Less is ‘More‘ in this North Carolina hideaway boasting secret islands and small town charm.
A far cry from the big city life of Charlotte or the lush, autumnal beauty drawing back hordes to Asheville, Southern Living recently featured perhaps North Carolina’s best-kept secret as far as beach getaways go.
Here at Travel Off Path, there’s nothing we love more than stumbling upon textbook hidden gems, so we can reveal them to you (and maybe even book a trip ourselves! )
The good news about this coastal surprise is that you can enjoy both the delightful small town aspects of fall with a PSL in hand and then venture off to practically unknown islands to the masses, laden with vibrant blue waters and enjoyable mild weather until the frigid winter temps arrive.
Welcome To Morehead City
Netflix’s hit show Outer Banks has hoisted North Carolina’s shores onto center stage in recent years.
Typically, it’s the other ‘Carolina’ drawing a crowd for its spectacular shorelines, but don’t sleep on NC.
It’s not only the real Outer Banks that is worthy of a beach getaway, but also underrated Wilmington. Morehead City, the largest city in the region, offers those willing to give this little-known town a fair shake endless delights ranging from a charismatic downtown to stunning, crowd-free islands that slip through the cracks of guidebooks.
Oozing a village-esque charm teeming with fresh-caught seafood like Southern Living-backed The Banks Grill, welcoming locals, affordable stays, and numerous ways to enjoy the surrounding waterways, be it kayaking, serene marshlands, or boarding a ferry to paradise, fall is a great time to visit for its open barstools and virtually spotless beaches.
Though the biggest surprise attraction takes you back over a century of significant U.S. history.
Fort Macon is one of the most picturesque places in the area, overlooking blue Atlantic waters and providing guests with guided insight as a Civil War stronghold, a key reason why this state park holds a near-perfect Google rating.
Discover North Carolina’s Secret Island Escapes
Wanna take in the views closer to shore? Maybe stay in town and book a nice dinner at Jack’s on the Waterfront.
Otherwise, it’s time to hop aboard a ferry or grab your lifejacket and paddle to one of the region’s many untamed islands.
The other option is to befriend a friendly local who likely owns a boat, as it’s ingrained in the day-to-day culture here.
Sand Dollar Island is truly a map-dot island. Good luck zooming in on the map. Despite its diminutive size, it’s a big deal for family excursions in the summertime for — you guessed it — collecting sand dollars.
Check out Morehead City Ferry Service to get here. Plus, they offer dolphin sighting tours.
Sugar Loaf Island is another gem worth exploring, and the closest to downtown Morehead City. Though it’s best reached on your terms via kayak or boat.
Here, you’ll find more serenity in the calm waters of the Bogue Sound.
Shackleford Banks is perhaps the most unique of the bunch since the main inhabitants are wild horses, and just across to the Northeast is Harker’s Island, popular for fishing and home to Cape Lookout Bed & Breakfast, a great place to unplug and recharge.
Hop aboard a ferry from nearby Beaufort.
Though not a secret, Atlantic Beach rounds out the best place to be for classic seaside fun — sprawling beaches, oceanfront bars, and endless ways to soak up the sun, even in fall, such as surfing or renting a beach cruiser.
Morehead City’s Small Town Delights
There’s no better place to cap off epic beach days or island-hopping than downtown Morehead City, where its vibrant marina boasts even more vibrant sunsets.
Easy to navigate and brimming with pastel, coastal character, downtown’s mom n’ pop eateries, boutique shops, and numerous antique stores account for countless hours on your trip.
But seafood is king here, as you can imagine. Southern Living also recommends Red Fish Grill, which just so happens to be the number one Morehead City restaurant on TripAdvisor.
There’s no shortage of cozy inns and old-timey lodges dotting the region too, but those who aren’t fans of typical chains should opt for the Bask Hotel, a comfortable mid-size tower overlooking the scenic waterfront.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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