Where to Stay in Atlantic Beach

Vacation Rentals

Renting a home or condo gives you space, privacy, and a kitchen. Try:

• Bluewater Vacation Rentals
• VRBO
There are hundreds of houses, condos and apartment properties that can suit your party's needs.

Our pick: Bogue Shores Condos – A pool, outdoor grills, crystal clear views of the Bogue Sound and Intracoastal Waterway, a dock with 30+ boat slips and 3-minute walk to the beach.

Hotels

If you prefer hotel amenities, consider:

• DoubleTree by Hilton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront (pet-friendly)
• Oceanana Family Motel (great for families)

Ocean view from a balcony at the DoubleTree Atlantic Beach

Top Things to Do in Atlantic Beach & the Crystal Coast

1. Enjoy the Beach

Soft sand, warm sun, and friendly vibes make the beach here one of the best. Bring your own gear, snacks, and plan to stay awhile!

The most obvious thing to do is to enjoy the beach! Atlantic Beach really is a magical place. It's clean, not overly crowded (so social distancing is not a problem) and those you do see are cordial and nice. We bring our own chairs, umbrellas and set up camp for hours at a time. Beach wagons are great for traversing the sand, but our little red wagon works just fine. We always pack snacks and drinks in a cooler; other times we’ll head back to the condo or hotel for a meal and a nap to take a break from the sun. Our trips always involve getting in as much beach time as possible.

2. Rent Bikes or Scooters

Use Beachside Bikes or explore Beaufort with Hungry Town Tours. Perfect for scenic rides and exploring historic neighborhoods.

3. Visit the Atlantic Beach Skatepark

Great for families—this multiplex has a 18-hole mini golf course, BMX and skateboarding course (perfect for tweens, teens and anybody looking to show off some tricks), a splashpad, concession stand and public beach access.

4. Take a Beach Yoga Class

Start your morning with sun salutations or attend a peaceful sunset yoga session. Check out NC Coastal Life's schedule for yoga classes in Atlantic Beach and Beaufort. Yoga mats are not required, just bring a beach towel and you’re good to go.

5. Explore the Olde Beaufort Farmers Market

Held Saturdays (April–November). The market welcomes well-behaved pets, has activities for the kids, 40+ vendors, a regularly scheduled food truck and live music.

6. Visit the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Get up close and personal to sea life at one of three aquariums run by the state, it's a great place to go on a rainy day or to enjoy air conditioning while learning about the natural areas surrounding the aquarium and animal care areas behind the scenes.

7. Book a Deep Sea Fishing Charter

Captain Stacy’s Fishing Center offers full/half-day trips with gear included. Prices include everything but the fish themselves. Also, they keep your fish on ice while you are on the boat. Food and beverages are available for purchase, but you can bring a cooler aboard if you prefer to bring your own snacks. Not into fishing? Browse two-floor nautical gift shop instead.

8. Visit Cape Lookout National Seashore

Accessible only by boat (well, ferry), it's one of the only certified International Dark Sky Parks on the East Coast, astro-tourists and stargazers can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. Feeling adventurous? Reserve UTVs provided by Island Express Ferry Services to explore the seashore.

Best Places to Eat on the Crystal Coast

Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ

Known for the best shrimpburgers and barbecue sandwiches. Have a car picnic in the parking lot or take it back to your lodgings, it's worth the drive to eat at this popular, iconic beach spot. Hushpuppies are only 85 cents and you could hula hoop using the onion rings here. DON'T SLEEP on their crabcake sandwich. Served on a soft bun with creamy coleslaw, it was probably the best surprise of our time here. Click here to read about Big Oak and some other barbecue joints in NC.

Dank Burrito – Morehead City

Modern Mexican with fresh, flavorful options. Try the cucumber jalapeño salsa! What started as a food truck is now a successful franchise and one of the most creative spots on the coast. Burritos, tacos, rice bowls? Yes, please!

El’s Drive-In

El's Drive In is the Home of the Superburger. Watch out for sneaky dive-bombing seagulls in the parking lot!

Full Moon Oyster Bar & Seafood Kitchen

The original Full Moon Oyster Bar & Seafood Kitchen is near my hometown, Winston-Salem, so I'm biased. Located just off the Atlantic Beach Causeway, you have to eat here if you like seafood. Seafood lovers, spring for the Full Moon steamer bucket which comes with steamed potatoes, coleslaw, crab legs, shrimp, scallops, clams and oysters

Michaelangelo’s Pizza – Atlantic Beach

Great for delivery or casual dine-in. NY-style pizza, garlic knots and PRO TIP: get the chef salad.

Prime 1079 (Inside the DoubleTree)

Perfect for a fancy night out—steaks, chops and standout crab cakes.

Amos Mosquito's

Specializing in "Dock-to-Dish" dining, this popular, laid-back seafood restaurant offers scenic waterfront views and a casual, inviting atmosphere. Known for its fresh catches and friendly service, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

Rucker Johns

Rucker Johns is family-friendly and consistent. Don’t miss the honey-butter croissants!

Wanna pizza me? A fresh pie from Michaelangelo's

Final Thoughts: Why I’ll Be Back

This trip to Atlantic Beach felt like my first real vacation in years. I relaxed, recharged, and left feeling lighter and happier. Whether you're planning a solo trip, romantic getaway, or family vacation, Atlantic Beach and the Crystal Coast are must-visits in 2025.

Have you been to Atlantic Beach or planning to go? Drop your favorites or questions in the comments!

More posts