Emerald Isle, North Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Emerald Isle is a beautiful beach town along the North Carolina coast. It's known for its stunning nature, fun activities, and being great for families. But what makes it a top spot in the Tar Heel State? Let's check out the best places and things to do in this coastal treasure.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the best things to do in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, a premier coastal destination
• Explore the town's natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions
• Learn about the top Emerald Isle attractions, including the Bogue Inlet Pier, Fort Macon State Park, and more
• Uncover the best places to stay in Emerald Isle and plan the perfect beach vacation
• Discover the vibrant event culture and festivals that make Emerald Isle a year-round getaway

What draws people to Emerald Isle? It's the perfect mix of beautiful beaches, exciting water sports, and historical sites. This guide will show you why Emerald Isle is a top choice for beach lovers, outdoor fans, and families. It's ideal for a summer vacation or a quick weekend trip.

About Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle is a beautiful beach town on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. It's part of the Bogue Banks barrier island chain. Visitors love it for its untouched beauty. You can get there via the B. Cameron Langston Bridge from Cape Carteret or the Atlantic Beach Bridge from Morehead City.

Where is Emerald Isle?

Emerald Isle is in Carteret County, North Carolina. It's one of the five Bogue Banks barrier island towns. It's away from the mainland by the Bogue Sound. This makes it a perfect spot for those who love the beach, nature, and adventure.

The Best Time to Visit

Summer is the peak season for visiting Emerald Isle. But, the town is lovely all year round. The off-season, from November to April/May, has cooler weather, fewer people, and better deals on places to stay. Even in December and January, you can enjoy sunny days with temperatures in the 70s.

Where to Stay in Emerald Isle North Carolina

Emerald Isle has many places to stay, like beach houses, hotels, and inns. The Pearl on the Point is a top choice with amazing ocean views. Emerald Cay East is another great spot with a 3-bedroom, 2-bath setup in Spinnaker's Reach. It's close to the pool and beach.

Explore Cape Lookout National Seashore

Discover the hidden gems of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, a 56-mile stretch of the stunning Crystal Coast. Set sail on a private boat or ferry and immerse yourself in the park's unspoiled beauty. Here, the open ocean meets the pristine beaches.

The park's most iconic attraction is the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, known for its striking black and white diamond pattern exterior. While climbing the lighthouse is currently on hold until 2025, visitors can still admire its grandeur and explore the surrounding coastal towns.

• Cape Lookout National Seashore covers roughly 56 miles of beaches and barrier islands.
• The Long Point Cabin Area in North Core Banks has been closed to visitors since Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
• Cape Lookout National Seashore is divided into two Core Banks - North Core and South Core Banks.
• Portsmouth Island, part of Cape Lookout National Seashore, can be reached through boat tours from Ocracoke Island.
• The Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands at 163 feet tall and dates back to the mid-1800s.

Immerse yourself in the park's natural wonders. Experience clear night skies by camping. With over 250 bird species passing through, it's a paradise for birdwatchers. Explore Shackleford Banks, home to wild horses, and discover the park's incredible shelling opportunities. It's one of the best destinations on the East Coast for beachcombers.

"The Crystal Coast offers a network of desolate barrier islands with dozens of local ferry services, waterfront tour companies, and water taxis."

Discover the hidden gems of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Immerse yourself in the park's natural wonders. From the iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse to the abundant wildlife and outdoor adventures, there's much to explore.

Outdoor Adventures in Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle is a gem along the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. It's perfect for those who love outdoor adventures. You can enjoy water sports and adrenaline-pumping activities here.

Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Try stand-up paddleboarding on Emerald Isle's calm waters. You'll glide over waves and see beautiful scenery. It's easy to rent equipment, so you can start your adventure right away.

Go Parasailing

Parasailing in Emerald Isle is thrilling. You'll fly above the Atlantic Ocean and see the North Carolina coast from above. The wind will rush past you as you take in the stunning views.

Fishing in Emerald Isle

Fishing in Emerald Isle is a dream for anglers. It's right on the Atlantic Ocean, so you'll catch many fish types. You can fish from Bogue Inlet Pier or go deep-sea fishing with local charters like Emerald Isle Adventures, Inc., Nancy Lee Fishing Charters, or Southern Tides Fishing Charters. It's great for both experts and beginners.

"Emerald Isle is a true water sports paradise, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration."

Emerald Isle, North Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Emerald Isle, North Carolina, is a beautiful coastal spot. It has lots of things to see and do. If you're looking for Emerald Isle attractions, North Carolina beaches, coastal activities, family-friendly destinations, or outdoor adventures, you'll find it here.

The town is known for its stunning nature. It was named the second-best beach in the South by USA Today. The Crystal Coast has 56 miles of untouched coastline. This means lots of chances to enjoy the beautiful North Carolina beaches.

For those who love outdoor adventures, Emerald Isle has a lot to offer. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, or fishing. The Cape Lookout National Seashore is perfect for stargazing because it's a dark sky location.

Families will love Emerald Isle too. There's the Salty Pirate Water Park and the North Carolina Maritime Museum for interactive fun. You can also visit the Shackleford Banks to see wild horses.

Looking for Emerald Isle attractions, coastal activities, or just nature? Emerald Isle, North Carolina, is a place that will amaze and delight you.

Dining and Shopping in Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle is a top spot for food lovers and travelers. It offers a wide range of dining choices with the freshest seafood. You can find everything from local markets like Cap'n Willis Seafood Market to top-rated restaurants. These places let you enjoy the real taste of the coast and the best seafood around.

