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2026 Activities Guide

Pier 14 is a beloved oceanfront destination that blends the classic charm of a fishing pier with the vibrant energy of the Grand Strand. Stretching gracefully over the Atlantic Ocean just off North Ocean Boulevard, this scenic pier offers a variety...

Enjoy the best activities that Cape Fear region has to offer – from sunning at the local beaches to sneaking in a quick 18 holes – with a visit to the Beau Rivage Golf & Resort. Located along US Highway 421, and close to both the...

Lazy Pirate Sports Grill is open four days a week, serving up great food, refreshing drinks, and nonstop entertainment in a relaxed, family-friendly sports bar atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for our famous All You Can Eat Crab Legs...

The USS Battleship North Carolina is an unmistakable site in Downtown Wilmington. Taking up a large portion of the waterfront docks, this historic World War II moveable landmark is a must-see for Cape Fear vacationers.

Mount Pleasant Pier and Waterfront Park offer a stunning and serene escape that blends Lowcountry beauty with inviting public space and panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor. Located beneath the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, this picturesque...

Corolla Adventure Golf is Corolla’s newest attraction! The 27-hole Corolla-themed mni-golf course offers challenging play for all ages. The Bumper Cars put a smile on everyone’s face whether you are watching from the side lines or...

Game on Escape Rooms offers physical adventure games in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints and strategy to complete the objectives at hand. These experiences are great for ages 10 and up. Two different escape...

The 2nd Avenue Pier is a historic and beloved oceanfront landmark that offers a quintessential slice of coastal life right in the heart of the city. Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean from the south end of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, this...

Apache Pier is one of the most iconic and well-loved fishing piers on the Grand Strand. Known for being the longest wooden pier on the East Coast, it stretches far out over the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a classic coastal experience steeped...

Happy Days scenic tours allows you to view everything the Beaufort waterfront has to offer! This includes everything from fishing vessels, historic landmarks, local shops, salt marshes and a variety of wildlife - including the famous wild horses!

Greenfield Lake Park is known as one of Wilmington’s coolest and most scenic destinations, and is a vast public park that’s located just south of the historic downtown area. Located on the western edge of Greenfield Lake, and just a...

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head offers fishing and fun for the entire family! Go fishing, take a family fishing class or simply walk out to the end of this 1,000-foot-long, concrete ocean pier.

Ask any crowd of visiting kiteboarders about Kite Point, and they'll readily give you exact directions to this unmarked but internationally renowned soundside beach. Located in between Avon and Buxton villages abutting the Pamlico Sound, Kite Point...

The Carolina Beach Pier, technically (formerly) known as the "Carolina Beach Fishing Pier Northern Extension" is a great place to grab a cocktail or bite to eat. Please note the pier suffered storm damage and is mostly closed for the time being.

The fishing pier and arcade in Ocean Isle Beach is a favorite local attraction that is hard to miss. Located at the very end of Causeway Drive, the only route on and off the island, the pier is visible from virtually every stretch of beach along...

Visitors can cast off for some exceptional fishing, while enjoying a bit of local history, with a visit to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier. Family owned and operated since it was first built, this unmistakable beach landmark is a fantastic destination...

Foliage fans and gardening enthusiasts from all over the country will love a day trip to the Elizabethan Gardens. Tucked away in Manteo within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, this 10 acre Roanoke soundfront locale is home to hundreds of...

Visitors can enjoy a quiet view of the Calico Bay and Newport River from this refreshingly secluded spot that’s tucked away on the outskirts of the downtown Morehead City area. Conchs Point is a public water access point, but it also has a ton...

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...

Halyburton Memorial Park is a perfect respite for visitors who want to take a break from the busy Downtown Wilmington shopping, dining and attractions, and just relax amidst the natural ponds and unique rolling sand hills, and watch the wildlife...

The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport is one of three maritime museums sponsored by the state that lies along the eastern portion of NC. The Southport branch focuses on the maritime history of the lower Cape Fear River, and contains a...

While the oceanfront of the Outer Banks gets plenty of morning glory, those in the know head soundside when sunset approaches. Located at Milepost 16 on the Roanoke Sound, The Soundside Event Site in Nags Head has transitioned from a wide-open...

Located on the edge of the Bulkhead Channel which leads to the Back Sound, the Radio Island Beach Access is a unique and wonderfully convenient beach destination for both Morehead City and Beaufort visitors.

**The Cape Fear Museum is temporairily closed while it moves to a new location at 230 Grace St. downtown Wilmington. Opening Summer 2026! The Cape Fear Museum, (shorthand for the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science), has been educating and...

Just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, the town of Belville has quietly cultivated one of the region's finest hidden gems for nature lovers and community gatherings. Situated directly opposite the western banks of Eagles Island on the...

Visitors can celebrate Wilmington's deep-rooted history in trade with a visit to the historic Cotton Exchange. The complex of eight buildings features over 30 shops and restaurants that are worthy of exploration, and will provide an enjoyable...

Renowned as a small but substantial piece of Southport’s history that was almost lost in the wake of 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, the Southport City Dock reopened to grand acclaim in the 2021, and has regained its reputation as a popular...

