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2025 Surfing 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 Heart of Emerald Isle

Unwind on the relaxing beaches of Emerald Isle and savor the comfortable ambiance of this enchanting three-bedroom holiday home. Located just an 8-min. walk from the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, this property offers a ideal blend of coastal living and modern amenities.As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a entirely supplied kitchen, complete with a stove, oven, refrigerator, grille, and all the necessary appliances to whip up delectable meals. Gather around the dining table and savor your culinary creations, or step outside and fire up the grille for a delightful alfresco dining experience.When it's time to relax, getaway to the cozy living room and appreciate the convenience of complimentary WiFi and a movie on the sizable TV. Refresh and rejuvenate in the 2.5 bathrooms, where you'll find plush towels and basic soaps. Catch up on laundry with the in-home washer and dryer, and keep your wardrobe fresh throughout your stay.Beyond the amenities of the home, venture out and discover the close by Croatan National Forest, just a 17-min. drive away, or visit the captivating North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, a 21-min. drive from your doorstep. End your days by calming on the beach loungers or appreciating the outdoor furnishings, soaking in the coastal ambiance.Whether you're seeking a relaxing hideaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this 3-bedroom vacation home in Emerald Isle has everything you need for an memorable stay.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
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.

Luxury Townhome in Emerald Isle, NC

Skipper D's at Village West is a handsome 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhome with gorgeous ocean vistas. The up-and-coming Village West Community features a community pool, bathhouse, grilling area, and open green space as well as close by retail stores and dining! This property also has a private elevator and Interior Washer/Dryer!Short walk to the beach!Short walk to stores! Located in the gated Village West Community of Emerald Isle. Beach access is walking distance with a covered picnic pavilion and handicap accessible ramp. Walking distance to the local eateries and grocery stores. Nearby attractions:Atlantic Beach - 35-min. driveBeaufort Historic District - 40-min. driveNorth Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores - 30-min. driveSwansboro Historic Waterfront - 15-min. driveBogue Inlet Fishing Pier - 5-min. driveMacDaddy's Family Entertainment Center - 10-min. driveSalty Pirate Waterpark - 3-min. walkThe Point at Bogue Inlet - 10-min. drivePool access to Village West Community pool (seasonal). Beach access. 3 bedrooms:1 King1 Queen1 Full/Twin Bunk1 Sleeper couch (located on Floor 0 with own access to full bathroom)Floor #0: Rec Room - TV, Queen sleeper couch (linens not included) and bath with walk in shower.Floor #1: Powder bath, Deck Access with outdoor dining and rocking chairs with ocean view, TV, dining table. Totally equipped kitchen with cookware, bakeware and dishware. New stainless-steel appliances. Cavernous kitchen island with sitting for 6. Floor #2: Bedroom #1: Primary Bedroom – Ocean View, King bed, TV, Attached bath with walk in shower and double vanity. Bedroom #2: Queen bed with TV, direct access to full shared bathroom. Bedroom #3: Full/Twin bunk.Additional Conveniences: 4 Intelligent TVs with Basic Cable, Covered Deck with Deck Furnishings (Dining Table/Chairs and Rockers), Outdoor Covered Patio, Enclosed Hot/Cold Outdoor Shower, Iron/Ironing Boards, Beach Wagon, Beach Chairs, Beach Umbrella, Ceiling fans, Interior Washer/Dryer, High-Chair, Booster Seat, Pack-N-Play (Linens Not Included for Pack-N-Play), Entirely Equipped Kitchen with Coffee Maker (Nepresso Machine), Oven, Fridge with Attached Ice Maker, Microwave, Dishwasher, Toaster, Blender, Lawn Games, Board Games, Community Picnic Table Area, Private Elevator, and a Modest Garage that provides more space!

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 11
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.

Remodeled Oceanfront Duplex in Quiet Oce...
5.0
(10)

Come stay at our freshly modernized oceanfront home in the trendy Ocean Oaks neighborhood at Emerald Isle. We offer a wrap-around ocean view from the kitchen and living area, along with ocean-facing windows in each of our 3 bedrooms. Our goal is to make your family feel welcome in the cleanest rental you've ever experienced. After Hurricane Florence damage, we gutted the home so that everything is new, from the walls and floor to the kitchen appliances and tile bathrooms. Each bedroom features Casper beds, spa sheets, and a intelligent TV. Our kitchen comes well-outfitted, and we include your basic oils, spices, condiments, detergents, and paper goods with your rental. Outside, sun yourself on the upper deck, or grab a spot in the shade on our lower deck. We have an enclosed outdoor shower with a changing area for those who like to feel the breeze. Beach chairs and a bucket of toys are included.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 9
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.

