The Crystal Coast is one of only two places in the Eastern seaboard where the Gulf Stream affects the coastline, resulting in clear, warm water.
It’s a great place for wreck divers because there’s a graveyard of more than 2,000 vessels at the bottom of the Atlantic. As well, the waters are teeming with aquatic life.
If you want to fish, there are several fishing piers and a plethora of charter fishing boats.You might want to charter a boat to get to the islands that are only accessible by boat.
Dining
With one of the longest fishing seasons on the Atlantic Coast, fresh seafood is always available in seafood shacks, bistros and many waterfront restaurants.
Shopping
There are no big shopping malls but, instead, individually owned shops and boutiques. A favourite is Islamorada, where shoppers line up waiting to buy name brand clothing from Lilly Pulitzer to Ralph Lauren. The Bag Lady of Beaufort is another popular shop.
Where to stay
You can stay at a bed-and-breakfast such as The Cedars by the Sea or The Pecan Tree Inn, rent a cozy beach cottage or a huge beach house or opt for a full-service hotel, such as the Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Resort.
This can be a trip full of history and activity and memories.
For more information, visit crystalcoastnc.org.
