Experience the Authentic Charm of Down East, NC

Down East refers to the rural waterfront towns east of Beaufort that begin at the North River Bridge. Stay in Down East for a few nights to enjoy a slower pace of life and picturesque scenery. The portion of U.S. 70 that runs through Down East is designated as a North Carolina Scenic Byway, offering views of working waterfronts, windswept marshes, and timeless traditions.

The area’s salt marshes are perfect for birdwatching, and the waters provide great clamming areas as well as light tackle fishing. The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center and Cape Lookout National Seashore Headquarters are located Down East along with the Cedar Island Ferry terminal.

Cape Lookout National Seashore is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, making Down East one of the East Coast’s premier stargazing destinations. On clear nights, the absence of light pollution reveals a breathtaking night sky, and seasonal stargazing events hosted at the Harkers Island Visitor Center give visitors a chance to experience the Milky Way and meteor showers in a truly natural setting.