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2025 Birding 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.

Tip'Sea Turtle, Almost Oceanfront House ...

Tip'Sea Turtle is a 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in Emerald Isle with striking vistas of the ocean that you won't want to miss! The emerald-colored waves are just a short walk away, a feature you will certainly value, as you will be able to walk back and forth all day if needed! The beach access is directly across the street for ease of transporting all of your beach necessities!Level One: On this level of the home you will find a handsome living area that is ideally suited for a week at the beach. There is also a cavernous additional room on this level.Level Two: This floor of the home homes two bedrooms with king beds that share access to a full hallway bathroom. There is also a master bedroom with a king bed on this floor that has access to a private full bathroom. There is also a second roomy additional room on this level.Conveniences: This home is equipped with high-speed wireless internet for your convenience. For your entertainment, you will find 5 flat-panel TVs with basic cable as well as a Roku for your streaming needs. There is the added convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer, which is super useful for swimsuits and beach towels! You will find a entirely-equipped kitchen with all that you will need to prepare snacks and meals throughout your stay. There you will find a coffee maker, as well as all needed appliances including an oven, a refrigerator with an attached ice maker, a microwave, and a dishwasher for fast and painless post-meal cleaning up! On the outside of the home, you will find a park-style outdoor grille for cooking out with your appreciated ones! There is a hot and cold private outdoor shower to rinse off after a long day of sand and sea and a private hot tub to wind down on brisk evenings!Linens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly stays.No Smoking.No Animals.Rents Weekly only Sunday - Sunday.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
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 10
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.

Sound Of The Sea East 123, Oceanfront Co...

Sound of the Sea East 123 is an Oceanfront 3-Level 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome Condo in the Sound of the Sea Community with impressive vistas and only steps from the beach access! Appreciate your morning coffee from the private decks with outdoor furnishings.Bed Sizes are 1 King, 2 Queens, 1 Double, and 2 Twin/Twin Bunk Sets.Ground Level includes Bedroom #1 with a Queen bed, TV, and private patio with access to the beach. Bedroom #2 with a Double bed and Twin Bunk bed, TV, and laundry area. Shared full bath this level.Level 1 includes Living area with a flat screen TV, Dining area that seats six, Totally equipped kitchen and seating for four at the counter, a Half bath, and Covered deck with furnishings and ocean vistas off living area.Level 2 includes Bedroom #3 with a King bed, TV, and private deck with furnishings and ocean vistas! Bedroom #4 with a Queen bed & Twin bunk bed with TV. Shared full bath this level.Conveniences: 5 TVs with cable and/or Rokus, Central heat and air. Dishwasher, Interior Washer/Dryer, High speed internet access, Ceiling fans throughout.The Sound of the Sea Community offers on-site amenities sure to make your vacation fun and calming while the location provides painless access to many eateries, grocery stores, water park, mini golf, and unique stores!Community Conveniences: Gated Community, Two Outdoor Pools, Pool House, Outdoor Showers, Outdoor Grille Area, Tennis Facilities, Community Private Walkway to the Beach, Building Elevators, and No Smoking on Premises. Bluewater cannot guarantee Complex/Community Conveniences will be in service during the time of your stay.PARKING INFORMATION: Each reservation will receive 2 Gate Cards and 3 Parking Passes - parking for 1 car at unit, 2 in general parking. 3 cars max - Sound of the Sea does not have overflow parking. Linens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly and Nightly stays.NO SMOKING - this is a non-smoking community.Up to 2 Modest - Medium Dogs allowed with our All-Inclusive Pet Policy for Weekly and Nightly stays - No fee! No Enormous Dogs or Cats allowed. 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 Sunday - Sunday. 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 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
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
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.

Pollock Cottage in Atlantic Beach, NC (O...

