Off the Eaten Path’s Emerald Isle travel guide highlights the best things to do in Emerald Isle North Carolina including more than fifteen activities and attractions.
Emerald Isle, North Carolina’s very own jewel on the Crystal Coast, is a coastal paradise that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, the Crystal Coast has something for everyone, making it a perfect family friendly vacation destination and a great place for your next trip.
Just South of the Outer Banks is North Carolina’s Crystal Coast (also known as the Southern Outer Banks); a span of sparkling beaches, small coastal towns and port cities along the Atlantic coast in Carteret County, North Carolina. With its sparkling beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich maritime heritage, the Crystal Coast is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
There are a few ways to reach this gem along the east coast. The closest airport to Emerald Isle and the Crystal Coast is the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport in New Bern or the Albert J. Ellis airport in Jacksonville. From there you can rent a car and drive approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach the beach.
You can also fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport (which is much larger with more flight options) and from Raleigh, the drive would take about two to three hours.
If you’re driving, the area is well-connected to major highways making it easily accessible from various parts of North Carolina and neighboring states. Interstate 40 and US Highway 70 are the primary routes to reach Emerald Isle.
If you prefer a more scenic drive, you can take a ferry from Swan Quarter or Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks to Cedar Island and then drive south to reach Beaufort and the Bogue Banks.
The Bogue Banks, a 21 mile barrier island separated from the mainland by the Bogue Sound. The island, which runs more east to west due to the way the coastline cuts inland, is home to five beach towns each with their own charm and attractions including: Atlantic Beach, Indian Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, Salter Path and the town of Emerald Isle.
From outdoor activities, to places to cool off, and where to eat with the whole family, this guide highlights all of the best things to do on your next vacation in Emerald Isle NC.
Bask in the Pristine Beaches
As you may have guessed, the Crystal Coast earns its name from the remarkably clear waters and powdery white beaches making it the perfect place for a beach vacation. It is renowned for its 85 miles of beaches, and Emerald Isle is one of the crown jewels in its coastline, 12 miles of sandy beaches with breathtaking vistas and sparkling emerald-green water.
Take leisurely walks on the Emerald Isle beaches, soak up the sun, build sandcastles, and enjoy refreshing swims in the crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a fun-filled day with family and friends, the beaches of Emerald Isle provide the perfect backdrop.
Explore Cape Lookout National Seashore
A visit to the Crystal Coast wouldn’t be complete without exploring the iconic Cape Lookout National Seashore. Located just a short ferry ride away (ferries depart for Cape Lookout and Shackleford Banks from both Beaufort and Harkers Island), this stunning stretch of coastline showcases the region’s natural beauty at its finest. Discover uninhabited barrier islands, hike scenic trails, spot wild horses, swim, shell, sunbathe, and climb the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast.
You can even rent a 4WD vehicle to help you cover more ground and see everything that Cape Lookout has to offer. Plan to spend at least a full day on Cape Lookout (We only went for a half day and while we had a great time didn’t feel like it was enough!), pack a picnic lunch and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness and revel in the serenity of this coastal paradise.
Visit Hammocks Beach State Park
Hammocks Beach State Park’s secluded beaches, salt marshes and undisturbed maritime forests are also only accessible by boat or passenger ferry. Take a kayak or paddleboard trip through tranquil waters, go swimming, or take a hike. Don’t forget to visit Bear Island, an undeveloped barrier island within the park, known for its unspoiled beauty, unique coastal wildlife and breathtaking views.
Discover Underwater Wonders
The Crystal Coast is a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. With an abundance of shipwrecks and vibrant marine life, it offers exceptional opportunities for underwater exploration. Dive into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean and witness sunken treasures, encounter fascinating marine creatures, and marvel at the colorful coral reefs. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, the crystal-clear waters of the Crystal Coast provide an unforgettable diving experience.
Connect with Nature
The Crystal Coast boasts a rich ecosystem teeming with diverse plants and local wildlife. Take a scenic boat tour or kayak through the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway or Taylor’s Creek and spot dolphins, pelicans, and sea turtles.
Named after the renowned marine biologist and environmentalist, the Rachel Carson Reserve is a protected area that offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the coastal ecosystems. Stretching across pristine salt marshes, tidal flats, and intricate channels, the reserve is home to a rich variety of plant and animal species. Visitors hike, bird watch, and get a close up view of the wild horses that make the reserve their home.,
Another wild horse population has made its home at Shackleford Banks, a barrier island that is part of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Shackleford Banks is not only home to a herd of wild horses that have inhabited the Crystal Coast for centuries, but also home to a diverse array of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Exploring the island’s undeveloped seashore, maritime forests, and salt marshes which provide a sense of tranquility and awe-inspiring views. Whether you choose to relax by the crystal-clear waters, go shelling along the shoreline, or simply soak up the peaceful ambiance, Shackleford Banks promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the unspoiled beauty of nature.
