travel size shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, makeup wipe, and body bar.Spectrum Rental Properties is unfortunately not able to provide additional boxes/bags. This is a starter kit; anything additional will be guests responsibility to provide.OTHER NOTES:-Fireplaces are for decoration only, and cannot be used-No Family Animals-No Smoking-Security camera is for security purposes only

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 12
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.

Lovely Oceanfront Suite w/Free WiFi, Pri...
5.0
(1)

Dunescape Villas 219Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Make your family’s vacation memorable in this pretty, oceanfront condo at Dunescape Villas in Atlantic Beach. This condo features all the amenities of home and all the amenities desired for a great vacation! No need to worry about carrying the suitcases up the stairs to your condo - there is an elevator and bags carts available to make for simple access. Imagine yourself basking in the sun around the outdoor community swimming pool while the kids frolic in the water. Or follow the walkway to the handsome, white, sandy beach where you can ride the waves, build sandcastles, or collect seashells! This condominium offers a comfortable living room that is great for calming or cooling down after a busy day at the beach. Give yourself a time out and allow yourself to be carried away by the charming view of the ocean and feel the exhilarating ocean breeze as you relax on the screened-in balcony just off of the living room. The entirely equipped kitchen has all major and modest appliances, making cooking for the family a breeze. Don’t forget: the courtyard has shared charcoal grilles for those enchanting family barbecues. You'll have great dinner conversations after a fun day at the beach or other area attractions! When it’s time for lights out, you have three bedrooms waiting to lull you to sleep. After the kids have cleaned up, tuck them into either of the guest bedrooms with the two twin beds. When you make your way into your primary bedroom you will find your own private bath with a shower stall for a invigorating shower to help you relax before turning in. Don’t worry about not having enough beach towels. You will find a laundry room with a full-size washer and dryer located in the front screened-in entry. Additional in-suite amenities include four TVs and a DVD player. The complimentary WiFi access makes it painless for you to post your favorite vacation memories to your social media. Across the street you will also find a day dock with a view so handsome, you may never want to go home! 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 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.

Cozy Beach Getaway at APATB! Sandy beach...
4.7
(71)

High season: Sat to Sat bookings.This First Floor 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo with well-supplied galley kitchen has everything you need. Ocean is steps away; the outdoor pool with water slide and hot tub are ready to make your beach memories. Simple parking lot and laundry room access (uses an app for payment).Master bedroom has queen bed, second bedroom has twin bunk beds with a twin trundle (bunk beds are best for kids, not adults but are standard twin beds, just not a lot of head room). A Place at the Beach offers family fun for everybody: outdoor pool with water slide, outdoor hot tub, indoor pool with hot tub, tennis courts, mini golf, grilles, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities for all ages ... You won't need to leave! Reminder: Please do NOT move furnishings around. Please treat rental with respect. ** There are chairs and beach toys in condo. No pack n play.** Tips: Bring beach towels. ** Cleaning Fee (Vrbo is now calling it a Host Fee) includes Cleaning and Linens (bath towels and bed linens, 100% goes to our cleaning company).** Admin Fee, $15, is the APATB Office Arrival Packet Fee that they charge us for your arrival. If you do not return this packet, a $50 charge will be assessed to your account.First Floor unit by laundry room and elevator is close by.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 5
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.

Two KING masters! Private Pool and Spa!
5.0
(18)

