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Coastal region of North Carolina, United States
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The Crystal Coast is a scenic and tourist-oriented stretch of beaches and towns in North Carolina, stretching from Emerald Isle in the west to Beaufort and Cape Lookout in the east (although a broader definition includes the area as far west as Swansboro, and as far east as the Pamlico Sound). The islands in this region are considered to be part of the southern Outer Banks.
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The annual Beaufort Wine and Food Festival in late April brings “spirit” to wine enthusiasts and foodies on the Crystal Coast. Included in the weekend are a Grand Tasting Village, Sommelier Seminars, cooking classes, fine art auctions, golf outings, and wine pairing dinners.
History connoisseurs experience the charming setting of a quaint seaport village. The event also allows guests to view a variety of historic highlights from the oldest courthouse in North Carolina and the Old Burying Grounds with gravesites from early 18th century to award-winning gardens and charming private homes dating back as far as 300 years.
The nearest major airport is Raleigh-Durham International (RDU); driving time to Morehead is approximately 3 hours.
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Most western beaches are located along NC 58 on the island of Bogue Banks, while the "Down East" beaches are on the far eastern extremities of US 70 as well as the southern end of NC 12.
By bus
There isn't really any regular, reliable public transportation in the area. Carolina Trailways, a member of the National Trailways Bus System, makes periodic stops in the area.
By boat
Given the ease of accessibility to water, you can also take the opportunity to travel by boat. There are a variety of marinas in the area, if you want to use your own boat.
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New Bern · Regional · EWN
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the main city in the region, and a good base for outings in the area.
a historic town established in 1713 with many original restored homes and a bustling waterfront.
family-oriented beaches with lots of cottages for rent.
a popular beach resort since the 1920s.
Newport is a small town just outside the Crystal Coast region of North Carolina, situated on the scenic Newport River. Because it's inland, away from the touristy coastal area, and doesn't have much in the way of attractions, Newport remains a mostly residential community.
a historic fishing community known for its wooden decoy carving and its littleneck clams.
quaint downtown shopping and a pleasant riverside.
Cape Carteret is a town of 2,224 people (2020) in the Crystal Coast region of North Carolina. Like Newport, it's mainly a residential community, even though it's right on the water and boasts some very nice views of the sound.
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