Family vacations to North Carolina’s Crystal Coast are a blank canvas waiting to be painted with adventures. In addition to the traditional island experiences and activities found throughout Emerald Isle, there’s a lot more to explore in the areas surrounding the coastal town.
Just a half-hour drive down the road is Beaufort, North Carolina. With breathtaking waterfront views, a collection of shops, restaurants and attractions, you and your family will enjoy all there is to discover while visiting this hidden gem. Beaufort is filled with historic sites, pirate lore and great tours that detail the town’s rich history.
Historic and charming, Beaufort’s downtown area is not to be missed! Catch up on a little retail therapy along Front Street. There is plenty of parking and the wide sidewalks make browsing the local fare easy and comfortable for the whole family.
The unique shops in Downtown Beaufort are buzzing with the coastal vibe and charm that can only be found along the Crystal Coast. Browse the alluring boutiques for local fashion or stop by the general stores for snacks or a cool and creamy ice cream cone. The streets of Beaufort are also lined with bookstores, art galleries and everything in between. With local merchants and unique wares, you will easily find a keepsake or two to take home and enjoy.
2. DIVE INTO MARITIME HISTORY
Deepen your appreciation for the Crystal Coast with a visit to the North Carolina Maritime Museum, located in the heart of Beaufort. This beloved attraction offers an engaging look into the region’s rich maritime heritage, featuring fascinating exhibits that highlight everything from the area’s commercial fishing roots to legendary pirates like Blackbeard. History comes alive as you explore artifacts recovered from the Queen Anne’s Revenge, Blackbeard’s notorious flagship, along with relics from the Civil War and the golden age of sailing.
Ideal for families and curious travelers alike, the museum also hosts a wide range of educational and environmental programs throughout the year. The Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center gives visitors the unique opportunity to dive hands-on into the art of traditional boatbuilding. With workshops and classes suited for all ages and experience levels, it’s a memorable and immersive way to connect with the maritime culture that defines Beaufort and the Crystal Coast.
Note: The museum is temporarily closed for renovations. During the closure, museum educators will continue working to share the coast’s history, culture and environment both online and in person. Virtual programs, events at the Watercraft Center and curator-led outreach and field programs will remain available to the general public, schools and groups.
3. KAYAK TO RACHEL CARSON RESERVE
While the sparkling beaches and golden sands of the Crystal Coast tend to steal the spotlight, there’s a variety of ways to go on an aquatic adventure on your island getaway. The charming community of Beaufort is home to the Rachel Carson Reserve. This more than the 2,000-acre area is the natural habitat to a mixture of North Carolina’s wildlife.
Rent a kayak from one of the shops like Beaufort Paddle and take a rowing adventure through the reserve. There’s nothing more exhilarating than breathing in the fresh air while getting a closer look at the wildlife wandering through the area. Kayaking also provides you with plenty of photo opportunities of the natural setting and Beaufort’s downtown area from an entirely different vantage point. You might even be greeted by some cute bottlenose dolphins or a friendly sea turtle. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars to get a closer look!
4. EAT AND DRINK LOCAL
With a delicious food scene, Beaufort has you covered from breakfast until dinner, and even a few after-dinner treats. Knock out your mid-day meal at Front Street Grill at Stillwater. This local eatery serves up classic coastal dishes with a soulful flair. Experience the flavors of southern ingredients such as stone-ground grits, local vegetables, fresh fish and smoked ham combined with Caribbean spices for the perfect balance.
Beaufort has your dinner covered as well. Order up some of the best-cooked food at Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant & Pub! From house-smoked baby back ribs to grilled Mahi salads to half-pound Angus burgers, everyone in your family is sure to leave with smiling faces and full bellies. Aside from the variety of food on their menu, the restaurant has tried to preserve the history of the building by displaying memorabilia and era decorations from Beaufort’s past, so you might find yourself learning something new while you dine.
5. SET SAIL ON A DOLPHIN OR SUNSET CRUISE
One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the Crystal Coast is by getting out on the water. Touring the islands by boat offers unforgettable views, peaceful breezes, and the chance to see the area’s most stunning sights—from the protected shores of Cape Lookout National Seashore to wild horses grazing on Shackleford Banks. Whether you’re interested in dolphin watching, sunset cruises, shelling adventures, or exploring remote barrier islands, the Crystal Coast is a boating paradise with something for everyone.
In Beaufort, you’ll find a variety of cruise options to suit your ideal day on the water. Lookout Cruises offers daily sailing trips aboard a stunning 45-foot catamaran, including a two-hour morning Dolphin Watch up the scenic Newport River—a favorite for families. For a different perspective, hop aboard the Miss Crystal Coast Lady, the largest tour boat in town, for a relaxing daytime or sunset cruise. With spacious decks and spectacular views, these boat tours deliver a picture-perfect way to soak up the charm and beauty of the coast.
