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Crystal Coast Outdoor & Nature Events - 2026 Schedule

Crystal Coast Outdoor & Nature Events - 2026 Schedule

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

This Week
Saturday, September 12th 7:30 PM - 10:45 PM
Harkers Island

Come explore one of the most scenic sections of the Crystal Coast with this unique tour and event that will appeal to stargazers of all ages and experience levels. The Cape Lookout National Seashore Starlight Cruise is an opportunity to explore the night skies with a professional guide, as well as a chance to take an evening tour of one of the most stunning beaches that the Crystal Coast has to offer.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of October 5, 2026 - October 11, 2026
Monday, October 5th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Monday, November 2nd 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Atlantic Beach

Take advantage of the temperate spring weather and uncrowded shorelines to discover the wealth of wildlife that calls this coastal North Carolina region home. The Bird Hike at Fort Macon is a fun and engaging opportunity to explore one of the Crystal Coast’s most renowned landmarks while spotting a myriad of local and migrating birds that flock to this coastal destination.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of October 19, 2026 - October 25, 2026
Saturday, October 24th - Sunday, October 25th
Atlantic Beach

Wit breezy weather and warm temperatures, the fall is an ideal time to go fly a kite on the Crystal Coast, and this event is an ideal launching point for folks to celebrate their high-flying abilities. The Carolina Kite Festival, which is hosted by the local Kites Unlimited & Bird Stuff, has grown into a stellar and full-day event with hundreds of kites decorating the sky, and plenty of fun to go around.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of November 2, 2026 - November 8, 2026
Monday, November 2nd 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Monday, October 5th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Atlantic Beach

Take advantage of the temperate spring weather and uncrowded shorelines to discover the wealth of wildlife that calls this coastal North Carolina region home. The Bird Hike at Fort Macon is a fun and engaging opportunity to explore one of the Crystal Coast’s most renowned landmarks while spotting a myriad of local and migrating birds that flock to this coastal destination.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of November 30, 2026 - December 6, 2026
Friday, December 4th - Sunday, December 6th
Harkers Island

The small community of Harkers Island comes to life at this annual event that puts this community’s rich heritage and history in the spotlight. The annual Core Sound Decoy Festival, which is held the first full weekend in December, is a unique celebration that combines exhibits, demonstrations, vendors, food, and much more, to the delight of local visitors and residents alike.

Friday, December 4th - Sunday, December 6th
Harkers Island

The Crystal Coast is renowned as a popular destination for seasonal visitors of all varieties, and that includes the thousands of waterfowl that flock to this region every year. This unique distinction is celebrated annually at the Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend, which is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to learn more about this stunning landscape, and the many feathered visitors who call it home for the winter season.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of April 26, 2027 - May 2, 2027
Saturday, May 1st 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Beaufort

The annual Wooden Boat Show is a tradition in the town of Beaufort, and its 51st celebration in 2027 promises to be bigger and more engaging than ever before. With a long roster of activities that are slated for the weekend-long event, visitors will be treated to a wealth of activities, displays, exhibits, and interactive ways to join in the fun.

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
Emerald Isle History

Like many of North Carolina's coastal islands, Emerald Isle was first home to Indians; the Algonquin Indian tribe occupied the surrounding countryside from about 500 A.D. to colonial times. Later, the area was settled by whalers and fishermen.

Coastal Retreat with Outdoor TV and Rela...

This is a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom beach getaway designed for comfort and relaxation. Perfectly suited for families or groups, this home features an open-concept layout that brings everybody together in a bright and airy living space. The kitchen...

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Upscale Oceanfront, with Panoramic Views

Stunning ocean vistas. Upscale luxury in a beach home with expansive seascape vistas. This oceanfront bungalow has been floor-to-ceiling modernized with an modren modern coastal vibe that was designed by Susie to keep all different styles of...

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

Aurora East, Oceanfront Duplex in Emeral...

Aurora East is an Oceanfront Duplex with a Swimming Pool (shared with the adjacent side), a Private Hot Tub, and High Speed Internet Access! (Bring your own computer.) Just steps to the ocean. Within walking distance to fishing pier, eateries...

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 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...