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2025 Scenic 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.

Bass East Oceanfront 3BR Duplex with Stu...
5.0
(9)

Appreciate a fabulous vacation at Bass East. This oceanfront 1/2 duplex has 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms. The bed sizes include 2 Queens and 2 Twin Beds. The linens are included with beds made. Take advantage of the ocean breeze by calming on both the open and covered decks with chairs and tables. Entertain friends and family while cooking in the kitchen equipped with your dining essentials. Savor great vistas of the ocean and take advantage of the walkway to the beach that includes a seating area to watch the sunset or appreciate your morning coffee. This property is ideal for a family to get away and savor the charming beaches of Emerald Isle! Conveniences Include: Central air & heat, Outside hot & cold shower, Dishwasher, Washer & dryer, Microwave, 3 Color cable TVs, Water softener, Wireless internet, and Ceiling fans. This property rents weekly only from Saturday to Saturday. No smoking, no family pets

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Kitty Hawk Kites

Founded as the world's first hang gliding school in 1974, Kitty Hawk Kites has grown into a beloved retail and outdoor recreation venture with more than 28 locations up and down the east coast! With more than 50 years of teaching the world to fly, Kitty Hawk Kites is proud to serve the Crystal Coast as a premier retailer of kites, wind art, toys, apparel, and accessories. Shop great brands like Reef, Prism, Natural Life, Yeti, HeyDude, and more! Visit our locations in Beaufort and Atlantic Beach today.

Stunning 2BDR Oceanfront Condo in Peacef...

As soon as you open the front door, imagine seeing the ocean stretching out as far as your eye can see, seemingly countless in its expanse. Step out onto the enormous private covered porch, breathe in the salt air, and get ready for a memorable vacation at Seaswept PKS.Welcome to Seaswept PKS, your dream oceanfront hideaway! Our gorgeous, freshly modernized, 2 bed/2 bath condo in the Beacon’s Reach community at Pine Knoll Shores offers expansive vistas of the shining ocean, where you can relax and relax with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack. The open living space is designed to maximize the striking vistas, featuring a floor to ceiling sliding door leading to a cavernous covered porch ideal for sipping your morning coffee or appreciating a glass of wine while watching the sunset.Inside, you will find a completely refreshed and freshly furnished, modern getaway with all the amenities of home. The completely equipped kitchen is ready for your culinary adventures, and the comfortable living area invites you to kick back after a day of beachside fun. Each bedroom provides a serene escape with plush linens and, of course, amazing ocean and maritime forest vistas.Step outside, and you are just moments away from the sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Whether you are here for a calming beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, our oceanfront condo is your ideal home base. We cannot wait to welcome you to heaven!If you are looking for more adventure, visit the acclaimed NC Aquarium just two miles away, play golf at the close by Crystal Coast Country Club, or dine at fantastic local eateries in Atlantic Beach, Morehead City and Beaufort. Explore the Cape Lookout lighthouse, shop, and take ferries to close by islands. Make lasting memories at Seaswept PKS.Other things to note-Access to all of Beacon's Reach amenities including: multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball hoop, playground, walking trails and marina with slips available per day (subject to availability for an additional fee).-No family pets allowed-No smoking/vaping allowed-Two parking passes supplied-Community swimming pool and picnic area with charcoal grilles (pool is open April 1 through October (weather permitting)-Wifi, Intelligent TVs in the living room and both bedrooms-Intelligent lock with personalized code for keyless entry/check in-Ring doorbell camera for security

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 5
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.

Coral Shores #11, Oceanfront Condo in Pi...

