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The Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun on the Crystal Coast!


Things to do in Atlantic Beach, NC Crystal Coast Summer fun

As the Summer season approaches clients visiting the Crystal Coast often ask, "What are some fun things to do with our kids while we're at the beach?" There are so many activities and fun things to do along the Crystal Coast. This year I've put a list of things together that I have enjoyed doing with my family and friends over the years while living in Morehead City.

Whether you're from the Crystal Coast or taking a much needed vacation, this list is sure to make a memorable Spring and Summer for your family on the Crystal Coast.

family beach photos in atlantic beach nc

1. Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park is the site of a perfectly restored Civil War-era fort, a museum-quality coastal education center and a beautiful shoreline for swimming, surf fishing and beachcombing.

One great addition to the area this year is The Elliott Coues Nature Trail. It's a new 3 mile park hiking trail that connects the Fort area with the Swim Beach area. This is a must for the adventurer! {A favorite setting for photo sessions with Susan Yates Photography}

2. Stop for a splash at the Atlantic Beach Splash Pad.

3. Enjoy an Outdoor Movie

Movie showings begin at dusk in the Summer on Wednesday nights (approx. 8:30pm)

Located at the Pavilion on the Circle in Atlantic Beach.

115 Atlantic Blvd. FREE to the public.

4. ​Take a bike ride along the Morehead City waterfront and stop for a scoop of ice cream at the Morehead City Gulf Dock.

5. Take a Trolley Ride

Hop on The Mullet Line in Beaufort and travel along Front Street. If you look closely along the island, you may get a glimpse of the wild ponies.

6. Watch a baseball game.

Enjoy an evening watching the Morehead City Marlins Baseball Game at Big Rock Stadium.

7. Big Rock Fishing Tournament

Don't miss the weigh-ins on the Morehead City waterfront during the 58th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament starting June 10th. You may see a record breaking blue marlin.

big rock blue marlin tournament on the morehead city waterfront weigh station
blue marlin weigh in on the morehead city waterfront fishing on the crystal coast

8. The Beaufort Pirate Invasion

Beaufort will come alive with over 100 pirates invading the Beaufort waterfront on August 12th and August 13th.

9. Explore the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

10. Take a scenic boat tour to the Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Ferry services are available along the Morehead City and Beaufort waterfront.

11. Enjoy lunch from a Food Truck.

Two of my favorites are Forkful and Dank Burrito.

12. Get creative with Art Buzz Kids

Located on the Morehead waterfront, NC Art Buzz Kids offers family friendly painting and craft classes for children of all ages.

13. Have a water balloon fight.

14. Skip cooking and enjoy Family Night at Chick-fil-a. Enjoy an evening of fun activities at Chick-fil-a in Morehead City.

15. Art Camp at Blu Sail Pottery

Get crafty at the Kids Summertime Art Camp.

16. Go Cart Racing

Join the races at The Golfin' Dolphin in Cape Carteret

17. Core Sound Waterfowl Museum.

18. Tour the beautiful Beaufort Historic Site.

This two-acre site is located in the heart of the historic district of Beaufort, which depicts 18th and 19th century coastal Carolina. Explore the history of North Carolina's third oldest town. Open to the public. {A favorite setting for photo sessions with Susan Yates Photography}

Beaufort Historic Site in Beaufort, NC

19. Go out for frozen yogurt. Our favorite spot is Twisted Spoon in Morehead City.

20. Beaufort Maritime Museum. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort for a taste of coastal cultures and maritime history.

21. Visit one of our local firestations. You can usually stop by for a tour during the day. There's always a Morehead City firefighter that is happy to give a tour. Th