15 Things to Do in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina (NC)

Nestled on the stunning Crystal Coast of North Carolina, Atlantic Beach is a charming coastal town that beckons visitors with its sandy shores, beautiful waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its relaxed vibe and outdoor adventures, this beach destination offers everything from water sports to historical landmarks, making it an ideal vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape or a vibrant getaway, Atlantic Beach provides an experience that blends natural beauty with rich history and local culture.

Unique Facts About Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic Beach is not only famous for its scenic views and beach activities, but it also boasts a unique history and local attractions. Here are some interesting facts about this quaint town:

• Historic Significance: Atlantic Beach has long been a popular destination for vacationers, dating back to the 1920s when it was first developed as a resort town. It has been a favorite escape for families looking to enjoy the beautiful coastline of North Carolina.

• A Hidden Gem of the Crystal Coast: Atlantic Beach is part of the "Crystal Coast," a region known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This area is home to a rich marine ecosystem, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and snorkeling.

• Home to Fort Macon State Park: One of the town's historical highlights is Fort Macon, a Civil War-era fort that is now a state park. Visitors can explore the fort’s history and its role during the Civil War, along with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the fort’s walls.

• Vibrant Marine Life: Atlantic Beach and the surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of fish species. It’s a great place for fishing, wildlife watching, and water-based activities.

15 Things to Do in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina (NC)

Atlantic Beach, located on the crystal-clear shores of North Carolina, offers a range of exciting activities for both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing getaway. From pristine beaches to historical sites, there is something for everyone in this coastal paradise. Here are some of the best things to do in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina:

1. Relax on the White Sandy Beaches

Short Description: Enjoy the serene beauty of Atlantic Beach’s sandy coastline. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding with the sound of the waves.

• Pros:

  • Ideal for all ages

  • Perfect for a family outing or a romantic beach day

  • Clean and well-maintained beaches

• Cons:

  • Can get crowded during peak season

  • Limited shade in some areas

• Key Attractions & Events: Summer beach events and local festivals.

2. Explore Fort Macon State Park

Short Description: Visit the well-preserved Civil War-era Fort Macon, which offers guided tours, nature trails, and panoramic coastal views.

• Pros:

  • Rich historical experience

  • Beautiful nature trails

  • Spectacular views of the coastline

• Cons:

  • Limited availability of guided tours during off-season

  • Some areas may be challenging to access for those with mobility issues

• Key Attractions & Events: Civil War reenactments and seasonal events at the fort.

3. Stroll Along the Oceanana Pier

Short Description: Walk on this historic pier to enjoy stunning ocean vistas and the possibility of spotting dolphins or other marine life.

• Pros:

  • Great for photography

  • Relaxing, peaceful environment

  • Family-friendly activity

• Cons:

  • Can be windy

  • May require an entrance fee during certain times

• Key Attractions & Events: Fishing events and pier activities.

4. Deep-Sea Fishing Excursions

Short Description: Go on a deep-sea fishing charter to catch flounder, king mackerel, and other fish. These excursions are perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.

• Pros:

  • Great for fishing enthusiasts

  • Available for all skill levels

  • Chance to see marine life

• Cons:

  • May require booking in advance

  • Seasickness can affect some individuals

• Key Attractions & Events: Annual fishing tournaments and coastal fishing expeditions.

5. Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Short Description: Navigate the calm waters of Bogue Sound and the nearby marshes while exploring the rich coastal ecosystem on a paddleboard or kayak.

• Pros:

  • Great for adventure seekers and nature lovers

  • Offers a peaceful and serene experience

  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers

• Cons:

  • May require some physical stamina

  • Not suitable for individuals who dislike water activities

• Key Attractions & Events: Paddleboard races and kayaking tours in local waterways.

6. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Short Description: Discover the wonders of marine life with exhibits showcasing sea turtles, sharks, and colorful reef fish. The aquarium places an emphasis on ocean conservation.

• Pros:

  • Family-friendly activity

  • Educational and fun for all ages

  • Beautiful exhibits

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons

  • Entrance fees apply

• Key Attractions & Events: Educational programs, special animal encounters, and conservation talks.

