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2025 New Bern Birding 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.

The Best Oceanfront View at \
4.8
(144)

Weekly units only in the Summer months, June through August, Sunday to Sunday. We hope you can come relax and savor our Top Floor Corner Condo overlooking the Ocean and the Water-slide Pool. Watch the handsome Sunsets and Dolphin from your Private Balcony. You'll feel like you're On Top of the World. This Upscale condo has a Penthouse feel. The North Carolina Coast is impressive year round! There is no doubt that Unit 375 has the best vistas at "A Place at the Beach!!" With a Southwestern exposure, this condo is bright and sunny with tons of windows overlooking the ocean and waterslide pool. We offer a personal concierge service. You may request to have your refrigerator already outfitted with your favorite foods and beverages prior to your arrival. Please inquire! Recently modernized with plank floor and refreshed bathrooms, featuring a walk-in shower in the Master bath! New living room furnishings. The kitchen has solid surface counter-tops and tile floor along with your own washer and dryer inside the condo. You'll really appreciate this ocean front location! Check out the great reviews from past guests. We want you to be our return guests too! Unwind at the beach or pool every day. We teach Yoga on the Beach at 9:00 am on Tuesday mornings in the Summer, right in front of the condo. Or request a private class on our website at info@NCCoastalLife.com Visit Historic Beaufort, the Morehead City Waterfront, the NC Aquarium, Fort Macon State Park, Cape Lookout Lighthouse or the NC Maritime Museum. Go SCUBA Diving, Kayaking, Hiking, Golfing, Deep Sea Fishing, Surf Fishing or take a Scenic Boat tour to visit the island ponies and look for shells and sand dollars. Learn more about us at www.NCCoastalLife.com and write to info@nccoastallife.com for Private Yoga Classes for your family and friends. There is so much to do,. you'll want to return year after year, as many of our guests do. Reserve early for your choice of dates. Don't hesitate to Email us with any questions. We're here to help you have the best vacation ever! FYI, Book early, the Summer weeks usually fill up by February. See you at the beach! Nikki Keywords: Oceanfront, Beachfront, Top Floor, Private, All-Inclusive, Family Friendly, Water-slide, Elevator, Gated Community

  • 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.

Atlantic Beach Classic Family Cottage
4.9
(73)

Atlantic Beach, NC. Guests are sure to savor a memorable vacation in this cedar shake, all-wood interior, entirely furnished, 4 bedroom/ 4.5 bath beach home. The master bedroom has a king sized bed, the others are furnished with a queen-sized bed, 2 twin beds and an additional huge bedroom featuring 2 doubles. The home sleeps 8-10 comfortably. The indoor spaces feature original artwork, unique furnishings, and the kitchen is equipped with nearly new appliances and cookware. Located on the second row, the beach is just steps away. On the roomy front porch, guests can appreciate ocean vistas, cool breezes and splendid sunsets. And the best nap/ book reading in the world is to be found while calming on the front porch hanging bed. There is also a enormous side screened porch, back deck & outdoor shower. When not on the wide, soft sand beach (less than a three-min. walk), enjoy close by attractions such as cycling in various parts of Bogue Island, touring historic Fort Macon State Park, taking boat excursions (or your own boat) to Cape Lookout National Seashore and Lighthouse and other close by islands, seeing weekly concerts at Fort Macon, visiting the colonial town of Beaufort and its waterfront scenery and eateries, the NC Aquarium, and Morehead City eateries and nightlife, savoring a Sunset drink at the bar located at the end of the close by Oceana Fishing Pier which gives a expansive view of the coastline, or water activities including kayaking, canoeing, and surfing. The water remains warm enough for swimming well after Labor Day so consider a long-weekend as fall begins. In winter, enjoy seeing the sun set directly over the Atlantic Ocean due to the island's orientation along the coast and the location of the sun. A sight to see!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 10
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.

Emerald Isle Brand New Luxury Condo! Ste...
5.0
(7)

Brand new (new construction) condo in calming Emerald Isle with pool, a 5 min. walk to the beach, and across the street from a water park. Cavernous for the whole family and ideal for a week-long vacation. Retail stores in complex and close to area eateries, grocery store, and other family-friendly activities. Free parking on-site in gated lot. The pool is seasonal and there are steps going to each level in the condo without an elevator. Kids are welcome! No family pets though.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

The Blue Dolphin
4.5
(2)

Welcome to The Blue Dolphin!You won’t forget your time in this charming, memorable place.A nice week/weekend hideaway. Just 10 mins. from Atlantic beach. Appreciate the pool on a nice breezy day.The spaceQueen size bed

  • Beaufort
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 2
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!

