Emerald Isle in North Carolina has clear, Caribbean-like waters

It’s not necessary to visit the Caribbean to see clear, blue-green water. It’s true, you don’t even need to have a passport. You only need to book a vacation to Emerald Isle. beach town Crystal Coast in North Carolina is a very popular destination.

Emerald Isle’s water is not murky or brownish like other beaches on the coast. Depending on the weather conditions (storms and strong winds reduce clarity), the water can appear nearly transparent and almost turquoise—hence the town’s name.

Julia Batten Wax is the second generation owner of Emerald Isle Realty. Travel + Leisure. “Sheltered in this way, the ocean is gentler and the ocean waters are warm, thanks also to the Gulf Stream that passes by offshore.” This position, she says, provides “seasonal arcs of incredible sunsets and sunrises above the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound.”

Emerald Isle offers all the essentials to a vacation, including its stunning natural beauty. classic beach vacation—from oceanfront homes and local seafood spots to a lengthy paved bike path and all sorts of water-based activities. You can find a relaxing coastal getaway for couples or family-friendly destination here. Two local experts give you the inside scoop on how to plan your trip to Emerald Isle.

Where to Stay

The Islander Hotel & Resort

“The Islander Hotel & Resort Clarke Merrell is the chef and owner at 81 Hospitality Group. Wax also agrees and adds that “a fun new dining and shopping area is located just a short walk away on Islander Drive.” She suggests requesting one their newly renovated room if it is available.

Lighthouse Inn & Suites

“There’s Lighthouse Inn & SuitesMerrell says that the hotel is located next to Salty Pirate Water Park, and several restaurants are within walking distance. This 25-key Best Western Signature Collection property offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a free breakfast and is part of the Best Western Signature Collection. The hotel also has ADA rooms and elevators. There is also accessible parking.

Emerald Isle Realty

“For large family events, Emerald Isle Realty Merrell says there are many excellent rental options. You can search through more than 600 vacation properties in the area based on your preferences, such as location, type of building (single family, duplex or condo), number of bedrooms, and even building type. You can choose a home with incredible views and easy access to the beach from your private deck. Wax says that it’s a blessing to be able to run along your boardwalk at any time of day or night, and toes in sand when you want. “Watching the light change from rosy dawn to sparkling diamonds of sunlight at noon, then to the deepening lavender- and peach-hued sunset—all from your oceanfront deck—never gets old.”

The Best Things to do

Enjoy a day at the beach.

If you’re coming to Emerald Isle, you’re likely looking forward to a few blissful days on the beach—and the 12-mile stretch of island delivers. Merrell says that the beaches are easily accessible and the water is always warm because they face south.

“Wide beaches, calm seas and a Shibumi-style tent make Emerald Isle the perfect salty playground. It’s also a great place to relax and unwind during the day.” Wax adds. Emerald Isle has a turtle nesting area; the season runs from May through September. “We are deeply concerned with preserving the coastal environment. Much of our island was carefully and thoughtfully protected. “Our sea oats, other native plants, and wildflowers bring a touch of beauty to our dunes,” explains she.

Go fishing

Merrell says that the Bogue Inlet Pier is great for in-shore fishing and the Gulf Stream, for world-class offshore fishing, is only a boat ride from the Bogue Inlet Pier. You can rent a boat if you don’t own one. Emerald Isle Adventures. You can try out surf fishing and fishing in the wetlands along the sound. Wax recommends that you grab your fishing rod or crab nets, and head to Emerald Isle’s soundfront public dock on Cedar Street. It is especially beautiful at sunset during a summer evening. Don’t forget your North Carolina fishing license beforehand.

Explore Bogue Sound.

Emerald Isle has long been known as a popular beach destination. However, the Bogue Sound, on the other side, is where the real appeal lies. Wax suggests renting paddleboards or kayaks to explore the more quiet side of Emerald Isle. Watch in awe as great blue hisons stalk the tall marshgrasses. Dolphins will swim alongside you on a boat tour. [you] “And appearing to smile for photographs.” Sign up for a guided tour if you’d prefer to be with someone. Emerald Isle Paddle Tours.

