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Travel + Leisure
28-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Walkable Waterfront Town in North Carolina Is the Perfect Weekend Getaway
Reserve a breezy, light-filled room at the Beaufort Hotel. Learn all about Beaufort's storied history on a double-decker bus or ghost tour. Order a to-go picnic lunch from Beaufort Grocery Co. Pop into The General Store for a post-beach sweet treat. Plan your visit for the fall, when cooler weather descends upon Beaufort and summer crowds have dissipated. A beloved town on North Carolina's Crystal Coast, and the Southern Outer Banks, Beaufort is still somewhat of a hidden gem to those outside of the Carolinas—even though the fishing village's history goes back centuries. Established in 1709, Beaufort—not to be confused with the South Carolina destination—is one of the oldest towns in the state, and much of its charm and appeal are directly tied to its long-standing legacy. Ghost tours detail stories of the pirate Blackbeard, who frequented this part of the coast; a number of homes and buildings in town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places; and a thorough appreciation of the past is almost tangible as you walk along Front Street, Beaufort's main drag. 'I remember the first time I walked the docks when I was 16—I had this feeling I had never been somewhere so enchanting and delightfully different,' Christina Cuningham, owner of Beaufort Linen Co., tells Travel + Leisure . 'It's casual, quirky, naturally beautiful, and [gives] a feeling you can only explain by being here.' Located on a channel that leads to the Atlantic, Beaufort also appeals to those who want to see the beach, spend the day on a boat, go fishing, or kayak along the waterways. 'If you're looking for a cute place to relax and have fun by the water, Beaufort is definitely your go-to,' says Hailey Mason, the front office supervisor at the Beaufort Hotel. Just be sure to brush up on your pronunciation before you get there: It's 'Bow-fert' or 'Boh-fert,' not 'Bew-fert.' Aerial view of Beaufort Hotel. 'The Beaufort Hotel is upscale and modern with a restaurant worth visiting, 34°North, even if you're not a guest at the hotel,' says Jonathan Edwards, the owner of Port City Tour Company. The 10-acre waterfront property overlooks Taylor Creek, and many of the nautical-inspired rooms come with either their own private balcony or patio where you can take in the views. 'The Pecan Tree Inn is also a wonderful property [in the] vicinity of all the amenities the town has to offer,' says Cuningham. Recently remodeled in 2024, the bed-and-breakfast has seven rooms (all of which have their own private bathroom), and a hot breakfast and afternoon snacks are included in the nightly rate. If you're coming to Beaufort for an extended trip—or you're traveling with the whole family—you may want to consider renting a home. This renovated three-bedroom cottage is located right near Front Street, providing quick, easy access to many of Beaufort's restaurants, shops, and waterfront views. For parties of four or fewer, consider this dog-friendly cottage; it's also within walking distance of most of the main sights in town. A fishing boat joins in on taking pictures of the horses on the island near Beaufort, NC. One of the first things you can do in Beaufort is get your bearings while walking around the 12-block Historic District. 'It's interesting to see how much history is packed into one small place,' says Mason, who recommends visiting the Old Burying Ground—one of the oldest established cemeteries in the state. 'I would also suggest going to the North Carolina Maritime Museum and checking out the Beaufort Historic Site to indulge in our rich history,' adds Edwards. Editor's note: The North Carolina Maritime Museum is temporarily closed, and a 2025 open date hasn't been announced as of publication time. If you'd rather explore Beaufort with a tour guide, you have a couple of options. The Historic District Double-Decker Bus Tour has passengers board a 1967 English double-decker bus as they venture throughout town, learning about the pirates of Beaufort's past. You can also join Edwards on the Beaufort Ghost Walk, where he says you'll hear all about 'local legends and lore, and find out even more about the town we love.' 'A perfect Beaufort day for us is taking the boys and our puppy to Carrot Island to fish and build sandcastles, and ending the day eating on the docks,' says Cuningham. Carrot Island is an uninhabited nature preserve that can be reached by a quick ferry; Island Ferry Adventures has a service that runs every 30 minutes during the season. Edwards also recommends going to Shackleford Banks via the Island Express Ferry Service. 