Emerald Isle NC Travel Guide | Things to Do, Places to Eat, and Stay

Emerald Isle North Carolina

Emerald Isle is a scenic coastal town located on the western tip of North Carolina’s Bogue Banks, part of the Crystal Coast. Known for its wide, uncrowded beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, the island is a top destination for travelers seeking tranquility without sacrificing access to outdoor recreation and small-town hospitality.

With protected natural spaces, charming local eateries, and a strong sense of community, Explore Emerald Isle, North Carolina: discover top attractions, dining, outdoor adventures, and trusted vacation rentals along this peaceful Crystal Coast gem. Emerald Isle is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to slow down and soak up the coast.

 

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Book Direct with an Emerald Isle Vacation Rental Manager to Save on Fees and Experience Professional Service

 

 

Top Attractions and Things to Do in and around Emerald Isle

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier

Stretching nearly 1,000 feet into the Atlantic, this beloved pier is both a fishing hotspot and a scenic overlook. Anglers come for Spanish mackerel, flounder, and drum, while others simply stroll the length to enjoy sunrise or sunset views. There's a tackle shop and snack bar on site.

Emerald Isle Woods Park

A hidden gem tucked away in a maritime forest, this 41-acre park offers walking trails, a disc golf course, birdwatching, and access to the sound for kayaks and paddleboards. A long wooden boardwalk leads to panoramic water views.

The Emerald Path

This paved multi-use path spans over 11 miles and runs the length of Emerald Isle. It’s perfect for biking, jogging, or strolling past dunes, maritime forests, and neighborhoods.

The Point

Located at the far western tip of the island, The Point is known for its wide sandbars, calm shallows, and 270-degree water views. It’s one of the best places for shelling and watching sunsets, and it feels almost untouched due to limited parking and development.

 

Salty Pirate Water Park

A family-friendly attraction with water slides, a lazy river, and splash zones. It’s ideal for kids aged 3–12 and a fun break from the beach, especially in the heat of summer.

Fort Macon State Park (Atlantic Beach)

Fort Macon State Park is a North Carolina state park in Carteret County, North Carolina. Located on Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach, the park is centered on a restored pre-Civil War fort that offers daily guided tours and cannon and musket demonstrations. Exhibits educate visitors on fort history and the natural surroundings.

The beach is ideal for swimming, beachcombing, hiking, and you may even spot a dolphin or two. Trails traverse the salt marsh and dune fields and provide the opportunity to see one of the over 300 species of birds found in the park. 

Hammocks Beach State Park (Swansboro)

Accessible by ferry or kayak, this state park offers a true nature experience on Bear Island, a barrier island with untouched dunes and uncrowded beaches. Great for sunbathing, hiking, shelling, relaxing, and camping.

Shackleford Banks

Known for the wild horses that run free here. The National Park Service studies these horses which offer a glimpse into how horses lived in the wild. Legend has it that these horses are descendants of Spanish Mustangs that survived a shipwreck.

Visitors can take a ferry to the island from Morehead City, Beaufort, or Harkers Island. Since the horses roam the island, you may have to search for them. Keep your distance as they are wild horses and could attack.

 

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum (Harkers Island)

Decoy carving, boat-building and commercial fishing with a collection of Core Sound decoys crafted by master carver. Additional rotating exhibits, which include everything Harkers Island and its surrounding towns. 

Harkers Island Bridge was recently replaced with a new 3,200-foot fixed-span bridge, replacing two older bridges and providing a more direct route for vehicles. 

North Carolina Aquarium (Pine Knolls Shores)

The Aquarium is 93,000 square feet and has four main galleries that take visitors from the mountains to the ccean through North Carolina. Inside the aquarium, at the start of your tour is a 32  foot smoky mountain waterfall. Watch the otters play and explore shipwrecks There are two hiking trails at the aquarium, the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Trail and the Alice Hoffman Nature Trail.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Cape Lookout National Seashore preserves a 56-mile stretch of the Crystal Coast, running from Ocracoke Inlet on the northeast to Beaufort Inlet on the southwest. 

A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of the Cape Lookout National Seashore.  There are many activities such as shelling, hiking, fishing, birding, camping, horse watching, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches

Three undeveloped barrier islands make up the seashore - North Core Banks, South Core Banks, and Shackleford Banks. The seashoren includes two historic villages on Core Banks and be sure to look for the Shackleford wild horses and visit the impressive Cape Lookout Lighthouse, the Diamond Lady Lighthouse! A visitor center for the seashore is located on Harkers Island.

