Frequently Asked Questions

The entire coastline of NC is a special place and one not to be missed. Our coastline is made up of barrier islands that make for a unique experience along our shores. The Crystal Coast is an 85-mile stretch of beaches known as the Southern Outer Banks ® and is one of the southern facing portions of the North Carolina coastline. Since we are a south facing beach you can sit and watch a sunrise and sunset from the same exact spot on the shore. The collection of beaches and towns offers a unique blend of history, family fun, water sports and natural areas.

The Crystal Coast is an 85-mile stretch of beaches located in the Southern Outer Banks of North Carolina. It begins just south of Ocracoke Island and extends along the Atlantic shoreline.

Yes, the Crystal Coast is considered part of the Souther Outer Banks. It encompasses the southern portion of North Carolina's Outer Banks region, including Bogue Banks and several coastal communities in Carteret County. The Crystal Coast is often referred to as the "Southern Outer Banks" or SOBX" to distinguish it from the northern areas of the Outer Banks. 

The area is called the Crystal Coast because of its beautiful clear waters. The term 'Crystal' is used to describe the pristine, transparent quality of the ocean along this stretch of coastline.

You can find maps of the Crystal Coast area on our official website. Visit the Maps & Visitors Guide sections of the Crystal Coast Tourism website to access interactive maps of the region. These maps include details on beaches, attractions, towns, and major roads throughout the Crystal Coast area. 

Beaufort, North Carolina is pronounced "BOW-fert" (rhymes with "go-fert). This differs from Beaufort, South Carolina, which is pronounced "BYEW-fert". The North Carolina pronunciation emphasizes the first syllable with a sound like "bow" in "bow and arrow", while the second syllable is unstressed. 

Yes, we have an accessibility guide available. You can find detailed information about accessible beaches, attractions, accommodations, and services on the accessibility page of our official Crystal Coast website. This guide provides resources to help visitors with disabilities plan their trip and enjoy all that the Crystal Coast has to offer. 

The Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority operates a visitor center located at: 

3409 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC

8401 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC

This center provides information about local attractions, accommodations, and events. It's open year-round and staffed with knowledgeable locals who can assist with planning your visit. There are also smaller information kiosks and welcome centers in various towns throughout the Crystal Coast area. 

You can find itinerary suggestions for the Crystal Coast in several places: 

The official Crystal Coast Tourism website

Local visitor center in Morehead City and other towns

Travel guidebooks specific to North Carolina or the Outer Banks

Online travel forums and review sites

Local tourism brochures available at hotels and attractions

These resources often provide sample itineraries for different trip lengths and interests, helping you plan your visit based on your preferences and the time of the year. 

Yes, the Crystal Coast has public restrooms available in several locations: 

Most public beach access points

Major parks like Fort Macon State Park

Public areas in towns like Beaufort and Morehead City

Visitor centers

Many beaches have bathhouses with restrooms and changing areas. However, availability can vary by season, with some facilities closed during off-peak months. It's always a good idea to check for the nearest facilities when planning your beach day or outing. 

Pirates did have a presence on the Crystal Coast in the 18th century. The most famous pirate associated with the area is Blackbeard (Edward Teach), who frequented the coast and nearby waters. Beaufort Inlet, near present-day Beaufort, is where Blackbeard's flagship, Queen Anne's Revenge, was discovered. The area's intricate waterways and inlets made it an ideal hiding place for pirates during the Golden Age of Piracy. 

Key attractions in the Crystal Coast area include: 

Cape Lookout National Seashore and Lighthouse

Fort Macon State Park

North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Beaufort Historic Site

Rachel Carson Reserve

Shackleford Banks (wild horses)

     Emerald Isle Woods Park

     The History Place in Morehead City

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center

The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center is located on Harker's Island, North Carolina. Its address is 1785 Island Road, Harkers Island, NC 28531. The museum celebrates the history, culture, and traditions of Down East Carteret County and the Core Sound area. 

Fort Macon State Park is located at the eastern end of Bogue Banks in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. Its address is 2303 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina 28512. the fort is well-preserved 19th-century coastal defense fort that offers tours, exhibits, and access to a pristine beach. 

The North Carolina Aquarium is located in Pine Knoll Shores at 1 Roosevelt Blvd. Pine Knoll Shores, NC. 28512. It's situated on Bogue Banks, easily accessible from Highway 58. the aquarium features exhibits of marine life native to North Carolina. 

The North Carolina Maritime Museum is located in downtown Beaufort, North Carolina. Its address is 315 Front Street, Beaufort, NC 28516. The museum showcases the maritime history of coastal North Carolina and is known for its exhibit on Blackbeard's flagship, Queen Anne's Revenge. 