Located along the Atlantic Beach coastline, this six-bedroom, three-bath beachfront home offers the ideal blend of appeal, and comfort. With private beach access just steps away, and sweeping dune vistas, this coastal getaway is an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure by the sea.Inside, the home exudes warmth and character, with ample seating in the living space that invites family gatherings and peaceful moments alike. A well-appointed kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and cavernous counter space makes cooking a breeze.With six bedrooms and three full baths, this home can accommodate multi-generational families, friends and couples. The deck offers a front-row seat to beautiful sunrises and the relaxing sound of waves. Appreciate basking in the sun or simply unwinding with a good book. Private beach access with an outdoor shower accepts for simple morning walks along the shore, invigorating swims, or evening a nighttime of star gazing.Located just a short drive from stores and eateries, this is the ideal setting for making lasting memories. With its charm and unbeatable location, Pollock Cottage is the ideal coastal hideaway!WHAT IS PROVIDED:Spectrum Rental Properties will provide sheets and bath towels. Beach towels and equipment is not included. If you would like information on beach equipment units, we are more than happy to provide you with a list. Properties will be supplied 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:-No smoking-No family pets allowed-Cameras outside property without noise are for security purposes only

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 6 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 14
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.

Pet-friendly, Hidden Gem - 3 Blocks to B...
5.0
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Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, this pet-friendly, first-floor condo is close to everything. The lifeguarded beach at the Atlantic Beach Circle is a short 5 min. walk (just 3 blocks!), as are multiple eateries, a pet-friendly biergarten w/ food, surf stores, and gift stores. We have a pool surrounded by palm trees open from May-October and complimentary parking onsite!!---THE PROPERTY---Double Queen Suite unit 106 features two Queen beds, a full bathroom with bathtub, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, granite countertops, tile floor, and designer tropical decor. Owners have placed an HD flat screen TV in the unit for your convenience!Wanting to bring your family pets with you?No problem! All of our rooms are pet-friendly. We accept up to two dogs (no cats) per room for a pet fee of $20 per pet per nighttime.---POOL AND AMENITIES---Your suite is part of the condotel Island Inn of Atlantic Beach, which means you can appreciate all of the amazing amenities this community offers. Soak up the sun and feel the beach vibes at our private-to-the-community pool surrounded by palm trees. We provide tables, chairs, loungers, pool towels, and cornhole for your relaxation and enjoyment.Savor the fast 3 block walk to the beach! When coming back from the beach, take advantage of our outdoor shower to rinse off sand from your feet and your furry friend’s paws. Need a soda or some ice? Ice is complimentary, and a soda vending machine is onsite. Wrap up the day spending some quality time and grilling out at our charcoal grille  and picnic table area.---GUEST ACCESS---Park and walk to everything you need from the beach to the eateries to the surf stores! Free parking for one car onsite. Plus limited boat trailer parking available! Be sure to confirm boat trailer parking upon booking.-------------------------– HOME RULES –**MUST BE 21 YEARS TO BOOK.PET POLICYPlease let us know if you will be bringing your pet with you. We accept up to two dogs (no cats) per room for a pet fee of $20 per pet per nighttime. The pet fee is not supplied in the total price and is a separate transaction that is collected prior to check-in. Animals cannot be left unsupervised in a room unless crated, and they also must be kept on a leash when in the hotel common areas. Guests are responsible for cleaning up after their pet on hotel property and in the neighborhood. The use of hotel towels or linen to clean pet's urine and feces is not allowed. Please contact the front desk if you need additional cleaning materials to clean your dog's mess. Guests agree to be held accountable and will accept all liability for damages suffered. The hotel reserves the right to charge guests in excess of $100.00 for the cost of any damages.SMOKING POLICYALL rooms at this hotel are non-smoking. Smoking will not be allowed in any of the rooms. A penalty of $200.00 will be applied to a guest bill for violating this policy.DAMAGE POLICYWe reserve the right to charge guests the cost of rectifying any damage caused by the deliberate, negligent, or reckless acts of guests to the hotel’s property or structure. Should this damage come to light after the guest has departed, we reserve the right to make a charge to the guest’s credit/debit card or send an invoice for the amount to the registered address. We will however make every effort to rectify any damage internally prior to contracting specialists to make the repairs, and therefore will make every effort to keep any costs that the guest would incur to a minimum.COOKING POLICYDue to strong odors, please refrain from cooking and cleaning fish inside the rooms. A penalty of $200.00 Will be applied to a guest’s bill for violating this policy.REMOVAL OF HOTEL PROPERTYWe reserve the right to charge guests the cost of replacing any items that are removed from the premises by them. The charge will be the full replacement amount of missing items, including any carriage charges. Should the fact that the item is missing come to light after the guest has departed, we reserve the right to make a charge to the guest’s credit/debit card or send an invoice for the amount to the registered address.ITEMS LEFT BEHINDItems left in rooms or on premises will be held for 24 hours. We will not be responsible for items lost or stolen.LATE CHECKOUTCheckout is at 11am for all rooms with a 10 min. leniency window before being charged $50 per person per hour. We do offer a pre-approved late checkout for a smaller fee, based on availability.OTHER DETAILS TO NOTEThere are outside security devices placed throughout the property that are on all the time.

