City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Beaufort, North Carolina

Jonathan Timianko

Jan 26, 2024 — 3 min read

The Crystal Coast’s Beaufort (pronounced bow-firt), a charming coastal town in the Southern Outer Banks, offers boaters and water lovers a unique blend of history, natural beauty and a vibrant maritime atmosphere.

Not to be confused with Beaufort, South Carolina (pronounced bew-furd), which is near Hilton Head, this North Carolina town delivers a variety of attractions for boaters staying at private boat slip rentals, marinas or hotels. Let’s take a look.

Historic District

Photo: Sandy Allen

Start your exploration with a stroll through the Beaufort Historic District. The district boasts well-preserved historic homes, many dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Take a walking tour to learn about the town's rich history, including tales of pirates, sea captains and Civil War events.

North Carolina Maritime Museum

Photo: North Carolina Maritime Museum/Facebook

Dive into Beaufort's maritime heritage at the North Carolina Maritime Museum. The museum features exhibits on shipwrecks, maritime history and the region's unique coastal ecology. Don't miss the artifacts recovered from the infamous pirate Blackbeard’s Queen Anne's Revenge.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Photo: Wikimedia/BrianDBell/CC by SA 3.0

Embark on a ferry ride to Cape Lookout National Seashore, a pristine barrier island known for its untouched beaches and iconic lighthouse. Spend a day away from a private boat lift rental exploring the sandy shores, collecting seashells and climbing to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Shackleford Banks

Photo: Wikimedia/Bonnie Gruenberg/CC by SA 3.0

Just a short boat ride away, Shackleford Banks is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This uninhabited island is home to a herd of wild horses believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs. Book a guided tour to observe these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. If you enjoy Chincoteague Island and its wild horses, you’ll love visiting Shackleford Banks from private boat dock rentals.

Island Express Ferry Service

Photo: Crystal Coast/Facebook (Rachel Carson Reserve)

For a day trip adventure, consider taking the Island Express Ferry to nearby islands like Rachel Carson Reserve and Carrot Island. These natural preserves offer opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and spotting the local wildlife.

Kayaking and Watersports

Photo: Sandy Allen

Explore Beaufort's waterways by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Paddle through Taylor's Creek and admire the coastal scenery while getting some exercise and enjoying the peaceful surroundings from private boat slips for rent near Beaufort.

Check out some of these spots the next time you’re at a private boat dock for rent near Beaufort, North Carolina. Let us know your favorites!

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