Beaufort and Morehead City are the dual entry points for Oak Island, the barrier island that contains a lot of condos and seaside resorts. It is often called the Crystal Coast, in comparison with the Outer Banks. Most people rush past them in a hurry to get to the beach.
Beaufort is an old town, with lots of old homes and an interesting downtown facing onto the marina. The prime attraction is the North Carolina Maritime Museum that houses some of Blackbeard’s artifacts. It also has a facility for restoring old wooden boats. The residential area is lined with live oak trees. One of the landmarks on Front Street is Clawson’s Restaurant & Pub.
Morehead City has one of the two state-operated ports. The other is outside of Wilmington. Traditionally it has focused on bulk shipment of agricultural products such as wood chips and grains. Sanitary Fish Market & Restaurant is still open for lunch and is located between the two towns. Morehead City is the home to big-time sport fishing with lots of charter boats available. The annual tournaments are held in June.
Whether you’re headed to the beach and looking for something to do on rainy days, or you want something different that stands out as unique, you will find them in Beaufort and Morehead City.