Visit Fort Macon State Park, a historic fort situated on a stunning beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 2: North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
9 minutes (4 miles) from Fort Macon State Park
Discover the marine life of Emerald Isle with interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and feeding shows at the North Carolina Aquarium.
Day 3: Hammocks Beach State Park
30 minutes (20 miles) from Pine Knoll Shores
Take a ferry to Bear Island and explore the undeveloped barrier island with its pristine beaches and excellent shelling opportunities.
Day 4: Emerald Isle Beach
25 minutes (15 miles) from Hammocks Beach State Park
Spend a relaxing day on the pristine Emerald Isle beach, playing in the surf, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun.
Day 5: Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier
10 minutes (5 miles) from Emerald Isle Beach
Experience fishing on one of the area's longest fishing piers, with tackle rentals and a tackle shop available.
Day 6: Water Boggan of Emerald Isle
10 minutes (5.5 miles) from Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier
Cool off at the Water Boggan of Emerald Isle with water slides, trampolines, and other water-based attractions.
Day 7: Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway
11 minutes (6 miles) from Water Boggan of Emerald Isle
Cap off your vacation with a round of mini-golf and a go-kart race at Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway.
Time and Costs Estimates
Fort Macon State Park (2 hours, free)
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores (3 hours, $12 adult, $6 child)
Hammocks Beach State Park (3 hours, free)
Emerald Isle Beach (4 hours, free)
Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier (2 hours, $10 per person)
Water Boggan of Emerald Isle (2 hours, $20 adult, $18 child)
Lost Treasure Golf and Raceway (2 hours, $15 adult, $11 child)
Total Estimated Costs: $92 adult, $67 child
Useful Tips
With more time, consider a trip to the nearby town of Beaufort, known for its charming historic homes, waterfront dining, and ferry tours of the Rachel Carson Reserve. With less time, skip the Water Boggan and Lost Treasure mini-golf and spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the area's state parks.