You’ve in all probability heard of the Outer Banks—perhaps you’ve even visited them. However the Southern Outer Banks, also called the Crystal Coast, is its personal distinct area of North Carolina. The 85-mile stretch of shoreline and barrier islands reaches from Cape Lookout to the mouth of the New River. Inside these boundaries are various beautiful island strips and quaint waterfront communities—probably the most outstanding of that are positioned on Bogue Banks, a barrier island that encompasses Atlantic Seaside, Emerald Isle, Pine Knoll Shores, and Indian Seaside and Salter Path. Different fashionable locations alongside the Crystal Coast embody Beaufort, Harkers Island, Morehead Metropolis, and Swansboro. Irrespective of which a part of the area you go to, although, you may anticipate finding loads of rest and pure magnificence.

“The Crystal Coast is a quiet stretch of small towns and pristine white-sand seashores. We’ve got ample boating, fishing, and scuba diving, and there is a wealthy historical past and plentiful wildlife,” says Hallock Cooper Howard, co-owner and chef of Amos Mosquito’s restaurant in Atlantic Seaside. Mark Holbrook, supervisor at Paddle NC, says the world’s “greatest asset” is its Southern attraction—a mixture of slower-paced dwelling and a welcoming environment.

To create our official information to North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, we tapped a couple of locals all through the area to share their picks on the right way to plan the proper journey.

Motels & Resorts

The Atlantis

“The Atlantis … is a Nineteen Sixties beachfront lodge that you’d have grown up going to, however modernized to present requirements,” says John and Beth Blackwelder, proprietor of The Aerie, a bed-and-breakfast in New Bern. You might come for the dog-friendly suites with absolutely outfitted kitchens, however you’ll keep for the wonderful views out of your ocean-facing porch.

Oceanana Household Motel

“The Oceanana has an assortment of suites and normal motel rooms. The property affords a free continental breakfast in the summertime and watermelon events on the oceanfront garden,” says Howard. Plus, she notes it’s proper subsequent door to the one fishing pier in Atlantic Seaside. “Be sure you stroll out to the tip of the pier and seize a frozen painkiller at The Barnacle,” she says.

Pecan Tree Inn

“Pecan Tree Inn is a brief stroll to downtown purchasing, eating, and museums in historic Beaufort,” says Blackwelder. Although the home itself was in-built 1866, it’s been transformed a number of occasions through the years to make sure the rooms and customary areas mix trendy comforts with historic attraction. When visitors aren’t out exploring Beaufort, they’ll calm down on the porches or backyard patio, ideally with a candy tea (or wine) in hand.

Islander Lodge & Resort

For those who’re basing your self in Emerald Isle, Ricky Farrington, proprietor of Emerald Isle Paddle Tours, recommends Islander Hotel & Resort. The oceanfront lodge is your traditional summertime getaway, with seaside entry, a pool with loungers and cabanas, and areas the place you may grill or picnic when the climate cooperates.

The William & Garland Motel

“The William & Garland Motel in Salter Path is a beachfront motel featured on HGTV’s 100 Day Lodge Problem,” says Blackwelder, who describes it as a “retro-hip motor lodge.” Not solely can visitors make the most of the property’s personal seaside entry, however they’ll additionally benefit from the motel’s sauna, out of doors grill, fireplace pit, and lounge deck.

Finest Issues to Do

Enterprise to the Cape Lookout Nationwide Seashore.

There are 56 miles of undeveloped seashores, dunes, and marshes on the Cape Lookout Nationwide Seashore, a protected chain of three barrier islands: Shackleford Banks, North Core Banks, and South Core Banks. Right here, says Blackwelder, you may “expertise the Outer Banks because it was earlier than it was developed.”

