CrystalCoast.com

2025 Harkers Island Nature Spots Guide

Crystal Coast Map
Emerald Isle Indian Beach Pine Knoll Shores Atlantic Beach Shackleford Banks Beaufort Morehead City Cape Lookout Cedar Island Harkers Island New Bern
Lookout Cruises

Visitors can enjoy the Crystal Coast’s most coveted and hard-to-reach shorelines, or just embark on a breezy cruise of the open waters in search of dolphins and sunsets, with a trip that’s guided by Lookout Cruises. This local tour company that calls the central town of Beaufort its home port offers a far-reaching range of adventures that will have coastal fans of all ages soaking up the sun and enjoying the best of the Southern Outer Banks.

Ocean View Courtyard Condo with Balcony ...

A Place At The Beach 282Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'A Place At The Beach offers broad amenities and one of the best family getaways imaginable - there's practically no reason to ever leave the resort grounds! Can’t you just see the excitement on your kids’s faces as they approach the outdoor swimming pool and water slide or the nine-hole putt-putt golf course? Don't forget about the hot tub, the shuffleboard, the tennis and basketball courts, the game room, and the gas grilles. There's even an indoor pool should the rain ever decide to move in. Ready to hit the beach? You can follow the walkway to the handsome, white sand of the Crystal Coast and ride the waves, soak up the sun, or collect seashells. This second-floor, courtyard condo overlooks the outdoor swimming pool. You'll have two bedrooms, three TVs, a DVD player for your evening entertainment, complimentary WiFi throughout the condo, and a private washer/dryer to refresh your swimsuits and beach towels nightly. Things to Know Full kitchen No smoking allowed This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina, LLC.Parking notes: There is parking available for a fee and charges will apply for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 2.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Kitty Hawk Kites

Founded as the world's first hang gliding school in 1974, Kitty Hawk Kites has grown into a beloved retail and outdoor recreation venture with more than 28 locations up and down the east coast! With more than 50 years of teaching the world to fly, Kitty Hawk Kites is proud to serve the Crystal Coast as a premier retailer of kites, wind art, toys, apparel, and accessories. Shop great brands like Reef, Prism, Natural Life, Yeti, HeyDude, and more! Visit our locations in Beaufort and Atlantic Beach today.

Isle N Joy 4BR, 2BA  Steps from the Beac...
5.0
(6)

Welcome to your ideal beachside escape! This newly refreshed 4-bedroom, 2-bath half duplex is just steps from the sand and offers the ultimate combination of convenience, comfort, and vistas of both the ocean and the sound.Sleeping Arrangements:2 Queen beds, 2 Twin beds, 1 Bunk bed, Linens supplied with beds made—just pack your suitcase and go.Highlights: Prime 2nd-row location, just a short walk to the beach, Bright, beachy interior with ceiling fans throughout, Foosball table on the lower level for family fun, 6 cable TVs and wireless internet for entertainment, Entirely equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, Washer & dryer, central air and heat for homey comfortOutdoor Living:Covered and uncovered decks, both furnished for calming or dining outsideGas grille for painless vacation mealsEnclosed outdoor shower with hot and cold waterGood to Know: Saturday to Saturday units only, No smoking, No family petsThis comfortable getaway has everything you need for a relaxing week at the beach—book your stay and start counting down to oceanside serenity.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway - Crystal Coast

Visitors of all ages will have a blast at this destination that is designed for great times along the Crystal Coast shoreline. Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway is situated in the centrally located beach community of Salter Path, and is a favorite spot for families who want to have a little fun off the sand.

Updated FULL Duplex - Perfect Large Fam ...

Bring the big family or have a multi-family vacation with this ENTIRE duplex. Both units are completely supplied and freshly refreshed. Top and bottom units have 2 bedrooms with 12" queen memory foam bed, a entirely supplied kitchen, and a full bathroom with complimentary items included. A washer and dryer as well as an outdoor shower will make your sandy stay clean and fun. There are 4 complimentary parking spots reserved in front of the property and you are just steps away from the ocean! Come relax!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Morehead City Ferry Service

The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown Morehead City along Evans Street, patrons who utilize Morehead City Ferry Service for a cruise or a taxi ride to the outlying barrier islands will be treated to full afternoons of sun and fun along the pristine sand.