Studio Condo  at Atlantic Beach waiting ...
4.7
(55)

***Poolside, Second floor, Beach and Sound access******Freshly refreshed bathroom******Wifi and Intelligent TV included***What are you waiting for? Go ahead and reserve this impressive studio condo today. Bright and generously decorated open concept unit has everything you need for a great vacation stay. Equipped with a nice kitchen area that has a full-size stove and refrigerator, plenty of cookware and dinnerware for those who prefer to prepare. A new queen bed and box spring for your sleeping comfort and a pull-out couch bed for the kids or up to two more adults. Internet and 43" intelligent cable tv are supplied. Both the huge swimming pool and infant wading pool are right in front of this condo, just a few feet from your door. The area behind the complex is a marvelous place to get competitive in a game of corn hole or let the kids "burn some energy."Ready for a exhilarating dip in the ocean? Want to let your creative side shine through building sandcastles? The private beach access is directly across the street and you can be there in 5 mins.! Later in the day you might decide to prepare on one of the grilles located on the sound side of the facility or relax in the gazebo or other seating area watching the boats go by. You will be located near multiple amazing eateries, beach stores and many area attractions such as walking trails, putt put golf, playgrounds, bumper boats and other fun family activities. The NC Aquarium and Fort Macon State Park are always crowd-pleasing places to visit. You might even consider booking a fishing trip on one of many fishing boats for hire or taking the family on a water taxi adventure! The fun times will be forever etched in your memory and you will want to come back year after year!*Disclaimer - If you plan to bring a boat, please contact us about additional costs and requirements of the Bogue Shores HOA.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
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!

Aurora East, Oceanfront Duplex in Emeral...

Aurora East is an Oceanfront Duplex with a Swimming Pool (shared with the adjacent side), a Private Hot Tub, and High Speed Internet Access! (Bring your own computer.) Just steps to the ocean. Within walking distance to fishing pier, eateries, shopping and modest theme park! Open and Covered decks with striking Ocean Vistas, with table, chairs, and Rockers. Aurora East is equipped with a Water Softener, Fax Machine, Beach Chairs, Bicycles and a variety of sports equipment. Ceiling Fans in all rooms!Ground Level: Covered Carport. Private Hot Tub. Swimming Pool (shared with adjacent side). Game Room with a Foosball Table and a Fridge. Full-Bath. Private Laundry Room, Charcoal Grille. Enclosed Hot/Cold Outdoor Shower. Storage with Beach Toys.Level One: Oceanfront Bedroom #1 has a King Bed, a huge private Master Bath with a Jacuzzi tub, and and a covered Private Deck which overlooks the oceanfront Pool. Bedroom #2 has a King Bed and a covered Private Deck which overlooks the oceanfront Pool. Full-Bath between Bedrooms 2 and 3 - Oceanview Bedroom #3 has a Double Bed and a Twin Bed. Private Deck.Level Two: Oceanfront Living and Dining Areas with Cathedral Ceilings and a sizable Covered Deck overlooking the Pool. The Kitchen has the best view of any on the beach and a enormous Island Bar which also has a Microwave and a Dishwasher. Oceanview Bedroom #4 has a Queen Bed, a Twin Bed and a Private Deck.Conveniences include: Oceanfront Swimming Pool, a Hot Tub, High Speed Wireless Internet, Storage with Beach Toys, Open and Covered Decks, Beach Chairs, Bicycles, some Sports Equipment, Ceiling Fans in all rooms, Covered Parking, a Game Room, a Foosball Table, a Charcoal Grille, an Enclosed Hot/Cold Outdoor Shower, a Jacuzzi and a Porta-crib.Please note: Check-In is at 4:00pm - No Exceptions.To make sharing your vacation easier, a connecting door between duplexes, Aurora West, accepts for convenient access and a shared living space when renting both halves.Linens and Towels supplied with Beds Made for Weekly and Nightly stays. Crib sheets not supplied.No Smoking.No Family Animals.Rents Weekly Saturday - Saturday. Rents Nightly with a 3 nighttime minimum in advance during Off Season, last min. during In Season.Please Note:(1) Guests must pay in full when booking through Vacation Rental By Owner. The card included 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.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
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.

River Retreat Condo: serenity with great...

Fairfield Harbour condo that overlooks the Neuse River and has painless access to Historic New Bern. Feel a wide array of attractions such as our colonial history and North Carolina's first capital at Tryon Palace; the birthplace of Pepsi Cola; Civil War Battlefields; museums; eclectic downtown New Bern stores and many savory eateries. Fairfield Harbour is close enough to be convenient, but peaceful enough to be restful. The condo has a well supplied kitchen with everything you need for a fast snack or elaborate dinner. Two bedrooms and two baths are separated and offer tons of privacy, making this an ideal location for families or couples traveling together. Master bath has walk in shower, second bathroom has deep full size tub. The Roku T.V. with a sound bar (don't forget your personal streaming passwords for services such as Netflix, Hulu, etc) and a voice activated Amazon Echo (Alexa) for all the news, sports, music, recipes, and anything else you ask. Walkable to the marina and kayak rental. Access to the community recreation is center included with your stay, including indoor and outdoor pools, a exercise center, mini golf, basketball courts and more. Check the current listings in the rec center for water aerobics, yoga classes, ice cream socials and other family activities.