Emerald Isle Woods Park is a 41-acre park featuring nature trails that weave through maritime forests and boardwalk access to Bogue Sound with a floating dock and kayak launch. Emerald Isle Woods Park also features picnic areas with grills, a disc golf course and is dog friendly.
Immerse Yourself in History
Beaufort, one of North Carolina’s oldest towns, boasts a captivating waterfront, a rich maritime heritage and exudes historic charm. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s seafaring history, including shipwrecks, pirates and the region’s fishing legacy. Take a stroll down Front Street, a picturesque promenade running along Taylor Creek that is lined with local boutiques, shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the Beaufort Historic Site, where you can step back in time and experience the town’s colonial past.
View of Taylor’s Creek and Rachel Carson Reserve from Front Street in Beaufort NC.
Nearby, North Carolina’s second state park, Fort Macon State Park, offers 424 acres to explore. Visit the restored Civil War fort (which was built initially to protect Beaufort and the surrounding coastal region from sea attacks) with a museum and coastal education center, take a hike along the fort’s surrounding nature trails, or relax on its sandy shore line.
Indulge in Fresh Coastal Cuisine
From fresh seafood straight off the boat to Southern-inspired dishes, the Crystal Coast has over 100 locally owned restaurants and breweries that cater to all tastes. Feast on succulent shrimp, flavorful oysters, and mouthwatering crab cakes at waterfront restaurants. Sample locally brewed craft beers or sip on a refreshing cocktail while enjoying stunning sunset views over the Atlantic.
Shark Shack in Atlantic Beach is a casual beach spot serving fresh seafood that can be ordered fried, blackened or grilled.
Here is a list of some Emerald Isle favorites:
The Trading Post: Southern food and seafood with a big, beautiful outdoor space and live music nightly.
The Growler Bar: A great stop for craft beer lovers with 16 rotating taps.
Rucker Johns: A local favorite serving American fare with a Southern twist.
Caribsea: Coastal flavors with creative and upscale flair.
The Village Market: A wide range of grab and go deli options and gourmet treats.
Flipperz Family Grill: A casual family friendly restaurant with a focus on seafood.
Cap’n Willis Seafood Market: Selling fresh fish and other seafood to cook at home.
Flip Flops Donut Shop: Homemade doughnuts. Enough said!
No beach vacation is complete without treating yourself to a scoop or two of ice cream. Cool off with a variety of flavors and enjoy the sweet taste of summer at one of these ice cream shops parlors in Emerald Isle: The Sweet Spot, Turtley Sweet, TLC’s Polish Water Ice, Village Ice Cream and Candies, Sunset Slush, or Scoops Ice Cream.
Cast a Line
For fishing enthusiasts, the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier is a must-visit. Try your luck casting from the Bogue Inlet Pier and catching flounder, Spanish mackerel, or bluefish. Even if fishing isn’t your forte, the pier offers a fantastic way to capture postcard-worthy sunset views, enjoy a leisurely stroll and skilled anglers in action.
You can also experience surf fishing in Emerald Isle along any of the beaches. Cast your line from the shore and enjoy the peacefulness of the beach while waiting for your next big catch.
Plan a day trip of deep-sea fishing by booking a fishing charter. From offshore excursions targeting marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi to inshore trips chasing redfish, trout, and flounder, the experienced fishing charters in the area are ready to provide you with an unforgettable day on the water.
Grab a Paddle
Hot Wax Surf Shop offers kayak, paddleboard and surfboard rentals for a self guided paddle or surfing adventure, or you can book a paddling excursion or surf lessons through the shop. Hot Wax Surf Shop is also home to a wide range of surf gear, beachwear, and coastal-themed souvenirs.
South Swell Surf Shop on Emerald Drive in Emerald Isle also offers surfboard rentals as well as a wide selection of boards, wetsuits, clothing and accessories for purchase.
AB Watersports offers jet ski rentals, boat rentals, kayaks, and paddle boards in nearby Atlantic Beach. Cruise the Crystal Coast on one of their guided jet ski tours featuring visits to secluded beaches that are only accessible by boat or jet ski.
Visit the NC Aquarium
Delve into the wonders of the sea at the North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase marine ecosystems, interact with sea creatures, and learn about conservation efforts. From majestic sharks to playful otters, the aquarium offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
Cool Off at Salty Pirate Water Park
This family-friendly water park features thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and interactive water play areas. Tickets are only sold on site at Salty Pirate Waterpark and cost $20 for ages 6 and up ($15 for ages 5 and under).
Score a Hole in One
If you’re looking to play a round of 18 on vacation, you can hunt those birdies at these nearby golf courses: Crystal Coast Country Club in Pine Knoll Shores, Star Hill Golf Club in Cape Carteret or Brandywine Bay Golf Club in Morehead City. For a family friendly round, head to Black Pearl Mini Golf (previously known as Emerald Forest Golf) which is an 18 hole pirate themed mini golf course.
Go to the Movies
A trip to the movie theaters is the perfect way to spend a rainy day at the beach. Emerald Plantation Cinema has four screens showing the latest blockbusters to offer you a cool respite from the sun and sand.
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