The Crystal Coast offers numerous beautiful beaches along its 85-mile shoreline. Popular beach destinations include: 

Atlantic Beach

Emerald Isle

Indian Beach

Pine Knoll Shores

Salter Path

Fort Macon State Park

Each area has its own unique characteristics, so visitors can choose based on their preferences for amenities, crowds, and activities. 

Beach equipment rentals are available from various businesses:

AB Watersport Adventures (Atlantic Beach)

Hot Wax Surf Shop (Emerald Isle)

Island Essentials (Emerald Isle)

Items typically available for rent include beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and water sports equipment. 

Parking options vary depending on which beach you're visiting: 

Public beach accesses often have dedicated parking lots or street parking nearby. 

Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle have several large public parking areas. 

Some hotels and vacation rentals provide private parking for guests. 

Fort Macon State Park has a large parking area for beachgoers. 

It is advisable to arrive early during the peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. Some areas may require parking fees or permits, so check local regulations before your visit. 

Yes, the Crystal Coast offers several accessible beach options: 

Atlantic Beach: Handicap-accessible ramps at the Circle and Fort Macon State Park

Emerald Isle: Multiple beach accesses with handicap ramps

Pine Knoll Shores: Accessible beach access points with parking

Fort Macon Stae Park: Accessible boardwalks and beach wheelchairs are available

Some areas also offer beach wheelchairs for rent or loan. Check with local municipalities or visitor centers for more information.

Yes, you can use tents and umbrellas on most Crystal Coast beaches, but there are some rules to follow: 

Tents and umbrellas must not obstruct lifeguard views or emergency vehicle paths. 

Size restrictions may apply (often 12'x12' max for tents) 

Some areas require tents and umbrellas to be set up behind the high tide line. 

All items must be removed from the beach daily. 

Specific regulations can vary by town, so check local beach rules at your chosen location for the most accurate information. 

The Crystal Coast offers several public boat ramps and marinas:

Atlantic Beach: Atlantic Beach Boat Ramp

Beaufort: Town Creek Marina and Beaufort Docks

Emerald Isle: Emerald Isle Boating Access Area

Morehead City: Radio Island Public Boat Ramp

Harkers Island: Harkers Island Boating Access Area

Always check local regulations and tide charts before launching.

You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and jet skis on the Crystal Coast. Many water sports rental companies offer these options. Kayaks and SUPs are available for use in both sound and ocean waters. Jet ski rentals are typically offered in designated areas. Rental locations can be found in various towns including Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, and Beaufort. Some companies also offer guided tours or lessons for beginners. 

You can rent boats on the Crystal Coast. Several marinas and rental companies offer a variety of options including: 

Pontoon boats

Speedboats

Fishing boats

Jet Skis

Rental locations can be found in Beaufort, Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and Emerald Isle. Some companies also offer guided boat tours. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. Be sure to check if a boating license is required and follow local boating regulations. 

The Crystal Coast offers several camping options: 

Cedar Point Campground in the Croatan National Forest

Cape Lookout National Seashore for primitive camping

Hammocks Beach State Park on Bear Island

Private campgrounds in Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach

These sites offer a range of experiences from RV hookups to tent-only areas. Some are beachfront while others are in wooded settings. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. 

The Crystal Coast offers a variety of dining options: 

Beaufort: Try waterfront seafood restaurants along Front Street

Morehead City: Know for its fresh seafood and fine dining options

Atlantic Beach: Casual beach bars and seafood shacks

Emerald Isle: Family-friendly restaurants and local favorites

Popular cuisines include fresh local seafood, Southern comfort food, and coast specialities. for specific recommendations, check online reviews or ask locals for their favorite spots. Many restaurants offer ocean or sound views for a scenic dining experience.

You can get fresh seafood in many restaurants along the Crystal Coast. The area is known for its excellent seafood, caught locally in the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding waters. Many seafood restaurants pride themselves on serving fresh, locally sourced seafood including fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters. Some establishments even have their own fishing boats or direct relationships with local fishermen to ensure the freshest catch possible.

Fresh oysters are available in the Crystal Coast area. The region is known for its excellent oysters, harvested from local waters. Many restaurants in the area serve fresh local oysters, especially during oyster season which typically runs rom October to March. You can also find oyster roasts and festivals celebrating this local delicacy throughout the season. 

For most current special offers and deals, please visit the offers page on the official Crystal Coast website. The page is regularly updated with the latest promotions, discounts, and package deals for accommodations, attractions, and activities in the area. 