  • New Bern
  • 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.

Oceanfront Oasis with Private Pool, Beac...
4.8
(5)

Welcome to Once Upon a Time – Your Ultimate Beach Retreat with Private Pool and Direct Beach AccessLocated in the highly beautiful Dolphin Ridge community, Once Upon a Time offers elegant ocean vistas, ample living space, and simple beach access, making it the ideal destination for families and groups looking for the ultimate coastal escape.Cavernous Living and EntertainmentOn the first floor, you’ll find a comfortable guest room featuring a cozy Queen-sized bed, alongside a shared bath complete with a shower seat and grab bars for added convenience. Just down the hall, the recreation area is a highlight with twin-over-double bunk beds and a pool table, ensuring plenty of space for fun and relaxation.Open Living with Ocean VistasThe second floor offers an broad, open-concept living area where you can relax and savor the expansive ocean vistas through huge windows. The completely equipped kitchen features refreshed appliances and sleek granite countertops, ideal for preparing meals. The adjoining dining area and cozy living room are ideal for gatherings or peaceful evenings. Two additional guest rooms are located on this level: one with a Queen-sized bed and a private bath, and another with a King-sized bed and semi-private bath.Oceanfront Primary SuitesOn the third floor, the oceanfront primary suites provide the ultimate in comfort and privacy. Each suite is furnished with a extravagant King-sized bed, a private bathroom, and its own private balcony—ideal for watching the waves and appreciating the salty breeze. A fourth guest room with a Double and Twin bed also shares access to a private bath, providing ample space for everybody to relax.Private Pool and Beach AccessOutside, the private pool is the ideal place to relax or cool off after a day in the sun. Or, take a short walk along your own private path to the beach, where you can appreciate the serenity of the shoreline. The cavernous deck offers the ideal setting for al fresco meals, with the calming sound of the ocean waves as your backdrop.Book Your Stay TodayOnce Upon a Time has everything you need for a anxiety-complimentary, delightful beach vacation. With private beach access, a invigorating pool, pet-friendly accommodations, and roomy rooms, it’s the ultimate coastal getaway. Book your stay today and experience the best of Emerald Isle at Once Upon a Time!

  • Emerald Isle
  • 7 Bedrooms
  • 6 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 19
Family Beach- Family Values
4.9
(18)

Freshly refreshed kitchen and bath! Our unit is a ground level condo which appears as a traditional townhome design. This unit sleeps a max. of six people. There are two bedrooms with one and half baths. There is a completely outfitted kitchen, dining and living areas. Each bedroom has a king size bed with one room having an additional day bed. The Living room has a fold out couch. There is complimentary WIFI and cable TV. The unit patio is adjacent to the pool and less than 100ft to the beach. The unit has a private upper deck off the owner bedroom. The patio leads to a enclosed inner court yard for all the units. We have an onsite manager that maintains the pool and grounds. There is a enormous community deck adjacent to the pool with outdoor shower areas. No family pets or smoking allowed.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
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.

Bella Vista – Coastal Luxury w/ Ocean ...
5.0
(16)

Modern, family-friendly beach condo with luxury vinyl floor throughout—no carpet! Features include washer/dryer, dishwasher, Keurig coffee maker (bring pods), and three intelligent TVs. Savor natural light from new windows and sliding door. Beach chairs and umbrella included for your convenience. Stylish, clean, and steps from the sand—ideal for a calming coastal hideaway. EV chargers available.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 5
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.

Spectacular ocean getaway, vacation done...
5.0
(3)

You will adore this unique and relaxing hideaway on the Crystal Coast, no better place to fulfill all your vacation needs then here. 75 ft. dock, wrap around deck, completely furnished patio, and rather private yard for comfort and convenience inside and out to meet all your relaxation needs. Appreciate an abundance of handsome weather, sea life, sunsets, and sunrises to fill your bucket list. Great fishing off the dock or use near by boat slip and dock right on the property during your stay.

  • Beaufort
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
The Circle at Atlantic Beach

Crystal Coast visitors who want an easy-going day on the seashore can head to one of the most convenient public beach accesses in the region, the Circle at Atlantic Beach. Known as the main “Town Beach” and located in the heart of the busy Atlantic Beach community, The Circle offers a myriad of ways to stay entertained, both on and off the sand.

Island Water Sports

Island Water Sports is kid tested and family approved! Since 1988 Island Water Sports has been providing vacationers with premium watersports activities on the Crystal Coast in Emerald Isle, NC. We offer everything you’ll need to make your vacation one you will remember for a lifetime. With highly qualified and trained professionals, we will cater to your every need on the water. Safety is our number one priority so rest assured that you will enjoy a fun and adventurous beach day with us.

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