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Where is Beaufort located?
- The town of Beaufort lies on the coast of North Carolina in the state’s Inner Banks region.
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How old is Beaufort?
- Beaufort was first established in 1709, making it one of the oldest towns in North Carolina.
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What is Beaufort best known for?
- Beaufort is best known as the site where Blackbeard took his 1718 voyage on the ship Queen Anne’s Revenge before it was shipwrecked.
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What other attractions make Beaufort special?
- Beaufort is recognized for its coastal landscape, interesting maritime history, and historic homes.
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1. North Carolina Maritime Museum
Explore maritime history and see nautical artifacts on an easy, affordable educational trip.
The North Carolina Maritime Museum tells more behind the state’s maritime history. This includes interesting exhibits that highlight shipwrecks, shells, boat equipment, oyster catching, and lighthouses. In addition to this, the museum has a boat shed which contains a handful of vintage vessels. Visitors can also learn more behind model ship making thanks to the small collection the North Carolina Maritime Museum holds. This museum also has many events during the year, including pirate movies, sailing programs, and whale watching tours. The North Carolina Maritime Museum is connected to Harborside Park which provides scenic waterfront views to guests.
315 Front Street, Beaufort, NC 28516, Phone: 252-504-7740
2. Rachel Carson Reserve, Beaufort
Walk along nature trails and admire wild horses on a peaceful summer outing.
The Rachel Carson Reserve is made up of a vast collection of North Carolina coastal regions and is designed to help protect the area’s natural beauty. It spans over 2,315 acres and is located by a handful of rivers, including the North and Newport. Those visiting the reserve will find plenty of things to do, including hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The landscape will also vary depending on the section you visit with some spots showcasing towering sand dunes while others have maritime forests. While wildlife is abundant here, wild horses roaming along the shoreline are the main highlight. The Rachel Carson Reserve can only be reached by ferry or water taxi.
Front Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-838-0886
3. Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground
Visit historic graves and discover unusual stories during a quiet fall walk.
The Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground is believed to have been created in the early 1700s. The grounds are the final resting place of over 200 people and feature old graves with headstones made of stone, shells, and wood. Visitors will also find vaulted brick graves which were designed to help protect them from being destroyed by animals. Some buried here include a naval captain who is believed to have been buried with cannons from his ship. You can tour the grounds of this historic cemetery by yourself or sign up for a guided tour.
400 Ann Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-728-5225
4. Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge
Explore marshland trails and look at coastal birds on a relaxing retirement trip.
Located on the edge of Pamlico Sound is the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge covers over 14,480 acres that are made up of marshes and woodlands. The Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge is also well-known for its Bay Forest and Cypress Gum Swamp. Explorers can trek down the various trails winding through the land where they’ll come across many native plants and animals, such as saltmeadow hay, black needlerush, pond pine, gray squirrels, rabbits, otters, and foxes. During the winter, many waterfowl species flock here to nest making it a bird lover’s paradise.
Cedar Island, North Carolina 28520, Phone: 252-225-2511
5. Olde Beaufort Farmers Market, Beaufort, NC
Go for fresh produce and enjoy fun family-friendly stuff on a spring morning.
The Olde Beaufort Farmers Market is designed to help connect the community with local businesses. Every Saturday morning, the market is set up with over 40 vendors who range from bakers to craftspeople. All products sold are either handmade or locally grown. In addition to vendors, the market also has a space for local non-profit organizations to spread the word about their cause. There are food trucks and live music performances each week. During the winter, there is an Old Fashioned Holiday Market which sells a variety of classic Christmas goods.
300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-564-8822
6. Fishtowne Brew House, Beaufort
Savor craft beers and enjoy a casual weekend stop with couples or friends.
The Fishtowne Brew House is situated inside a 1940s-era ABC store and restaurant. Renovations on the building began in 2017 and worked to help bring the structure into the 21st-century while still keeping its historic atmosphere. The brew house features old wood paneling, a vibrant concrete wall, massive stainless steel brewing equipment, and a large outdoor patio. You’ll find 12 taps to choose from which include pale ale, IPA, and Belgian wit. Customers can also enjoy some freshly-made pita chips with their drinks while listening to vinyls playing in the background.
133 Turner Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-838-1102
7. Beaufort Grocery Company, Beaufort, North Carolina
Savor local seafood and enjoy a romantic lunch in a cozy coastal setting.
Situated in the town’s historic district, the Beaufort Grocery Company was founded in 1991 by Charles Park, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. It has become a popular dining spot for locals and tourists alike thanks to its large menu which offers salads, sandwiches, soups, and other delicious entrees. The restaurant is open six days a week for lunch and dinner and for brunch on Sunday. Diners can sit inside the building to enjoy their meals or eat outdoors on its small patio.
117 Queen Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-728-3899
8. Clawson's 1905 Restaurant, Beaufort, NC
Visit this historic eatery and savor Southern classics during an easy weekend trip.
Believed to be in one of the oldest buildings in Beaufort, Clawson's 1905 Restaurant was first created by Swedish and Irish immigrants Charles and Mary Clawson in the early 1900s. It was originally a grocery store before being bought in the 1970s by Bill and Candy Rogers. Since then, the restaurant has changed ownership a few times, but continues to celebrate its unique history. The restaurant specializes in sandwiches, hamburgers, and craft beer. It also works alongside local fishers to provide customers with fresh seafood for their meals.
425 Front Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-728-2133
9. Cru Wine Bar & Beaufort Coffee Shop, Beaufort, North Carolina
Sip wine or coffee and enjoy relaxed vibes in a quick coastal stop.
The Cru Wine Bar & Beaufort Coffee Shop Shop is situated inside an old building that once served as the town’s maritime history museum, grocery store, and market. Today, the coffee shop shows off its interesting history by displaying the building’s original tin roof and brick walls. Visitors can step inside the shop to enjoy fresh coffee and pastries. In addition to this, a cozy bar is located here which serves a handful of wines that are arranged in a stunning glass wall display. You’ll also find artisan chocolate, pre-made food items, and locally-made ice cream available for sale.
120 Turner Street, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, Phone: 252-728-3066
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal for pleasant weather and exploring the waterfront.
Inlet Inn – A charming waterfront stay with scenic views.
Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum – Learn about Blackbeard and maritime history.
Summer (June-August) – Best for boating, fishing, and enjoying the beach.
Beaufort Hotel – A luxury waterfront hotel with excellent amenities.
Take a ferry to Shackleford Banks – See wild horses and enjoy secluded beaches.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer crowds and great seafood festivals.
Pecan Tree Inn – A cozy bed and breakfast in the historic district.
Attend the Beaufort Pirate Invasion – A fun-filled historic reenactment event.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. North Carolina Maritime Museum
- 2. Rachel Carson Reserve, Beaufort
- 3. Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground
- 4. Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge
- 5. Olde Beaufort Farmers Market, Beaufort, NC
- 6. Fishtowne Brew House, Beaufort
- 7. Beaufort Grocery Company, Beaufort, North Carolina
- 8. Clawson's 1905 Restaurant, Beaufort, NC
- 9. Cru Wine Bar & Beaufort Coffee Shop, Beaufort, North Carolina