3rd row home with PRIVATE POOL AND TIKI ...
3.0
(1)

Roomy refreshed single family home with Huge Private Pool (14 X 33 size). 4 Bedroom, 4 Bath Single family Beach Home. Less than a block from the beach access at the end of the island called "The Point". Superior fishing, surfing and shelling at this location. Ocean Peek view and sound view. Huge private pool offers lounge chairs, grille, picnic area & Tiki bar - landscaped pool area as well! Wrap around decks on both levels of home. Covered parking underneath home.LEVEL ONE: entryway, four bedroom and three baths. Master Bedroom with king & private bath. Bedroom #2 with 2 queens has private bath. Bedrooms #3 with Double Twin Bunk Bed and Bedroom #4 with Twins share a hall bath. LEVEL TWO: Huge living area with surround sound vistas and ocean peak. Wrap porch with furnishings and cover makes this a calming experience. 5 Color Cable TV's and high speed internet. Gas grille included (gas not supplied) and outdoor dining table. Sorry, no smoking inside or family pets allowed. Rents from Sunday to Sunday WEEKS ONLY! LINENS PROVIDED in Prime Season (June 8-August 3 full price weeks only). ****CENTURY 21 Coastland Realty will be contacting you for further rental payment details after you book online.****

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 9
Beaufort Pirates Revenge

Jump aboard the pirate ship "REVENGE" at 600 Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina. Our interactive voyages offer fun and adventure for families and swashbucklers of all ages. Come join our crew, take part in a pirate adventure, and enjoy festive music guaranteed to unleash your inner pirate. But be warned; we may need to enlist your expertise to man the water cannons and help defend our ship!

Comfortable Condo with WiFi, Washer/Drye...

Island Beach & Racquet Club H 201- Pelican CrossingOur calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Discover the ideal hideaway at this sound side end unit condo in gorgeous Atlantic Beach, NC, where striking ocean and sound vistas await you. This roomy getaway is designed for families or groups of friends, featuring three comfortable bedrooms and two and a half baths, ensuring everybody has their own space to relax and relax.Inside, you'll find a entirely equipped kitchen complete with a dishwasher and wet bar, making meal prep a breeze. Appreciate your meals on the screened-in porch, accessible from both the living room and master bedroom, where you can soak in the coastal breeze. For entertainment, Intelligent TVs are available in the living area and bedrooms, and complimentary WiFi keeps you connected throughout your stay.The complex offers marvelous amenities, including a Junior Olympic-size outdoor pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and private beach access. Take advantage of the picnic grilles for a fun family BBQ or appreciate a leisurely day by the water. With an elevator for simple access and additional pools on the ocean side, this condo really has it all for a memorable beach vacation. Book your stay today and experience the best of Atlantic Beach!Parking notes: There is complimentary parking available for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 2.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
Mac Daddys

Located on the southern end of Emerald Isle, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the Crystal Coast, Mac Daddy’s is the destination of choice for countless fun-seeking vacationers of all ages who want a big dose of entertainment off the sand. Featuring a bowling alley, sports bar, arcade, and a sister miniature golf course – (the Golfin’ Dolphin) - visitors can expect plenty of good times when they make an outing to this all-around fun amusement center.

Second-Floor, Ocean View Condo with a Ba...

Seaspray 224Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Gorgeously positioned on the second floor of Seaspray with a view of the garden courtyard and the Atlantic Ocean just beyond, this condo will place you mere steps from the soft sand of Atlantic Beach. Bright and comfortable, this condo features a full kitchen, a private balcony, TVs in the living room and primary bedroom, complimentary WiFi throughout, and a Blu-ray and DVD player for your evening entertainment. On-site amenities in this oceanfront complex include an outdoor swimming pool, a kiddie pool, and grilles for your enjoyment. Things to Know Full kitchen The laundry facilities are on the first floor This property is managed by Vacasa North Carolina, LLC.Parking notes: There is complimentary parking available for 2 cars.This rental is located on floor 2.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises

Crystal Coast Lady Cruises is a 100 ft. custom yacht that can effortlessly provide a number of family-friendly expeditions to vacationers who want to enjoy this delicate chain of barrier islands and coastal territory to its fullest. Based out of Beaufort, the Crystal Coast Lady is specifically built for the purpose of sightseeing and dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful downtown beaufort are, plus unbeatable perspectives of the region’s vast array of wildlife, shorelines, and on-the-water views. The Crystal Coast Lady is equipped with a snack bar, and 2 restrooms onboard. 

