There’s no better place for a postcard than Beaufort, North Carolina. Located on the Crystal Coast, this picturesque city is home to lighthouses, quaint towns and secluded beaches. That’s enough to pack your bags for a week, but here are some local tips to help fill your vacation itinerary with unforgettable fun.
There Are Many Reasons To Visit Beaufort, North Carolina
Beaufort, North Carolina is pronounced “”.Bowfert’ and like a bow and arrow. Not to be confused with South Carolina’s. The two cities have the same name, but that’s all they have in common.
Known as the “Outer Banks of the South,” the Crystal Coast has 135 miles of beautiful Atlantic coastline. No high-rise hotels, no beach crowds. Beaufort is the largest city on the Crystal Coast and is famous for its wild horses, history and scenery.
fun facts: Beaufort inspired Nicholas Sparks’ best-selling novel choice and a walk to remember.
Whether you consider yourself a history buff, outdoorsman, book lover, or foodie, here are seven top reasons to visit Beaufort, North Carolina.
1. Beaufort Pirate History
The famous pirate Blackbeard called Beaufort his home. Visit the Beaufort Maritime Museum for free and learn about pirate history.
Check out pirate relics, learn about Blackbeard’s macabre work, and kids can finish the treasure hunt for prizes. You can spend hours in museums.
Across from the museum is the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center. This is a working shipyard with the sounds and smells of traditional North Carolina wooden ships. It truly shows the art and skill of traditional boat builders.
2. The wild horses of Shackleford Bank
Visitors can see wild horses from downtown Beaufort, but I recommend experiencing them up close.go to Cape Lookout National Seashore (Part of the National Park System) and get your ferry ticket for a ride to the famous Shackleford Banks.
Spend a day on a pristine island with only beaches and wild horses. Pack everything you need for a day at the beach and get ready to take pictures. Horses can be up to 50 feet, and there are several trails on the island.
3. Beaufort’s Signature Cocktail
Nearly every restaurant in Beaufort serves that version of the painkiller cocktail. Locals claim that Blackbeard brought the painkillers to Beaufort from the British Virgin Islands. A fruity pineapple drink made with rum and sprinkled with nutmeg. Order frozen or enjoy on the rocks. Best paired with the Beaufort sunset.
We recommend dining at Moonrakers, which serves coastal cuisine with waterfront views. We provide frozen pain relievers, so please take advantage of them.
4. North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Located in a residential neighborhood near Pine Knoll Shores, North Carolina Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores is well worth the short drive from Beaufort.
This aquarium takes visitors on a walkthrough adventure from the mountains to the sea. Discover animal habitats, learn about the ecosystem, and even visit tanks with actual shipwrecks.
What makes this aquarium truly unique is that it utilizes its location to display an outdoor aviary and provide guests with scenic walks. It’s a fascinating viewpoint of the North Carolina coast.
5. Explore Beaufort’s Waterfront
The best way to see Beaufort is from the water. Get out on the water on a tour and see the beautiful Beaufort waterfront. Listen as your captain recounts facts and history only a ‘real’ local would know.
Keep your eyes peeled for North Carolina’s famous wild horses and dolphins that love to show off. Each cruise lasts 45-60 minutes and is perfect for a quick outing. If you can see the horses, bring binoculars for an even better view.
6. Cape Lookout Lighthouse
Beaufort’s postcard-perfect lighthouse is at Cape Lookout. Part of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Learn about the history of the lighthouse, including the day-to-day work of the lighthouse. The lighthouse is closed for renovations and climbing, but the National Park Service plans to reopen for the 2025 season.
7. Fort Macon State Park
Known as one of North Carolina’s most popular state parks. Fort Macon State Park Close to three sides of the water with great views and history. The pre-Civil War fortress is fun to explore (a great spot for shutterbugs), but the visitor center doubles as a museum and educational center.
After exploring the fortress, check out the park’s scenic biking and hiking trails. The park also provides access to public beaches. Free parking and admission!
Beaufort is truly a gem on the North Carolina coast
Whether it’s wild horses, pirates or booze, you’ll find adventure in Beaufort. You can quickly fill your vacation itinerary with activities to keep you busy all day, or you can just relax on the beach and do nothing. Beaufort is perfect for a dreamy and picturesque beach vacation.