Pit Stops

As the closest beach to Morehead City, Atlantic Beach is the perfect place to make that trip to the beach that you came to the Crystal Coast for. With its warm water, white sand beaches, historic Oceana Pier, and stunning sunsets.

Cape Lookout is unlike any other park in the state. These undeveloped barrier islands are the most southern tip of the Outer Banks and the explorations and adventures are endless. Watch and run with wild horses and enjoy white sand beaches mixed with lush, green grass on Shackleford Banks. Definitely consider climbing the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, a historic gem of the Carolina Coastline.

View the ferry schedule here.

Fort Macon State Park offers public access to the surf, sun and sand of the Crystal Coast – as well as a historic landmark. Located at the eastern end of Bogue Bank on one of the many barrier islands along the North Carolina coast. The park is also home to a Civil War fort with a history as intricate and unique as the waterways of the sound. Visit Fort Macon to enjoy the land’s natural beauty and soak up some history.

The 3rd oldest city in North Carolina is only minutes away. Enjoy a quick trip exploring some of North Carolina’s rich history. The city is only 2.7 miles long and encompasses an array of boutiques, dining and great spots for leisurely strolls.

Explore and learn about thousands of aquatic animals as the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores takes you on a journey from the state’s grand peaks to the open Atlantic. This great family outing is one of the coast’s most popular attractions.

A crown jewel of the North Carolina coast and Hammocks Beach State Park is Bear Island—a three-mile-long, undeveloped barrier island accessible by the park’s passenger ferry, private ferry or by paddling a canoe or kayak. A wide beach between massive dunes and the ocean is interrupted only by primitive campsites and a modest concession/picnic complex.

View the ferry schedule here.

Just a 30-minute drive from bask Hotel, Emerald Isle is at the western end of Bogue Banks, with 12 miles of pristine shoreline and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Inlet. With a focus on family fun, Emerald Isle is perfect for watersports, fishing (onshore, offshore and on the Bogue Inlet Pier), or simply sitting on the sand and enjoying the sound of the waves rolling in.

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier is located on Emerald Isle and is an excellent way to spend a relaxing afternoon casting your line. Catch black drum, red drum, sea mullet, Spanish mackerel, and blowfish from the pier. If your family loves fishing, this is a great place to begin your vacation.