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Where is Atlantic Beach located?
- The small town of Atlantic Beach can be found along the eastern portion of the Bogue Banks of North Carolina, a barrier island bordered by the Bogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
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What makes Atlantic Beach a great destination?
- Along with abundant pleasant beaches and amazing water views, Atlantic Beach also has plenty of history and relaxing activities for both tourists and locals alike.
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What historical attractions are in Atlantic Beach?
- The town is home to Fort Macon, a Civil War-era fort and popular state park.
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What activities and dining options are available in Atlantic Beach?
- There are many outdoor activities to be found in Atlantic Beach, as well as several great places to enjoy fresh seafood.
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1. Fort Macon State Park
Fort Macon State Park features a wide variety of things to do within its boundaries in the small coastal town of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. Home to an excellently restored fort from the Civil War era; unspoiled coastline ideal for beachcombing, surf fishing, and swimming; and a coastal education center, visitors can easily spend the whole day at the state park. Located at the eastern end of the Bogue Banks and nearly completely surrounded by water, Fort Macon State Park provides opportunities to learn about dune fields, estuaries, and salt marshes. Fort Macon is a great historical site to explore as well.
2303 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, Phone: 252-726-3775
2. Fort Macon
Constructed between the years of 1826 and 1834, the five-sided Fort Macon was built to defend Beaufort Harbor and was made out of stone and brick. The historic fort was intermittently garrisoned, but was captured in 1861 by Confederate troops at the start of the Civil War, later to be recaptured in April of 1862 by Union troops. The fort stands today as one of the best surviving examples of military fortification and architecture of the nineteenth century. Visitors can tour Fort Macon any day, with the exception of Christmas Day and Civil War reenactments take place during the summer season.
2303 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, Phone: 252-726-3775
3. Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail
The Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail is protected by the North Carolina Coastal Federation. This half-mile, low-impact nature trail in Atlantic Beach is open to both locals and visitors alike during the day and can be found off of Highway 58 near the Atlantic Station Shopping Center. Complimentary trail guides are available at the entrance to the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail. This trail is considered to be a prime example of the “wild side” of Atlantic Beach, which is easily accessible and mostly “hidden in plain sight,” and leads people to a world of beautiful waterfront and natural green landscapes.
Milepost 3.5, Hwy 58, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, Phone: 252-393-8185
4. Amos Mosquito's Restaurant & Bar
Amos Mosquito's Restaurant and Bar is an upscale, yet casual restaurant offering a great dining experience for the whole family. Featuring a covered patio that overlooks the Bogue Sound and outdoorsy, unique decor, the restaurant offers a made-from-scratch and eclectic menu with options ranging from sushi to Jamaican Jerk Chicken to catch-of-the-day specials to desserts like the tableside s’mores. Amos Mosquito's Restaurant uses the freshest local ingredients when possible, aiming to be the go-to place in town for coastal and classic southern fare. The restaurant boasts a beachy vibe with its picturesque water views and bayou-style setting.
703 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, Phone: 252-247-6222
5. Shark Shack
Shark Shack is a favorite dining establishment among locals in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, offering a peaceful atmosphere, live music during the weekend, daily beer and food specials, outdoor seating, and cornhole any day. Particularly well known for its Grouper Bites, Shark Shack offers a menu featuring a variety of seafood items, such as seafood wraps, clam strips, fried oysters, shrimp, homemade crab cakes, and more. In addition to the everyday menu, specials include special tacos every weekend, Mahi-Mahi, Tuna Steak Sandwiches, and other dishes. The food at Shark Shack is complemented by the nine different homemade sauces available to diners.
100 S Durham Ave, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, Phone: 252-269-9941
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures ideal for quiet beach walks and exploring local attractions.
DoubleTree by Hilton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront – Comfortable beachfront accommodations.
Visit Fort Macon State Park – Enjoy history, trails, and beautiful ocean views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather perfect for swimming, surfing, and outdoor activities.
Atlantic Beach Resort – Family-friendly lodging with excellent amenities.
Enjoy Oceanana Pier – Great spot for fishing, sightseeing, and dining.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather, fewer visitors, and great for fishing and relaxation.
Island Inn of Atlantic Beach – Cozy accommodations with easy beach access.
Explore nearby Beaufort – Discover charming shops, historic landmarks, and local restaurants.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet atmosphere and mild coastal weather, perfect for peaceful retreats.
Palm Suites Atlantic Beach – Comfortable lodging ideal for off-season stays.
Visit North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores – Enjoy exhibits, marine life, and educational programs.
Plan Your Trip
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