'You can see the wild horses and find the best shelling spots. You may also see dolphins or porpoises along the way,' he says. One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Beaufort is to explore its waterways. Start by renting a kayak from Beaufort Paddle, then paddle your way from Taylor Creek to Rachel Carson Reserve, where you can give your arms a break, go for a short hike, and keep an eye out for wild horses and dozens of bird species. Storefronts in downtown Beaufort, North Carolina. DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images 'On Front Street, there are five blocks of nothing but small businesses and mom-and-pop shops. It's a really neat place with nothing corporate, no franchises—just local,' says Edwards. Here, you'll find Beaufort Linen Co., where Cuningham and her team sell high-end home goods, bath and beauty products, and breezy linen blouses and dresses. 'For a great outfit, I love Island Proper on Front Street,' says Cuningham. The boutique includes pieces from brands like Agolde, Amanda Uprichard, Elizabeth James, and Tyler Boe. You can also pick up a swimsuit here if you forgot yours at home. 'For great wine, quirky gifts, and last-minute provisions, Beaudega is amazing,' says Cuningham. If you're staying with a friend in Beaufort, swing by the shop for the perfect host or hostess gift—perhaps some locally made cheese and crackers or cute cocktail napkins. 'Of course, you'll want to check out The General Store. It's just what you'd expect from an old country general store—great ice cream as well,' says Edwards. Embrace the nostalgia and treat yourself to fudge or penny candy, or snag some souvenir T-shirts for your loved ones back home. Dishes from Black Sheep in Beaufort, North Carolina. 'My absolute favorite local restaurant is Black Sheep. They make the most creative pizzas. I love trying their pizza special of the week,' says Mason. Cuningham agrees, recommending the restaurant's 'boats of mac and cheese and French 75s.' 'Clawson's … is a classic restaurant in the area and has been around a long time, so you can really feel the history when you enter. They have good American dining and a comfy atmosphere,' says Mason. Come hungry; the menu features hearty entrees, including fried fish platters and shrimp and grits. Beaufort Grocery Co. is one of Edwards' top picks, and the shop, located in the Historic District, is the perfect stop for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. You can also order one of the deli sandwiches or the Beaufort Cheese & Fruit Board (complete with the BeauGro pimento cheese) to go, bringing your meal with you on a leisurely bike ride or the ferry to Shackleford Banks. Aqua is another one of Edwards' favorites in Beaufort, and he says the restaurant is known to 'fuse some well-known dishes with local flair and ingredients.' The menu features tapas as well as small and larger plates; expect items like truffle fries, seared crab cakes, tuna poke, and a caprese salad. A person holding a cocktail on a patio during sunset. Beaufort might not be as synonymous with going out as larger coastal cities, but Edwards says there's still a 'great nightlife and bar scene,' one that visitors frequently underestimate. 'There are at least five laid-back bars—Backstreet Pub, Cru, Fishtowne Brew House, The Periwinkle, and Royal James Cafe—within walking distance from each other, and also within walking distance from our hotels,' he says. Given this unbeatable proximity, you won't have to worry about driving or parking. Just don't expect to stay up too late; of the aforementioned drinking establishments, only Cru and Backstreet Pub are open past 10 p.m. People walking past the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort. You could certainly make the argument that Beaufort is a year-round destination, but the locals we spoke with have opinions on the best time to visit. 'Personally, I would say the best time to visit Beaufort would be in the spring or fall. You've got fewer visitors than in the summer, the weather is going to be cooler, and if you love fishing, those are the fishing seasons,' says Edwards. Cuningham also leans toward fall, saying that some of 'best weather' arrives during fall hurricane season. 'It's tricky because you will have to check the weather constantly, but the zero humidity, no 'noseeums,' and amazing fishing is a real sweet spot in town.' While winter in Beaufort may appeal to some visitors—there are some holiday festivities and a lack of crowds—both Mason and Edwards acknowledge it's a quieter time in town. 'I wouldn't say winter is a 'bad' time to visit since we also have a lot of cute Christmas activities, but you do get the most out of the area during the warmer months,' says Mason. Downtown Beaufort, North Carolina. 'To find Beaufort, I would say, find where corporate America ends, and go one town further,' says Edwards. For those driving, that looks like taking either Highway 70 or Highway 101 into the waterfront town. Flying is also an option, though renting a car will still be necessary. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is the closest major airport to Beaufort, around three hours away. There are also a handful of regional airports, including Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern and Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, North Carolina. While they're significantly closer to Beaufort—around 40 and 62 miles, respectively—flights are limited. Beaufort is small enough to be considered walkable, but having a car is helpful if you're planning to drive to nearby beaches or explore other towns along the Crystal Coast. Biking around Beaufort is another option, and Bike Beaufort offers beach cruiser rentals that come with a bike basket, bike lights, and a bike lock.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Software giant holds ribbon cutting ceremony for Morehead City headquarters
MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (WNCT) — 21CS is a worldwide software company that specializes in software solutions for mainframe computers. On Tuesday, the company had their official ribbon cutting ceremony at their new headquarters in Morehead City. 21CS says they cold have chosen a larger city in the state to move to, but researched showed that the Crystal Coast was the perfect fit. 'We did a lot of research, looked at the quality of life and cost of living because that is important when hiring early career professionals,' 21CS CEO Eddy Ciliendo said. 'It's important that we offer them where they can build and form roots and have a family.' Company officials say that the relocation will provide dozens of jobs to Morehead City, with most of the hires coming from the local community. 21CS will have a large impact on the local economy, estimating about $2.2 million coming to the region. For more information, click on the video above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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Travel + Leisure
12-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
North Carolina's Crystal Coast Is an 85-mile Stretch of Quaint Small Towns, White-sand Beaches, and Plenty of Southern Charm
Stay at the Atlantis, a vintage 1960s lodge in Pine Knoll Shores with ocean-view rooms and complimentary beach chairs. See the wild horses on Cape Lookout National Seashore. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, and get out on the local paddle trails. Fill up on shrimp burgers from Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ or Captain's Kitchen food truck in Indian Beach. Plan your trip for the spring or fall to enjoy pleasant weather without the summer crowds. You've probably heard of the Outer Banks—maybe you've even visited them. But the Southern Outer Banks, also known as the Crystal Coast, is its own distinct region of North Carolina. The 85-mile stretch of coastline and barrier islands reaches from Cape Lookout to the mouth of the New River. Within those boundaries are a number of gorgeous island strips and quaint waterfront communities—the most prominent of which are located on Bogue Banks, a barrier island that encompasses Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Pine Knoll Shores, and Indian Beach and Salter Path. Other popular destinations along the Crystal Coast include Beaufort, Harkers Island, Morehead City, and Swansboro. No matter which part of the region you visit, though, you can expect to find plenty of relaxation and natural beauty. 'The Crystal Coast is a quiet stretch of small towns and pristine white-sand beaches. We have ample boating, fishing, and scuba diving, and there's a rich history and abundant wildlife,' says Hallock Cooper Howard, co-owner and chef of Amos Mosquito's restaurant in Atlantic Beach. Mark Holbrook, manager at Paddle NC, says the area's 'biggest asset' is its Southern charm—a mix of slower-paced living and a welcoming atmosphere. To create our official guide to North Carolina's Crystal Coast, we tapped a few locals throughout the region to share their picks on how to plan the perfect trip. Exterior of Pecan Tree Inn. 'The Atlantis … is a 1960s beachfront lodge that you would have grown up going to, but modernized to current standards,' says John and Beth Blackwelder, owner of The Aerie, a bed-and-breakfast in New Bern. You may come for the dog-friendly suites with fully equipped kitchens, but you'll stay for the amazing views from your ocean-facing porch. 'The Oceanana has an assortment of suites and standard motel rooms. The property offers a free continental breakfast in the summer and watermelon parties on the oceanfront lawn,' says Howard. Plus, she notes it's right next door to the only fishing pier in Atlantic Beach. 'Be sure to stroll out to the end of the pier and grab a frozen painkiller at The Barnacle,' she says. 