North Carolina’s Crystal Coast: the complete travel guide

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There’s just something about being by the sea, don’t you think?

Maybe it’s my roots growing up on the coast of Scotland, but water and waves just seem to put my soul at ease.

When I first arrived in North Carolina, I had no idea that so many wonderful Crystal Coast beaches were close at hand. In our ignorance, we vacationed instead in Cancun or some other exotic place – when crystal beaches and the clear blue waters were just a few hours away by car.

The Crystal Coast stretches for 85 miles along North Carolina’s Southern Outer Banks and is known for its clear waters, white sand beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a very popular destination for recreation and relaxation.

All photos by Derek Cadzow and Jacqueline Weatherly-Cadzow, except where noted.

And now that I’m older and wiser (ahem…), I’ve been to the Crystal Coast (and also along the entire North Carolina coastline) quite a few times. I’ve found that it’s a peaceful, soul-soothing stretch of sand and little towns that’s begging you to come and enjoy its slower pace of life for a while.

If you fancy a vacation of sun, salty breezes, seafood that never saw a freezer, golf courses, kayaking, culture, history and more, then North Carolina’s Crystal Coast might be the place for you.

Where is the Crystal Coast?

Good question, because the Crystal Coast isn’t actually one single point on the map — it’s a laid-back patchwork of places on North Carolina’s southern Outer Banks. It stretches from Cape Lookout National Seashore in the east to Emerald Isle and beyond in the west.

How to get to the Crystal Coast

If you’re flying in from outside the state, you can arrive at Raleigh-Durham airport (RDU) and then drive about three hours to get to the coast.

Alternatively, you can fly to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and take a commuter plane to New Bern’s Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) and then drive about an hour to the coast (more depending what part of the coast you’re going to).

I’ve used the New Bern airport many times and it’s a wonderful small-town airport, but the extra flight from Charlotte will add a bit of cost.

More about the Crystal Coast

I’ll be adding new Crystal Coast stories as I complete them — check back soon or join the newsletter to get updates when new posts drop.

New Bern: Our 1-day itinerary for North Carolina’s first capital
Crystal Coast ecotours: kayak trips & nature escapes
Emerald Isle: Our Christmas vacation rental — and others we’d book
Best places to eat on the Crystal Coast
3-day Crystal Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Golfing on the Crystal Coast
A day at the NC Aquarium and beyond: best non-beach activities

If you’re flying in from outside the state, you can arrive at Raleigh-Durham airport (RDU) and then drive about three hours to get to the coast.

I’ve used the New Bern airport many times and it’s a wonderful small-town airport, but the extra flight from Charlotte will add a bit of cost.

Click on these maps to see larger versions.

Crystal Coast direction map from Raleigh RDU

Crystal Coast directions map from New Bern

In these maps, I’ve used Morehead City (a central location on the Crystal Coast) as the arrival point for these maps.

Unfortunately there’s no way around it, but the last part of your trip (at least) will need to be by car. Like many places in the United States, there’s no inter-city public transportation that will get you there. So either driving your own vehicle or renting one will be the standard.

👉 Check rental car rates here — book ahead, especially in summer, they go fast.

Top things to do on the Crystal Coast

The beauty of the Crystal Coast is you don’t have to try hard to have a great time. Go beachcombing at sunrise. Take a kayak out through the marsh. Ride bikes through pine-shaded trails. Or just settle into a deck chair with a good book and let the ocean soundtrack do the rest.

Here’s just a few of the things you might enjoy:

Hit the beaches

Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, and Pine Knoll Shores are your classic picks — long stretches of soft sand, gentle waves, and a vibe that’s way less crowded than the Outer Banks.

Try The Point beach in Emerald Isle for shelling and sunset views, or Atlantic Beach’s Oceanana Pier if you’re into people-watching and surf (or even people on surfboards!).

Best seaside towns to visit

There’s a number of seaside communities along the coast and any one of them has that coastal small town magic about it:

Atlantic Beach for families.
Emerald Isle for a quiet retreat.
Beaufort for historic charm.
Morehead City for fishing.
Shackleford for wild horses.
Cape Lookout for the lighthouse.
New Bern, the first state capitol of North Carolina (slightly inland but a gateway to the coast).

For example, Morehead City is a seaside town with a fabulous beach dotted with wooden piers, and renowned for good fishing — both commercial and sport fishing. I loved strolling around the beach and watching the surfers catch a wave and try to stay up for the ride!

Crystal Coast - Morehead city waterfront

Cape Lookout and other lighthouses

If anything says you’re on vacation, it’s touring lighthouses.

