Situated on the east coast of North Carolina, Atlantic Beach is a charming seaside town that is perfect for a relaxing getaway. With Atlantic Beach’s family-friendly attractions, lively shops, and beautiful weather, Atlantic Beach is a great place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a place to sunbathe, swim, or simply stroll along the shore, this lovely beach town is sure to please.
There’s much more to do in Atlantic Beach than hanging out on the shore. Have you considered booking an Atlantic Beach dolphin tour?
It’s a great way to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and have some family-friendly fun that guests of all ages are sure to love. Here are a few of our favorite options for your next dolphin cruise in Atlantic Beach, NC!
Island Express Ferry Service
The Island Express Ferry Service is an affordable and convenient ferry service offering daily trips back and forth to the island. It’s an excellent option for both residents and visitors alike. But in addition to simply offering transportation, this company also provides popular Atlantic Beach boat tours for you to experience.
The Island Express Ferry Service offers a two-hour Shackleford Banks Sunset Dolphin and Wild Horse Cruise that’s sure to please the entire family. Your captain will take you on a 30-minute narrated cruise over to Shackleford Banks, letting you enjoy the view while you learn more about the area’s history and wildlife. Then, you’ll get an hour of free time to wander around and look out for the horses on the island!

Alternatively, you could opt for the Harkers Island Sunset Wild Horse and Dolphin Watch Cruise. This cruise also lasts two hours, but the itinerary is a bit different. First, you’ll be transported to Harkers Island, where you’ll learn about the traditions and history of the area from actual residents! Then, you’ll explore Cape Lookout, which offers incredible views of local dolphins. Don’t forget to bring your camera, no matter which cruise you pick!
Morehead City Ferry Service
The Morehead City Ferry Service offers a great way to experience Atlantic Beach. The service is reliable, the staff is friendly, the ferry is clean, and the ride is smooth. This company also offers one of the most popular Atlantic Beach dolphin tours: their Special Sand Dollar Island and Dolphin Watch Tour.
On this cruise, you’ll not only get to see dolphins up close and personal, but you’ll also learn all about these fantastic creatures. The expert guides will teach you about dolphin behavior, communication, and ecology, and you may even get to help with some research projects. This trip lasts a total of 3.5 hours, so be sure to set aside a decent bit of time to experience the tour in its entirety.
But that’s not all! You’ll also enjoy the beautiful Atlantic Ocean views and maybe even spot some other wildlife. When you make your stop on Sand Dollar Island, you’ll get a chance to collect sand dollars, of course, but you can also relax and enjoy an afternoon swimming in the water or playing in the sand. So, whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a new and exciting adventure, a dolphin cruise at Atlantic Beach is sure to please you.
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises
Crystal Coast Lady Cruises is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Carolina. Visitors can take a two-hour scenic cruise of the Crystal Coast, see the historical sites and natural beauty, and learn about the area’s history and culture. The Crystal Coast Lady is a popular choice for visitors because it is affordable, convenient, and offers a variety of activities.
If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing way to see the sights of the Atlantic Coast, look no further than the Crystal Coast Lady. This comfortable and spacious cruise ship offers daily trips up and down the coast, giving passengers ample opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the ocean. You can relax with the family, get some great pictures, and learn about the area simultaneously.

The Wild Horse and Dolphin Scenic Cruise is a popular excursion you’ll want to experience. You’ll pass by destinations like Radio Island, Morehead City State Port, Beaufort, and others. You’ll also pass the Rachel Carson Reserve, where beautiful horses roam around, waiting for you to get a picture. Of course, you’ll also get to see dolphins as well!
The cruise mentioned above is available both in the daytime and at sunset, so if you’re looking for romantic activities in Atlantic Beach, check out the latter option! Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun on the deck, enjoy a delicious meal in the dining room, or explore one of the many coastal towns along the way, the Crystal Coast Lady has something for everyone. With convenient departure times and affordable rates, there’s no excuse not to set sail on your next adventure.
Plan Your Visit!
Ready for an unforgettable trip to Atlantic Beach? Planning your getaway is simple with Cannon and Gruber! Just visit our site, reserve your favorite property, and prepare to make countless memories with the ones you love most in one of our Atlantic Beach rentals!
Your Atlantic Beach Rental
Are you looking for a summer getaway? Why not choose an Atlantic Beach cottage rental? With its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Atlantic Beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Plus, plenty of activities are nearby to keep you entertained, from fishing and boating to golf and tennis. Atlantic Beach is home to various waterfront parks for those looking for a more active vacation. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and more. There are also several miles of walking and biking trails.
While planning your trip, check out our top Atlantic Beach vacation rentals! We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a cozy condo or a spacious beach house. Our rentals are conveniently located near the best things to do in Atlantic Beach, including beaches, restaurants, and shops. Inside your rental, you’ll find amenities to make you feel right at home, such as high-speed WiFi, fully stocked kitchens, cozy living spaces, and beautiful views from your private patio or balcony.
On top of all that, the team here at Cannon & Gruber is proud to be by your side throughout your entire vacation. We can help you decide on the right rental for your group or recommend some fun things to do while you’re in the area. We want to help you pull off the vacation of a lifetime.
There’s no more time to waste! Start planning your Atlantic Beach vacation today by reaching out to the team at Cannon & Gruber. We can’t wait to welcome you to our shores.



