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2025 Activities Guide

Rock On Charters promises you the “best fishing experience you’ll have in the South.“  Rock On’s Marc Kerns, a US Coast Guard approved captain, has been fishing the Outer Banks’ waters most of his life, and...

Even experienced anglers can use a hand navigating the waters of the Cape Fear Coastline, and Rod-Man Charters offers a unique take on the traditional charter fishing experience by having the expert guide come to you. With fishing trips commandeered...

The tri-villages have a little of everything, from ice cream shops to restaurants, watersports lessons to soundfront bistros, and the northernmost town, Rodanthe, even has the distinction to being home to one of the island's only two operating piers.

Rodanthe Watersports & Campground is a hub for outdoor activities. The whole family will enjoy taking advantage of a host of lessons and rentals including jet skis, wave runners, sailboats, kayaks, body boards, surfboards, beach chairs...

Discover a new hobby that will last long after an Outer Banks vacation is over, or foster a love of quilting with unique fabrics and patterns that can’t be found anywhere else, with a visit to this colorful and charming shopping destination in...

Create an on-the-water memory that you and your family won’t soon forget with an adventure that’s helmed by Safari Dolphin Tours. This local Outer Banks boat tour company offers an array of experiences and literally goes the extra mile...

Looking for a private sail charter? Call the folks at Sail Outer Banks. They offer a variety of year-round trips with low minimum fees to make it within reach of many folk. Dan and Katherine are your crew. Dan is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain...

Sail the Outer Banks (formerly Outer Banks Sailing Academy) offers professional sailing instruction operating under the standards of the American Sailing Association. They offer lessons in Kill Devil Hills. The Academy presents an array of classes...

Enjoy a view of Downtown Wilmington from the middle of the Cape Fear River with a sailing tour provided by Sail Wilmington NC. This friendly sailing tour company allows visitors to catch an in-depth perspective of Wilmington the way it deserves to...

Sal's Pizza sells New York style pizza by the slice, whole pizza pies, hot Italian subs and hearty pasta dishes. 

Visitors who are strolling along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk can enjoy a colorful break from the sun and sand by stepping into the vibrantly inviting Saltwater Surf Art Gallery. Featuring a wealth of distinctively beach-themed artworks, this cool...

Experience North Carolina wines while on the Outer Banks. Sanctuary Vineyards, located next to the Cotton Gin in both Jarvisburg and Corolla offers an opportunity for wine tasting and enjoyment. Experience local wines and beers and learn about North...

Swansboro, Cape Carteret, and even Emerald Isle vacationers don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fully-engaging fishing expedition or eco tour, thanks to the locally acclaimed Sandbar Safari. Located on the edge of the water in the small...

Located in the sunny town of Sunset Beach, and just 20 minutes or so north from the Grand Strand, Sandpiper Bay Golf and Country Club is home to three classic 9-hole Carolina golf courses – the Sand Course, the Piper course, and the Bay course...

Offshore fishing the glorious Outer Bans waters!

Under an awning of cypress trees, the gravel Secondary Road 1500 in Bertie County meets the edge of the Cashie River at a wooden gate with a rusted sign: ''Blow Horn for Ferry.''

The town of Wilmington is well-known for its Hollywood connection, and has set the stage for hundreds if not thousands of movies and television shows over the past few decades. The pinnacle of this cinematic activity can be found at the local EUE...

Climb aboard one of the largest boats in Hatteras Harbor Marina for an adventure that you and your fishing crew will never forget. Sea Creature Sportfishing brings decades of fishing experience to the table with every trip, and launches from the tip...

Enjoy a comfortable stay without ever leaving the heart of the Crystal Coast at this marina which has a host of amenities for both short-term and long-term mariners. The Sea Gate Marina features 70 rental slips, (which includes a number of transient...

Sea Scape Golf Links is a course that you will not soon forget. Located one block from the ocean, this beautiful course offers great scenery that guarantees a memorable morning on the course. The course offers both Twilight (over 12 years old...