During the holiday season, the Crystal Coast offers several special events: 

Beaufort Holiday Art Walk (late November)

Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla in Morehead City (early December)

Emerald Isle Christmas Parade

Fort Macon Old-Fashioned Christmas (early December)

New Year's Eve fireworks in various locations

Many towns also host tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and seasonal concerts. Some attractions offer special holiday-themed tours or exhibits.

The Crystal Coast hosts several Christmas and holiday events and parades. Beaufort and Morehead City hold annual Christmas parades. Many towns in the area organize holiday light displays, tree-lighting ceremonies, and festive boat parades. Specific events can include the Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla, holiday markets, and seasonal concerts. Fort Macon State Park often hosts a Civil War-era Christmas celebration. Check local event calendars for specific dates and details, as events can vary from year to year. 

The Crystal Coast is generally pet-friendly, with some restrictions: 

Many beaches allow leashed pets, but rules vary by location and season

Fort Macon State Park allows leashed pets in most areas

Numerous vacation rentals and hotels offer pet-friendly accommodations

Several restaurants with outdoor seating welcome pets

The Rachel Carson Reserve is pet-friendly

Always check specific rules for each location, as some areas may have restrictions during peak seasons or require pets to be leashed at all times.

If you want an ocean view, consider staying at:

Oceanfront hotels in Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle

Beachfront vacation rentals along Bogue Banks

Resorts with ocean-facing rooms in Pine Knoll Shores

Condos or apartments with balconies overlooking the beach

Many accommodations on the barrier islands offer direct ocean views. Options range from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly motels and vacation rentals. Book in advance for the best selection, especially during peak season.

Yes, you can rent oceanfront homes on the Crystal Coast. Many vacations rental companies and individual property owners offer oceanfront houses for rent in areas like Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Indian Beach, and Pine Knoll Shores. These rentals range from cozy cottages to tlarge luxury homes. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak summer months, as oceanfront properties are in high demand.

The Crystal Coast offers a variety of cute boutiques for shopping. Beaufort's historic downtown area is known for its charming shops offering unique gifts, clothing, and home decor. Morehead City and Atlantic Beach also have several boutique shopping options. Emerald Isle and other beach communities feature local shops selling beach-themed items, accessories, and coastal-inspired fashion. Many of these boutiques offer a mix of trendy and locally-made products, providing a distinctive shopping experience. 

The Crystal Coast offers numerous family-friendly activities:

North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Fort Macon State Park (tours and exhibits)

North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, NC

Beaufort Historic Site

Cape Lookout National Seashore (lighthouse tours)

 Mini-golf courses in various locations

 Kayaking and paddle boarding rentals

Pirate-themed cruises and tours

 Emerald Isle's Water Park (seasonal)

There are several art galleries in the Crystal Coast area. Beaufort and Morehead City have a number of galleries showcasing local and regional artist's work. These galleries feature various mediums including paintings, sculptures, photography, and crafts. Many focus on coastal themes and local landscapes. Some galleries also host special exhibitions and art events throughout the year. Additionally, you can find art displayed in some local shops and restaurants across the Crystal Coast.

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament typically takes place in June each year. It's a week-long event help in Morehead City, North Carolina. The exact dates can vary slightly from year to year, so it's best to check the official tournament website for the most current schedule.

Fishing charters are available from several locations along the Crystal Coast: 

Morehead City: Known as the "fishing capital" of North Carolina, with numerous charter options

Beaufort: Several charters operate from the waterfront area

Atlantic Beach: Charters are available from marinas and docks

Emerald Isle: Local fishing charters for inshore and offshore trips

Popular charter companies include:

Capt. Stacy Fishing Charter

Crystal Coast Adventures

Dancin' Outlaw Charters

It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. Charters can usually accommodate various group sizes and preferences. 

The largest festivals and events on the Crystal Coast include: 

North Carolina Seafood Festival in Morehead City (October)

Beaufort Music Festival (May)

Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament (June)

Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Festival (March)

Beaufort Pirate Invasion (November)

These events attract thousands of visitors and feature food, music, arts, and local culture. The Seafood Festival is typically the largest, drawing crowds from across the state. Dates can vary slightly each year, so it's best to check official event websites for current information.

Michael Jordan has participated in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in recent years. e owns a custom sport fishing yacht named "Catch 23" that has competed in the tournament. However, his participations can vary form year to year, so it's best to check the current tournament entries or news for the most up-to-date information on whether he's participating in any given year. 

Live music can be found at various venues across the Crystal Coast: 

Jack's Waterfront Bar in Morehead City

The Backstreet Pub in Beaufort

The Emerald Club in Emerald Isle

Many restaurants and bars in Atlantic Beach

Additionally, several towns host summer concert series in parks or on the waterfront. Local event calendars and tourism websites often list upcoming performances. During peak season, you can find live music almost every night at different locations throughout the area.

