The Crystal Coast 

Welcome to the beautiful Crystal Coast of North Carolina.  The Crystal Coast encompasses all of Carteret County and is located in the southern region of the Outer Banks.  Here you will find miles of sandy beaches, unique shopping, exquisite dining and a vast variety of activities for all to enjoy.

The Crystal Coast includes some of the most precious "gems" in the state:

 

Beaufort

DSCN1085a.jpgBeaufort was originally inhabited by the Coree Indians, then the French Huguenots and was eventually settled by the British in 1709.  Built on the site of the Indian Village, "Warelock" (meaning fish town), it was known as "Fishtowne" until it was incorporated in 1722.  Beaufort is North Carolina's third oldest town.

Robert Turner held the original 200 acre land grant.  In 1713, he had the land surveyed and laid out the plan for Beaufort Towne.  The present street names reflect the early plan.  The town was named for Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort, Robert Turner's friend.

Beaufort became an active seaport which connected wich connected to the other seaports, but it's geography kept it isolated from the interior of the state.  Beaufort's issolation has been a blessing because it has helped Beaufort maintain its historic charm and appearance.  Still standing today are many homes that are over 200 years old.  The old Beaufort Towne plan survives in a 12-block area that is designated as the Beaufort Historic District.  The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Time seems to stand still here.  As you walk along the tree-lined streets you will be swept back to a simpler life and will immediately find a relaxed pace.  Take time to notice the scenery and the architecture of this quaint town.  Stroll the waterfront and enjpy watching the boats on Taylor's Creek, shopping and dining.  Keep an eye out, you might catch a glimpse of the wild horses that live on Carrot Island or the dolphin playing in Taylor's Creek.  Step back in time when you visit the Historic Site and Old Burying Ground.

 

Morehead City

Morehead0.JPGIn the 1850's, a group of investors purchased 600 acres which is now Morehead City.  Governor John Morehead was a principal member of this group and the town was named after him.  The town was incorporated in 1860.  The construction of the Atlantic Hotel in the 1880's established Morehead City as a summer destination.

In the 1880's and 1890's, the fisherman that lived in Diamond City on Shackleford Banks moved their homes by floating them on boats to Morehead City and an area that they called Promise Land.  These fisherman became the center of the fishing industry that is still a major part of the Morehead City economy.

Morehead City has became well known for its charter fishing fleet.  Visitors can stroll along the waterfront and watch the fleet come in with its catch.  Morehead City's restaurants boast the freshest seafood around.

Morehead City is host to 2 large events, the annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and the annual NC Seafood Festival.  Morehead City is also home to one of the two NC State Ports. 

Atlantic Beach

The resort town of Atlantic Beach traces its beginnings to the end of the 19th century.  In 1887, a bathing pavilion was built on Bogue Banks.  It quickly became a popular destination for guest of the Atlantic Hotel in Morehead City, who wanted to bathe in the ocean.

In the 1920's, a new resort, complete with bathing pavilions and a dance hall, was developed and a bridge across Bogue Sound was built.  The new area could now be accessed by motor car and prospered for some years until a decline guring the Great Depression.

During the 1930's the track of land surrounding the "circle" was platted with lots and streets laid out.  The first cottage in Atlantic Beach was built in 1932.

Watch waves lap on the sand and the kids playing in the ocean.  Enjoy the local shopping and restaurants.  Fort macon is a must see.

 

Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle was originally settled by Native Americans but remained largely uninhabited until the 1950's when a group of developers purchased the land from mrs. Anita Fort Maulik for the purchase price of $350,000. This was the largest purchase price ever recorded in Carteret County at the time.  The developers enlisted the assistance of a consultant, who suggested the name Emerald Isle after being flown over the land.

Emerald Isle has become known as "The Family Beach".  Because of its warm hospitality and charm, it has become a family vacation tradaition for many.

Emerald Isle host an annual Saint Patrick's Festival in March which has become one of the Crystal Coast's biggest and best spring events.  The event features food arts and craft vendors, an 8K Road Race, and music.  This is the perfect way to usher in Spring. Don't miss it.

 

Down East

The "original" Down East begins at Bettie when you cross the North River bridge.  Down East includes the communities of Atlantic, Bettie, Cedar Island, Davis, Gloucester, Harkers Island, Lola, Marshallberg, Otway, Sea Level, Smyrna, Stacy, Straits, and Williston,  Each of these communities is unique and rich with its maritime heritage.  The water is a way of life here and boat building, net making, fish houses, and decoy carving all play a part.

Harkers Island is home to the Cape Lookout National Seashores Visitior Center which provides visitors with information on the area's natural resources and coastal wildlife.  Local ferries take visitors to Cape Lookout for sightseeing, fishing, shelling, and camping.

The Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild was formed in 1987 as a way to honor the craft and recognize the art of decoy carving.  The annual Core Sound Decoy Festival is held on Harkers Island the first weekend of December.  It is the lagest off season event in the county and the perfect reason to visit the Crystal Coast during the winter.

Newport

Newport is known as 'the town with old fashion courtesy." Newport was granted a charter from the state of  North Carolina on January 30, 1866.  However, the towns history dates back 150 years prior to that. At one time the area was known as Shepardville, named after a large land owner of the day. The Newport river was the highway in which early settlers traveled to the area. Today, Newport is a warm and friendly town within a short distance of Morehead City and Cherry Point.  It is a town that people call one another by name.  It is the type of place that you like to call home.