If you love the three S’s surf, sand, and sun, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is a perfect destination for your next vacation. With multiple beach access points, picturesque views, and a variety of outdoor adventures, it is one of the most favorite places for tourists. There are many amazing things to do in this beach town. Here are the top 15 amazing things to do in Atlantic Beach NC.
Explore 15 Things To Do In Atlantic Beach NC
1. Go To The Beach
This place has many accesses to the beach. Some are Circle at Atlantic Beach, Fort Macon Inlet Access, Tom Doe Memorial Beach, The Les and Sally Moore Public Beach, and the Bathhouse. The beaches here are famous for their stunning beauty and soft white sands. Walk on the sandy shores basking in the warmth of the sun. Build sand castles with your family. Unwind yourselves indulging in activities on and off the sand.
2. Visit The Fort Macon State Park
It is one of the smallest and most-visited state parks in North Carolina. The park is centered on a historic pre-civil fort surrounded by water on three sides. The beach is ideal for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Hiking and biking trails take you through the forests and dunes. You have to share the trails with hikers, bicyclists, and pets. You can expect to see a few dolphins playing in the sea while strolling on the beach. Take a guided tour of the fort to learn about its history.
3. Walk Along The Atlantic Beach Boardwalk
The Boardwalk is a half-mile-long wooden walkway. It runs along the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the main attractions of this place It is famous for its plenty of eateries, confection shops, roaring ocean, and amusements. The amusements include The Wheel, carnival-style games, a swing carousel, and others. The restaurants on the boardwalk offer an extensive menu including Italian American cuisine, sandwiches, pasta, seafood, and many more. You can enjoy the boardwalk all year round for perfect relaxation and excitement.
4. Have Fun In Beaufort
Beaufort is a charming town in North Carolina where you can have unique fun. As it is one of the oldest cities in the state, you can expect to see beautiful beach homes dating back to the 1700s. Stroll along the town shopping for clothes, antiques, and artworks, and grabbing ice creams and drinks. Visit the Old Burying Ground which is haunting as well as beautiful. Learn about the history of the place in the North Carolina Maritime Museum and the art of shipbuilding from the Harvey Smith Watercraft Center.
5. Take a Ferry To Cape Lookout National Seashore
Climb the 207 steps of the lighthouse to admire the stunning views and look for wild horses roaming on the island. Are you traveling with your kids? If so, explore the seashore collecting shells or take a guided tour to Shackleford Banks where your kids will learn about the wild horses in detail. Check out Portsmouth Village, a busy seaport in the past. You will be fascinated by its interesting history. When planning your trip, don’t miss these exciting things to do in Atlantic Beach NC!
Read More: Weekend Getaways in NC
6. Explore The Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
With more than 5000 aquatic animals, the aquarium is a must-visit place with your family. When exploring things to do in Atlantic Beach NC, you can see the river otters play in the water and touch stingrays. The marine life includes the rare sea white turtle, critters, horseshoe crabs, and a variety of sharks including sandbar sharks, nurse sharks, and sand tiger sharks. When you step out of the aquarium, kids can enjoy the play area featuring swings, slides, climbing nets, treehouses, etc.
7. Go On a Boating Trip To Explore The Beautiful Coast
Crystal Coast in Atlantic Beach is a paradise for boaters. A boating cruise is the best way to explore the coast and its creeks and marshes. With tons of boating rentals, you will have several opportunities. You also have kayaks, paddleboards, and jet ski rentals. Choose your favorite get into the water and explore the natural beauty of the coast.
8. Cast Your Fishing Rods At The Oceanana Fishing Pier
Oceanana is the only fishing pier in Atlantic Beach. Stretching more than 1000 feet into the sea, it allows you to catch a huge variety of fish. You can buy baits, rods, and all other requirements in the pier house. Are you not a big fan of fishing? Don’t worry. Just take a leisurely walk along the coast watching the sea and the stunning view of the sun setting.
9. Enjoy Water Sports At AB Watersports Adventures
If you love water sports, you should not miss the excitement at AB Watersports Adventures. You can find all types of water sports including kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, parasailing, and many more. With more than 85 miles of coastline, surfers can have a great time riding on the waves. If you don’t love water sports, you can just hike, bike, eat, drink, and have fun.
10. Stay Entertained At The Circle
Located in the center and lined with shops, stores, restaurants, bars, and other amenities, the Circle also called the ‘Town Beach, is one of the busiest places in the Atlantic Community. The amenities include volleyball courts, a soccer field, swings, slides, and others. It is an exciting blend of sun, sand, and thrilling activities. Lifeguards are on duty the whole day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Step into the sea with your family to have endless fun. Have a picnic and relax.
11. Enjoy a Wide Range Of Activities At The Atlantic Beach Town Park
This destination is packed with vibrant activities including a splash pad, skate park, mini golf course, etc. The splash pad is a great way to cool off on hot summer days. Skateboard enthusiasts are assured of thrilling moments at Skate Park. Don’t forget to bring your skating and safety gear. If you love to play golf, you can have hours of fun in this 18-hole mini golf course. Relax in the concession stand where you can find a variety of delicious snacks and refreshments. It is one of the best things to do in Atlantic beach NC.
Read More: Things To Do In Atlantic City
12. Show Off Your Laser Tag Skills At The Battle Works
With more than 12000 square feet of indoor arena, simulated weapons, light and sound effects, and electronic weapons, Battleworks promises an immersive combat experience. It is a fabulous place to enjoy with family, friends, and office teammates. The place also offers axe-throwing facilities. Test your axe-throwing and laser tag skills.
13. Explore The Nature At The Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail
The trail is a mix of boardwalks and pavements leading you to the stunning views of the salt marsh, green landscape, waterfronts, and the estuary. You can have a peaceful time escaping from the hustles and bustles of the city. The trail is fit for hikers of all levels and abilities. So, you can have fun with your whole family. You can see the native wildlife and local ecosystems.
14. Go For An Eco-Tour
Do you want to have a glimpse of the hidden natural treasures of the region? Go for a customized eco-tour. You will love the experience of shelling, dolphin viewing, and bird watching under the guidance of experienced captains. The two-hour boat tour is a unique opportunity to learn and enjoy. Among the many things to do in Atlantic Beach, NC, this eco-tour stands out as an exceptional adventure.
15. Go Flying On a Parasail
Parasailing adventures are always awesome. You will be stunned by the birds-eye view of the region. Among the many things to do in Atlantic Beach NC, You can watch the wild horses, historic landmarks, the lighthouse, dolphins, and others from the sky. It will be an unforgettable experience in your life.
Final Words
Atlantic Beach is the favorite beach town for many. Find out why everyone falls in love with the place. If you are looking for an affordable destination to have fun, pack your bags and head to Atlantic Beach. There are countless things to do in Atlantic Beach NC.
