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2025 Water Skiing 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.

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
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.

Oceanfront 4BR, Spectacular Views, Beach...

Soak in the best ocean view at the beach from this inviting 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath oceanfront duplex, ideal for a calming family hideaway! With plenty of room, the home features 3 Queen beds, a Twin, and a Bunk (Double/Twin)—linens supplied with beds made so you can settle in anxiety-complimentary.Step outside onto the open deck, complete with a picnic table and outdoor seating, and take in countless ocean vistas. A private walkway leads directly to the beach, making your days in the sand and surf effortless.Inside, you’ll appreciate: Central air & heat, Dishwasher, washer & dryer, 3 cable TVs & wireless internet, Gas grille for cookouts with a view, And best of all—One well-behaved dog is welcome.This home rents weekly only, Saturday to Saturday. NO smoking.

  • 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.

Beachfront get away
4.9
(8)

Our home offers a cavernous vacation spot just right for the family. It is a 3 bed / 2.5 bath condo located in Pine Knoll Shores, just steps away from the beach. All linens are supplied in addition to a washer/dryer. Minimum 7-nighttime stay (Saturday to Saturday typically).Room arrangements:• Bedroom #1 Master Bedroom with a Queen Bed(included is a private bathroom and private balcony with ocean vistas)• Bedroom #2 has a Full Bed• Bedroom #3 has 2 Twin BedsAlso supplied:• Intelligent / Cable TVs• High-Speed Wireless Internet• Dishwasher / Stove / Oven / Microwave• Washer / Dryer• Linens / Towels• 2 Car Covered Carport*Please note, this property does not allow family pets or smoking. Thank you for your cooperation.

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 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.

Atlantic Beach Retreat w/ 2 Decks: Steps...

Feel an memorable beach trip at this bright 2-bedroom, 3.5-bath vacation rental in Atlantic Beach, NC! Ideal for a charming getaway or a modest group hideaway, this townhome features a full kitchen, 4 Intelligent TVs, a covered patio, and much more. When you’re not calming on the sandy beaches, discover nature at Fort Macon State Park or check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. After the day’s activities, savor a tropical drink on one of the outdoor decks.-- THE PROPERTY --Overlooking Bay Area | Quiet Street | Outdoor ShowerBedroom 1: California King Bed | Bedroom 2: Queen BedOUTDOOR LIVING: Private patio, 2 decks w/ seating, bicycle, beach chairsINDOOR LIVING: 4 Intelligent TVs, fireplace, board games, 4-person dining table, ceiling fansKITCHEN: Cooking basics, microwave, refrigerator, stove/oven, dishwasher, Keurig coffee makerGENERAL: Free WiFi, linens/towels, central A/C & heating, in-unit washer/dryerFAQ: 2 exterior security cameras (facing out)ACCESSIBILITY: Steps required to enter, interior stairs for full access, multi-level townhomePARKING: Driveway (2 cars)-- THE LOCATION --BEACH DAYS: Ocean Blvd Public Beach Access (walking distance), Club Colony Dr Public Beach Access (1 mile), Money Island Bay (1 mile), Indian Beach (11 miles), Emerald Isle Beach (19 miles), Hammocks Beach State Park (29 miles)EXPLORE NATURE: Fort Macon State Park (0.9 miles), Atlantic Beach Town Park (2 miles), Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area (7 miles)FAMILY FUN: Battle Works Tactical Laser Tag & Battle Axe Throwing (3 miles), North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores (7 miles), North Carolina Maritime Museum (8 miles), Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway (10 miles)AIRPORT: Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (36 miles)-- REST EASY WITH US --Evolve makes it painless 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- No family pets allowed- No events, events, or huge gatherings- Must be at least 25 years old to book- Additional costs and taxes may apply- Photo ID may be required upon check-in- NOTE: This multi-level townhome requires steps to enter and interior stairs for full access- NOTE: Your safety matters. This property features 2 exterior security cameras: 1 camera is located at the front door facing the front entrance, and 1 camera is above the garage facing the driveway. The cameras do not look into interior spaces. The cameras record video and sound when activated by motion. They will record when they first sense motion and 30 seconds after the last motion is detected

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 3 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!

