Beaufort is located along the beautiful Beaufort Inlet, which leads to the state's Atlantic Ocean coastline. The charming small town, which is North Carolina's third-oldest established municipality, is located within easy day trip distance from Charlotte, Charleston, and Virginia Beach, serving as the gateway to gorgeous natural areas such as the Cape Lookout National Seashore and Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Visitors can peruse historic sites such as the Carteret County Home, and the city's Beaufort Historic District, all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and date back to the 18th century. Family-friendly attractions include the North Carolina Maritime Museum, while annual festivals include the lively Beaufort Pirate Invasion and the delicious Beaufort Food and Wine Festival.

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