North Carolina East Coast Map
North Carolina’s East Coast is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone. From stunning beaches to historic landmarks, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this part of the state. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, and much more.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in the East Coast is the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk. This site commemorates the first successful powered flight by the Wright Brothers in 1903. Another must-see attraction is the Battleship North Carolina, which is moored in Wilmington and offers a glimpse into the state’s military history.
Other popular attractions include the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, the historic town of New Bern, and the Cape Lookout National Seashore, which is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for some hidden gems to explore, be sure to check out the Rachel Carson Reserve in Beaufort. This protected area is home to a variety of wildlife and offers stunning views of the surrounding marshes and waterways. Another hidden gem is the Hammocks Beach State Park, which is only accessible by ferry and offers a secluded beach experience.
Food Scene
North Carolina’s East Coast is known for its delicious seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants that serve up fresh catches from the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to try the shrimp and grits at Chef and the Farmer in Kinston or the oysters at the St. James Seafood Restaurant in Wilmington. Other notable restaurants include Beaufort Grocery Company and The Red Fish Grill in Morehead City.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, the East Coast has plenty to offer. Go kayaking in the Croatan National Forest, hike the trails at the Fort Macon State Park, or go fishing in the Cape Fear River. For a unique experience, take a horseback ride on the beach with Cedar Island Stables.
Historical Landmarks
The East Coast is rich in history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. Visit the Tryon Palace in New Bern, which served as the first permanent capitol of North Carolina. Another must-see is the Beaufort Historic Site, which includes several historic homes and buildings dating back to the 1700s.
Family-Friendly Activities
The East Coast is a great place to visit with kids. Take a ferry to Shackleford Banks to see the wild horses that roam the island, or visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort to learn about the state’s maritime history. Other family-friendly activities include mini-golf at Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway in Salter Path or a visit to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider visiting the Aurora Fossil Museum in Aurora. This unique museum allows visitors to hunt for fossils in nearby pits and learn about the geology of the area. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is a visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center in Harkers Island, which celebrates the area’s rich waterfowl hunting traditions.
Natural Wonders
The East Coast is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the state. Take a hike to the top of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse for stunning views of the surrounding scenery, or visit the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge to see black bears and red wolves in their natural habitat. The Rachel Carson Reserve is also a great place to see a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for some nightlife, the East Coast has plenty to offer. Visit the Front Street Brewery in Wilmington for craft beer and live music, or stop by the Black Sheep in Jacksonville for great food and cocktails. Other notable nightlife spots include the Emerald Club in Greenville and the City Laundry in New Bern.
Local Markets
The East Coast is home to many local markets and festivals that celebrate the region’s culture and traditions. Visit the Beaufort Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts, or check out the Swansboro Arts by the Sea festival for local art and music. Other notable markets include the Riverfront Farmers Market in Wilmington and the Morehead City Waterfront Market.
Beaches and Mountains
The East Coast offers both beautiful beaches and stunning mountain scenery. Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking and breathtaking views, or head to the Outer Banks for some of the best beaches in the state. Other notable beaches include Atlantic Beach and Topsail Beach.
Cultural Immersion
The East Coast is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the African American Heritage Trail in New Bern to learn about the area’s African American history, or attend the Carolina Kite Festival in Atlantic Beach for a unique cultural experience. Other notable cultural events include the North Carolina Seafood Festival in Morehead City and the MumFest in New Bern.
Art and Music Scene
The East Coast is home to a thriving art and music scene. Visit the Tryon Palace in New Bern for art exhibits and live music performances, or check out the Bellamy Mansion Museum in Wilmington for a look at the region’s architectural history. Other notable art and music venues include the North Carolina Symphony in Raleigh and the Whirligig Park in Wilson.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the East Coast is on foot. Take a walking tour of historic downtown New Bern to see the city’s beautiful architecture, or explore the Wilmington Riverwalk for stunning views of the Cape Fear River. Other notable walking tours include the Beaufort Historic District Walking Tour and the Kinston Civil Rights Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
The East Coast is home to many architectural marvels, including the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, which is the largest privately owned home in the United States. Other notable architectural landmarks include the Tryon Palace in New Bern, the Bellamy Mansion Museum in Wilmington, and the Duke Chapel in Durham.
Historical Sites
The East Coast is rich in history, and there are many historical sites to explore. Visit the Fort Macon State Park to see the remains of a Civil War-era fort, or explore the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site to learn about the area’s colonial history. Other notable historical sites include the Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach and the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center in Kinston.
Biking Routes
The East Coast is home to many great biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Take a ride on the Emerald Isle Bike Path for beautiful ocean views, or explore the Cape Fear River Trail for a more urban biking experience. Other notable biking routes include the Neuse River Trail in Raleigh and the Croatan National Forest Trail in New Bern.
Wellness Retreats
The East Coast is a great place to relax and recharge. Visit the Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone for yoga and meditation classes, or take a wellness retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Hendersonville. Other notable wellness retreats include the Yogaville Ashram in Buckingham and the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck.
Adventure Sports
The East Coast offers many opportunities for adventure sports, including surfing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. Visit the Outer Banks for some of the best surfing in the state, or head to the Emerald Isle for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Other notable adventure sports include hang gliding at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park and parasailing in Wrightsville Beach.
With so much to see and do, North Carolina’s East Coast is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or just a relaxing beach getaway, this region has it all.