The diamond-patterned Cape Lookout Lighthouse is 163 foot high and is located on the southern Outer Banks, just offshore from Harker’s Island.. It flashes every 15 seconds and is visible at least 12 miles out to sea. It’s one of the very few lighthouses that operate during the day.

At the time of writing, it’s closed for renovations, otherwise you’d be able to climb to the top and marvel at how far you can see in every direction from the top. So check before you go and book your tickets in advance — it’s that popular!

Where to find the freshest seafood

Crystal Coast restaurant Clawson's 1905 Beaufort

This is the North Carolina coast, so you’d better believe the shrimp is fresh and the oysters didn’t travel far. Look for small local spots over the big tourist places — we had some of our best meals in no-frills diners with paper tablecloths and friendly servers.

My favorites:

In Beaufort, we loved the fish and crab dip at Clawson’s 1905 Beaufort.
In Morehead, we iiked Snappers for a quick economical meal with choices ranging from steamed & fried seafood to good old-fashioned burgers.

Play a round (or two)

If you’re a golfer, the Crystal Coast has some relaxed courses where the ocean breezes keep things interesting.

The Crystal Coast Country Club in Pine Knoll Shores is a standout option. This semi-private, 18-hole course, located along Bogue Sound, is known for its scenic views, lush fairways, and challenging layout with water hazards and bunkers. Other notable courses include those near Morehead City, Beaufort, and New Bern, providing options for golfers of all skill levels.

Watch wild horses on Shackleford Banks

Shackleford Banks is famous for the wild horses that roam the dunes. To try and catch a glimpse, you’ll need to take a boat or ferry as it’s a barrier island three miles offshore.

You can book a passenger ferry from Beaufort or Harkers Island or book on to a iprivate tour.

Bring binoculars and sunscreen, because there’s no shade, and because, of course, the horses follow their own schedule.

Jackie and her friend took this private tour and enjoyed the ride, but didn’t see any horses that day.

Crystal Coast boat tour to see wild horses

Responsible travel – take an eco-tour

An eco tour, also known as ecotourism, is a form of travel that focuses on visiting natural areas in a way that minimizes environmental impact and supports local communities. It emphasizes sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and educational experiences for travelers.

There are several companies on the Crystal Coast who offer certified and accredited eco-tours.

Crystal Coast day trips we loved

One of the best things about basing yourself on the Crystal Coast is how many little side trips you can take without burning a whole day driving.

New Bern, NC’s first capital city

We spent our day in New Bern, about 45 minutes inland, visiting the Pepsi museum (New Bern is the birthplace of Pepsi), gawking at the magnificence of the Tryon Palace, taking a history tour in a trolley bus, and enjoying an evening ghost tour of the town. It’s full of historic homes, waterfront walks, and some surprisingly good coffee shops.

Deep-dive into our busy day touring this charming town and find out the details of what we did in our full New Bern post.

Crystal Coast - Emerald Island vacation rentals

Stay at Emerald Island

Wide beaches, clear water, and just the right amount of nothing to do — Emerald Isle is the quiet side of the Crystal Coast.

It’s perfect for relaxed beach days, evening bike rides, and sunset walks out at The Point. If you want slow mornings, small-town vibes, and space to breathe — this is the beach for you.

Looking to slow down by the sea? Emerald Isle has that covered.
👉 Browse vacation rentals on Emerald Isle and find your perfect beach base.

Visit the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

This isn’t your average rainy-day filler. The Living Shipwreck tank — complete with sharks and a mock sunken U-boat — is worth the visit alone.

Add in a range of fish, turtles, large-wall size tanks, and trails through a coastal forest with a snake exhibit and bald eagles and you’ve got a great break from the beach.

Go early to avoid school groups, and don’t miss the touch tank — it’s a surprise hit even with adults.

Crystal Coast - NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast - NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores - jellyfish — default

Looking for something educational (and air-conditioned)? The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is one of our favorite non-beach stops on the Crystal Coast.
👉 Check current hours and admission prices

Don’t want to pick and choose? Do it all in one day.

If you’re short on time (or just want someone else to do the planning), there’s a private full-day tour that hits several of the Crystal Coast’s highlights — Fort Macon, Beaufort, Morehead City’s waterfront, the barrier island beaches, and even a shot at seeing the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land without rushing around or getting lost.
👉 Check current availability and pricing on this private Crystal Coast tour

And there’s much, much more: think kayaks, hang gliders, history, tours, eco-adventures, diving, and fishing, shopping, and museums.

Best times to visit the Crystal Coast/ When to visit: events and seasonal highlights

The short version? There’s no truly bad time — just depends on what you’re after.