Crystal Coast Museums

Considering that the Crystal Coast has centuries of history as well as one of the most unique environments along the North Carolina coastline, it should come as no surprise that the region is home to an array of fascinating and thoroughly engaging museums. For a fun and educational rainy day activity, (or just a little excuse to get out of the sun), be sure you check out these “must see” museums that are found throughout the Crystal Coast.

Circa 1810 Home - Downtown New Bern Hist...
5.0
(15)

This unique historic home was originally a dependency to the grandiose Coor-Bishop House located a half block away, where President James Monroe stayed in 1819 while touring the South.The home contains two huge bedrooms with vaulted ceilings and new King beds with new beds. One King bed can be converted to two Twin XLs upon request. The home is freshly refreshed with fresh paint, new furnishings, luxury linens and amenities and a new gas range in the well-appointed kitchen.Walk to the riverfront, Tryon Palace and historic downtown and its many eateries, bars, stores, and galleries. Unwind on the screen porch. Cruise or kayak the Neuse and Trent Rivers. Take a short 45-min. drive to Beaufort, Oriental, and the gorgeous Crystal Coast beaches. Sorry, but no kids under 8 years of age. Infants are welcome but we do not provide cribs or playards.PLEASE NOTE: The home is located on a raised basement with 12 steps from the street level to the front door. All bedrooms are on the second floor.

  • New Bern
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Ragsdale Cottage: 4 BR, 3 Full BA, Ocean...

Get ready for rest and relaxation at Ragsdale Cottage! This Oceanfront House features 4 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths and Atlantic Ocean vistas inside and out!With Interior Offerings including 4 Queen beds, 1 Double bed, 1 Twin bed, 2 Double Sleeper Sofas (linens not supplied for sleeper couches); central HVAC, Interior Laundry Area with Washer/Dryer; Wireless High Speed Internet Access, 2 Flat Panel TVs; and the Entirely Equipped Kitchen with Coffee Maker, Oven, Fridge, Microwave, and Dishwasher, this home provides all the amenities for a home away from home.Take advantage of the oceanside locale to appreciate the Exterior Offerings including complimentary oceanfront sea breeze and sunshine on the Outdoor Decks with Furnishings or head on down to the beach to the sandy shoreline via the Private Beach Access Walkway.Linens and Towels included with Beds Nade for Weekly and Nightly stays.No Smoking.No Animals.Rents Weekly Sunday - Sunday. Rents Nightly with 3 nighttime minimum in advance during Off Season, last miute during In Season.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card supplied at the time of booking will be charged for the total. Guest will receive follow up communications including Management Company’s Vacation Rental Agreement for e-signature which is required for all stays.(2) Management Company reserves the right to deny stays less than 7 nights, if the arrival date is more than 30 days out from the booking date. Stays less than 7 nights, with an arrival date between mid-April to mid-October, are stringently prohibited unless approved by management.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari

Take a quick and scenic ferry ride with your experienced guide over to the pristine Outer Banks Island of Shackleford Banks, which is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. There, you are introduced to the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. After the tour, you are directed to one of the best shelling beaches in all of North Carolina, where you can spend some time shelling your way down the beach with Cape Lookout Lighthouse off in the distance. Shackleford is well known as one of the best shelling destinations on the East Coast. 

Crystal Coast Vacation Rentals

Visitors who are heading to the Crystal Coast will find a scattering of hotels and motels throughout the shoreline and inland communities, but will soon discover that the primary type of accommodations available are vacation rentals. Located all along the Crystal Coast beaches from Atlantic Beach to the town of Emerald Isle, a vacation rental is the generally preferred accommodations option for vacationers thanks to ample space, exceptional locales close to the water, and plenty of homes and condos to choose from.