The Maples Course is one of three distinctive golf courses that are found in the sprawling Sea Trail Plantation -  a resort community that offers vacation rental accommodations, year-round properties, conference accommodations, and of course...

Budding biologists with an inherent curiosity about their coastal surroundings will have a blast at Wilmington’s own Sea Turtle Camp – an enriching summer camp program for teens to learn more about these beautiful creatures, as well as...

Pelagic bird watching trips for the birding enthusiast. 

Anglers can enjoy a fishing trip that’s led by a local expert with a half-day or full-day charter provided by Seagate Charters. This local charter business that’s based out of Wilmington is commandeered by Captain Jamie Rushing – a...

Vacationers who want a friendly, safe and effective means of learning to ride the waves can sign up for a lesson with Sean's Private Surf Instruction. Operating under the unique philosophy of having one instructor per student, these local...

Enjoy the Crystal Coast region from a while new perspective, thanks to the array of tours and expeditions that are provided by Seavisions Charters. With tons of on-the-water territory to explore, visitors will just be a shell’s throw away from...

The SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is a casual little spot that has a definitive coastal vibe and a hearty menu that’s seemingly designed to appeal to salty appetites. Found just a block away from the oceanfront, and bordered by palm trees, this...

One of the oldest authentic surf shops on the Outer Banks, Secret Spot has been surfer-owned at the same location since the early 1980s.  Store founder Steve Hess started board shaping in 1971, and his world-renowned boards have been ridden by...

Embark on an incredible exploration of the offshore waters of the Crystal Coast with a fishing trip that’s orchestrated by the well-named Sensation Sportfishing Charters. Based out of Morehead City, which is just miles away from the honey...

The Shackleford Banks is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, and is a barrier island system that is found just off the coast of Beaufort and Harkers Island, and which is a popular offshore beaching destination for summertime Crystal Coast...

Shackleford Banks Shelling & Wild Horse Expedition offers guests a chance to explore the best of nature on the Cape Lookout National Seashore.Board a ferry for a short, enjoyable road to the shore. Then spend a few hours viewing and tracking the...

Shallotte River Swamp Park is an all-encompassing destination for outdoor lovers to whet their appetite for adventure via a number of wild adventures. Featuring a Zipline Tour course, an Aerial Adventure Park, and Swamp Boat Eco-Tours, this park...

Shamrock Sailing offers cruises on a classic 42 ft. Sparkman & Stephens yawl. With a six passenger maximum per cruise, this is a spectacular way to see the waterways, barrier islands, and marine life surrounding Wrightsville Beach. Ginger ale...

If you are looking for something more exciting than sitting on the beach, why not try fishing in the world renowned waters off the Outer Banks? Sharky’s Fishing Charters offers offshore, inshore, and sound fishing for every angler, regardless...

Let the kids enjoy a day off the beach while still having a blast with a visit to Morehead City’s Shevans Park. Found within a city block that’s just west of the heart of the downtown area, this kid-friendly park has plenty of room to...

Boasting an incredible location surrounded by water, and an arsenal of amenities just waiting to be enjoyed by vacationers, the Shoals Club is easily one of the most unique and accommodating community clubs on Bald Head Island. With fun and active...

Explore the stunning inshore and nearshore waters of the Crystal Coast with an expertly commandeered charter trip or boat tour with Shore 2 Sound Adventures. Based in the small coastal town of Swansboro, and guided by Capt. Tyler Vanhoy, visitors...

Silver Dollar is a fine representation of what makes “Pleasure Island” a popular destination for the after-hours crowd. Located along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and sandwiched in between a couple of cool bars, restaurants, and shops...

You've been wanting to do it, so you might as well take the leap! Skydive OBX operates from the Dare County Regional Airport on Roanoke Island. They have experienced skydivers and a licensed pilot to guide you through your first – or more...

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of outdoor and indoor tables and...