“These barrier islands, referred to by locals as ‘Shack’ and ‘The Cape,’ are solely accessible by boat,” says Howard. You don’t want a personal boat, although. The Island Express Ferry Service runs passenger ferries from Beaufort and Harkers Island. “On the way in which there, you might even see dolphins enjoying or rays leaping. As you stroll alongside the shoreline, search for hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs, and a dizzying array of shore birds,” she says. Plus, maintain an eye fixed out for the well-known wild horses. “Along with simply being stunning and enjoyable to discover, our barrier islands are dwelling to herds of untamed horses. How they obtained there’s a little bit of a thriller, but it surely’s enjoyable to see them strolling alongside and frolicking on the seaside,” Howard provides.

Go to close by state parks and nature preserves.

“If land is extra in your consolation zone, then the historic sights and state parks are plentiful, with trails, seashores, and historic reenactments,” says Holbrook. Howard says Fort Macon State Park is especially nice for “swimming, beaching, fishing, and picnicking,” however, she provides, the “actual gem” of the fort is its nature path. “The Elliot Coues Trail winds by means of soundside salt marshes and oceanside sand dunes that provide sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. On either side, there are shady passages by means of the maritime forest. Hold your eyes peeled for rabbits, an occasional snake, and a whole bunch of varieties of birds,” she says.

The Rachel Carson Reserve is one other vacation spot the place you may immerse your self within the area’s marshes, dunes, maritime forests, and seashores. South of Beaufort, the world consists of Carrot Island, City Marsh, Hen Shoal, and Horse Island. James Frey, the proprietor of Crystal Coast Oysters in Morehead Metropolis, recommends “getting out and happening a ferry to go to Carrot Island and attending to see the horses.” Whereas there, you may also go bird-watching and stroll alongside the character trails.

Spend a day in historic Beaufort.

Guests with an affinity for historical past and native tradition will discover infinite leisure in downtown Beaufort, to not be confused with the South Carolina destination of the identical identify. The Crystal Coast city has a waterfront with all types of outlets, artwork galleries, and eating places. “There are stunning yachts and sailboats moored within the inlet, and the Beaufort Historic Affiliation has grounds with an outdated jail, restored properties, and even an outdated apothecary,” says Howard. She additionally suggests stopping by the North Carolina Maritime Museum to “find out about boatbuilding and the historical past of Blackbeard the pirate,” who was recognized to frequent the Crystal Coast. (Be aware: The North Carolina Maritime Museum is quickly closed for development; the 2025 opening date has but to be introduced.) For an additional dose of historical past, hop aboard the Beaufort historic double-decker bus tour.

Get out on the water.

Ferries aren’t the one methodology of traversing the waterways alongside the Crystal Coast. “Kayaking the waters the place Blackbeard sailed in is my highest advice,” says Holbrook. Farrington additionally suggests “renting a paddleboard and exploring the marshes.” For those who choose to go alone (versus a guided journey), you may lease boats from Island Water Sports in Emerald Isle/Indian Seaside or Beaufort Paddle.

Take pleasure in a traditional seaside day.

You might be tempted to fill your days with actions, however don’t neglect to depart time to take pleasure in what Blackwelder calls the area’s “off-the-beaten-path vibe.” For some, that may imply fishing or crusing, however for others, it’s merely grabbing a lounge chair or two and spending all day on the seashores of Emerald Isle or Atlantic Seaside.

Finest Eating places

Indian Seaside and Salter Path

For those who’re visiting the Crystal Coast for the primary time, Farrington suggests driving “right down to Indian Seaside to the Captain’s Kitchen meals truck to get an excellent shrimp burger.” Simply you’ll want to test the meals truck’s Facebook page beforehand to test its actual location. Blackwelder’s choose for a shrimp burger—or a scorching canine or barbecue sandwich—is Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ down the road in Salter Path.

Emerald Isle

“Fish Hut Grill in Emerald Isle is my favourite restaurant to get seafood,” says Farrington. The menu options every kind of North Carolina favorites, like peel-and-eat shrimp, dry rub wings, and fried fish. Holbrook additionally suggests RuckerJohns, a waterfront eatery serving up burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and ribs.