6. TOUR BEAUFORT HISTORIC SITE
As the third-oldest town in North Carolina, Beaufort is steeped in history and Southern charm. A visit to the Beaufort Historic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s cultural roots. Tour the carefully preserved homes of historic figures like Josiah Bell and John C. Manson and walk the same streets once traveled by pirates and patriots. The site is also home to the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, the oldest gallery in Carteret County. Tucked inside the Russell House, the gallery features a rotating collection of coastal-inspired works from local and regional artists, including paintings, pottery, and handcrafted jewelry.
No historical tour of Beaufort is complete without a walk through the Old Burying Ground. With graves dating back more than 300 years, this peaceful site offers captivating stories that shed light on the town’s maritime legacy, pirate connections, and Native American heritage. For an even deeper dive into the past, stop by the Beaufort Visitor Center to join a guided tour—or hop aboard the town’s iconic English double-decker bus. From your seat up top, you’ll cruise through the historic district while expert guides bring Beaufort’s colorful history to life with tales of love, loss, and espionage.
7. RIDE A FERRY TO SHACKLEFORD BANKS
Just a short ferry ride from Beaufort, Shackleford Banks offers an unforgettable escape to one of the most secluded and unspoiled beaches along the Crystal Coast. Hop aboard the Island Express Ferry and enjoy scenic views of coastal birds, sea turtles, playful dolphins, and other marine life along the way. One of the island’s most captivating features is its population of nearly 100 wild horses that roam freely across the dunes and take shelter in the island’s maritime forests. These majestic animals, typically shy and serene, add a magical element to an already stunning natural setting.
For an even more immersive experience, join the Shackleford Wild Horse and Shelling Safari. After arriving, you’ll assist your guide in tracking the wild horses and learn about their fascinating history and behavior. Then, spend the rest of your visit combing the beach—widely known as one of the best shelling spots in North Carolina. With the Cape Lookout Lighthouse standing tall in the distance, this adventure offers a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and coastal beauty for the whole family to enjoy.
8. GET A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW OF THE COASTLINE ON A PARASAIL RIDE
Soar above the Crystal Coast and take in breathtaking views of Beaufort with an unforgettable parasailing adventure from Beaufort Parasail. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of floating high above the water, feeling the wind in your hair, and seeing the charming coastal town from a whole new perspective. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just looking for a unique way to experience the area, parasailing offers a one-of-a-kind view you won’t forget.
As you’re gently lifted into the sky behind a motorboat, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Shackleford Banks, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, and other iconic landmarks scattered along the shoreline. For a full 15 minutes, you’ll feel a sense of weightless freedom that’s both exhilarating and peaceful. While it’s the perfect outing for thrill-seekers, parasailing often surprises first-timers with how serene and accessible it is—making it a must-try for adventurers of all kinds.
9. TEE OFF AT THE BEAUFORT CLUB
Beaufort, NC isn’t just a destination for history buffs and beach lovers—it’s also a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to enjoy a relaxing round during your coastal escape, Beaufort Club offers an exceptional experience just minutes from the heart of downtown. This premier 18-hole championship course has earned its place among the Top 25 public golf courses in North Carolina, thanks to its thoughtfully designed layout, scenic fairways, and challenging play for all skill levels.
Set against a backdrop of coastal marshlands and tall Carolina pines, the course at Beaufort Club is as visually stunning as it is enjoyable to play. After your round, unwind with a drink or bite to eat at the clubhouse while taking in the peaceful surroundings. Traveling with family? While you’re out on the green, they can relax at the resort-style pool or explore the club’s additional amenities. It’s the perfect balance of leisure and recreation, making Beaufort Club a standout activity during your Crystal Coast vacation.
10. EXPLORE BEAUFORT’S HAUNTED HISTORY
Step into over 300 years of haunted history on the Beaufort Ghost Walk—a chilling, guided journey through one of North Carolina’s oldest towns. Led by a costumed storyteller with their own eerie tale of betrayal and tragedy, you’ll explore the streets of Beaufort as ghostly legends come to life. From tales of ghost ships and haunted houses to Civil War spirits and infamous pirates like Blackbeard, every story is deeply rooted in local lore and carefully preserved by storytellers and historians.
Whether you’re snapping ghostly photos in the Old Burial Grounds or listening to spine-tingling tales from the town’s shadowy past, the Beaufort Ghost Walk promises an unforgettable experience. Recently updated with new stories for even more thrills, this tour remains a favorite among couples, families, and groups alike. It’s entertaining, historical, and just spooky enough for all ages. Don’t miss your chance to discover why thousands return year after year to uncover Beaufort’s supernatural secrets.
PLAN YOUR BEAUFORT GETAWAY
As you map out your ideal coastal vacation, don’t forget to explore everything Beaufort, NC has to offer—from historic charm and scenic boat tours to wild horses and maritime adventures. To make your trip even more memorable, browse Emerald Isle Realty’s collection of over 700 vacation rentals, including oceanfront homes, cozy cottages, spacious duplexes, and convenient condos. With something for every group and budget, you’re sure to find the perfect home base. Start planning your Crystal Coast escape today—Beaufort is waiting!
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