Maritime West Unit C-33-Ocean Front Cond...
4.7
(12)

Feel the awe-inspiring beauty of Maritime West C-33, a roomy three-bedroom, three-bath oceanfront condo with huge windows overlooking the surf. Located within Beacon's Reach, surrounded by ancient maritime forest, this getaway invites you to renew and refresh amid Live Oak, Yaupon, and Wax Myrtle trees.Savor community amenities such as a pool, tennis courts, and breathtaking cycling and running trails. The condo features a private washer and dryer and a entirely supplied kitchen with modern appliances for your convenience.Witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets from your own private haven. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Maritime West C-33 promises an memorable coastal hideaway where the rhythm of the waves will wash your cares away.BED CONFIGURATIONS:1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed, and 2 Twin BedsLOCATION:497 Salter Path Road, Unit C-33Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512WHAT IS PROVIDED:Spectrum Rental Properties will provide sheets and bath towels. Beach towels and equipment is not included. If you would like information on beach equipment units, we are more than happy to provide you with a list. Properties will be supplied with a starter kit in each full bathroom and kitchen. Each kitchen starter kit will contain a modest bottle of dish soap, two dishwasher pods, sponge, and two fragrance complimentary laundry pods. The kitchen will also have one additional trash bagEach bathroom starter kit will contain a travel size shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, makeup wipe, and body bar.Spectrum Rental Properties is unfortunately not able to provide additional boxes/bags. This is a starter kit; anything additional will be guests responsibility to provide.OTHER NOTES:-Located on the 4th floor of building C-Boat Slips are available for rent with Beacons Reach Marina (the slip is not supplied, there is an additional fee) *-No family pets allowed-No smoking allowed-Only 2 parking passes allowed-The Community Pool is open April 1 through October (weather permitting)

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

Light & Airy Oceanside Escape - Beach, P...

Welcome to Reel Fan-Sea, the ultimate beach vacation homeg for family and friends! Located in Pier Pointe, a fashionable Ocean Front Community in Emerald Isle, this pristine hideaway promises a really memorable escape. Impeccably maintained, this first-floor, single-level, 2-bed/2-bath condo features an open floor plan and handsome vistas. This unit is for NON-SMOKERS ONLY. *Message us and ask about our early check-in/out options*~1150 Sq Ft, two bedroom two bathroom beachside, this condo is a ideal place to savor time with family, and friends, or even a special occasion. Beach access is just across the parking lot, up a few steps, via a boardwalk that features oceanfront bench seating. This particular building is located right next to trendy amenities like the pool and tennis/pickleball courts as well as the running/cycling path. It is a short driving distance to grocery stores, eateries, and entertainment.Bedroom 1: King w/ memory foam bed Bedroom 2: 1 Queen w/memory foam bedAll the little details to make your stay comfortable including keyless entry (no keys to lose!) We provide linens including bed sheets (beds will be made upon arrival), blankets, bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. Home Conveniences: Flat screen Intelligent TV's in each room with access to Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Peacock, etc. Oceanside porch for calming. Upgraded WiFi. Also included are beach chairs, beach and pool toys. Ironing board and Iron as well as hairdryers in the bathrooms. Washer and dryer for your use as well. Light-blocking shades are on all windows throughout the home. Outside Security camera for your protection and ours.Kitchen: A completely-equipped kitchen includes all the necessary pots, pans, serving ware, and baking needs, a standard drip coffee pot, toaster, crock-pot, blender, kids's plastic dishes, plastic serving ware and drinking cups for the pool, and food storage containers. Also supplied are basic paper products, baggies, foil, trash bags, cleaning supplies, detergents, soaps, etc. Parking: 2 cars. Onsite parking with parking passes is required. They are left in the property for each guest. First come, first serve.Pool: Available April - October (closing dates are determined based on staffing and weather). Code is supplied to pool in the welcome book located inside the property.On-Premise Conveniences: Tennis Courts, 2 Pools, Trash + Recycling Disposal, Picnic Tables, Charcoal Grills (3 just by the condo), first come, first serve, and self-cleanup after use.No Smoking, of any kind, inside the condo or on the decks.No Family AnimalsQuiet Time 10pm - 7amWith a VERY short walk to the beach you can start your day sipping a morning coffee while listening to the relaxing waves or take a leisurely sunset walk along the shore.The spaceGuest accessWe will provide a unique access code ahead of your arrival**Other things to note**We encourage all guests to purchase VACATION RENTAL INSURANCE independently to cover any unforeseen circumstances that will affect their trip and any nonrefundable deposits they may have paid. There are many companies that offer policies designed to protect travel to rental homes and more. Here are a few of the top companies offering policies that are conveniently found online: Travel Guard, InsureMyTrip, Generali Global Assistance, Travel Insured International, and Berkshire Hathaway Travel ProtectionCommunity amenities such as pool, tennis courts, and community grilles are subject to closure due to weather or for maintenance beyond our control. Please keep this possibility in mind when booking in the rare case of closure.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
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.

5 Bedroom 1/2 Duplex - 2nd Row from the ...

A Tarheel West is a 5 Bedroom, 4 Bath 1/2 duplex. Located 2nd row from the beach. Bed sizes include: 4 Queens, 2 Bunk beds. Linens supplied with beds made. Central air & heat, Hot & cold enclosed outside shower, Dishwasher, Washer & dryer, Microwave, 2 Intelligent TVs (guest's personal streaming service required), Wireless high-speed internet, Ceiling fans throughout, Stone patio, Gas grille, Open & covered decks that are furnished, Parking for 5 cars (3 are covered), Covered entrance to home. Rents Saturday to Saturday. No smoking, no family pets

  • Emerald Isle
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 12
Pelican's Roost, Oceanfront House in Pin...