Coral Shores #11 is a gorgeous oceanfront property located in the spectacular town of Pine Knoll Shores, meaning it grants speedy access to all parts of the Crystal Coast including Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, and more! This home stays elegantly maintained thanks to the Beacon's Reach Association. The sizable deck on the property features handsome beach and pool vistas, and luckily is just a short walk from both! You will find great walking paths all around and it is located just 1.5 miles from the NC Aquarium. You will also find you are close to Lost Treasure where you can play mini golf and ride go-carts! There are also various placed to shop and incredible eateries to check out! Guests have access to the Marina Pool located at 590 Marina Drive and the Westport Pool located at 570 Coral Drive.Total linens includes 2 king, 1 queen.Ammenites: Highspeed Wireless Internet, 4 Flat panel Tvs (3 are Intelligent TVs), Basic Cable (via Spectrum App), FireTV/Fire stick, Outdoor Deck, Deck Furnishings, 1-Car Garage, Ceiling Fans, Irons/Ironing Boards, Gas Griil, Interior Washer/Dryer, Totally Equipped Kitchen, Garbage Disposal, 2 Coffee Makers, Oven, 2 Refrigerators, Attached Icemaker, Microwave, Dishwasher, Slowcooker, 2 Blenders, and 2 Toasters.Community Conveniences include a shared beach walkway, shared outdoor showers, shared pier access, outdoor pool access, and basketball/tennis court access.Community Pool Information:Opens: April 1st- October 31stLinens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly stays.NO SMOKING.NO FAMILY PETS (No Service/Support Animals Accepted).Rents Weekly only Saturday - Saturday.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.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 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.

Shore Beats Workin', Almost Oceanfront H...

Shore Beats Workin' is a gorgeous 5 bedroom, 5 bath and 2 half bath home in Ocean Shores in Pine Knoll Shores. Shore Beats Workin' has unbelievable vistas of the Ocean. This home has a Gameroom with Pool Table and Flat Screen TV, Private Pool and Hot Tub, Two Oceanview Decks for calming! Walkway to the beach is just steps away. Located in Pine Knoll Shores, Shore Beats Workin' is conveniently located to Morehead City, Beaufort, and Emerald Isle! From exploring Fort Macon, to playing Putt-Putt; shopping in Morehead City to touring Historic Beaufort, you can savor all the Crystal Coast has to offer without traveling far from your home-away-from-home! Shore Beats Workin' is equipped with High Speed Wireless Internet so you can stay socially connected while on vacation. Every bedroom has a private bath and a bedside clock with USB charging.Ground Level: Gameroom with Pool Table, Flat Screen TV, gaming system featuring classic Nintendo games and a Double Sleeper Couch.Level One: Bedroom #1 has a King Bed, Direct Access the the Oceanview Deck, TV and DVD Player. Bedroom #2 has a Double Twin Bunk Set with TV and DVD Player. Bedroom #3 has a Queen Bed with TV and DVD Player. Bedroom #4 has a Queen Bed with and ocean view, TV and DVD Player.Level Two: Bedroom #5 has a King Bed. Living Area has a 65" LED HD TV. The latest technology with an amazing picture! It's connected to Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, Pandora, and Hulu Plus and has a Blu-Ray player. Appreciate marvelous ocean vistas from the Living Area.Additional Conveniences Include: 7 Color Cable TV¡s, 4 DVD Players, Blu Ray DVD Player, Xbox, High Speed Wireless Internet, Private Pool and Hot Tub, Pool Table, Outdoor Shower, Covered & Outdoor Decks, Deck Furnishings, Wood Floors, Wet Bar with Mini Fridge, Fridge, Icemaker, Microwave & Dishwasher.Linens and Towels included with Beds Made for Weekly and Nightly stays.No Smoking.Up to 2 Dogs Accepted with our All-Inclusive Pet Policy for Weekly and Nightly stays - No fee! It is the responsibility of pet owners to ensure that they clean up after their family pets (i.e., picking up waste from property grounds). Should the guest fail to do so, an additional fee of $100 will be charged to the credit card on file. Rents Weekly Saturday - Saturday. Rents Nightly with a 3 nighttime minimum in advance during Off Season, last min. during In Season.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card 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.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 6 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!

Sweetwater, Oceanfront House in Emerald ...

