Atlantic Beach is known for miles of laid-back beach, but did you also know the area is rich with history? Among the many things to do in Atlantic Beach, exploring Fort Macon State Park is near the top of the list.
Fort Macon History
Attracting more than one million visitors per year, Fort Macon is a must-see for any avid history buffs in the family. Since colonial times, Beaufort Harbor has been used as a port of entry, but there was an ever-present threat of raids from hostile nations and pirates. Construction of the fort began in 1826 to stand guard over the harbor, but it was seized by North Carolina during the Civil War and remained a Confederate base until it was won back by Union soldiers in 1862.
From 1867 to 1876, Fort Macon served as a federal prison. It was then garrisoned during the Spanish-American War and finally closed in 1903. In 1923, North Carolina purchased Fort Macon for a dollar, transforming it into the state park that visitors know and love today.
What to Expect Today
A reconstruction of the fort overlooks the Beaufort Harbor, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Beaufort Inlet, and Bogue Sound. Today, Fort Macon is one of Atlantic Beach’s top attractions!
As a visitor, you can take a guided tour of the restored fort to see bunks, cannons, a rations storage room, Civil War artifacts, and more. Over the entirety of Fort Macon, there are 26 vaulted rooms enclosed by 4 ½-feet thick walls that you can explore. A Civil War reenactment takes place daily on the ground and brings the entire place to life. It’s not to be missed! The fort is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and entry is free and open to the public.
What to do at Fort Macon?
After visiting the fort, there is a wide range of outdoor activities in this expansive national park to enjoy. There are over 1.5 miles of ocean beach for hiking, with terrain easy enough for almost anyone to walk. Along the way, you may spot any number of the 302 bird species found in the area. Sometimes, it is even possible to spot dolphins playing in the ocean! Swimming and fishing are also possible in the area, and the beach is a wonderful place for a family picnic.
Yarrow’s Loop is a short quarter-mile trail for anyone hoping for a short and sweet excursion through the park. Signs along the way provide information about common plants and animals around the park you just might catch a glimpse of. The trail starts and ends at the north end of the Fort parking lot.
Plan Your Visit!
Planning your unforgettable vacation to Atlantic Beach doesn’t have to be difficult! Whenever you book with Cannon & Gruber, it’s simple! Just view our rentals, book your favorite, and prepare for an unbeatable vacation to Atlantic Beach, NC.
The Elliott Coues Nature Trail provides approximately a 3.2-mile round-trip hike, connecting the Fort area with the swim beach area. It stretched across marsh terrain, maritime forest, and sand dunes. The trailhead is accessible from both the Fort parking lot and the Beach Access parking lot. Each parking lot has different opening and closing times, so plan ahead and don’t lose track of time!
Where to Stay in Atlantic Beach
After a fun-filled adventure at Fort Macon State Park, the whole family will look forward to some much-needed rest and relaxation at your Atlantic Beach vacation rental. Cannon & Gruber offers Atlantic Beach oceanfront rentals, cottage rentals, and even pet-friendly homes so the entire family can enjoy North Carolina together. Vacation rentals provide all the comforts of home in a stunning location, with gorgeous views and décor. Contact us today for more information!
