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The Crystal Coast -- The Other Outer Banks
When you ask
people where the Outer Banks are, most people think of the string of islands
stretching from Corolla and Duck in the north, through Nags Head proper,
and down into Hatteras and Ocracoke to the south. But the barrier islands
that have developed into the ‘Outer Banks’ actually stretch much
further. They also include the 55-miles of quiet coastal islands, maritime
forests, and beaches that make up the Cape Lookout National Seashore, extending
south of Ocracoke all the way to Cape Lookout. Along with the mainland towns
of Morehead City and Beaufort, this area has become appropriately known as
The Crystal Coast .
With a base in the charming
waterfront town of Beaufort, with it’s Victorian architecture and small
community feel, or in the modern fishing village of Morehead City, with
it’s old-time fishing culture and big-city amenities, you are steps
away from an amazing cornucopia of nature and natural pastimes. Boating and
fishing on your own or with a custom tour or charter, scenic cruising of
the unspoiled waterways, shelling and communing with the wild horses on
Shackleford Banks, getting an up-close view of the Cape Lookout lighthouse,
catching rays and frolicking in the surf along the beaches of the Crystal
Coast, exploring the underwater world at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine
Knoll Shores, learning a bit of civil war history at ort Macon State
Park…..whatever your interest, the Crystal Coast has something for everyone.
Another great way to explore
the area is by boat…..houseboat, that is. Through
Houseboat Rentals on the Crystal
Coast, you can take full advantage of everything Cape Lookout National
Seashore (and the Crystal Coast) has to offer while enjoying a unique stay
onboard your own 6- or 10-person houseboat. Talk about getting close to nature!
The ’Southern Outer Banks’ and the Crystal Coast are truly an undiscovered waterfront gem. And there aren’t many of those around anymore.