'The Grey Goose': Waterfront Home with B...
4.9
(10)

From its waterfront getaway to the wonderfully outfitted interior, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is sure to be the cherry on top of any group’s visit to New Bern! Appreciate simple access to Historic Downtown, plenty of golf courses, and outdoor adventures courtesy of this vacation rental’s great location. When you’re not out and about, pour a glass of wine to appreciate on the deck or private beach. When the sun begins to set, head inside to savor a family movie or game nighttime!-- THE PROPERTY --Shared Outdoor Perks | 1,550 Sq Ft | 3 Mi to Historic Downtown New BernSporting plenty of on-site relaxation and an ideal New Bern location, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom vacation rental has it all to ensure your time here is fun-filled and anxiety-complimentary!Bedroom 1: King Bed | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed | Bedroom 3: 2 Twin BedsCOMMON SPACE SHARED AMENITIES: Shared laundry machines, full-sized refrigerator, additional sink, toilet, charcoal grille, fire pit, boat dock, beach chairs, gazebo, horseshoes, cornhole, hammocksINDOOR LIVING: Intelligent TV, open-concept interior, dining table, hammockOUTDOOR LIVING: Furnished deck, gas grilleKITCHEN: Totally equipped w/ cooking basics & spices, drip coffee maker, toaster, knife setGENERAL: Free WiFi, linens/towels, complimentary toiletries, trash bags, paper towels, hair dryer, iron/board, private washer/dryer, central heating & A/CFAQ: Pet fee (paid pre-trip), stairs required to access home & waterfront space, additional rental on-sitePARKING: Driveway (4 cars), RV/trailer parking on-siteADDT’L ACCOMMODATIONS: An additional 1-bedroom property for 6 guests is available on-site with a separate nightly rate. If you would like to reserve both units, please inquire for more information prior to booking-- THE LOCATION --OUTDOOR RECREATION: Union Point Park (3.3 miles), Creekside Park (4.1 miles), Lawson Creek Park (4.5 miles), Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park (9.4 miles)HISTORICAL SITES: Birthplace of Pepsi Cola (3.6 miles), Governor’s Palace/Tryon Palace (3.6 miles), North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace (3.7 miles), New Bern Firemen's Museum (3.8 miles), New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park (5.2 miles)GOLF: Taberna Country Club (4.5 miles), New Bern Golf & Country Club (7.3 miles), Carolina Colours Golf Club (7.4 miles)AIRPORTS: Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (2.6 miles), Raleigh-Durham International Airport (132 miles)-- REST EASY WITH US --Evolve makes it painless 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/ $ 75 fee (+ costs & taxes)- No events, events, or huge gatherings- Must be at least 25 years old to book- Additional costs and taxes may apply- Photo ID may be required upon check-in- NOTE: This property sleeps 6 guests in beds with room for 2 additional guests on a queen-sized air bed - NOTE: The property requires stairs to access the interior and waterfront space and may be difficult for guests with limited mobility- NOTE: An additional 1-bedroom property for 6 guests is available on-site with a separate nightly rate. If you would like to reserve both units, please inquire for more information prior to booking- NOTE: This property shares the dock, boat slip, kayaks, pedal boat, gazebo, hammocks, fire pit, horseshoes, cornhole, picnic tables, and complimentary laundry facilities with another unit on-site

  • New Bern
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 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.