Sweetwater is a 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom oceanfront home located in the heart of Emerald Isle, making all of our striking local stores, eateries, and family-friendly activities just a short distance away.. This home is the ideal place to bring the whole family for a week at the beach! Sweetwater is just steps from the sand, which is accessible with your own private walkway. Forget something in the home? Don't fret: it's not far!Ground Level: Covered Parking. Cold Outdoor Shower.Level One: The main living area and kitchen are on this level with deck access. The living area has a TV with DVD player and has vistas of the shining ocean. The open concept kitchen leading into the living area is ideal for gathering after a day at the beach or conversiving while a meal is prepared. The main kitchen includes a refrigerator, microwave, dishwashers, oven, and a coffee maker!Bedroom #1 has a Queen bed with a TV and DVD player. Bedroom #2 has a Double bed with TV. Bedroom #3 has 2 Twin Bunk Sets (sleeps 4 total) with TV. Master Bedroom #4 has a Queen bed with TV and private bath. There are also 2 full baths.Conveniences: High Speed Wireless Internet, Washer/Dryer, Charcoal Outdoor Grille, Ceiling Fans, DVD Player, Covered Deck Space with Deck Furnishings, Private Walkway to BeachLinens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly stays.No Smoking.No Family Animals.Rents Weekly only Saturday - Saturday.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
  • 4 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.

Ocean front 6BR with pool & hot tub

Ocean breezes and soft sand surround this oceanfront home. 6 BR, 5 B. K * K * K * Q * 2Q, B * 2S. Sunday to Sunday rental only. Linen service with beds made and towels are included at no charge. Appreciate the surf or the 12’ x 28’ private gated oceanside swimming pool. Three is never a crowd with this one-of-a-kind floor plan. Recently remodeled, Three's Company offers three separate units connected by a breezeway. Come together with family and friends, then break away for a moment of privacy or solitude. This property provides the best of both. The biggest unit (Jack) is located upstairs and features 2 bedrooms (K * 2S), a full kitchen with a dishwasher, dining room, wet bar, bumper pool table and multiple decks. High vaulted ceilings and an additional-huge living space for all to gather, dine, and appreciate expansive vistas of the ocean. Directly below is the poolside unit (Chrissy) offering a charming view of the ocean and walk-out access to the pool deck. This open floor plan homes 2 bedrooms (K * 2Q, B), 2 full baths, full kitchen, living and dining area, and sleeping space for eight with the second bedroom especially designed and appointed for kids or teens. Not to be slighted, the third unit (Janet) is a 2 bedroom (K * Q) oceanfront studio apartment offering a kitchenette equipped with refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, a full bath and breezeway access just steps from the pool deck and ocean. The laundry room is located on the ground level and is comfortably accessed from all three units. Decks with porch furnishings and dune deck with outside shower are available to all Three's Company guests. All units have wireless Internet access and intelligent TVs /ROKU. park-style charcoal grille. Weekly only. Family Animals allowed with $200 per pet (2 max.-Dogs Only) non-returnable fee. No smoking. 4805 Ocean Drive.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 6 Bedrooms
  • 5 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 16
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.

Affordable Oceanfront w/ Private Pool!
5.0
(52)

During Hurricane Florence, our home suffered broad damage, thus was entirely remodeled in 2019 - including all new kitchen cabinetry and bathroom vanities with granite tops, new furnishings throughout, bespoke tiled walk in showers, all new floor, lighting, etc. We live fairly close by and strive to keep our home impeccably maintained and well supplied. We are an Oceanfront, 5 bedroom, 4 bath duplex with a private pool. Beds are K,K,Q,Q,D,T. Even though we are a duplex, the pool is exclusively for our side. It is located directly off of the main living area, is fenced in, and is a magnificent extension to the inside living space. Weekly (Saturday to Saturday) stays only. All bed and bath linens are included with weekly units. No Family Animals and No Smoking Property.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 11
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. 

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.

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.

