Things to do in Swansboro
Discover amazing Swansboro activities and premium in-home experiences.
Located where the White Oak River meets the Atlantic, Swansboro is a charming coastal town that seamlessly blends Southern hospitality with seaside adventure. Known for its historic downtown, lively waterfront, and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing, Swansboro invites visitors to experience both relaxation and exploration in equal measure. Whether you're savoring local seafood or wandering through boutique shops, this picturesque locale offers a warm welcome to all who visit.
Popular Activities in Swansboro
Private Tour of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse
Experience North Carolina’s iconic lighthouse and maritime history on a private boat excursion.
Private Waterways Excursion of Beaufort and Shackleford Banks
Experience scenic waterways, historic Beaufort, and Shackleford Banks with up to 6 guests on a private cruise.
Three-Island Tour Featuring Sand Dollars, Wild Horses and Lighthouse
Experience sand dollar hunting, wild horses, and a historic lighthouse in one memorable boat tour.
Sunset And Dolphin Cruise Along The Crystal Coast
Experience a private sunset cruise with opportunities to see wild dolphins and horses.
Double Trouble Shack Attack and Lighthouse Tour
Experience wild horses and a historic lighthouse on a private charter along the Crystal Coast.
Intracoastal Waterway Cruise With Lunch Stop in Swansboro
Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway south with a stop in Swansboro for lunch and scenic marina views.
Money On The Horses Two Island Tour Sand Dollar Island And Shackleford Banks
Explore two islands to find sand dollars and spot wild horses on a memorable adventure.
Serenity Now Private Afternoon Excursion
Relax on a private boat retreat with beach access and tranquil swimming for all ages.
Beaufort BYOB Tiki Sightseeing Cruise
Cruise the Crystal Coast on a tiki boat with BYOB and views of wild horses
Sunset Crystal Coast Cruise from Beaufort Town Docks
Relax on a BYOB tiki boat as captains guide you to the best Crystal Coast sunset views
Morning Mimosa Tiki Cruise From Beaufort Town Docks
Start your day on a BYOB tiki boat with a licensed captain and calm Crystal Coast views.
Beaufort Sunset Sail on a 37-Passenger Sailboat
Unwind on a 90-minute evening cruise with coastal views and complimentary beverages
Cape Lookout Private Cruise on 45-Foot Catamaran
Cruise to Cape Lookout for two stops with catered lunch, swimming, and lighthouse views on a 45-foot catamaran
Private Sunset Sail Charter in Beaufort
Enjoy Beaufort's coastal sunset on a 90-minute sail with complimentary beverages
Cape Lookout Lighthouse Cruise on 45-Foot Catamaran
Sail to Cape Lookout for beach time, catered lunch, and lighthouse views on a stable catamaran
Shackleford Banks Wild Horse and Shelling Safari
Join a Naturalist to track wild horses and find shells on Shackleford Banks
Beaufort Ferry to Shackleford Banks
Ride a 15-minute ferry with frequent summer departures and round-trip service
Beaufort Sunset Wild Horse & Dolphin Cruise to Shackleford Banks
Enjoy a narrated sunset cruise with dolphin spotting and an hour 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
Explore the Charm of Swansboro
Swansboro is a quaint coastal town where Southern hospitality meets maritime history. Known as the "Friendly City by the Sea," it offers visitors an inviting mix of small-town charm and natural beauty. Stroll along Front Street, lined with historic buildings that house unique shops and eateries. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants while watching boats glide by on the White Oak River.
The area boasts plenty for nature enthusiasts to explore. Head to Hammocks Beach State Park for pristine beaches accessible only by ferry or kayak—perfect for a day of sunbathing or shell hunting. The park's trails offer scenic views ideal for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when various species pass through this coastal haven.
If you're seeking adventure, try kayaking in Bogue Sound or take a fishing charter from Swansboro’s harbor. For those interested in local culture, don't miss out on seasonal festivals like the Mullet Festival which celebrates community spirit with music, food, and crafts each fall. Whether you’re savoring sunsets over salt marshes or browsing local art galleries filled with coastal-inspired works, Swansboro promises memorable experiences infused with authentic seaside allure.