Regardless of whether visitors are exploring the Beaufort Old Burying Ground via one of the area’s in-depth and fascinating tours, or simply passing by on a self-guided expedition of the historic Downtown area, the site is certainly worth a...

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, the Cameron Art Museum has grown over the past five decades into one of coastal North Carolina's premier collections of regional, national and international art, filling virtually every corner of its gallery...

The northernmost coastal region of Carolina Beach is home to the Freeman Park Recreation Area, a stretch of shoreline that is well known to adventurous, beach-loving 4WD truck owners. Unlike other stretches of the barrier islands off the coast of...

Any experienced visitor will attest that one of the best things about the North Carolina coastline is the fishing, and the Johnnie Mercer's Pier is a prime locale for Wrightsville Beach visitors to tackle the exceptional saltwater fishing conditions...

Anglers from all regions love cruising over to the Ocean Crest Pier, the only privately owned and operated pier on Oak Island, and one of the best venues for great fishing, tournaments, and taking in the scene. Voted the #1 fishing pier in North...

Fort Anderson, also known as Brunswick Town, is the historic site of the first permanent settlement in the Cape Fear area. Established nearly 300 years ago in 1726, and destroyed just a few decades later by British Soldiers during the start of the...

The small but well-stocked Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is a charming little attraction that may not take very long to explore, but nevertheless presents a complete and fascinating portrait of this surprisingly long-standing beach town.

The John Wright Stanly House is a unique stop along a historic New Bern exploration, and is a stately 1780s home that was designed by the same architect who created Tryon Palace, found just a block or two away.

One of Kure Beach’s newest pubic parks is already becoming one of its most popular, thanks to a prime location along the oceanfront, and a host of concerts, shows, and special events that have all been held within its borders. The Kure Beach...

With Wilmington's distinguished history as a thriving port community, few folks recognize at first that part of this reputation stemmed from its legacy as a bustling railroad center. In fact, for well over 125 years, railroading was the top industry...

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is the place to go for family-oriented or even late-night fun after a sunny day on the beach. Noted as one of the top 10 boardwalks in America by Food & Wine magazine, this classic oceanside boardwalk features a...

The North Carolina History Center, which is part of the extensive Tryon Palace, is a new 65 million dollar complex which transports visitors back in time to explore New Bern’s more than 300 years of local history.

E-BIKE TOURS — An Experience For All Levels! Our goal is to make you feel like a local as you explore all Wilmington has to offer. If you’re looking to check out some of the best breweries in town, visit unique neighborhoods, and take in...

Beer, Cocktails, Family. Providing an inviting environment for friends and family to get together and build memories. Our mission at 34° North of Cedar Point is to provide you with the best bar experience Coastal Carolina has to offer. We have a...

Live entertainment venue bringing a variety of bands, comedians, and acts to the Crystal Coast!

There are literally endless ways to enjoy the water along the Crystal Coast, and AB Watersport Adventures has you covered. Evplore the beautiful waters of the intercoatal waterways on one of our Jet Skis. For a more educational adventure we offer a...

Many visitors coming to the Outer Banks from the west or the south have most likely spent a chunk of their journey driving right through the refuge, and unless they noticed the small brown signs along the way, may not have even noticed it. The...

From visitors who want to launch on a deep sea or Bogue Sound fishing adventure, to mariners who want to enjoy an on-shore break exploring the sites and attractions of the Crystal Coast, the Anchorage Marina has a lot to offer. Located close to the...

An Italian and American restaurant with a huge recreation room including pool tables. 

Visiting scuba pros who want to explore the ledges and historic wrecks that are found off the Cape Fear coastline, and local scuba newbies who want to take the plunge and learn the trade, can accomplish both of these goals and more with a visit to...

Morehead City visitors can enjoy a decadently elite and intimate bar atmosphere without ever venturing outside the downtown area with a visit to the Arendell Room. This posh little bar that’s found just off of Arendell and South 8thStreets is...

Arrowhead Park is a fun destination for Wilmington locals and visitors alike to take a break from the waves, and dive into a little outdoor entertainment outside the waterfront realm. Located just south of the heart of the Wilmington, and easy to...

Located in a charming but unimposing brick building in the heart of downtown Morehead City, the Arts Council of Carteret County is the region’s premier resource for discovering a wealth of local talents that call the Crystal Coast home.  

Explore some of the remarkable sites that the Graveyard of the Atlantic is known for through this local diving company that allows Morehead City and Crystal Coast scuba divers access to one of the most infamous shipwreck-havens in the world. Easy to...

Trust the expertise of one of the oldest surf shops on the Crystal Coast, and head to Atlantic Beach Surf Shop for all your required beach gear. From surfboard and stand-up paddle board rentals to literally cool attire for warm summer days, this...

Atlantic Dance has been teaching kids dance on the Outer Banks since 1995. Atlantic Dance offers classes in tap, jazz, hip hop and lyrical with a primary concentration in classical ballet. At Atlantic Dance, little girls learn grace and achieve...

