With 3,375 miles of coastline in North Carolina, there’s no shortage of waterfront towns to visit. Today, we’re heading to Beaufort (not to be confused with the South Carolina city of the same name but different pronunciation).

This is the perfect destination for those who want to be near the water without getting sand everywhere. You can stroll the boardwalk, go boating, eat fresh seafood, and learn about pirate history.

So, pack your bags with your best “coastal grandma”-style clothes for a late-summer trip to Beaufort.

Drive time: Under 3 hours

Est. population: 4,689

Avg. temperature in August: 84°

🎟️ Things to do

Historic Beaufort Double Decker Bus Tour

Climb aboard this 1967 British double-decker bus to learn about the rich history of the state’s third-oldest town, from pirates to star-crossed lovers. You can also step back into the 1700s at Beaufort’s historic site.

North Carolina Maritime Museum

Learn about the Crystal Coast’s connection to the ocean. Here you can discover local marine life and view artifacts from Blackbeard’s wrecked flagship. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.

Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center

Right across from the Maritime Museum, this center is dedicated to the art of boat building. You can see demonstrations or take a class in how to build wooden boats with traditional techniques.

Olde Beaufort Farmers’ Market

Shop from local fisherman, craftspeople, farmers, bakers, and artists at this Saturday morning market that’s open mid-April to late November.

Beaufort Paddle

Take to the water on a kayak or canoe from Beaufort Paddle. Choose to go out on your own or have one of their guides take you to places like the Rachel Carson Reserve, home to wild horses.

People entering a historic home — Step back into the 18th and 19th century at Beaufort Historic Site. | Photos courtesy the Beaufort Historical Association

🍲 Memorable eats

City Kitchen | 114 A Town Creek Dr.

This waterside restaurant is located above the Town Creek Marina. Enjoy locally sourced eats like fish cakes with a curry-lime aioli and creative cocktails from the tiki bar.

Beaufort Creamery | 400 Front St., Ste. 2

Find a variety of flavors at this small-batch ice cream shop. It was voted one of the country’s best ice cream shops by USA Today in 2023.

34° North Restaurant | 2440 Lennoxville Rd.

Opt to sit on the wrap-around patio of this elevated seafood spot. This restaurant also offers brunch on the weekends and breakfast on weekdays.

Beaufort Grocery Co. | 117 Queen St.

Stop into this cute, homey bistro for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Try the hot Carolina crab dip paired with a BeauGro gougère (a Parmesan-filled pastry).

Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant & Pub | 425 Front St.

This long-standing local favorite has been serving up good eats since 1905. Specializing in seafood and smoked meats, we recommend the ribs and a fried seafood platter of your choosing.

Shop local at the Beaufort Farmers' Market each Saturday.

🏨 Accommodations

Beaufort Hotel | 2440 Lennoxville Rd.

This resort-style stay was named the No. 1 best boutique hotel in the United States in 2022 and 2023. Pro tip: 34° North Restaurant is located in the hotel.

Pecan Tree Inn | 116 Queen St.

This historic bed and breakfast is just one block from the waterfront and steps from its historic district. The Pecan Tree has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts and offers EV charging stations.

Compass Hotel Beaufort | 103 Cedar St.

This waterfront hotel is for those who always believe it’s 5 o’clock somewhere. Featuring marina views, this Margaritaville hotel is pet friendly and offers complimentary hot breakfast.