Large 3 bedroom townhome with cable and ...
4.4
(12)

This three bedroom beautiful townhouse style unit overlooks the Sand Castle Lake, and features all the amenities of home. This is the ideal unit for a family vacation. Appreciate all the animals and natural beauty surrounding the lake as you watch the sun set from the comfort of your patio.There is privacy for four people, while accommodating up to eight guests. The unit includes a full kitchen with service for eight, dishwasher, microwave, washer & dryer, two full baths, one half bath, two T.V.s, a hottub and tons of room to spread out. Just a 2-3 min. walking distance to the Broad Creek Recreation Center and the Northwest Creek Marina.For your convenience, guests have a complementary membership for the duration of their stay at the Broad Creek Recreation Center, which just a short walk from this rental location. Daily activities, exercise classes, miniature golf, a basketball court, tennis courts, a playground, an indoor and outdoor pool, sauna and exercise room are part of this complex. The property is a short drive to Downtown New Bern, which features multiple magnificant eateries, boutique shopping and museums. The local beaches are roughly an hour away from this location, but an simple drive. Supplied with your rental are items such as dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, bathroom tissue and soap to help you appreciate your stay. The photos are representative of the location where you will be staying. This listing is not for a specific condominium. We work with 30 condos of this layout and type. The location you stay in may have a slightly different decor or view than the photos shown.

  • New Bern
  • 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.

Drake's Cove - Waterfront Oasis
5.0
(41)

This Waterfront Home is in the gated resort community of Fairfield Harbour. Bring your boat or fish from the backyard. You can Swim, Play Tennis & work out at the Recreation Center or play a round of golf. Take a walk along the 4.5 miles of greenway or watch the family play cornhole in the backyard. Play a board game in the game area or appreciate our 80's Style Arcade Games. Take advantage of the high-speed internet and then watch a Disney movie on the big screen tv.Welcome To Drake's Cove!The spaceDiscover the allure of this beautiful 2-story home with its main living areas strategically placed on the upper floor, offering a captivating view of the serene cove. Just a 15-min. drive from the historic downtown of New Bern and an painless one-hour journey to Atlantic Beach, this residence seamlessly blends convenience with coastal tranquility. Each bedroom, as well as both living rooms, features its own Intelligent TV for your entertainment. The first floor is a haven of relaxation, featuring a full bathroom with a opulent 6' soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower. Unwind in the family room, equipped with a Classic Arcade Game offering a selection of over 5000 games, and step through French Doors to access the backyard and covered patio. Three bedrooms on this level cater to diverse preferences – a king-sized, a queen-sized, and a bunk bed accommodating both full and twin-sized beds.Ascend to the second floor and be greeted by a flood of natural light through a wall of windows. Parlor comfortably while appreciating a movie on the 65" 4K Intelligent TV or prepare a family feast in the well-appointed kitchen with a double oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Gather around the dining room table to relish both your culinary creations and the charming vistas. The coffee station, featuring a Keurig, drip coffee maker, and electric tea kettle, ensures your favorite brew is always at hand. There is a dedicated game area that is equipped with family friendly board games and puzzles. A full bathroom with a combination hottub tub and rain shower head adds a touch of luxury, and a generously sized bedroom with two queen beds completes this floor.This home has direct access to the water, multiple staircases and is not childproof. Kids are welcome but must be supervised at all times. Embrace the coastal appeal and comfort of this inviting home during your stay.We have one security camera on the exterior front of the home covering the front door and garage and one on the exterior back of the home for the backdoor.Broad Creek Recreation CenterWe can arrange guest passes for 2 adults and kids at the Broad Creek Recreation Center. There is a pool, exercise center, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Tennis Courts & Playground. They do provide towels, so no need to bring any from the home. Additional guests can purchase a day pass at the center for a nominal fee.Pet AgreementWe appreciate our dog and are pleased to allow you to bring yours, if he/she iswell behaved. Our preference is not to allow dogs on the furnishings. We recognize this can be a difficult request, so we offer a compromise. If you have a dog that is accustomed to getting on furnishings, please bring a protective blanket tohelp protect the furnishings.A booking with a pet agrees to the following:I agree that my dog is up to date on all vaccinations and that he/she are on a flea/tick preventive.I agree to provide my own dog bed and supplies.I agree to pay a $200 fine if I leave my dog unattended and they cause a disturbance.I agree to pay for additional cleaning, repair or replacement of any items damaged by my dog. The fear and separation anxiety experienced by many dogs left unattended can result in barking/howling and destruction of floor and doorframes. Please know your dog and do not leave him/her alone in the home, uncrated, if this is a possibility.I agree to always pick up after my dog.I agree to keep my dog on a leash always held by me or a responsible individual when outside—and I will remove the leash from my dog only while he/she is at the dog park, or within the confines of the home. I also agree to keep my dog close to me when other people/dogs are aroundI understand this is a peaceful subdivision and I agree to prevent my dog from barking excessively or causing any other disturbance while staying at the property.Pet Restriction- Unfortunately, our insurance company will not allow us to host the following breeds: Akita, American Staffordshire Terrier, Chow, Doberman Pinscher, Pit Bull, Presa Canario, Rottweiler, wolf hybrid of any dog that is a mix that includes one or more of the breeds listed.