Summer (June to August) is peak season. It’s hot, lively, and you’ll share the beaches with plenty of families. Great if you like the energy, just book ahead.
Spring and fall are sweet spots. You’ll get warm days without the summer crowds, perfect for beach walks and outdoor patios.
Winter is quiet. Some restaurants close, and it can be breezy. But it’s also when you’ll get the place to yourself, and sunsets and beaches hit different when there’s no one else around.

Where to stay

There’s everything insofar as accommodation is concerned: hotels, vacation rental cottages, and even Real Estate if you decide you want to stay!

We’ve tried it both ways — stayed in a little beach hotel where the sand was basically our front yard, and rented a house with friends so we could cook local shrimp ourselves.

If you want restaurants and waterfront buzz, Atlantic Beach or Morehead City is a good pick. Prefer a quieter spot? Emerald Isle is perfect for families or anyone wanting slower mornings with coffee on the deck of your rental home.

Vacation rentals, Nightly rentals, Real Estate

👉 Compare Crystal Coast hotels and rentals here — we always start by checking what’s available and working back from there.

Quick snapshot of options:
- Hotels & resorts: Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle.
- Vacation rentals: Whole family trips.

Tips for planning your Crystal Coast trip

Book your car rental: The Crystal Coast is spread out, so unless you’re happy sticking to one small area, a rental car is a must. We grabbed ours at Raleigh-Durham Airport — about three hours away — and loved having the freedom to pop between beaches and towns.

👉 Check rental car rates here — book ahead, especially in summer, they go fast.

Book your boat tours early: especially if you want to see Cape Lookout or the wild horses. And keep a little flexibility in your plans. Sometimes the best days are the ones that wander off schedule.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Crystal Coast

What is considered the Crystal Coast?

The Crystal Coast is a 85-mile stretch of beaches and towns along North Carolina’s southern Outer Banks, known for its clear waters and white sand beaches. It includes areas from Emerald Isle to Cape Lookout, and is sometimes defined more broadly to include Swansboro to the west and Pamlico Sound to the east.

Is the Crystal Coast the same as the Outer Banks?

No, the Crystal Coast is not the same thing as the Outer Banks, but it is a part of it. The Crystal Coast is also known as the Southern Outer Banks, a specific 85-mile stretch of barrier islands and coastal towns in North Carolina. The Outer Banks, more broadly, is a longer chain of barrier islands extending further north, including the northern Outer Banks (OBX).

What beaches are in the Crystal Coast?

The Crystal Coast is home to eleven waterfront towns including Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Cape Carteret/West, Down East, Emerald Isle, Harkers Island, Indian Beach, Morehead City, Newport, Pine Knoll Shores, and Salter Path.

Why is this part of North Carolina called the Crystal Coast?

The name “Crystal Coast” became popular because of the white beaches and clear water along this stretch of coastal North Carolina. Within this stretch of land is the Bogue Banks, a barrier island that’s 21 miles long. This island is where you’ll find Morehead City, Emerald Isle, Indian Beach and Atlantic Beach.

What beach town in NC has crystal clear water?

Several sources cite Emerald Isle as the place best known for its clear, turquoise waters. The town gets its name from the color of its waters, which can appear nearly transparent and almost turquoise in certain conditions, particularly when there is less sediment and calmer winds.

What’s the prettiest beach in North Carolina?

Some say that Corolla Beach, a secluded gem of a beach nestled at the top of North Carolina’s Outer Banks (north of the Crystal Coast), is the prettiest beach in North Carolina.

Is Topsail Island part of the Crystal Coast?

No, Topsail Island is not considered part of the Crystal Coast, according to travel websites. While it is a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina, and sits roughly equidistant between the Crystal Coast and the beaches of the Cape Fear region, it is a distinct area.

Where can I find sea glass on the Crystal Coast in North Carolina?

Sea glass can be found on many beaches along the Crystal Coast, especially after storms or during low tide. Look for it in the wet sand, along the high tide line, or in areas with shells and pebbles. Beaches with rocky coastlines and coves, like Fort Macon State Park, are also good places to search, according to a local beachcombing site and forum discussions.

Final thoughts: Is the Crystal Coast NC worth it?

For us, absolutely. It’s not flashy. You won’t find towering resorts or big boardwalk arcades. What you’ll get instead is long beaches, small friendly towns, and seafood so fresh it barely made it off the boat.

If you want to plan a trip that feels like an escape — not a production — the Crystal Coast might be just what you’re after.

Want help planning your beach escape?

Drop your email below and we’ll send you our free 3-day Crystal Coast itinerary for couples — a romantic weekend plan that maps out where to go, what to eat, and a few local tips to keep it all stress-free and special.

And keep an eye on Atlantic Destinations — we’ve already got a great post on New Bern, and we’re working on more Crystal Coast stories: golf courses, cozy rentals, food finds, and other fun stuff worth your time.