Best Restaurants

Cap’n Willis Seafood Market

Fresh seafood is essential to any beach vacation.Cap’n Willis Seafood Market Top of my list is the local seafood, including grouper, triggerfish, flounder and shrimp. Wax says that they will steam shrimp or crabs as well make a delicious coleslaw, Key lime pie and a delicious coleslaw. You can take this wonderful seafood meal home to enjoy in your beach cottage.

RuckerJohns

“I enjoy RuckerJohns Merrell says, “For a classic family dining experience.” You’ll never go hungry at the Emerald Isle location. You can choose from the shrimp with grits or the nachos covered in homemade chili, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.

Caribsea

We love “Great atmosphere and gracious service” Caribsea. Wax notes that Chef Patrick’s use of fresh seasonal ingredients and the catch of the moment is very creative. Wax also mentions that you can enjoy craft cocktails, beer from North Carolina breweries and one of the best wine lists in the area while taking in the stunning views of Bogue Sound, the Emerald Isle Bridge and the Atlantic Ocean.

Fish Hut grill

Both Wax and Merrell suggest Fish Hut Grill Seafood. Enjoy a crab cake, a delicious fish taco, or peel-and-eat-shrimp at one of our outdoor tables. Wash it all down with a blueberry jalapeño margarita or the house sangria.

Thirsty Surfer

Wax Thirsty Surfer This new addition to the Island has “quickly became a favorite hanging out for locals.” From its outdoor food truck, the classic beach bar offers burgers and wings as well as local seafood tacos. Live entertainment is available on certain days throughout the week.

Best Shopping

Winberry Farm Market

Wax calls Winberry Farm Market Her “favorite” farm stand is located in Cedar Point just off the Island.  “The Winberry family grows the prized Bogue Sound watermelons—so flavorful and kissed by those salty breezes. She adds that they love the cantaloupes and corn grown locally, as well as tomatoes, butter bean, strawberries, blueberries, and butter beans.

Emerald Isle Wine Market

The locally owned restaurants should be a fun stop for everyone. Emerald Isle Wine Market Wax. “Nancee has an eye for fine wines and craft beers at great prices. She also offers some delicious gourmet treats including TV chef Vivian Howard’s. Viv’s Fridg “An appetizer, an entree, and a dessert.”

Emerald Isle Books & Toys

What if you forgot to bring your book home? You can still read your book.Emerald Isle Books & Toys Wax describes it as “one of my favorites because of the exceptional collection for all readers and also for a wonderful collection of toys and games, crafts and puzzles.” You’ll find it in the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center—a hub of stores that also includes Wind Tide, Beaufort Olive Oil Company. Carteret Country Store.

When is the best time to visit?

Although you may think that summer is the best season to visit Emerald Isle (or the Caribbean), Wax and Merrell both explain how the shoulder seasons and off-seasons are equally as appealing. “My favorite season is fall. Merrell says that the weather is great, and the water is still nice, but there are fewer people on the beaches because school is back in session.

“Winter—our quietest season—is also when the turn of the earth has the sun setting over the ocean in the southwest sky from winter solstice to early March,” says Wax. Sunsets will turn the sky a “deep cardinal red.” From October to March, fall and winter bring oyster season.[You’ll get] “We invite you to enjoy our marine culture and some of the freshest, most delicious seafood from nearby rivers and seas,” says Ms. Adds.

How to get there

Emerald Isle is situated on Bogue Banks. It’s one of Crystal Coast’s barrier island. Albert J. Ellis Airport in Jacksonville and Coastal Carolina Regional Airport in Wilmington are the closest airports. New Bern. You can rent a vehicle at either airport and drive to Emerald Isle for the final hour.

How to Get Around

Emerald Isle has many bike paths, nature trails and sidewalks. It is possible to travel through Emerald Isle by golf cart, as you can in many other beach towns. Emerald Isle Golf Cart Rentals & SalesHighway 58 and Coast Guard Road are off limits.