'Pecan Tree Inn is a short walk to downtown shopping, dining, and museums in historic Beaufort,' says Blackwelder. Though the house itself was built in 1866, it's been remodeled several times over the years to ensure the rooms and common areas blend modern comforts with historic charm. When guests aren't out exploring Beaufort, they can relax on the porches or garden patio, preferably with a sweet tea (or wine) in hand. If you're basing yourself in Emerald Isle, Ricky Farrington, owner of Emerald Isle Paddle Tours, recommends Islander Hotel & Resort. The oceanfront hotel is your classic summertime getaway, with beach access, a pool with loungers and cabanas, and areas where you can grill or picnic when the weather cooperates. 'The William & Garland Motel in Salter Path is a beachfront motel featured on HGTV's 100 Day Hotel Challenge ,' says Blackwelder, who describes it as a 'retro-hip motor lodge.' Not only can guests take advantage of the property's private beach access, but they can also enjoy the motel's sauna, outdoor grill, fire pit, and lounge deck. Wild horses in Cape Lookout National Seashore. There are 56 miles of undeveloped beaches, dunes, and marshes on the Cape Lookout National Seashore, a protected chain of three barrier islands: Shackleford Banks, North Core Banks, and South Core Banks. Here, says Blackwelder, you can 'experience the Outer Banks as it was before it was developed.' 'These barrier islands, referred to by locals as 'Shack' and 'The Cape,' are only accessible by boat,' says Howard. You don't need a private boat, though. The Island Express Ferry Service runs passenger ferries from Beaufort and Harkers Island. 'On the way there, you may see dolphins playing or rays jumping. As you walk along the shoreline, look for hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs, and a dizzying array of shore birds,' she says. Plus, keep an eye out for the famous wild horses. 'In addition to just being beautiful and fun to explore, our barrier islands are home to herds of wild horses. How they got there is a bit of a mystery, but it's fun to see them strolling along and frolicking on the beach,' Howard adds. 'If land is more in your comfort zone, then the historical sights and state parks are plentiful, with trails, beaches, and historical reenactments,' says Holbrook. Howard says Fort Macon State Park is particularly great for 'swimming, beaching, fishing, and picnicking,' but, she adds, the 'real gem' of the fort is its nature trail. 'The Elliot Coues Trail winds through soundside salt marshes and oceanside sand dunes that offer sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. On both sides, there are shady passages through the maritime forest. Keep your eyes peeled for rabbits, an occasional snake, and hundreds of types of birds,' she says. The Rachel Carson Reserve is another destination where you can immerse yourself in the region's marshes, dunes, maritime forests, and beaches. South of Beaufort, the area consists of Carrot Island, Town Marsh, Bird Shoal, and Horse Island. James Frey, the owner of Crystal Coast Oysters in Morehead City, recommends 'getting out and going on a ferry to visit Carrot Island and getting to see the horses.' While there, you can also go bird-watching and walk along the nature trails. Visitors with an affinity for history and local culture will find endless entertainment in downtown Beaufort, not to be confused with the South Carolina destination of the same name. The Crystal Coast town has a waterfront with all sorts of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. 'There are beautiful yachts and sailboats moored in the inlet, and the Beaufort Historical Association has grounds with an old jail, restored homes, and even an old apothecary,' says Howard. She also suggests stopping by the North Carolina Maritime Museum to 'learn about boatbuilding and the history of Blackbeard the pirate,' who was known to frequent the Crystal Coast. (Note: The North Carolina Maritime Museum is temporarily closed for construction; the 2025 opening date has yet to be announced.) For an extra dose of history, hop aboard the Beaufort historic double-decker bus tour. Ferries aren't the only method of traversing the waterways along the Crystal Coast. 'Kayaking the waters where Blackbeard sailed in is my highest recommendation,' says Holbrook. Farrington also suggests 'renting a paddleboard and exploring the marshes.' If you opt to go alone (versus a guided trip), you can rent boats from Island Water Sports in Emerald Isle/Indian Beach or Beaufort Paddle. You may be tempted to fill your days with activities, but don't forget to leave time to enjoy what Blackwelder calls the region's 'off-the-beaten-path vibe.' For some, that might mean fishing or sailing, but for others, it's simply grabbing a lounge chair or two and spending all day on the beaches of Emerald Isle or Atlantic Beach. Customers ordering at Big Oak Drive In. If you're visiting the Crystal Coast for the first time, Farrington suggests driving 'down to Indian Beach to the Captain's Kitchen food truck to get a super shrimp burger.' Just be sure to check the food truck's Facebook page beforehand to check its exact location. Blackwelder's pick for a shrimp burger—or a hot dog or barbecue sandwich—is Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ down the street in Salter Path. 