 

 

Outdoor Actvities & Experiences

Surfing and Paddleboarding

Emerald Isle’s gentle waves make it an excellent spot for beginner surfers and stand-up paddleboarders. Lessons and rentals are available from local surf shops such as South Swell Surf Shop.

Biking

The Emerald path is the perfect place to bike. The path runs the length of Emerald Isle and is also good for jogging, or walking with views of dunes, maritime forests, and neighborhoods.

Fishing Excursions

Whether surf fishing from the beach, casting off the Bogue Inlet Pier, or booking a nearshore charter, Emerald Isle has options for all experience levels. Local charters leave from nearby Swansboro or Morehead City.

Dolphin Watching and Sunset Cruises

Boat tours from nearby marinas offer evening cruises through Bogue Sound and out into the Atlantic. These trips often include dolphin sightings and provide excellent photo opportunities during golden hour.

Kayaking the Intracoastal Waterway

Launch from Emerald Isle Woods Park or Cedar Street Park and paddle through quiet estuaries, spotting egrets, herons, and the occasional dolphin. Outfitters like Hot Wax Surf Shop offer rentals and guided eco-tours.

 

Local Dining & Cuisine

Fish Hut Grill

A casual outdoor eatery serving fried seafood baskets, fish tacos, and hushpuppies. Known for its laid-back beach vibe and generous portions, it’s perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch.

Caribsea

An upscale dining experience featuring a rooftop bar and a chef-driven seafood menu. Favorites include the seared scallops, tuna poke bowl, and Southern-style shrimp and grits.

Flipperz Family Bar & Grill

A local institution offering something for everyone—steaks, seafood, burgers, and pasta. The fun, tropical décor and spacious layout make it a great choice for families and groups.

The Trading Post: Southern Food & Spirits

Known for its southern comfort food and open-air patio, The Trading Post offers dishes like chicken and waffles, pimento cheese burgers, and fried green tomatoes. Live music is common in peak season.

Giovanni’s Brooklyn Bagels

Popular for breakfast, Giovanni’s serves authentic boiled bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and locally roasted coffee. It’s a favorite among both locals and early-rising visitors.

 

Emerald Isle Coastal Carolina Vacation Rentals

Accommodation Type

Oceanfront Vacation Homes

Emerald Isle is filled with spacious beach homes that line the coast, ideal for families and groups. Many offer private walkways to the beach, full kitchens, outdoor showers, and decks with ocean views. Book early in summer.

Soundside Rentals with Dock Access

For boaters or those looking for quieter water access, the soundside offers rentals with private docks and sunset-facing decks. These homes are often more affordable than oceanfront properties.

Condo Complexes

Condos like Sound of the Sea and Pebble Beach Condos offer access to pools, tennis courts, and short walks to the beach. Great for couples or small families.

Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals

Many homes in Emerald Isle welcome dogs, and several public beach access points allow leashed pets. Always confirm pet policies with the local rental manager before booking.

***Why Book with a Local Vacation Rental Manager?

Booking through a local vacation rental manager on Emerald Isle ensures a smoother, more personalized experience. These managers maintain their properties directly and provide quick support in case of issues. They can also recommend beach access points, handle special requests, and help you find homes with the right amenities. Booking direct avoids third-party fees and supports the local economy.

Browse verified Emerald Isle Vacation Rentals

 

 

Travel Tips & Getting Around

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall offers the best weather, beach conditions, and activity options. July and August are peak months, while May, June, and September offer warm temps with smaller crowds.

Getting There

The closest airport is Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern, about 45 minutes away, with connecting service from major cities. Jacksonville’s Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is another option, located about an hour west.

Getting Around

A car is essential on Emerald Isle, especially for reaching grocery stores, parks, and restaurants. Free parking is available at most public beach accesses. Biking is also popular along the Emerald Path.

Local Tips

Book large homes at least 6–8 months in advance for summer.

Many restaurants are closed on Sundays or have limited hours in the offseason.

Sea turtle nesting season runs from May to October. Look for marked nests on the beach.

Avoid feeding wildlife, especially seagulls because they tend to swarm.

Map of Coastal Carolina's Emerald Isle

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