The Circle at Atlantic Beach

Crystal Coast visitors who want an easy-going day on the seashore can head to one of the most convenient public beach accesses in the region, the Circle at Atlantic Beach. Known as the main “Town Beach” and located in the heart of the busy Atlantic Beach community, The Circle offers a myriad of ways to stay entertained, both on and off the sand.

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.

Newport River Pier and Ramp

The waterfront world of Beaufort, Morehead City, the Shackleford Banks, and everything in between is at a mariner’s fingertips when they launch from the Newport River Pier and Ramp. Located directly on the water in between Morehead City and Beaufort, this sprawling launch site is a popular destination for visiting and local mariners alike.

Lawson Creek Park

Lawson Creek Park is an active destination that's suitable for nature lovers and outdoors fans of all genres. Encompassing a massive 140 acre site surrounded by the waters of Lawson Creek and Trent River, this park is a perfectly scenic locale that feels worlds away from the rest of Eastern North Carolina, but still has ample amenities to keep its more active visitors hard at play.

Cape Lookout Lighthouse

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is one of the most distinctive lighthouses along the Outer Banks coastline, due to its black and white diamond-patterned exterior, as well as its remote location along the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Accessible only by private boat or by a NPS Ferry Service, the structure is nonetheless a striking and rewarding site, thanks to its stature and its stunning locale surrounded by miles of desolate beaches.

Union Point Park

Visitors to New Bern's historic downtown are advised to take a break from the shopping, antiquing and dining, and enjoy a comfortable seat and a great view at the scenic and newly revitalized, Union Point Park.

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.

The waterfront Cahooque Creek Recreation Site, located at the very corner where the Hancock and Cahoogue rivers meet up with the expansive Neuse River, is a water and boat lover's dream destination. With easy access to all three of these rivers, in addition to the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean just miles away, vessels of all varieties, from kayaks to skiffs, will find ample watery terrain to explore.

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.

The isolated Cape Lookout National Seashore has a wealth of hidden treasures, from wild horses to incredible seashells, but one of the Core Banks’ most unique destinations is the Cape Lookout Village Historic District. Located just inland of the area’s beaches and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, this collection of historic homes is fascinating reminder of the island’s former prominence as a small coastal community.

Emerald Isle vacationers who want to explore the wide waters of the Bogue Sound via a kayak, paddle board, or kiteboard rig can head to Cedar Street Park. This soundside park that’s almost hidden among the neighboring beach homes may be tucked away, but it’s an exceptional stop to drop a fishing line, launch on an on-the-water adventure, or just pause and admire the view.

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.

The Curtis Perry Public Park, which is also referred to as the Taylor’s Creek Boat Ramp, is one of the most popular launching areas for local and visiting Beaufort mariners. Located on the edge of Lennoxville Road and Front Street on the eastern edge of the downtown area, this site is an accommodating destination for water fans of all varieties.

Water lovers who are on the hunt for a central and picturesque destination to launch a small vessel or kayak can head to Derwood’s Landing – a public park that’s known for its instant access to the sparkling local waters.

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.

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.

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.

Morehead City's Jaycee Park is easily one of the most scenic parks along the Crystal Coast, and perhaps the region's busiest park in the summer season. Located adjacent to the waterfront, with wide open views of the Bogue Sound and neighboring barrier islands, the park is a scenic quick distraction for downtown travelers, or a full afternoon and evening of waterfront enjoyment overlooking the busy marinas and harbors that call Morehead City home.

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.

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!

The North Carolina History Center, which is part of the extensive Tryon Palace, is a new 65 million dollar complex which transports visitors back in time to explore New Bern’s more than 300 years of local history.

Hitting the seashore in Atlantic Beach is an easy venture, thanks to a number of local public beach accesses, including the sprawling Picnic Street Park. With a prime locale that straddles the borders of the Fort Macon State Park and the town limits of Atlantic Beach, this expansive parking area, known locally as "The Bathhouse," can accommodate hundreds of summer visitors, and provides a perfectly relaxing and undeveloped stretch of seashore that's easy to enjoy on any summer day.

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.

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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