This Atlantic Beach gem has one overwhelming feature — the charming vistas of the salt marsh, Hoop Pole Creek and Bogue Sound! Whether you’re sitting on the top balcony or down at the pool and spa, you will be overlooking the impressive salt marsh. You can observe dozens of species of birds, watch boats passing through the Bogue Sound and feel the cool salty breeze on your face. The home has everything you need for a ideal Atlantic Beach stay — a entirely-outfitted kitchen with gas stove, comfortable King-size beds in each of the four bedrooms, and everything you need to appreciate the beach (umbrella, chairs, wagon, towels), which is a short walk away.Charmingly decorated, it’s ideal for families, girls’ weekend, family reunion or a couples’ getaway. The home features two master bedrooms with private bathrooms, and two additional bedrooms that share a huge bathroom. Every bedroom has a King bed (linens are supplied) and flat-screen TV. Three of the four bedrooms have spectacular water vistas and all rooms have direct access to one of the two balconies. The home has an elevator and an open floor plan. The comfortable living room has a enormous TV (connected to YouTube TV), a gas fireplace and access to the top balcony with spectacular water vistas. The dining area has a 10 person table, bar seating, and access to another modest balcony with a table and chairs. There is a “rec room” downstairs with a ping-pong table and flat-screen TV along with 2 Daybed Futon Sofas that sleep an additional 2 (this garage has its own HVAC system for comfort). A backyard patio has a gas grille and table and chairs around a fire pit overlooking the heated pool and spa with waterfall feature. The backyard is fenced for privacy. You can set up the corn hole game while you’re grilling out!You can stay at the home and prepare your favorite dishes, or drive to one of the many close-by eateries. A grocery store (and a few eateries, gift stores and clothing stores) is a two-min. drive away. Head across the bridge to Morehead City or historic Beaufort to look at the boats and grab a great meal, and maybe even take a guided tour. The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a short drive.The beach, with its emerald-green waters, is a 10-min. walk, or a fast drive to public parking. You can park in Atlantic Beach’s “Boardwalk” area with painless access to a delicious lunch or cold drink. You’ll appreciate this handsome home with spectacular vistas and all of the amenities you need for a ideal vacation!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 10
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!

  Unit 179 is a 2 BR/2 ba condo on 1ST f...

July 7-14, 2024. Welcome to “A Place At The Beach III”, Atlantic Beach’s premier vacation resort. Unit 179 is a 2 bedroom/2 bath condo on the first floor overlooking the pool and courtyard area. Getting to and from the pool, play ground and green area is painless as you just go down one flight of stairs and the beach is just a short walk on the boardwalk! The master bedroom features a king bed, a private bathroom and private entrance to the balcony. The second (front) bedroom has two twin beds, a dresser and nighttime stand. The couch in the family room can accommodate another 2 people so 6 can sleep comfortably in this unit. The completely-equipped kitchen has a washer and dryer, stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher and plenty of storage space. In addition to the beautiful, wide, sand beach you can savor many amenities that come with a stay here. The enormous outdoor pool offers a wade-in area for toddlers as well as the only giant water slide in Atlantic Beach – 150’ long! The central green space offers a playground and a huge grassy area and multiple outdoor charcoal grilles. An indoor pool with hot tub and deck with gas grilles are only a few steps from this unit. The resort also includes lighted tennis courts, cornhole, shuffleboard, 9-hole mini-golf course, ping-pong table (all necessary sports equipment included), and an outdoor hot tub. An on-site store offers beach bicycles and movies for rent, as well as convenience items. Nearby you’ll find Morehead City and Beaufort and if you up for a short walk or drive historic Fort Macon State Park close by. There is the road to Ft. Macon or you may choose the walking trails that go through the sand dunes and woods to get there. The handsome NC aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is about a 15 min. drive. Surf, pier, and charter fishing (inlet and deep sea) is available year round. Fresh local seafood is served at many close by eateries and fish markets. Grocery stores, shopping centers, a movie cinema, jet ski’s, kayaks and more are all within a few mins. drive.

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

Cobia- Atlantic Beach, 1 bedroom, 1 bath...

