Atlantic Beach is a popular vacation destination. There are many things to do in Atlantic Beach that can make your vacation fun and relaxing. But have you ever wondered how Atlantic Beach became one of the most popular vacation destinations it is today? Atlantic Beach has come a long way over the years. At one point, it was hard to believe that the little fishing village that Atlantic Beach once was would become a resort destination that many would travel to during the spring and summer.
Atlantic Beach is much more than a resort destination you can visit during spring break, summer, or just when you want to get away. Its long history reveals how far Atlantic Beach has come. From an early settlement to the popular vacation destination we know today, Atlantic Beach has seen it all.
Early Settlement and Exploration
Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, is within the area known as the Crystal Coast. This area lies within Carteret County, which was first founded in 1722. Carteret County is named after John Carteret, one of the Lords Proprietors of the original colony of North Carolina. Before it was settled in 1722, the area was home to the Iroquois-speaking Tuscarora Indians. During the early 1700s, however, these natives were being replaced by settlers of European descent. These settlers had moved from the colonies to the north of North Carolina. They did not come directly from Europe.
Carteret County became a hub of activity as it had its uses as a global trading area due to its access to the rivers and waters connected to other port communities. As the communities in Carteret County grew, the area became home to many well-known thriving port towns, including one at what would eventually become Atlantic Beach.
Fishing Village to Resort Destination
Fishing became a major source of economic income for the residents of Atlantic Beach. As time progressed, however, many area residents began to drift away from fishing. This was mainly due to the shift to more industrial work as better technology became more prevalent.
The Atlantic Beach we know today was first visualized by Appleton Oaksmith in the 1870s. However, he would not bring his vision to life, primarily due to the loss of his daughters on July 4, 1879. It then became the work of John J. Royal and Winfield S. Chadwick to bring the resort by the sea to life.
Royal and Chadwick built the first bathing pavilion on Bogue Banks in 1887. Many began to flock to the area as they wanted to bathe on the ocean side of Bogue Banks. While this pavilion did not exist at first, Royal and Chadwick expanded the bathing pavilion, and Atlantic Beach began to take shape. The site would continue to grow to incorporate more luxuries that patrons could enjoy and welcome more to enjoy the facilities.
World War II and the Boom of Tourism
World War II led to a decrease in visitors to Atlantic Beach. During this time, a three-story hotel was built at Atlantic Beach. This hotel opened during the 1946 season, and Atlantic Beach became a hot vacation destination where you could spend multiple days.
After World War II, tourism experienced a boom in the United States. Many began traveling to different states and areas during their vacation to experience more than just what their hometowns had to offer. Many of these vacationers came to Atlantic Beach to enjoy some time by the ocean. As tourism increased, more facilities were incorporated into the resort at Atlantic Beach. This allowed more visitors to be accommodated and provided more attractions to enjoy.
Historic Attractions
When you visit Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, you will find many different Atlantic Beach activities to participate in. One of the main activities is visiting any of the many historic attractions that call Atlantic Beach home.
One of the most popular historic attractions in Atlantic Beach is the Beaufort Historic Site. When you visit the Beaufort Historic Site, you can visit one of North Carolina’s oldest towns. It has houses that are still standing, built in the 1700s. This can be a great way to spend the day when you are staying in Atlantic Beach.
You can also visit Fort Macon State Park or the History Museum of Carteret County. Both of these locations are great places to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Atlantic Beach. You can also visit the North Carolina Aquarium or the North Carolina Maritime Museum. Both offer an experience to learn more about the sea life around the area and the history of the town as a fishing village.
All of these can be great ways to spend the day in Atlantic Beach with the whole family.
Cultural Significance
Atlantic Beach is more than a vacation destination. It is home to people of various cultures who like to share their culture through art, music, and food. You can experience all of this when you visit Atlantic Beach. Throughout the year, various festivals and events are held in Atlantic Beach that help showcase local art and music, as well as some of the local food that the residents of Atlantic Beach have made for generations. A lot of this is showcased during the Crystal Coast Spring Festivals.
Two of the most popular festivals in Atlantic Beach are the Atlantic Beach Music Festival and the Atlantic Beach International Food Festival. You can enjoy live music at the Circle when you attend the Atlantic Beach Music Festival. A wide selection of cultural culinary delights can be enjoyed at the Atlantic Beach International Food Festival. You can truly experience everything that Atlantic Beach has to offer when you experience the cultural scene around the area.
Plan Your Visit
Explore Atlantic Beach’s rich history and fascinating evolution while staying in one of our cozy Atlantic Beach vacation rentals. Learn about the heritage and development of this charming coastal town, and book your stay now!
Where to Stay in Atlantic Beach
When planning your next vacation to Atlantic Beach, consider booking with Cannon and Gruber. With Cannon and Gruber, you can find the perfect oceanfront rental in Atlantic Beach, which is close to the attractions you want to visit. Cannon and Gruber offer a wide selection of Atlantic Beach oceanfront rentals and beachfront rentals. You want to find the best place to stay while you are in Atlantic Beach, and Cannon and Gruber can help you find the best Atlantic Beach condo rentals and vacation home rentals.