  • 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!

2br Loft River Fun for the Whole Family!

Summary:New Bern, a beautiful 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 appreciate 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 outstanding 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 savor 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
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.

Seaside Villas 44, Soundside Townhouse i...

Oceanside Villas 44 is a newly constructed sound side Townhome with 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 Baths. Located in elegant Atlantic Beach, just one block away from the ocean! Not feeling the beach? Hangout with friends and family at the community pool. The Oceanside Villas Community is just mins. away from amazing local eateries and shopping!This property is equipped with High-Speed Wireless Internet so you can stay connected on your beach vacation.Level 1: Living Area with TV. Totally Equipped Kitchen. Level 2: Bedroom #1 with 1 Queen Bed and TV. Bedroom #2 with 2 Twins and TV. Level 3: Bedroom #2 Master with 1 King Bed and TV. Full BathAdditional Conveniences Include: 4 Flat Panel TVs, Premium Cable Channels, Covered Decks, Outdoor Decks, Deck Furnishings, Community Outdoor Shower, Washer & Dryer, and Entirely Equipped Kitchen with Oven, Fridge with Attached Ice maker, Microwave,Dishwasher, Blender, and Keurig.Community Features Include: Picnic Table Area, Community Playground, Community Outdoor Shower, Community Walkway to Beach, and Outdoor Pool Access. 2 Car Max Parking; Not Assigned. NO Smoking. NO Family Animals.Linens and Towels Supplied with Beds Made! (Weekly Stays Only).Rents weekly from Sunday to Sunday. Rents nightly with a 2-nighttime minimum, off-season only.PLEASE NOTE: Max 2 cars - parking not assigned.DOES NOT PARTICIPATE IN ANY INSTANT PROMOTIONS.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.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 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. 

Cedar Island

Located on the edge of North Carolina and serving as a midway point between the Outer Banks and the Crystal Coast, Cedar Island is a relatively undiscovered gem that feels miles away from the rest of the world. Close to historic and natural attractions, miles of barrier island shoreline, and the state-run ferry to Ocracoke Island, a Cedar Island vacation can be as relaxed or adventurous as a family wants, with ample opportunities to explore costal North Carolina’s great outdoors.

Oceanfront, First-Floor Condo with Balco...

Sands Villa 121Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Sit down and take a load off in this handsomely furnished, oceanfront condo at Sands Villa Resort! Sands Villa 121 is located on the first floor of this charming, oceanfront complex. Imagine yourself floating around the community's outdoor swimming pool in the shining summer sun or immersing yourself in the cool, exhilarating waters of the indoor pool. Once you and the kids are good and water-logged, head to the playground to run off some energy, try out the basketball and tennis courts, or follow the walkway to the beach for a little fun in the sand. When it’s time to relax, catch the elevator back to the condo. You can prepare a delicious meal in the entirely equipped kitchen with granite countertops or do a little grilling in the courtyard on the gas and charcoal grilles. You’ll find a dining table with seating for four and additional seating at the counter. After dinner, sit back on the couch, catch up on some reading or on your favorite TV show on the 42-inch flatscreen TV, or watch the ocean waves from the oceanfront balcony. When it’s time to turn in, the bedrooms include a primary suite with a 32-inch flatscreen TV, an en suite bathroom, and a private oceanfront balcony. The two other bedrooms have 22-inch flatscreen TVs of their own. Additional amenities include a stacked washer/dryer and complimentary WiFi throughout. Things to Know Full kitchen No smoking allowed 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 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
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

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. 

Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail

An easy walk that is shaded year-round, and can be easily tackled by hikers of all abilities and in virtually any season, the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail is a great way for newcomers to uncover the more secluded natural landscapes of this otherwise resort town.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

The Cape Lookout National Seashore is a 56-mile long stretch of the Southern Outer Banks barrier island terrain that runs from Ocracoke Inlet to the northeast side of Beaufort Inlet. Comprised of three separate islands – the North Core Banks, the South Core Banks, and the Shackleford Banks – this wonderfully remote destination can only be accessed by a personal vessel, or a privately operated ferry or water taxi. As a result, it’s world-renowned for its miles of undeveloped and scenic beaches, its remarkable fishing, its exceptional shelling, and its abundant wildlife that thrives in the undisturbed and inherently wild environment.

Hammocks Beach State Park

Just west of the town of Emerald Isle, and across a maze of marshy terrain off the coast of mainland Swansboro, lies Hammocks Beach State Park, an incredible refuge for beach lovers who want to forego the crowds, and enjoy a parcel of barrier island all to themselves.

Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area

Take a walk on Pine Knoll Shores' wild side with a visit to the pristine, undeveloped Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, an expansive 265 acre nature preserve, conveniently located next to the town's most visited attraction, the North Carolina Aquarium.

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.

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.

Swansboro's Bicentennial Park may not be the grandest of most extensive park along the Crystal Coast's Inner Banks, but it is certainly one of its most scenic. Surrounded by the deep waters of the White Oak River and Swansboro Harbor, patrons to this park will enjoy endless water views, great fishing and a scenic boardwalk to take in the scene.

Though it’s located in a fairly busy section of Morehead City, the Calico Creek Boardwalk is a breath of fresh air for birdwatchers, nature fans, and everyday sightseers, thanks to its picturesque location on the edge of the slightly inland Calico Creek.

Visitors can enjoy a quiet view of the Calico Bay and Newport River from this refreshingly secluded spot that’s tucked away on the outskirts of the downtown Morehead City area. Conchs Point is a public water access point, but it also has a ton of natural features to make it appealing to sightseers and mariners alike.

Start your Crystal Coast adventure with a scenic trip exploring some of the Southern Outer Banks’ best beaches, courtesy of an expedition provided by Crystal Coast Ecotours. This experienced, educational and all-around fun company treats passengers to a bounty of natural beauty through cruises that venture past lighthouses, dolphins, wild horses, and everything in between

Glenburnie Park is a scenic public park that’s located just northeast of the heart of Downtown New Bern. Tucked along the Neuse River in a primarily residential section of town, the park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike who want to enjoy a wild and natural day by the water.

Latham Whitehurst Nature Park is one of the newest parks in Craven County, and was first opened to visitors and locals alike in 2011. Located in a quiet eastern section of the town of New Bern, the park is a popular destination for wildlife fans of all varieties, including hikers, kayakers, birdwatchers, fishermen, and everyone in between.

Emerald Isle vacationers can take a quick trip across the bridge to the beach to enjoy a scenic trek through a coastal component of the Croatan National Forest with a visit to the Patsy Pond Nature Trail. Located just across the sound from the Emerald Isle beaches, and found in the small community of Newport, which borders historic Swansboro, this unique destination is a popular site for birdwatchers, outdoorsy-types, mountain bikers, and hikers, and features a network of short and long trails that are sure to energize any explorer.

Enjoy a gorgeous sunset, a little birdwatching, or just a leisurely and short hike that hovers above the White Oak River with a visit to the aptly-named Riverview Park. Located along NC Highway 24 / Corbett Avenue, in between the central downtown Main and Elm Streets, this quiet and modest-sized public park might be close to all the downtown and waterfront action, but truly feels like its worlds away.

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.”

Head to the very western edge of Emerald Isle to discover an iconic spot that’s been popular with longtime vacationers and locals alike – The Point. This informally named stretch of beach is where the borders of Emerald Isle ends, and where the Bogue Inlet begins, and the surrounding shoreline, which circles from the ocean to the Bogue Sound, is renowned as a paradise for fishermen, beachcombers, sightseers, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys a miles-wide and on-the-water view.

Kayakers, mariners, and any visitor who adores an endless waterfront view will want to make a convenient but secluded stop at the boat ramp and launching area at Thorofare Bridge. Situated in the heart of Cedar Island, this little-known destination is a popular spot for local mariners to explore the wild waters that the Crystal Coast is known for.

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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