New Bern North Carolina BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near New Bern, North Carolina.
1. Neuse River Recreation Area
Riverside Sandy Escape. Set within Croatan National Forest, Flanners Beach at Neuse River Recreation Area offers sandy riverfront perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family picnics. Shallow water, nature trails, birdwatching, and picnic sites make this a favorite close-to-town retreat.
MORE INFO2. The Circle at Atlantic Beach
Central Town Beach. Buzzing with activity, The Circle is Atlantic Beach's main public beach with miles of sand, volleyball, and family-friendly swimming on the Atlantic Ocean. Lively surroundings, easy parking, and nearby restaurants create a classic beach town vibe.
MORE INFO3. Fort Macon State Park
Historic Oceanfront Park. Enjoy wide sandy beaches for swimming, surf fishing, and beachcombing alongside a restored Civil War fort. Nature trails, picnic areas, and lifeguarded swimming zones make this one of North Carolina's top coastal parks.
MORE INFO4. Pine Knoll Shores Public Beach
Tranquil Oceanfront Haven. Secluded and scenic, Pine Knoll Shores features pristine beaches with easy public access, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and quiet relaxation. Enjoy uncrowded sands steps from the North Carolina Aquarium and lush maritime forest.
MORE INFO5. Indian Beach Public Access
Low-Key Crystal Coast. Visitors flock to Indian Beach for uncrowded shoreline, gentle surf, and a laid-back vibe ideal for families and shell seekers. Public access points offer easy entry to a long stretch of beautiful sand and sparkling water.
MORE INFO6. Emerald Isle Beach
Classic Family Beach. Emerald Isle Beach delights with its expansive soft sand, clear water, and ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Multiple public access points and facilities make it a top pick for a full day of coastal fun.
MORE INFO7. Salter Path Beach Access
Old-Fashioned Beach Town. Salter Path Beach Access serves up a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere with wide sandy beaches, shallow swimming areas, and scenic dunes. It's a favorite for locals seeking traditional beach days without the crowds.
MORE INFO8. Radio Island Public Beach Access
Harbor-Side Swimming Spot. Radio Island offers a sandy public beach on Bogue Sound perfect for swimming, picnicking, and paddleboarding, with gentle waves and sweeping views of passing boats. Convenient to Beaufort and Morehead City, this spot is popular for family outings.
MORE INFO9. Cedar Point Recreation Area
Soundfront Natural Retreat. Cedar Point Recreation Area features sandy shoreline along the White Oak River, with picnic areas, nature trails, and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The peaceful setting is ideal for a laid-back day by the water.
MORE INFO10. Shackleford Banks
Wild Barrier Island. Accessible only by boat or ferry, Shackleford Banks boasts undeveloped beaches famous for wild horses, seashell hunting, and crystal-clear surf. This pristine barrier island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurous beachgoers.
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