Things to do nearBeaufort Inlet

Beaufort Inlet sits at the southern edge of the Outer Banks region of North Carolina, separating the town of Beaufort and Fort Macon State Park from the wild, roadless expanses of Shackleford Banks. The inlet has served as a working maritime passage for centuries, used by colonial traders, naval vessels, and the fishing fleets that still move through it today.

The waters here are unusually dynamic. Strong tidal exchanges flush the estuary twice daily, keeping the channel deep and clear. This flow supports a diverse marine ecosystem, drawing spotted seatrout, red drum, and flounder, along with the bottlenose dolphins that have become a signature sight for anyone spending time near the water.

On the eastern side of the inlet, Fort Macon State Park preserves a well-restored Civil War-era masonry fort that offers both historical interpretation and unobstructed coastal views. The park's beach faces the inlet directly, making it one of the better vantage points for watching vessel traffic and wildlife simultaneously.

Beaufort Inlet rewards visitors who slow down and pay attention to the rhythms of the tide, the light, and the wildlife moving through this active coastal corridor.