  • New Bern
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 11
Townhome with 2 bedrooms plus loft sleep...
4.3
(20)

This two bedroom impressive townhouse style unit overlooks the Sand Castle Lake, and features all the amenities of home. This is the ideal location for a family vacation. Appreciate all the animals and natural beauty surrounding the lake as you watch the sun set from the comfort of your patio.There is privacy for four people, while accommodating up to eight guests. The unit includes a full kitchen with service for eight, dishwasher, microwave, washer & dryer, two full baths, one half bath, two T.V.s, a hottub and tons of room to spread out. Just a 2-3 min. walking distance to the Broad Creek Recreation Center and the Northwest Creek Marina.For your convenience, guests have a complementary membership for the duration of their stay at the Broad Creek Recreation Center, which just a short walk from this rental location. Daily activities, exercise classes, miniature golf, a basketball court, tennis courts, a playground, an indoor and outdoor pool, sauna and exercise room are part of this complex. The property is a short drive to Downtown New Bern, which features numerous magnificant eateries, boutique shopping and museums. The local beaches are roughly an hour away from this location, but an painless drive. Included with your rental are items such as dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, bathroom tissue and soap to help you savor your stay. The photos are representative of the location where you will be staying. This listing is not for a specific condominium. We work with 30 condos of this layout and type. The location you stay in may have a slightly different decor or view than the photos shown.

  • New Bern
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 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.

Barefoot Bungalow at Atlantic Beach! Pet...

This two-queen bed, one bath + outdoor ok ok shower, open floor plan bungalow has been completely modernized both inside and out. With a brand-new deck and backyard, it's ready for you to savor some fun in the sun at the Crystal Coast!There are two queen beds, a pull-out (Queen), a Jack & Jill bathroom, and an outdoor shower. Grand outdoor shed with a charcoal grille, refrigerator, deep freeze, intelligent tv, and yard games! The home is central to everything, and a fast walk or bicycle ride (4 bicycles are included*) *Use at your own riskBeach access: 800 feetIsland Grille: 600 feet Amos Mosquitos: 1000- feet Anchorage Marina/boat ramp: 235 feetGuest Access: The entire home and yard is yours, a enormous shed with 4 bicycles, some beach chairs, and cooler(s). Use bicycles at your own risk and obey all traffic laws. There are helmets for each. Please let us know if any problems arise with the bicycles. A charcoal grille is in the shed; please grille only in the area off the deck marked with the concrete pavers. There are grille silverware inside for you to use; you will need to provide your own charcoal. Note: The home is not a part of the surrounding condo complex. Please stay off their property.

  • Atlantic Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 1 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.

Remodeled, 2nd-Floor, Oceanfront Condo w...
4.7
(3)

Sands Villa 217Our calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Here on the second floor of Sands Villa Resort, this gorgeously updated, oceanfront condo offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and charming vistas of the ocean and dunes. After a day spent out on the sand, come home to a living room with a enormous flatscreen TV, an oceanfront balcony, a entirely appointed kitchen, complimentary WiFi, and a stacked washer/dryer to refresh your swimsuits and towels. Both bedrooms have flatscreen TVs of their own as well. On the grounds of the resort, you'll find amenities and conveniences that include indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, an exercise room, tennis and basketball courts, a playground, a courtyard with grilles, and elevators for simple access. Things to Know Full kitchen No smoking allowed 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
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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