Beaufort

“Among the best eating places I discovered in North Carolina is positioned proper in Beaufort. It is referred to as Blue Moon Bistro. The chef, Josh, does a beautiful job sourcing native merchandise and ensuring all the things is tasty,” says Frey. For what Howard calls an “unparalleled lunch or brunch expertise,” head to Beaufort Grocery Co. They’ve a superb wine record and fabulous salads and sandwiches. On weekends, their brunch contains bottomless mimosas, eggs Benedict, freshly baked pastries, and fluffy pancakes.

And in order for you the very best pizza on the town? Order from Black Sheep. “It is a energetic spot with enjoyable decor. Along with pizza, they’ve a wide range of charcuterie, salads, and sandwiches. Don’t miss the scrumptious beet salad or the decadent macaroni and cheese,” Howard provides. “Moonrakers can also be a beautiful spot to get appetizers, sit on the rooftop bar, and revel in perhaps a dolphin [spotting] or a sundown,” says Frey.

Morehead Metropolis

Parrott’s on Eleventh in Morehead Metropolis is one other one in all Farrington’s picks, and Howard is keen on Full Circle. “The menu ranges from burgers to pizza to contemporary native fish preparations. The eating room is tiny and comfortable and has an excellent vibe. Be sure you attempt the curry fried oysters,” she says.

Finest Purchasing 

Atlantic Seaside

Howard recommends a choice of independently owned retailers in Atlantic Seaside, together with The Posh Pelican, Atlantic Beach Surf Shop, and Marsh’s Surf Shop. Between the three, you’ll discover all the things you want for a laid-back trip on the seaside—bathing fits, sandals, surfboards, memento T-shirts, and extra.

Morehead Metropolis

“In downtown Morehead, you should not miss Dee Gee’s Gifts & Books. This landmark present store has a choice of dwelling items, books by native authors, and child presents,” says Howard, who additionally provides Z & Z Designs, Dorsea, Deepwater Boutique, and Backshore Living to her record of finest shops within the space. Whereas there, you’ll want to cease by Core Sound Store, which Blackwelder recommends for native handmade items, bought to help the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center.

Beaufort

You’ll discover a wide range of native retailers down on the Beaufort waterfront. Howard suggests popping into Island Proper and Beaufort Linen Co. The Beaufort General Store can also be a great choose for fudge, ice cream, and memento T-shirts—plus a wholesome dose of summertime nostalgia. 

Finest Time to Go to

Summer season will be the season most vacationers make their technique to the Crystal Coast, however the consensus amongst locals is that the spring and the autumn are the very best occasions to go to this a part of the state. “My favourite time of yr is early fall,” says Howard. “After the busy summer time season, the seashores and waterways turn into much less populated. The water remains to be heat, the sunsets are spectacular, and it looks like you’ve got all of it to your self.”

Spring is simply as magical. “With all the things beginning to come again to life, you get to see the seagrass change from brown to a pleasant inexperienced,” says Frey, including that the water additionally “begins to get extra energetic with critters.”

Methods to Get There

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern is the closest airport to the cities and seashores that make up the Crystal Coast—about 45 minutes away—however flights are restricted. For those who’re flying to the area, different choices embody the Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, North Carolina (just a little over an hour away), and Wilmington Worldwide Airport (ILM) in Wilmington (about two hours away). Raleigh-Durham Worldwide Airport (RDU) is the most important airport within the space, though it’s about three hours out of your remaining vacation spot. Irrespective of which airport you fly into, you’ll must lease a automotive to get to and across the Crystal Coast.

Methods to Get Round

Most journey alongside the Crystal Coast is completed by automotive. For those who’re planning to discover a couple of of the cities, you’ll take the primary connection throughout the space, U.S. 70; it passes by means of Morehead Metropolis and right down to Atlantic Seaside. The entire coastal communities are comparatively flat, so you may also lease bikes (or a golf cart) to get round your rapid space.