Get ready to be Wowed! Pelican's Roost is an impressive home on the Atlantic Ocean. The home offers 4 sizeable bedrooms, 4 full baths, providing plenty of room for family and friends. This home is also Pet Friendly, so your furry family member can savor the vacation too.When you enter the driveway, you will notice the huge private yard filled with native organic foliage. The home's location has vistas of the sunrises from the upsized deck. Renters can relax in the 6-person hot tub (available from April to Oct 31st). The private hot/cold outdoor shower is next to the hot tub. The North Carolina Aquarium is just mins. away and within walking distance. The home is also just mins. from the grocery store, movie theater, stores, eateries, and Atlantic Beach Town Park.The upper level features a tremendously sizeable open-concept living room, kitchen, and dining area. The completely equipped kitchen has countertop island seating. The homeowner appreciates spending time with family and friends, so he made a enormous dining table to accommodate sizable gatherings. You will also find the main bedroom with a king-size bed, ocean vistas, deck access, and a private bath. The 2nd bedroom has a queen-size bed and a private bath. There is a common area full bath on this level. At this level, you have ocean vistas everywhere. The deck has a huge table for 6 and tall chairs for dolphins and bird-watching.The lower level offers a comfortable living room, 1 bedroom with a king-size bed, 2nd bedroom offers 2 sets of twin bunk beds and a full shared bath.Unwind in the peaceful surrounding this oceanfront property offers!Conveniences Include:High-Speed Wireless Internet AccessTV'sDVD player and DVD movie collectionNintendo Wii ConsoleWasher & DryerDishwasherCovered & Open DecksGas GrillePicnic tableDeck FurnishingsTotally Equipped KitchenCeiling FansIron/ Ironing BoardDistinctive Features:Private Beach AccessPrivate Generous YardLinens and Towels included with Beds Made for Weekly stays.No Smoking.Up to 2 Dogs Accepted with our All-Inclusive Pet Policy for Weekly stays - No Fee! It is the responsibility of pet owners to ensure that they clean up after their family pets (i.e., picking up waste from property grounds). Should the guest fail to do so, an additional fee of $100 will be charged to the credit card on file.Rents Weekly only Saturday - Saturday.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.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 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.

Beach Front Condo Complex - Vacation Ste...
4.8
(105)

Book NOW for a fun, calming and memorable Spring or Summer family Beach Get-A-Way. A Place At The Beach, Beach Front Complex! Clean, handsome, comfortable and well maintained ground floor unit just steps from the beach, two pools, outdoor grilles and parking! Free WiFi! The beach stretches for miles, great for a long walk or jog. Quiet family-friendly location. Linens (towels, sheets), beach chairs, beach umbrella, body boards, and other beach items included - No Extra Cost!This condo has just been completely refreshed with new furnishings, floor and paint. It has a entirely equipped kitchen, two bedrooms with comfortable linens, 2 full baths, living room and a washer/dryer for your convenience. For your entertainment, the condo has new intelligent TVs with a DVD player in the Living Room with a variety of family movies available at no cost. Close parking is available for 2 cars just outside the entranceway. Ground floor location near the beach means no climbing stairwells with painless and fast access to the beach and both pools.Within just a short distance you'll find plenty: the best seafood eateries around, beach stores, bicycle units, and much more. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium, Fort Macon State Park, the Morehead City Waterfront, or Historic Beaufort Village and the NC Maritime Museum. If you adore the surf, sand, and long walks on the beach, this opulent vacation condo is the place for you. Book early - this unit rents quickly!Keywords: Clean elegant 2BR 2BA Condo in a family-friendly condo complex on the Beach!

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

Windjammer Villas Condo in Fairfield Har...

Fairfield Harbour Windjammer I is a 2,400-acre property with fantastic on-site amenities for your enjoyment. A spectacular canal system navigates this community of resort condos and residential properties. The18-hole golf course, tennis courts, hairdresser, lake, and exercise equipment are waiting right outside your door! An indoor pool, outdoor pool, miniature golf course, and playground are ideal for kids. Arriving by boat? The resort includes boat slips up to 60 feet in length. This is the ultimate vacation for relaxation, warm weather, and fun.This comfortable two bedroom condo overlooks the Windjammer Lake. The rental comes complete with washer/dryer, full kitchen, air conditioning, dishwasher, microwave, carpet, and phone. This is the ideal escape for retired couples or families traveling with modest kids.

  • New Bern
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6

Glenburnie Park is a scenic public park that’s located just northeast of the heart of Downtown New Bern. Tucked along the Neuse River in a primarily residential section of town, the park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike who want to enjoy a wild and natural day by the water.

Latham Whitehurst Nature Park is one of the newest parks in Craven County, and was first opened to visitors and locals alike in 2011. Located in a quiet eastern section of the town of New Bern, the park is a popular destination for wildlife fans of all varieties, including hikers, kayakers, birdwatchers, fishermen, and everyone in between.

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