Take a step back in time and discover the stories behind North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse with a visit to the Smith Island Museum of History. Located in a replica of an 1850’s lighthouse keeper’s cottage, and featuring a...

Situated on the edge of the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway, and located just a quick cruise away from the Atlantic Ocean, Snow’s Cut Park is a popular destination for anglers, birdwatchers, and anyone who appreciates a stunning...

Spend a day with family and friends on the beautiful Croatan Sound as Captain John Silver takes you to his backyard fishing grounds. You'll catch shrimp and crabs and create memories that will last a lifetime. Plus, you get to keep what you catch...

The Somerset Place story officially began in 1785, when Josiah Collins I, Nathaniel Allen, and Dr. Samuel Dickinson, three NC residents and co-owners of the Lake Company, purchased 100,000 acres of overgrown and swampy land adjacent to Lake Phelps...

From wet suits and body boards, to Stand-up paddle board (SUP) or surfing lessons, the iconic South End Surf Shop has everything a vacationer needs to go out and enjoy those pristine Atlantic waves. Located in a historic brick building in the heart...

More than 120 coastal communities oppose offshore drilling- the coast has spoken, and we are determined more than ever to protect our coast. Communities, elected leaders, and impacted businesses and residents along the Southeast spoke out strongly...

More than 120 coastal communities oppose offshore drilling- the coast has spoken, and we are determined more than ever to protect our coast. Communities, elected leaders, and impacted businesses and residents along the Southeast spoke out strongly...

More than 120 coastal communities oppose offshore drilling- the coast has spoken, and we are determined more than ever to protect our coast. Communities, elected leaders, and impacted businesses and residents along the Southeast spoke out strongly...

Cape Fear beach vacationers will be just minutes away from exceptional fishing, or from learning how to find and tackle the big catches, with a fishing trip provided by Southern Sport Fishing. Under the guidance of Capt. Andy Everhart, an...

Southport Boat Rentals offers half day, full day, and multi day rentals of their 21' Carolina Skiff 21 DLVs. These skiffs are rated at 14 passengers, but Southport Boat Rentals recommends up to 10 adults for comfort. The boats feature GPS units...

Visitors who want to enjoy an in-depth tour of Southport, but who want to hear all the stories that are attached to the historic buildings and waterfront, (and who’d prefer not to embark on miles of walking), can sign up for a friendly...

The Old Brunswick County Jail is a favorite stop along any historic Downtown Southport walking tour, as the early 1900s structure is chock-full of stories which span from its stately brick architecture to its original sprinklings of graffiti, still...

Southport Visitors who want to extend their in-town explorations to the waterfront borders and beyond can sign up for sailing lesson, stand-up paddle board (SUP) lesson or rental, or even a “Yoga on the Water” class through Southport...

The Historic Riverwalk in Downtown Southport will quickly introduce newcomers to the waterfront scene in this coastal community, and will surely instill a newfound appreciation and overall enthrallment with this scenic laid-back region.

Come explore the brackish waters of the OBX while on vacation in Carova or any of the other northern beachs. Specializing in targeting a large variety of brackish water fish like rock fish, flounder, trout, puppy drum, large mouth bass and much...

With classes, equipment, personal trainers, and an Olympic size swimming pool, Sports Center in Morehead is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for fitness fans from all across the Crystal Coast region. Situated in the heart of Morehead...

Downtown Wilmington and history go hand-in-hand which is why Springbrook Farms Horsedrawn Tours, a tour company that uses a horse-drawn carriage to carry visitors around town, seems to fit right into the local scene. Breezing past the waterfront...

Springer's Point is a gorgeous nature preserve with a legendary past. Populated for centuries, and open to the public, this small parcel of Ocracoke Island is one of the last undeveloped sections of land on the island, and thanks to extensive...

The Stanback Coastal Education Center is one of the newest landmarks in Wrightsville Beach, and is an all-encompassing station for preserving the local history and ecology for future generations. Boating a facility that doubles as an office for the...