'Fish Hut Grill in Emerald Isle is my favorite restaurant to get seafood,' says Farrington. The menu features all kinds of North Carolina favorites, like peel-and-eat shrimp, dry rub wings, and fried fish. Holbrook also suggests RuckerJohns, a waterfront eatery serving up burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and ribs. 'One of the best restaurants I found in North Carolina is located right in Beaufort. It's called Blue Moon Bistro. The chef, Josh, does a wonderful job sourcing local products and making sure everything is tasty,' says Frey. For what Howard calls an 'unparalleled lunch or brunch experience,' head to Beaufort Grocery Co. They have an excellent wine list and fabulous salads and sandwiches. On weekends, their brunch includes bottomless mimosas, eggs Benedict, freshly baked pastries, and fluffy pancakes. And if you want the best pizza in town? Order from Black Sheep. 'It's a lively spot with fun decor. In addition to pizza, they have a variety of charcuterie, salads, and sandwiches. Don't miss the delicious beet salad or the decadent macaroni and cheese,' Howard adds. 'Moonrakers is also a wonderful spot to get appetizers, sit on the rooftop bar, and enjoy maybe a dolphin [spotting] or a sunset,' says Frey. Parrott's on Eleventh in Morehead City is another one of Farrington's picks, and Howard is partial to Full Circle. 'The menu ranges from burgers to pizza to fresh local fish preparations. The dining room is tiny and cozy and has a great vibe. Be sure to try the curry fried oysters,' she says. Beaufort's busy boardwalk. Howard recommends a selection of independently owned shops in Atlantic Beach, including The Posh Pelican, Atlantic Beach Surf Shop, and Marsh's Surf Shop. Between the three, you'll find everything you need for a laid-back vacation at the beach—bathing suits, sandals, surfboards, souvenir T-shirts, and more. 'In downtown Morehead, you shouldn't miss Dee Gee's Gifts & Books. This landmark gift shop has a selection of home goods, books by local authors, and baby gifts,' says Howard, who also adds Z & Z Designs, Dorsea, Deepwater Boutique, and Backshore Living to her list of best stores in the area. While there, be sure to stop by Core Sound Store, which Blackwelder recommends for local handmade goods, sold to support the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center. You'll find a variety of local shops down on the Beaufort waterfront. Howard suggests popping into Island Proper and Beaufort Linen Co. The Beaufort General Store is also a good pick for fudge, ice cream, and souvenir T-shirts—plus a healthy dose of summertime nostalgia. A crowd fishing on the Oceanana Fishing Pier in Atlantic Beach. Summer may be the season most travelers make their way to the Crystal Coast, but the consensus among locals is that the spring and the fall are the best times to visit this part of the state. 'My favorite time of year is early fall,' says Howard. 'After the busy summer season, the beaches and waterways become less populated. The water is still warm, the sunsets are spectacular, and it feels like you have it all to yourself.' Spring is just as magical. 'With everything starting to come back to life, you get to see the seagrass change from brown to a nice green,' says Frey, adding that the water also 'starts to get more active with critters.' Aerial view of the Cape Lookout Naitonal Seashore. Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern is the closest airport to the towns and beaches that make up the Crystal Coast—about 45 minutes away—but flights are limited. If you're flying to the region, other options include the Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, North Carolina (a little over an hour away), and Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in Wilmington (about two hours away). Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is the largest airport in the area, although it's about three hours from your final destination. No matter which airport you fly into, you'll need to rent a car to get to and around the Crystal Coast. Most travel along the Crystal Coast is done by car. If you're planning to explore a few of the towns, you'll take the main connection within the area, U.S. 70; it passes through Morehead City and down to Atlantic Beach. All of the coastal communities are relatively flat, so you can also rent bikes (or a golf cart) to get around your immediate area.
