Discover Morehead City

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.

Free and open to the public, Fort Macon State Park Fort Macon State Park gives the public a look inside a historical naval fort while also providing access to a beautiful beachfront locale.

Run by the Carteret County Historical Society, The History Place is where you can see artifacts, documents, and books that reach into Morehead City’s past. They also host special events throughout the year such as music festivals and guest speakers.

The Beaufort Ghost Walk is a highly entertaining guided walking tour. The town was founded in 1709 and is the third oldest in North Carolina. The pirate guide takes you through the Historic District of Beaufort where you’ll hear ghoulish stories and ghastly tales about the strange events that took place in Beaufort throughout the centuries. This ghost tour is one of the most popular attractions in Beaufort, but it may be scary for younger children.

The North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores gives visitors an inside look into the underwater world. Hang out with sea turtles, sharks, and seahorses! A fun family adventure waits at the aquarium.

Take a ferry from the Morehead City Ferry Service and discover Sand Dollar Island and other secrets of the Crystal Coast! Tours include trips to Sand Dollar Island and Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruises. Whether you want to scavenge for sand dollars or spot some local wildlife, climb aboard a Morehead City Ferry Service ferry!

If you haven’t planned a dive into our coastal waters during your trip, The North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort takes you under the sea with their fascinating shipwreck exhibit. A great place for curious children and adults alike.

Morehead City and Bogue Sound have been recognized as having some of the best diving spots in the world because of the numerous shipwrecks located here. S.E.A. Room at the Webb Library has an intriguing collection of artifacts that were found in the sunken ships that line the North Carolina coast. If you’re planning a dive during your vacation, this is a great place to do research with multiple resources to help you plan your diving adventures.

Come enjoy our newest cruising vessel, the Crystal Coast Lady Cruises, the largest 149 Passengers, most comfortable, and fastest tour boat in Beaufort. The Crystal Coast Lady , double decker Vessel was specially designed to provide 360-degree views for an improved sightseeing experience as you look for local dolphins, horses, marine life, shore birds, and more.

Island Express Ferry Service LLC is the only authorized concessionaire to drop off at Cape Lookout Lighthouse and Shackleford Banks!

We provide park visitors with great service while facilitating visitor understanding and appreciation for the park.

• Ride in new, fast, and comfortable ferries alongside all local experienced captains and crew.
• Experience the beauty of the Crystal Coast with sparkling clear waters and pristine beaches.
• Treasure hunt for shells–Whelks, Scotch Bonnets, Conchs and many more!
• See the wild horses of Shackleford Banks or go hiking, fishing, and swimming.
• Fun for the WHOLE family! Leave the stress of the mainland behind.

Take a 15 minute ferry ride over to the pristine Outer Banks Island of Shackleford Banks, which is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. There you will be introduced to the Wild Horses of Shackleford Banks. This free roaming herd is believed to have descended from Horses that were brought here roughly 400 years ago, and still survive as one of the last isolated groups of wild horses in the United States.

You will help your guide track the horses and see first hand the fascinating behavior of horses in the wild, a rare experience with nature that you’ll never forget. Bring your camera for pictures that will forever remind you of this amazing place and its fascinating inhabitants.

A must for antique shoppers, Trash and Treasures Antique Mall is located at 5458 Hwy 70 West in Morehead City. Finding the store can be a bit tricky as most GPS devices will lead you astray. As you drive down Highway 70, keep your eyes peeled for the large antique shop. You’re sure to find unique items.

Seaport Antique Market is located conveniently close to the waterfront. It’s a well-stocked shop with a rotating inventory of vintage furniture, photographs, artwork, kitchenware, and various knick-knacks. Casual shoppers and antique hunters will enjoy a visit.

Sanitary Fish Market and Restaurant has been feeding vacationers and locals in Morehead City since 1938. Today, the restaurant is a popular dining spot for fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails. Order the hushpuppies, they’re a local favorite. And make sure to check out the Tall Tales bar while you’re there, it’s a fun place to sip a cold beer on a hot summer afternoon.

Located in downtown Morehead City, Jack’s Waterfront Bar is an all around good time with live dance music and wallet-friendly drink specials. Put on your dancing shoes and let loose for the evening surrounded by friendly people.

Other popular restaurants include:

• RedFish Grill and Bar
• Circa 81
• Ruddy Duck Tavern