New Bern is one of coastal North Carolina’s many towns that is arguably best explored from an on-the-water perspective, and adventurous visitors and locals can find everything they need for an upcoming excursion at Stand Up Outfitters...

Garden fans and everyday explorers alike will love discovering the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Garden – a hidden gem that’s found in the busy heart of central Wilmington. Located along Independence Blvd., and close to both Downtown...

The Star Hill Golf Club is found in the small community of Cape Carteret, just across the bridge to Emerald Isle, and is renowned as one of the oldest and most established golf courses along the Crystal Coast. Opened in 1967, the club features 27...

Explore the scenic waters of natural New Bern with an adventure that is orchestrated by Stillwater Kayaks. Located at the beautiful Northwest Creek marina, which is next to The Resort at Fairfield Harbor, this adventure company provides...

From jet skis to stand-up paddleboards, there are lots of ways to have fun and fully enjoy the waters of the Outer Banks with Stoke Dispensary. Based in Kitty Hawk but able to provide adventures throughout the OBX from Duck to Nags Head, this...

Fudge, ice cream and fun, creative activities!

A fun, creative stop for family and folks of all ages.

Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and even Holden Beach vacationers can embark on a detailed exploration of all the wild on-the-water regions that the Cape Fear area is known for with an adventure that’s launched with Summertide Adventure Tours...

From Jeeps that can tackle the soft shorelines of Carolina Beach’s Freeman Park to Searay boat rentals that allow visitors to explore the coastline in style, there’s a lot of adventure to launch from Sunfun Rentals. Specializing in...

Everyone wants to remember their family vacation, wedding or special event on the Outer Banks and there is no better way to do that than with a photo. Sunportraits owner and photographer Todd Hale offers the best in professional photography and will...

Take off on an expedition that cruises to the deep waters where the big catches can be found with a fishing trip that’s guided by Sunrise II Fishing Charters. Owned and operated by Capt. Daniel Brisson – a local angler who knows how to...

We surf, we SUP, and we love healthy stuff! Join us at Wrighsville Beach’s hottest spot for cooling off with your favorite organic juice, superfood smoothies, cold press juice cleanses, acai and pitaya bowls, and frozen yogurt. We also offer...

Enjoy a completely unique tour of Southport in one of the most creative and souped-up golf carts on the island with an exploration that’s guided by Surf Tours of Southport. This cool company features area-wide tours that cover the downtown and...

The small town of Swansboro is surrounded by wide, calm waters, which makes it a perfect destination for tackling a new kayak, paddle boarding, or boating adventure through Swansboro Paddle Boarding. Conveniently located on the very edge of the...

At Sweetwater Surf School, whether you have never surfed before or if you just want to improve your skills, we have the coaching that will get you there.We keep our camp numbers small to maintain social distancing. Our beginner/intermediate camps...

Indian Town Gallery is a Mecca for art, gifts, crafts and creativity! 

Take a break from the sun, or cure a case of late-night boredom, with a stop at one of the coolest dive bars in town, the Tackle Box Tavern. Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach along The Circle, this understated little bar is just steps away from...

Sample the heart of Wilmington’s famed culinary scene with this tour that will make your taste buds celebrate a downtown exploration. The Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours is specifically catered for foodies, and provides a community-wide...

Imagine a Pleasure Island exploration that uses all of your senses to soak up the local beach scene. This is exactly what’s in store with a fantastically tempting exploration provided by Tasting History Tours. Located in the heart of Carolina...

Sitting at the closest point to the Gulf Stream north of Florida, Teach’s Lair Marina is an ideal destination for a successful and memorable fishing experience. Teach’s is a full-service marina in south Hatteras Village that advertises...

For an incredible offshore fishing trip that departs from the heart of Emerald Isle, turn to locally owned and operated Teezher Charters. This local charter business that specializes in light tackle live bait fishing, bottom fishing, and Gulf Stream...