Dreaming of historic streets, waterfront breezes, and Southern charm? Head to Beaufort! Located on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Beaufort is a scenic coastal town known for its maritime heritage, wild horses, and vibrant harborfront. Whether you're sailing, strolling, or savoring seafood, Beaufort is a perfect seaside escape.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Beaufort is from April through October. Spring and fall offer mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for boating, beach days, and festival fun. Winters are quieter but still offer coastal charm.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Beaufort is located off U.S. Route 70, about 3 hours southeast of Raleigh and 2 hours from Wilmington.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern, about 1 hour away. Rental cars and shuttles are available.
- By Boat: Beaufort is a popular stop along the Intracoastal Waterway and offers several marinas for boaters.
Where I like to stay
- The Beaufort Hotel – Elegant waterfront hotel with marina views, pool, and a refined restaurant.
- Inlet Inn – Historic inn in the heart of downtown with porches overlooking the harbor.
- Pecan Tree Inn – Quaint B&B with Southern charm, gardens, and a gourmet breakfast.
Top Attractions
1. North Carolina Maritime Museum
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
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
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Beaufort Historic Site Old Burying Ground
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
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
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
Where to Eat
6. Fishtowne Brew House, Beaufort
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
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
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
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
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Shackleford Banks – Take a ferry to this wild barrier island, home to roaming wild horses and seashell-covered beaches.
- Historic Downtown Beaufort – Stroll oak-shaded streets lined with shops, galleries, and 18th-century homes.
- Kayaking & Sailing – Explore calm waterways, spot dolphins, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the waterfront.
Where I Like to Eat
- Aqua Restaurant – Farm-to-table tapas and wine in a cozy downtown setting.
- Black Sheep – Waterside pizza, craft beer, and a breezy rooftop bar with marina views.
- Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant & Pub – Local staple offering hearty fare, seafood, and historic ambiance.
My favorite local events:
- Beaufort Wine & Food Festival (April) – Multi-day culinary celebration featuring chef dinners, wine tastings, and waterfront events.
- Beaufort Pirate Invasion (August) – Family-friendly reenactments, parades, and pirate-themed festivities throughout town.
- Christmas Candlelight Tour (December) – Historic homes glow with holiday lights and local hospitality during this beloved annual tradition.
My favorite day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Beaufort, North Carolina:
- Atlantic Beach (20–25 min) – Relax on wide sandy beaches, visit Fort Macon State Park, or grab lunch by the boardwalk.
- Morehead City (15 min) – Explore a lively waterfront with shops, seafood restaurants, and sport fishing charters.
- Harkers Island (30 min) – Visit the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum or take a boat tour to Cape Lookout Lighthouse.
- New Bern (1 hour) – Tour historic homes, explore Tryon Palace, or enjoy riverside dining in this charming colonial town.
- Cape Lookout National Seashore (via ferry) – Unspoiled beaches, iconic lighthouse, shelling, and wildlife watching on a remote barrier island.
Plan Your Trip