Both divers and anglers can get onboard for a wild adventure on the water through Atlantis Charters – a local Atlantic Beach charter company that’s distinctive for its pink fishing vessel, the “Atlantis IV.” On this...

The Attmore-Oliver House is a unique destination on a historic Downtown New Bern walking tour, and is a stately 1790 home that has been transformed into a small museum, as well as the home base of the New Bern Historical Society administrative...

Wrightsville Beach has a dedicated local and visiting surfing community, and newcomers or old pros who need to upgrade their equipment and gear can make an easy stop at Aussie Island Surf Shop. Located on Lumina Avenue, just off the Channel Bridge...

Avalon Fishing Pier offers everything you need for a long, enjoyable day (or night!) of fishing. First built in 1958, Avalon Fishing Pier is about 700 feet long, stretching out to the Atlantic Ocean over 12 to 15 feet of water.  Located at...

Aviation Park in Kill Devil Hills offers a fun, active retreat from the beach for everyone in the family. The town park offers a playground, ball field, frog pond, fitness trail, roller hockey rink and the very popular Aviation Skatepark.

The Avon Fishing Pier is a Hatteras Island landmark, attracting fishermen from all over the country who want to try their luck at reeling in one of the notoriously large red drums that make seasonal appearances.

Inside, the Aycock Brown Welcome Center is a treasure trove of area information, and visitors will find hundreds of pamphlets on local attractions and activities, area menus, vacation rental and real estate catalogs, and local guide books. In...

Commune with nature and take photos of the pristine Outer Banks!

History and good times combine at the Backstreet Pub – a cool and almost hidden little pub in the heart of Downtown Beaufort that’s tucked away behind the equally iconic Clawson’s Restaurant. Well-named for its subtle location on...

Bald Head Historic Island Tours works in conjunction with the Old Baldy Foundation to introduce Cape Fear vacationers to the historic Bald Head Island, or “Old Baldy” lighthouse. Located on a 10-acre site on the secluded Bald Head...

The Bald Head Island Club is an elite introduction to all the finer things that this small island community has to offer. Comprising of a championship 18-hole golf course, fine dining options, tennis and fitness facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere...

There's a reason why the wild terrain of Bald Head Island and its surrounding islands remains distinctively wild, and the primary responsibility of retaining this native nature is in the hands of the local Bald Head Island Conservancy. Overseeing a...

Take a trip back in time and embark on an exploration of one of the East Coast’s oldest lighthouses with a visit to “Old Baldy,” or more formally, the Bald Head Island Lighthouse. Located on the western heart of Bald Head Island...

A tempting spot for both art lovers and history buffs, the Bank of the Arts is an eye-catching site in downtown New Bern that’s as renowned for its impressive façade as it is for its wealth of ever-changing attractions and activities.

Speakeasy themed craft cocktail & Bourbon bar located in Emerald Isle, NC.

Barrier Island Aviation offers scenic biplane rides, cessna air tours and charters. For those who wish to take the controls, they offer flight instruction and an FAA-approved flight simulator. Tour options include Roanoke Island, Historic Manteo...

Battle House is a mission-based laser tag center that takes the traditional laser tag game to the next level. Suitable for adults and older kids, as well as private and corporate parties, the facilities feature 10,000 square feet of...

From beach umbrellas to beach-worthy bicycles, visitors can load up on everything they need with a quick visit to Beach Wheels Bike Rentals. Boasting a catchy motto of “Different Spokes for Different Folks,” and voted “Favorite...

Cruise through the Crystal Coast shoreline in style with a stop at Beachside Bikes. Offering a wealth of scooters and bike rides for the beach, this all-encompassing bike shop is the perfect destination to pick up a rental, (or a nice bike to take...

Enjoy a sumptuous morning or afternoon of fresh goodies, beautiful jewelry, and plenty of happy crafting at this enticing shop that offers an array of ways to have fun. Beads & Beans OBX is the ultimate destination for good coffee drinks, baked...

Bear Towne Escape Room offers three fun, themed escape room experiences in New Bern. Bear Towne's escape rooms are perfect for family, friends, corporate team building and date nights. The more your team communicates and works together, the closer...

From our Championship Golf Course and Clubhouse to The Pavilion with a resort-style pool, playground, volleyball court and gathering spaces, Beaufort Club offers resort living at its best. Couple that with nearby boutique shops and restaurants on...

Beaufort has distinctly regal roots, so it should come as no surprise that one of its most popular local tours is the English-style Double-Decker Bus Tour. Operated in conjunction with the Beaufort Historic Site, these tours take visitors back in...

There's a reason why Beaufort earned the title of the "Coolest Small Town in the USA" by national publication Budget Travel Magazine, and one of the driving forces behind this honor is Beaufort's dedicated preservation of its history, orchestrated...

Beaufort is a community that’s best explored from the water, and paddlers of all skill levels can find an adventure or two in store through Beaufort Paddle. Located in between the towns of Beaufort and Morehead City, and conveniently found...

Beaufort Parasail offers parasailing adventures above the Crystal Coast. See the shoreline of Shackleford Banks and Carrot Island, aerial views of historic landmarks like Cape Lookout lighthouse and Fort Macon National Park, and observe marine life...