Your new Atlantic Beach destination, this freshly refreshed high end condo is a one bedroom, one bath first floor unit. New to the vacation rental market! With a full kitchen, queen bed and fold out couch it's comfortable and oh so handsome. Intelligent TVs with complimentary WIFI and cable are located in the bedroom and living room. All new stainless steel appliances, stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher. With linens included it is ideally located for your beach vacation. And there is a washer and dryer on site for your convenience. You will be within walking distance of eateries, bars, ice creme parlors, shopping and the Atlantic Beach circle! Minutes by car you can be at Atlantic Beach Town Park with a seasonal 18-hole mini-golf course (fee) & splash pad, plus skateboarding & picnic areas. Fort Macon and the North Carolina Aquarium are also a short drive away!There are other one and two bedroom units available so you can bring friends and family and still have your private space. Look for Mahi, Sailfish and Wahoo! Check it out and book your get away today!Places to consider visiting: Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach Public Park, which includes Water Sprays, Miniature Golf, Skate Boarding, etc., Oceana Pier and Pier House Restaurant, Crystals Bar, Beach Tavern Bar and Grille, Memories Nighttime Club, Mount Maker Charters, Italian Girl Charters, Reelax Fishing Charters, Family Time Fishing Charters, Braggin Rights Charters, Reel Priority Charters, Atlantic Beach Boat Units, Captain Stacy Fishing Charter, 70 East Custom Golf Cart Units, NC Aquarium, Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail, Gallery C East Artwork, Battleworks Laser Tag, Beach Wheels Bicycle Units, Wings Beach Wear, AB Water Sports Adventures (Jet Ski), Water Boggan Water Park, DragonFly Parasail, Mount Maker Charters, Oceanana Fishing Pear, Captain Stacy Fishing Center, Wings Beach Wear, Island Girls Charter. Historical Horse Drawn Carriage, Scavenger Hunts, and Ghost Tours in downtown Beaufort. Morehead City has a lot to offer, including the History Museum of Carteret County, Antique Shopping, Escape Rooms, Crystal Coast EcoTours, Parson's General Store, Blue Ocean Spa and Nails, Pure Indulgence Organic Day Spa, Crystal Coast Brewing Company, Any Time Exercise, Crystal Coast Axe Throwing and Rage Room, Therapeutic Message Nicole Lewis, Morehead City Ferry Service, Lookout Fish Adventures, and Salty's Caddy Shack Mini Golf.We are centrally located, so you can appreciate everything Atlantic Beach offers. Many striking memories will be made during your stay!!! You will want to return every year!!!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
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.

Second Wind - Condo in Atlantic Beach, N...

A comfortable 1-bedroom condo in Atlantic Beach, NC, offers the ideal getaway for a beachside hideaway with room for up to 4 guests. It is located along the impressive coastline, this striking abode provides a cozy and inviting space for relaxation and rejuvenation. All Linens Included! Only a 4 min. walk to the beach access!-This 1 bedroom condo offers a completely brand new kitchen, from the cabinets and counter top, to all brand new appliances. The Kitchen is open to the living room that offers a plush futon for comfortable seating that doubles as a sleeping area for 2.-The bathroom, located in the hall, offers a stand alone shower, new toilet, new vanity, and lighting.-The bedroom serves as a relaxing getaway for rest and relaxation. A comfortable king-sized bed is adorned with crisp linens and plush pillows. Coastal accents and soft lighting add to the calming ambiance, creating a calming space to relax and recharge.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Ocean View Condo_Private Beach Access_Po...
4.5
(55)