Experience the Freshest Seafood

The Crystal Coast, including Emerald Isle, is famous for its amazing local cuisine. You can check out many dining spots, from laid-back seafood places to fancy restaurants. They all highlight the area's seafood riches. Whether you want a simple shrimp basket or a fancy seafood meal, Emerald Isle's eateries will impress you with their fresh and tasty seafood.

Embark on a Local Shopping Spree

The Crystal Coast, including Emerald Isle, is a dream for shoppers. It has a variety of unique shops and local boutiques. You can find everything from beach-themed souvenirs to rare antiques and local art. The downtown area is full of antique shops and places to find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip.

"The area caters to different preferences, offering dining with a view at spots like The Black Sheep and Moonrakers, ensuring diverse experiences for visitors."

Emerald Isle's dining scene has something for everyone. You can enjoy casual meals or fancy dinners. The town's restaurants will make your taste buds happy and make you want to try more of the Emerald Isle dining experience.

The shopping in Emerald Isle is also top-notch. You'll find many local boutiques and specialty shops. They offer a wide range of souvenirs, handmade items, and unique finds. Whether you're looking for a beach-themed keepsake or a piece of local art, Emerald Isle's shops will give you memories to last a lifetime.

Boating Adventures

Emerald Isle, North Carolina, is a boater's dream. It offers endless chances to explore the beautiful Bogue Sound and its waterways. Whether you're a pro or new to boating, there's fun for everyone here.

Sail into the Sunset

One top activity is sailing into the sunset on the Bogue Sound. You can book a private charter with Emerald Isle Adventures or Nancy Lee Fishing Charters. Enjoy the view from a comfy boat.

If you want to drive your own boat, the Emerald Isle Boating Access Area is perfect. It lets you explore the sound at your pace. With 12 miles of shoreline and many coves and inlets, the boating here is endless.

• Explore the Bogue Sound and its waterways
• Book a private charter for a sunset sail
• Launch your own boat from the Emerald Isle Boating Access Area

"The best part of my trip to Emerald Isle was the chance to sail into the sunset on the Bogue Sound. The breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere made for an unforgettable experience." - Jane Doe, Emerald Isle Visitor

Looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family trip? Emerald Isle's boating will make memories that last. So, put on your life jacket, set sail, and see this coastal gem for yourself.

Explore Historic Sites

Emerald Isle and the areas around it are full of history. They let visitors go back in time and learn about the region's past. Two places you must see are Fort Macon State Park and Tryon Palace.

Fort Macon State Park is a 17th-century fort that was important in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. You can see its thick brick rooms and learn about its military history. The park also has beautiful coastal views and trails for hiking, making it great for those who love the outdoors.

Tryon Palace was once the governor's palace and North Carolina's first capital. It's an 18th-century building that has been carefully restored. Inside, you'll find over 300 artifacts that take you back to North Carolina's early days.

Visiting these sites lets you dive deep into North Carolina's history. You'll feel connected to the area's rich past.

Beaches and Coastal Activities

Emerald Isle is part of the stunning Crystal Coast in North Carolina. It has 85 miles of beautiful beaches with many public spots to access them. You can enjoy the sun, fish, or search for unique seashells here.

Emerald Isle Beaches

The beaches here are famous for their clear waters and soft sand. There are ADA-compliant beach accesses and 12 beach wheelchairs for everyone. The water is warm, and the waves are gentle, making it great for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier

The Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier is a top spot in Emerald Isle. It's been here since 1971 and is loved by fishermen. The 4-mile pier lets you fish for different fish like flounder and sea trout.

Look for Shells at The Point

The Point is at the end of Bogue Banks and is perfect for finding shells. You can park and walk or bike to the shore. Here, you can find many seashells, like conch shells and sand dollars.

Emerald Isle offers many outdoor activities and nature sights. You can relax on the beach, go fishing, or collect shells. It's a place that will amaze people of all ages and interests.

Family-Friendly Fun

Emerald Isle, North Carolina, is a top spot for families. The Salty Pirate Water Park is a key highlight, offering cool fun in the summer heat. It's perfect for the whole family.

Take the Kids to Salty Pirate Water Park

At the Salty Pirate Water Park, kids can play in a special area. Older kids and adults can enjoy exciting water slides. You can also float on the lazy river or try out the water attractions.

The park looks like a pirate's paradise, making it a day to remember. It's all about fun for the family in Emerald Isle.

• The Salty Pirate Water Park has the biggest water slide in Emerald Isle, perfect for those who love thrills.
• There's a special kids' area for the little ones, keeping them safe and happy.
• Take it easy on the lazy river or challenge yourself with the water activities.

The Salty Pirate Water Park is a must-see for families in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. It's full of pirate-themed fun and activities for everyone.

Conclusion

Emerald Isle, North Carolina, is a top vacation spot on the Crystal Coast. It has activities and attractions for all ages. You can enjoy outdoor adventures, water sports, historic sites, and family fun here. It's perfect for a summer getaway or a weekend escape.

The town boasts beautiful beaches and diverse natural landscapes. It also has a rich history. You can explore the 11-mile bike path, visit the Emerald Isle Woods nature preserve, or try the freshest seafood. There are many ways to make lasting memories here.

So, get your bags ready for an adventure in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. This coastal town will amaze you with its beauty, culture, and things to do. Start planning your trip now and see why it's a top choice in North Carolina.