Beaufort North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Beaufort, North Carolina.
1. North Carolina Maritime Museum
NAUTICAL HISTORY AND ARTIFACTS
The North Carolina Maritime Museum showcases diverse coastal and pirate history exhibits, including artifacts from Blackbeard's Queen Anne's Revenge and a whale skeleton. Located in the heart of downtown, this ship-shape museum features dozens of different exhibits dedicated to Beaufort's rich maritime heritage and culture. Visitors can admire ancient boats, Civil War artifacts, and even an entire room dedicated to seashells from around the world.
2. Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground
HISTORIC CEMETERY WITH STORIES
The Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground features unique headstones and tranquil shaded walks that tell the story of the town's past. This historical cemetery offers self-guided tours with informative historical markers throughout the grounds. It's particularly notable for its maritime graves and serene ambiance that transports visitors back in time.
3. Rachel Carson Reserve
COASTAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
The Rachel Carson Reserve is a protected coastal estuarine sanctuary offering pristine natural habitats just a short boat ride from downtown Beaufort. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems while potentially spotting wild horses, shore birds, and native coastal fauna. The reserve provides an excellent opportunity for nature photography, bird watching, and experiencing the North Carolina coast in its natural state.
4. Beaufort Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum
LIVING HISTORY COLLECTION
The Beaufort Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum encompasses a collection of nine historical residences and structures in the heart of downtown Beaufort. Staffed with costumed interpreters, the site offers a journey back in time to the early roots of this port community through authentic artifacts and informative displays. Notable structures include the 1779 Leffers Cottage, the 1796 Carteret County Courthouse (the oldest wood-framed courthouse in the state), and the original "Old Jail" which operated from 1829 until 1954.
5. Olde Beaufort Farmers Market
LOCAL FOOD AND CRAFTS
The Olde Beaufort Farmers Market offers visitors and locals alike a chance to experience the best locally-grown produce and handmade crafts in the area. This vibrant market showcases the agricultural bounty and creative talents of Carteret County and surrounding regions. Visitors can browse fresh vegetables, artisanal foods, and unique handcrafted items while connecting with the local community.
6. Hammock House
HISTORIC PIRATE LANDMARK
The Hammock House is one of Beaufort's oldest structures with connections to the infamous pirate Blackbeard. Legend has it that Blackbeard once stayed here, adding a layer of intrigue to this historic residence. The house offers visitors a glimpse into colonial architecture and the colorful maritime history of Beaufort.
7. Mill Whistle Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Mill Whistle Brewing offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of locally-brewed coastal flavors in a relaxed atmosphere. This popular brewery serves up a rotating selection of handcrafted beers that often incorporate local ingredients and maritime themes. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights, pints, and conversations with knowledgeable staff about the brewing process.
8. Shackleford Banks
WILD HORSES AND BEACHES
Shackleford Banks is a pristine barrier island known for its wild horse population that has roamed freely for centuries. Accessible only by boat, this undeveloped island offers unspoiled beaches, excellent shelling opportunities, and the chance to observe the famous Shackleford horses in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and photography while experiencing one of the North Carolina coast's most unique natural attractions.
9. Cape Lookout Lighthouse
ICONIC COASTAL BEACON
The Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands as a distinctive diamond-patterned sentinel that has guided mariners along the Crystal Coast since 1859. Visitors can climb the 207 steps to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding national seashore and Atlantic Ocean. The adjacent keeper's quarters houses a museum detailing the lighthouse's history and the lives of those who maintained this crucial navigational aid.
10. Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge
PRISTINE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 14,000 acres of marshlands and maritime forests that provide crucial habitat for migratory birds and coastal wildlife. Visitors can explore this diverse ecosystem through hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and photography opportunities. The refuge offers a peaceful escape into nature with the chance to spot eagles, herons, and other coastal species in their natural environment.
11. Fort Macon State Park
CIVIL WAR COASTAL FORTRESS
Fort Macon State Park features a meticulously restored 19th-century coastal fortress with a rich Civil War history and museum exhibits. The five-sided fort's 26 casemates (bombproof rooms) house historical displays, artifacts, and dioramas depicting military life during various periods. Beyond the historic fort, the park offers swimming beaches, nature trails, and an education center making it one of North Carolina's most visited state parks.
12. North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
INTERACTIVE MARINE EXPERIENCE
The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores takes visitors on a journey through the state's diverse aquatic environments from mountains to sea. Interactive exhibits include touch tanks, a living shipwreck complete with sand tiger sharks, and the popular river otters habitat. The facility emphasizes conservation education while providing an entertaining experience for visitors of all ages through daily feedings, behind-the-scenes tours, and special programs.
13. Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center
COASTAL CULTURAL PRESERVATION
The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center celebrates the rich maritime culture and decoy carving traditions of Down East communities. Exhibits showcase historic boats, handcrafted decoys, quilts, and other artifacts that tell the story of generations who have made their living from the surrounding waters. Visitors can engage with working artists, participate in educational programs, and gain insight into the unique heritage of North Carolina's Core Sound region.
14. Morehead City Yacht Basin
PREMIER MARINA DESTINATION
The Morehead City Yacht Basin offers a full-service marina experience with stunning waterfront views and access to some of the area's best fishing grounds. This well-equipped facility provides transient and long-term dockage, fuel services, and amenities for boaters exploring the Crystal Coast. Visitors can watch luxury vessels come and go while enjoying the adjacent shops and restaurants that make this a popular destination for both boaters and landlubbers.
15. Coral Bay Shopping Center
COASTAL RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Coral Bay Shopping Center provides visitors with a diverse retail experience featuring both local shops and recognizable brands near the Crystal Coast. This convenient shopping destination offers everything from beachwear and souvenirs to everyday necessities for visitors staying in the area. After shopping, visitors can enjoy dining options ranging from casual eateries to seafood restaurants featuring local catches.