Take a ferry to explore Cape Lookout, a natural paradise with historic villages, stunning beaches, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse (though under renovation until 2025). You can also camp on the beach under an International Dark Sky Park for a remarkable stargazing experience.

Visit the quaint, historic town of Beaufort, where you can stroll through the waterfront and explore the North Carolina Maritime Museum, which houses artifacts from Blackbeard's ship, Queen Anne's Revenge.

Enjoy a relaxing ride on a floating tiki bar in Beaufort. BYOB, play your favorite music, and soak up the sun while cruising through the waterways.

North Carolina is consistently ranked as one of the best wreck diving destinations in North America, thanks to its rich history and diverse wrecks. With each dive, you'll be immersed in a unique combination of maritime history and underwater ecosystems.

For history buffs, this is a must. The restored fort offers guided tours and access to nearby hiking trails and beaches.

Explore aquatic life native to North Carolina’s waters, from sharks to sea turtles, at this popular destination. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, a sea turtle rescue center, and outdoor nature trails.

The Crystal Coast spans 85 miles of coastline, often referred to as the Southern Outer Banks. This region features a diverse mix of historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, water sports, and natural attractions. Visit our beaches and activities pages to find destinations that match your interests. After selecting the areas you'd like to explore, check out restaurants, venues, and accommodations to plan your perfect getaway.

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina offers a lively mix of bars and restaurants for every style. Enjoy fresh seafood at Surf’s Up Grill & Bar or a casual bite at Fish Hut Grill. For live music and a fun crowd, visit Flipperz Bar & Grill or enjoy craft cocktails at Kathryn’s Bistro & Martini Bar. Beer lovers will appreciate the local brews at Crystal Coast Brewing Company.

🍑 Beat the Heat at Fuzzy Peach Cape Carteret! 🍦

Looking for a sweet escape this summer? Look no further than Fuzzy Peach Cape Carteret—your locally owned, family-operated frozen yogurt bar where you’re the boss of your bowl! 🍓🍫

We’ve got 10 premium frozen yogurt flavors ready to swirl into your cup, including fan favorites like Cake Batter and Pineapple Dole Soft Serve (dairy free)—so rich and creamy, you’ll forget it’s yogurt and not soft serve! Still not sure about froyo? One taste, and you’ll be hooked.

And that’s just the beginning…

👉 40+ name-brand toppings
👉 Fresh-cut fruit, popping boba, crushed candy, nuts, and syrups
👉 Edible cookie dough and brownie batter
👉 Crispy cones and fresh-made waffle bowls

Whether you're building a mountain of flavor for the kids or a light treat for yourself, Fuzzy Peach makes it fun and delicious.

Proudly owned and operated by the Zangwill Family, we’re more than just dessert—we’re a local favorite built on smiles, creativity, and community.

📍 Stop by today and treat yourself to a little frozen joy!
Learn more: thefuzzypeach.com

If you or a loved one have mobility challenges but still want to enjoy the sand, surf, and sunshine, Emerald Isle’s Beach Wheelchair Program is nothing short of amazing. This isn’t just a service—it’s a heartfelt invitation from the town to truly be part of the beach experience, not just a spectator on the sidelines. Note: Wheelchair not pictured. 

See the latest updates!

• Live blue crabs – about 1 lb per person
• Water – 8–12 quarts in a stockpot
• Seasoning:
  • ½ cup Old Bay plus ½ cup Zatarain’s Crawfish/Crab/Shrimp Boil (dry or liquid)
  • 2–3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (Tony Chachere’s or homemade)
  • 1–2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)
• Aromatics & flavoring:
  • 4 lemons, halved
  • 2 heads garlic, halved crosswise
  • 2–3 onions, quartered
  • 4 bay leaves
• Add-ins:
  • 2 lbs small red potatoes
  • 6 ears corn, halved
  • 2 lbs smoked andouille sausage, sliced thick
  • (Optional) Mushrooms or okra for extra Cajun flair

Cajun Dipping Sauce:

• 2 sticks unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• Squeeze of lemon juice

Melt together in a saucepan and serve warm for dipping crab meat and corn.

Instructions

1. Prepare the boil:
   Fill the pot with water. Add Old Bay, Zatarain’s, Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, lemons, garlic, onions, and bay leaves. Bring to a rolling boil for at least 10 minutes so the flavors infuse.
2. Potatoes & sausage first:
   Add potatoes, cook 10 minutes. Add sausage slices and cook another 5 minutes.
3. Add corn & crabs:
   Toss in the corn. After 3 minutes, carefully lower the crabs. Boil until shells turn bright orange, about 5 minutes. Don’t overcook—crab meat turns tough fast.
4. Soak for spice:
   Turn off the heat, cover, and let the crabs and veggies soak in the seasoned water for 10–15 minutes (longer = spicier). Stir occasionally so everything gets coated with the Cajun spice.
5. Serve Cajun-style:
   Drain and pour the feast directly onto newspaper or butcher paper. Dust with extra Cajun seasoning and squeeze lemon over the top. Serve with Cajun butter dip and cold drinks.

🌶️

• Add a few whole cayenne peppers or jalapeños to the boil for extra kick.
• Substitute beer for part of the water (a Louisiana tradition that adds depth).
• Toss in okra and mushrooms with the corn for a real bayou vibe.
• Have extra Cajun butter on hand for dipping potatoes and crab claws.