There are several history tours available in the Crystal Coast area. Beaufort offers guided walking tours of its historic district, showcasing 18th and 19th-century homes and sharing local stories. Fort Macon State Park provides tours of the Civil War-era fort. There are also maritime history tours, including visits to the North Carolina Maritime Museum. Additionally, some boat tours offer historical narratives about the area's pirate past and coastal development. 

The Crystal Coast hosts several music festivals throughout the year. 

Notable events include: 

The Beaufort Music Festival, typically help in May

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series in various locations

The Seafood Festival in Morehead City, which includes musical performances

These festivals feature a range of genres from jazz and blues to rock and country. Many smaller venues and restaurants also host live music events regularly. Check local event calendars for specific dates and lineups, as they can vary from year to year. 

The North Carolina Seafood Festival is typically help annually in Morehead City during the first weekend in October. The three-day event usually runs from Friday to Sunday. For the exact dates of the upcoming festival, it's best to check the official North Carolina Seafood Festival website or local event calendars, as dates can occasionally vary. 

Eco-tours are available on the Crystal Coast. These tours focus on the area's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Options include: 

Kayak tours through marshes and estuaries

Boat tours to observe wild horses on Shackleford Banks

Guided nature walks in state parks and reserves

Birdwatching excursions in various coastal habitats

Many eco-tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide information about local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. These tours offer a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Crystal Coast. 

There are several fishing piers along the Crystal Coast. Notable ones include: 

Bogue Inlet Pier in Emerald Isle

Oceanana Pier in Atlantic Beach

Triple S Pier in Atlantic Beach

These piers offer opportunities for both experience and novice anglers to fish without a boat. Most piers provide bait and tackle shops, rod rentals, and fishing licenses. They're popular spots for catching a variety of fish species, depending on the season. 

Beaufort has a reputation for being one of North Carolina's most haunted towns. Many historic buildings in Beaufort are said to have ghostly inhabitants, and there are several popular ghost stories associated with the town. Ghost walks and tours are offered in Beaufort, sharing tales of supernatural occurrences and local legends.

The closest airport to the Crystal Coast is Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, North Carolina, about 60 miles from the central Crystal Coast area. For more options, Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern is approximately 35 miles away, and Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is about 85 miles south. 

Yes, there are several electric vehicle charging stations in the Crystal Coast area: 

Atlantic Beach: Multiple statins, including at the Double Tree by Hilton

Morehead City: Stations available at some hotels and public parking areas

Beaufort: Charging stations in the downtown area

Emerald Isle: Limited stations, but availability is increasing

It is recommended to use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to find the most up-to-date information on charging station locations and availability

Public transportation in the Crystal Coast area is limited. The Carteret County Area Transportation System (CCATS) provides some bus services, primarily for medical appointments and essential trips. However, it's not designed for regular tourist use. Most visitors find it more convenient to use personal vehicles, rentals, or taxi/rideshare services to get around. Some larger towns may have local shuttle services during peak seasons, but coverage varies. Check with you accommodations, attractions, and activities in the area. 

Please note that these are estimates and actual travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions, route conditions, route taken, and specific destination within the Crystal Coast area.

Wilmington, NC: 85 miles, about 1 hour 45 minutes

Fayetteville, NC: 150 miles, about 2 hours 30 minutes

Raleigh, NC: 165 miles, about 2 hours 45 minutes

Charlotte, NC: 280 miles, about 4 hours 30 minutes

Richmond, VA: 300 miles, about 4 hours 45 minutes

Washington, DC: 400 miles, about 6 hours 30 minutes

Beach equipment rentals are available from various businesses: 

AB Watersport Adventures (Atlantic Beach)

Hot Wax Surf Shop (Emerald Isle)

Island Essentials (Emerald Isle)

Many vacation rental companies also offer bicycle rentals as part of their services. 

The best time to explore the Crystal Coast depends on your preferences: 

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather and most activities, but also the busiest. 

Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. 

Fall (September-October): Warm waters, less humidity, and local festivals. 

Winter (November-March): Quiet season with mild temperatures, ideal for peaceful beach walks and wildlife viewing. 

Each season offers unique experiences, from summer beach activities to fall fishing tournaments and winter bird watching.

To have a beach wedding on the Crystal Coast: 

Choose a location (public beach or private property)

Obtain necessary permits from the local town hall

Consider hiring a local wedding planner familiar with beach weddings

Check local regulations regarding group size, decorations, and time restrictions

Have a backup plan in case of inclement weather

Obtain a North Carolina marriage license (available from any county Register of Deeds office)