Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. But when you’re heading to the Crystal Coast, the possibilities for a memorable trip with your loved ones are endless. Based in the charming town of Atlantic Beach, our Atlantic Beach vacation home rentals offer the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway.
With miles of sandy shoreline, picturesque sunrises and sunsets, and a variety of activities to enjoy, the Crystal Coast is truly a family paradise. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Atlantic Beach to create lifelong memories.
Go to the Beach
The beaches of Crystal Coast are some of the best in the country! South-facing beaches put on a stunning show for both sunrise and sunset. The sand sets the stage for family fun and relaxation, while the adventure begins at the water’s edge with award-winning diving spots, surf and paddleboarding, world-class fishing, and a boater’s paradise of open waterways. Don’t forget to bring your beach essentials: sunscreen, sand toys, beach towels, a cooler with refreshing drinks and snacks, and your sense of wonder.
If you’re looking for a beach that’s easy to reach and offers a wealth of amenities, head to The Circle. Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, this popular beach is just across from the Atlantic Beach Causeway. While it can get crowded in the summer months, the beach is perfect for families. You’ll find seasonal lifeguards, an on-site park with playground equipment, and a number of neighboring restaurants, bars, and vendors for easy snacks and meals.
The Eastern Regional Beach Access is a must-visit. Located just east of the center of Emerald Isle, this beach offers ample parking and a walkway directly to the shoreline. It’s the ideal destination for central vacationers, providing a relatively quiet stretch of shoreline to relax and make sandcastles with your kids.
NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
If you are looking to dive into an underwater adventure without getting wet, then look no further than the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. As the largest saltwater aquarium in North Carolina, this attraction will leave you and your kids in awe. With over 3,000 specimens of North Carolina’s most colorful aquatic life, the aquarium showcases the state’s diverse marine habitats. From the “Living Shipwreck” featuring a life-sized replica of a German U-352 submarine and Blackbeard’s infamous ship, The Queen Anne’s Revenge, to a stingray touch-tank, a river otter exhibit, a jellyfish gallery, and even a rare albino sea turtle named Nimbus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to explore the 300-acre Roosevelt Maritime Forest surrounding the aquarium, immersing yourself in the beauty of native North Carolina wildlife.
Fort Macon State Park
Step back in time and experience the rich history of the Crystal Coast at Fort Macon State Park. Designed initially to guard Beaufort Inlet and Beaufort Harbor, Fort Macon played a pivotal role during the Civil War and was the site of wartime tragedies and triumphs. Today, it stands as the most visited park in North Carolina, offering visitors a chance to explore a 19th-century Civil War fort and enjoy lifeguard-protected swimming, a bathhouse, picnic areas, and even Civil War reenactments during the summer months. Whether you join a guided tour or conduct your own self-guided adventure, Fort Macon promises to transport your family to another era.
For nature lovers, the Elliot Coues Trail within Fort Macon State Park is a must-visit. This moderate trail spans 3.2 miles, taking you through dunes, maritime forests, and marshes. Whether you’re a walker or a biker, this trail offers something for everyone. Marvel at the elevation changes on the beachside, providing breathtaking views of dunes, beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean. On the sound side, enjoy a canopied trail with numerous boardwalks and opportunities to spot local wildlife and nature’s wonders.
Mac Daddy’s
When you’re looking for fun and a great family-friendly atmosphere, head to Mac Daddy’s in Cape Carteret. With 24 lanes of bowling, the area’s largest arcade, and an awesome sports bar restaurant with big-screen televisions, Mac Daddy’s is the place to be. Open 364 days a year, Mac Daddy’s is just a short drive from Atlantic Beach and offers a range of activities that will keep your kids entertained for hours. Whether you’re aiming for strikes in the bowling alley, competing in arcade games, or enjoying delicious food and drinks, Mac Daddy’s ensures a fun-filled experience for the whole family.
Beaufort Pirates Revenge
Embark on a swashbuckling adventure aboard the Beaufort Pirates Revenge, the largest pirate ship in North Carolina. This 65′ M/V Renegade can hold up to 73 passengers and will transport you and your little ones back to the “Golden Age of Piracy.” Join the Pirate Cruise and embark on a fun-filled journey with costumed crew members. Sword fights, singing, a chase on the high seas, and water cannon battles for treasure await. Your little buccaneers will have a blast participating in the Treasure Hunt, hoisting the flags, getting temporary-tattooed or face-painted, and hearing the tale of the treasures of Beaufort. Don’t forget to join in the fun of capturing the treasure and sharing the booty! The Beaufort Pirates Revenge also offers pirate-themed birthday parties, themed weddings, receptions, and rehearsal dinners for a truly unique and memorable experience.
Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway
With two fun and exciting 18-hole miniature golf courses, your family will embark on a journey through caves, volcanoes, waterfalls, and cliffs in search of the “Lost Treasure” at Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway. But the adventure doesn’t end there. Some expeditions offer additional activities such as go-karts, bumper boats, an arcade, and a maze, guaranteeing a day full of surprises. If that’s not enough, take a ride on a mining train that will transport you to the top of the mountain, where you can choose which expedition to follow in the search for gold or diamonds. Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf promises a fun and exciting adventure for the whole family.
Plan Your Visit
Book your Atlantic Beach rental with Cannon & Gruber and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach. Choose from a variety of beautiful rental properties for your next getaway.
Where to Stay
After a day of adventure and exploration, return to the comfort and relaxation of our Atlantic Beach condo rentals. With their prime locations near the beach, our beachfront rentals in Atlantic Beach allow you to soak up the beauty of the Crystal Coast. Our vacation homes are designed with families in mind, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay. From oceanfront views to a range of amenities, our rentals offer the ideal home-away-from-home experience. Relax on spacious decks, enjoy fully equipped kitchens for meal preparation, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Our team at Cannon & Gruber is dedicated to providing personalized attention and ensuring your stay is as enjoyable as possible. Book your stay in one of our Atlantic Beach vacation home rentals or Atlantic Beach oceanfront rentals today, and embark on the ultimate family vacation on the beloved beaches of Atlantic Beach.