7. Tour Cape Lookout National Seashore

Short Description: Take a ferry ride to the unspoiled barrier island of Cape Lookout, famous for its diamond-patterned lighthouse and wild horses.

• Pros:

  • Stunning natural beauty

  • Perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers

  • Remote and peaceful atmosphere

• Cons:

  • Ferry rides can be weather-dependent

  • Limited amenities on the island

• Key Attractions & Events: Lighthouse tours, wildlife viewing, and beach picnics.

8. Enjoy a Scenic Sunset Cruise

Short Description: Take a relaxing boat ride along the coastline while enjoying a breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

• Pros:

  • Perfect for couples and families alike

  • Scenic and peaceful experience

  • Ideal for photography

• Cons:

  • Limited availability in the off-season

  • May be pricey depending on the tour provider

• Key Attractions & Events: Sunset cruises with refreshments and guided tours.

9. Walk the Atlantic Beach Boardwalk

Short Description: Explore this lively beachfront promenade where you can shop, dine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Atlantic Beach.

• Pros:

  • Great for shopping and dining

  • Family-friendly and vibrant

  • Close proximity to the beach

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays

  • Limited seating in some areas

• Key Attractions & Events: Live music, local festivals, and food truck events.

10. Hike the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail

Short Description: This one-mile round-trip trail winds through a maritime forest and offers stunning views of the salt marsh and estuary, making it ideal for birdwatching.

• Pros:

  • Peaceful and tranquil hiking experience

  • Excellent for nature and birdwatching enthusiasts

  • Easy trail for families and beginner hikers

• Cons:

  • Short trail, which may be less engaging for experienced hikers

  • Can be muddy after rainfall

• Key Attractions & Events: Birdwatching tours and nature walks led by local guides.

11. Visit The Circle

Short Description: The heart of Atlantic Beach, The Circle is a vibrant area offering public beach access, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

• Pros:

  • Ideal for socializing and shopping

  • Perfect for families and couples

  • Close to the beach

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded during high season

  • Limited parking in some areas

• Key Attractions & Events: Street fairs, live music, and food festivals.

12. Go Boating

Short Description: Explore the coastal waterways of Atlantic Beach by boat. Discover hidden fishing spots, secluded islands, or enjoy family-friendly activities like tubing.

• Pros:

  • Great for family adventures and water sports

  • Ideal for those looking to explore beyond the shore

  • Variety of boating activities available

• Cons:

  • Boating can be expensive for renters

  • Not recommended for those with seasickness

• Key Attractions & Events: Water sports events, boat rentals, and guided tours.

13. Sample Local Craft Beers at Crystal Coast Brewing Company

Short Description: Visit this local brewery to sample a variety of craft beers on tap in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

• Pros:

  • Great for craft beer enthusiasts

  • Relaxed and casual setting

  • Fun for the whole family

• Cons:

  • Limited non-alcoholic options for non-drinkers

  • May get busy on weekends

• Key Attractions & Events: Seasonal beer releases and live music events.

14. Play at Atlantic Beach Town Park

Short Description: This park offers something for everyone, including a skatepark, mini-golf, splash pad, playground, and basketball court.

• Pros:

  • Perfect for families and kids of all ages

  • Variety of activities in one location

  • Free entry to the park

• Cons:

  • Can get crowded, especially during the summer months

  • Some areas may require supervision for younger children

• Key Attractions & Events: Annual park festivals, community events, and family fun days.

15. Visit Nearby Attractions

Short Description: Explore the historic Beaufort area, including the North Carolina Maritime Museum and the Rachel Carson Reserve, home to wild horses.

• Pros:

  • Rich historical and cultural experience

  • Beautiful natural landscapes

  • Fun for all ages

• Cons:

  • Requires transportation to Beaufort from Atlantic Beach

  • Can be busy during peak tourist season

• Key Attractions & Events: Museum exhibits, wildlife tours, and seasonal events.