Come to this 2nd story PARTIAL OCEAN VIEW studio unit for some sun, surf, and sand! Originally the Captain's Bridge Motel in the 1970s, the interior has been Totally Renovated into a Stylish Modern Design. The property features PRIVATE GAZEBO ACCESS to a handsome, SECLUDED BEACH for the enjoyment of calming strolls, shelling, sunbathing, and sunset walks. There is also the coastal bicycle path for exhilarating running, bicycle riding, or walking.Our guests' safety and comfort are our number one priority and the space is professionally cleaned and thoroughly sanitized before your stay. This is a SMOKE-COMPLIMENTARY Oceanside Complex. The aerial photo shows how close you will stay to the beach as well as the location of your space within the building. The original building was run as a motel constructed in the 1970s but we have entirely remodeled the interior into a chic modern condo in 2019. It is furnished with a comfortable queen size bed, full size futon, kitchenette w/ appliances, bespoke tile shower, flat screen TV, and WiFi. NOTE: This unit's shower has been modernized. We elected to provide a full size shower and due to space considerations we took out the bathroom vanity. The kitchen sink serves as the only sink in the unit. We have found this an appropriate use of the space, however we want to make sure our guests are aware and comfortable with the layout of the unit prior to booking.You cannot beat this location! This unit faces East towards the neighboring complex and offers an Ocean View when sitting on the couch. Savor your morning coffee or evening glass of wine from our wraparound shared balcony seating area or walk to the two Gazebos overlooking the Ocean to feel the fresh breezy air. Ideal for couples, singles, and families with modest kids. An Outdoor Pool, 3 Charcoal BBQ Grills, 2 Gazebos, and a fish cleaning station are available to guests. There is no daily maid service but towel swap outs can be arranged for $10 upon request (paid directly to the cleaning service). There is a card operated laundry room on site for longer stay guests.Many local eateries/stores are within walking distance. Dollar General is right across the street and Food Lion is just a mile away. Additional eateries, a movie theater, and a shopping center are a short drive away.Ideal hideaway for a charming weekend, or a family getaway ...watch dolphins splash from the oceanside gazebo ... don’t miss the sunset over the ocean waves .... walk the sandy beach ... build a sandcastle with the kids ... surf cast for one of the many varieties of fish in our ocean waters ... watch surfers hang ten.... Jet-ski or Parasail ... take a jog, or ride your bicycle on the new Atlantic Beach bicycle trail ... feel the wind through your hair on the new Cape Lookout ferry... check out the wild Spanish ponies of Shackleford Banks.... take the kids to the new Atlantic Beach recreation park... and don't forget the exceptional NC Aquarium!Suitability- Ideal for couples, singles, or modest families - Max occupancy 4. Ideal for 2-3 adults or 2 adults-2 kids. - This is a SMOKE COMPLIMENTARY COMMUNITY. There are 2 designated smoking areas (marked picnic tables) on the east and west end of the property.- Family Animals (1 dog less than 50 lbs) can be accommodated. 1 dog is subject to a $100 pet fee per stay. Guest must crate dog if left unattended in room. Guest must disclose the size/breed, confirm that all vaccinations/flea meds are up to date, and agree to clean up after dog. Leash must be used on property.- 2 cars max allowed per unit rented. - No boats or trailers allowed on the premises. - Facilities (pool, parking, and beach access) for registered guests only. - Card Operated Laundry facility on site.-Detailed Check-In Instructions will be sent 3 days prior to your stay.We have multiple units in the same complex, so If you need more than one unit, or if we do not have your dates available in this unit, message us for assistance so we can provide additional options. Thank you and We look forward to seeing you at the beach :)

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
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.

Spacious 3BR, 3BA Condo | Ocean View | P...
5.0
(3)

Appreciate the ideal beach hideaway in this well-appointed 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo with partial ocean vistas and all the amenities of home. Located in a gorgeously maintained complex with resort-style amenities, this condo offers plenty of space and features for a calming and memorable vacation.Sleeping Arrangements:1 King bed1 Queen bed2 Twin beds1 Queen sleeper couchLinens included with beds made for your convenience.Inside Features: Central air & heat for year-round comfort, Entirely equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, Washer & dryer, High-speed capacity ice maker, wet bar—ideal for entertaining, 4 cable TVs and wireless high-speed internet, Ceiling fans throughoutOutdoor Living:Partially covered, furnished deck with ocean vistasPrivate balcony access from the condoComplex pool and outdoor showerGrille and picnic area for simple outdoor mealsAdditional Info:Weekly units only: Sunday to SundayNo smokingNo family petsLimit of 2 cars per condoThis condo is the ideal home base for beach-loving families or groups, offering comfort, space, and the amenities that make vacation living painless. Come experience the best of coastal Carolina.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 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.

Perfect Family Location -  Beautiful New...
4.9
(23)

Freshly modernized property! Entire home has been refreshed for your stay. Peaceful, peaceful home located just steps from the Neuse River. Fishing pier, and kayak launch. Recreation center steps away as well. Indoor/outdoor pool, exercise center, game room. Rec center covers use for one family! Everything is here to savor your vacation. Downtown New Bern 15 min. drive and the striking North Carolina beaches are within 35 mins.. More photos coming soon of our new ping pong table that will be set up in the game room!

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