A Guide to Crystal Coast Activities and Attractions
A Guide to Crystal Coast Activities and Attractions
Whether you’re looking to buy real estate or invest in a vacation rental on the Crystal Coast, you might be wondering what attractions and activities are available in the area. There are endless Crystal Coast activities; that’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top attractions and restaurants to get you started.
Popular Things to Do on the Crystal Coast
North Carolina Aquarium
The North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores features the largest saltwater aquarium in the state. The aquarium has replicated a sunken submarine to create a unique environment. The 300,000-gallon tank is home to various fish, sharks, and turtles. Several tours and activities are available that allow you to get behind the scenes and learn more about incredible marine life and conservation efforts.
Fort Macon State Park
This state park has something for everyone on the Crystal Coast. The site includes a 19th century Civil War fort that you can explore on your own along with guided tours. Fort Macon State Park also has several beautiful hiking trails, fishing spots, and fun on the water for the avid paddlers.
Graveyard of the Atlantic
The North Carolina Coast has often been dubbed “The Graveyard of the Atlantic” since thousands of ships have sunk in this area over hundreds of years. These historic wrecks are a top destination for scuba divers and adventurers on the Crystal Coast. Embark on an unforgettable diving charter with Discovery Diving or Olympus Dive Center.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Three miles off-shore is Cape Lookout National Seashore that is accessible by a short boat ride from Atlantic Beach. This is the best place to experience some of the top outdoor activities in one place. Learn about the importance of Cape Lookout Lighthouse or walk through historic villages. You can also find some of the best fishing on the Atlantic Coast from the beach at Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Our Favorite Crystal Coast Restaurants
For fresh seafood, local produce, and incredible waterfront views, check out this historic Beaufort restaurant. The menu includes local mahi-mahi, pan-seared grouper, shrimp, and grits, along with an expansive selection of wine. Perfect for a romantic dinner on the coast!
This Morehead City restaurant features locally caught seafood made with high-quality ingredients at an affordable price. Ruddy Duck Tavern is an excellent choice for lunch as you gaze out at stunning ocean views.
Visit Front Street Grill for a delicious dinner on the Crystal Coast and take in a panoramic sunset while you eat. The menu includes a variety of coastal food with a southern soul that will soon have you coming back for more.
Amos Mosquitos is a local favorite and offers a unique coastal dining experience in Atlantic Beach. Choose from a variety of excellent seafood dishes or try out Amos’s famous meatloaf topped with bacon and a brown sugar glaze.
If you are looking for the perfect restaurant for a romantic dinner on the coast, look no further than Table 9. Couples will love the relaxing atmosphere as you dine on fresh oysters, lobster ravioli, or crab-stuffed Mahi. And if you aren’t craving seafood, you can find lamb chops, ribeye, and filet mignon on the menu as well.
Admire the Morehead City waterfront in a casual and friendly atmosphere at Red Fish Grill. One of the most popular items at the restaurant is the crab-stuffed Mahi, but you can’t go wrong with any of the redfish features or dinner entrees.
Learn More About Crystal Coast Activities
These Crystal Coast activities, attractions, and restaurants only scratch the surface of things to do in the area. Each town on the coast offers something different and a wealth of attractions waiting to be explored. If you want to learn everything our slice of paradise has to offer, then visit our Vacation Rental Blog to keep up to date with the best things to do on the coast.
What attractions and restaurants would you have included in your Crystal Coast bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!