Best Time to Visit Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic Beach offers a diverse range of activities year-round. However, the best time to visit largely depends on what kind of experience you're seeking. Below is a table that breaks down the seasons and the activities best suited for each time of year:

Table: Best Time to Visit Atlantic Beach

• Spring: The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the beach without the large crowds.

• Summer: With warm temperatures and high visitor traffic, summer is the peak season. It's perfect for water sports like surfing, kayaking, and attending one of the local festivals.

• Fall: The temperature begins to cool, and the crowds thin out, making fall an excellent time for a quiet getaway with hiking and beach walks.

• Winter: While it can get chilly, winter is a peaceful time to visit, with fewer tourists and a chance to experience Atlantic Beach’s beauty at a slower pace.

Unique Gems in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic Beach has many hidden gems that make it stand out as a coastal destination. Here are a few to explore:

• The Oceanana Fishing Pier: This historic fishing pier is one of the longest on the East Coast, offering great views and the opportunity to fish right off the pier. Even if you're not an angler, it's a great place to take in the beautiful surroundings.

• The History of Fort Macon: As one of the most visited state parks in North Carolina, Fort Macon offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved structures and informative exhibits. The surrounding park is also great for hiking and picnicking.

• The Beaches: While Atlantic Beach itself is stunning, consider exploring some lesser-known beach spots, such as The Spouter’s Point or The Circle Drive Beach for a quieter, more private experience.

• Local Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the town's local eateries, like The Crab Shack or AB Surf Shop Café, which offer local flavors in a cozy, casual setting.

Day Itinerary for Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Here’s a sample day itinerary for those visiting Atlantic Beach to ensure a well-rounded experience of all the highlights:

Morning: Start your day with a peaceful breakfast at a local café, then head to Fort Macon State Park to explore the historic fort and enjoy a scenic hike along the beach. The views from the fort's ramparts are breathtaking.

Midday: Take a break for lunch at The Crab Shack or one of the other seaside restaurants, then spend your afternoon fishing or enjoying water sports at The Oceanana Pier or renting kayaks to explore the waters.

Afternoon: After a morning of exploration, head to the beach for some relaxation. You can also take a sunset walk along The Spouter’s Point beach, which provides a peaceful and picturesque spot to wind down your day.

Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at AB Surf Shop Café before wrapping up your day with a quiet stroll along the shore to watch the stars come out over the Atlantic Ocean.

How to Reach Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Getting to Atlantic Beach is easy, and there are several options depending on your starting point:

• By Car: If you're driving, Atlantic Beach is about a 2-hour drive from Wilmington, NC, and a 3.5-hour drive from Raleigh, NC. The drive along U.S. Highway 70 is scenic and easy to follow.

• By Air: The nearest major airport is Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern, NC, located about 30 minutes away by car. This airport offers regional flights and connections to larger hubs like Charlotte and Atlanta.

• By Bus: If you're traveling by bus, Greyhound and other services offer connections to nearby cities like New Bern, from which you can take a taxi or shuttle to Atlantic Beach.

Conclusion

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, offers a stunning mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and historical exploration. Whether you're looking to lounge by the beach, immerse yourself in history at Fort Macon, or enjoy water sports in the warm coastal waters, there’s something for everyone. This quiet coastal gem is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway or a place to connect with nature and history.

FAQs

What are the best outdoor activities in Atlantic Beach, NC?
The best outdoor activities include beach visits, water sports such as surfing and kayaking, fishing at the Oceanana Pier, and hiking at Fort Macon State Park.

When is the off-season for Atlantic Beach, NC?
The off-season generally falls in the winter months (December to February), when visitor numbers are low, and the weather is cooler.

Are there any historical sites in Atlantic Beach?
Yes, Fort Macon is a major historical site in Atlantic Beach, offering a glimpse into its Civil War past.

What is the most family-friendly activity in Atlantic Beach?
The most family-friendly activity is visiting Fort Macon State Park, where kids can explore the fort, walk the trails, and enjoy the beach.

How far is Atlantic Beach from the nearest airport?
Atlantic Beach is about 30 minutes by car from Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern, NC.