3 Mi to Dtwn: Home w/ Patio & Grill in N...

Close to Fishing, Boating & Hiking | Fenced-In Yard | Modern InteriorBig adventures await at this 2-bed, 2-bath vacation rental in New Bern! This home features a full kitchen, a comfortable living area with a Intelligent TV, a private yard with a patio, and a prime location just a short drive away from outdoor activities and top attractions. Savor a riverside picnic at Union Point Park, hike the breathtaking trails of Croatan National Forest, or visit the stores downtown. Book now!-- THE PROPERTY --ZONP-002996-2024SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS- Bedroom 1: 1 king bed - Bedroom 2: 1 queen bed OUTDOOR LIVING- Patio, covered porch - Gas grille, fenced-in yardINDOOR LIVING- Intelligent TVs- Dining table, breakfast bar- Walk-in shower, shower/tub combo- Board games, booksKITCHEN - Stove/oven, refrigerator, dishwasher- Cooking basics, dishware/flatware- Pod coffee maker (Keurig), blender, microwave, toasterGENERAL - Free WiFi - Central heating & A/C, ceiling fans- Free toiletries, hair dryer- Washer/dryer, laundry detergent, hangers- Linens/towels, trash bags/paper towelsFAQ- Pet fee (paid pre-trip)ACCESSIBILITY- Single-story home, 4 steps to enterPARKING- Driveway (3 cars)-- THE LOCATION --- 3 miles to Downtown New Bern: Union Point Park, Tryon Palace, Birthplace of Pepsi Cola, Cruise The Neuse Boat Tours, riverfront dining, shopping, farmers market- 6 miles to Croatan National Forest- 7 miles to New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park- 44 miles to North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores- 92 miles to Wilmington International Airport-- REST EASY WITH US --Evolve makes it simple to find and book properties you’ll never want to leave. You can relax knowing that our properties will always be ready for you and that we’ll answer the phone 24/7. Even better, if anything is off about your stay, we’ll make it right. You can count on our homes and our people to make you feel welcome — because we know what vacation means to you.-- POLICIES --- No smoking - Pet friendly w/ $50 fee (+ costs & taxes)- No events, events, or sizable gatherings- Must be at least 25 years old to book- Additional costs and taxes may apply- Photo ID may be required upon check-inADDITIONAL INFORMATION- This single-story home requires 4 steps to enter

  • New Bern
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Island Express Ferry Service

Island Express Ferry Service LLC is the only authorized concessionaire to drop off at Cape Lookout Lighthouse and Shackleford Banks! Offering departures from both Beaufort and nearby Harkers Island, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the link between the communities of the Crystal Coast and the spectacularly beautiful and isolated barrier islands of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Accommodating passengers who want to explore the miles of pristine beaches, exceptional fishing and shelling, wild horses, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the gateway for one of the most unforgettable adventures along the North Carolina coast.

The 7 Best Beach Chairs 2025

You’ve made the drive, gathered the family, packed the cooler with lunches and drinks, and you’re heading out onto the sand on a bright Summer day. You unfold your beach chair and SNAP, it breaks, or bends, or the rotting fabric rips. It happens to the best of us. We’ve checked dozens of chair reviews and features. Here are our picks for best beach chair.

Downtown Blue Manor 2

Downtown Blue Manor is a striking, historic home, tucked away on a relaxing street in the heart of downtown just steps away from New Bern’s rich history, vibrant dining, nightlife, and stores! As one of the few full-sized homes really located in this prime location, it offers a rare blend of spaciousness, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re here to discover New Bern or simply here to relax and relax, you’ll be ideally positioned to make the most of your stay.Inside, you’ll find multiple comfortable living rooms to relax in, making the home ideal for families or groups. Outside, take a seat on the inviting front porch to sip your morning coffee, early evening glass of wine, or spend an afternoon calming in the private backyard. We’ve curated every detail to ensure your stay is as cozy and memorable as possible.Some HistoryThis Colonial Revival home (the Josephine Disosway Duplex) was originally constructed around 1904 as a hotel/home and converted to its present form around 1920 and then stayed in the Disosway family until the 1970's.

  • New Bern
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
Cape Lookout National Seashore

The Cape Lookout National Seashore is a 56-mile long stretch of the Southern Outer Banks barrier island terrain that runs from Ocracoke Inlet to the northeast side of Beaufort Inlet. Comprised of three separate islands – the North Core Banks, the South Core Banks, and the Shackleford Banks – this wonderfully remote destination can only be accessed by a personal vessel, or a privately operated ferry or water taxi. As a result, it’s world-renowned for its miles of undeveloped and scenic beaches, its remarkable fishing, its exceptional shelling, and its abundant wildlife that thrives in the undisturbed and inherently wild environment.

The isolated Cape Lookout National Seashore has a wealth of hidden treasures, from wild horses to incredible seashells, but one of the Core Banks’ most unique destinations is the Cape Lookout Village Historic District. Located just inland of the area’s beaches and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, this collection of historic homes is fascinating reminder of the island’s former prominence as a small coastal community.

settings->site_id=='1') { ?>