Things to do in Emerald Isle
Discover amazing Emerald Isle activities and premium in-home experiences.
Emerald Isle is a coastal haven where the Atlantic Ocean's sparkling waters meet pristine, sandy shores. Known for its stunning sunsets and relaxed atmosphere, this charming destination offers everything from family-friendly beach days to adventurous water sports. Immerse yourself in Emerald Isle’s vibrant natural beauty and tranquil seaside charm; it’s an idyllic retreat waiting to be explored.
Popular Activities in Emerald Isle
Quick Ferry to Shackleford's Wild Horses
Ride a 15-minute ferry with frequent summer departures and round-trip service
Morehead City Private Boat Tour with Beach Access
Relax on a private boat retreat with beach access and tranquil swimming for all ages.
Cape Lookout Lighthouse Private Boat Charter
Travel by private boat to Cape Lookout and explore the lighthouse area with a flexible private charter
Morehead City Private Boat Tour & Wild Horses
See Beaufort, Shackleford Banks, and the ICW on a private 2.5–3 hour cruise
Shackleford Banks Horses & Cape Lookout Charter
Spot wild horses and visit Cape Lookout Lighthouse on a private 5.5-hour charter
Collect Sand Dollars & See Wild Horses by Boat
Collect sand dollars and spot wild horses on a guided visit to two scenic islands
3 Island Tour: Sand Dollars, Wild Horses & Lighthouse
Discover Sand Dollar Island, see wild horses, and visit Cape Lookout Lighthouse on an up to 6-hour cruise
Morehead City Sunset Cruise: Dolphins & Wild Horses
Experience a private sunset cruise with opportunities to see wild dolphins and horses.
Morehead City Intracoastal Cruise & Swansboro Lunch
Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway south with a stop in Swansboro for lunch and scenic marina views.
Sail to Cape Lookout for Beach Time & Lunch
Sail to Cape Lookout for beach time, catered lunch, and lighthouse views on a stable catamaran
Beaufort Sunset Sail with Complimentary Drinks
Unwind on a 90-minute evening cruise with coastal views and complimentary beverages
Cape Lookout Private Cruise on 45ft Catamaran
Cruise to Cape Lookout for two stops with catered lunch, swimming, and lighthouse views on a 45-foot catamaran
Private 90-Min Sunset Sail & Drinks, Beaufort
Enjoy Beaufort's coastal sunset on a 90-minute sail with complimentary beverages
Wild Horse & Shelling Safari on Shackleford Banks
Join a Naturalist to track wild horses and find shells on Shackleford Banks
Beaufort Ferry to Cape Lookout Lighthouse
Enjoy a 5-hour trip on the only ferry authorized to drop off at the lighthouse
See Wild Horses & Dolphins at Sunset in Beaufort
Enjoy a narrated sunset cruise with dolphin spotting and an hour on Shackleford Banks.
Beaufort Tiki Boat Cruise with BYOB & Captain
Start your day on a BYOB tiki boat with a licensed captain and calm Crystal Coast views.
Tiki Boat Tour in Beaufort with Wild Horses
Cruise the Crystal Coast on a tiki boat with BYOB and views of wild horses
Beaufort Sunset Tiki Boat Cruise & BYOB Tour
Relax on a BYOB tiki boat as captains guide you to the best Crystal Coast sunset views
Explore the Charm of Emerald Isle
Emerald Isle is a coastal gem where pristine beaches meet lush maritime forests, offering visitors a serene escape with plenty to explore. The sunlight dances on the Atlantic waves as you stroll along its sandy shores, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing or building sandcastles with family. With fewer crowds than other beach destinations, this area provides a peaceful retreat that invites relaxation and reflection.
For those seeking adventure, Emerald Isle offers activities like kayaking through Bogue Sound's tranquil waters or biking along scenic trails that weave through forested areas filled with native wildlife. Nearby landmarks such as Fort Macon State Park provide historical intrigue alongside stunning ocean vistas. As you wander these paths, you'll feel the gentle ocean breeze and hear the rustle of leaves—a sensory delight that's hard to find elsewhere.
The local dining scene adds another layer to your visit; savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching pelicans glide gracefully over the water. Whether you're casting a line from Bogue Inlet Pier or simply enjoying an ice cream cone as you watch the sunset paint vibrant hues across the sky, Emerald Isle promises memorable moments that capture both heart and imagination.