Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle can be a great place to escape to when some beach time is what you crave. One of the two main towns that are situated on the barrier island of Bogue Banks, this destination along North Carolina's Crystal Coast caters almost entirely to those who have beach vacations in mind. The fact that Emerald Isle is also a great fishing destination only accentuates the overall appeal, as does the great weather.

The 28-mile long island of Bogue Banks enjoys some of the best weather in the Outer Banks region of North Carolina, and this has a lot to do with its southern exposure. You can basically treat yourself to an Emerald Isle beach vacation almost any time of year due to the agreeable climate. Regardless of when you choose to visit Emerald Isle, you won't find any beachfront hotels. That being said, numerous vacation rental properties are available. This lends to the family-friendly environment of the town. Summer is when the rentals go the quickest, so arranging accommodations well in advance is recommended when dropping by during the peak summer season.

Tan-colored sand meets the beautiful blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean in Emerald Isle, and you can actually drive on the beach from September 15 to April 30. The beach driving hours basically coincide with daylight savings time, and you can get the required beach driving permits at the Town Administration Building on Emerald Drive. As for beach activities, the wide and sandy stretches are ideal for walks, and you can do plenty of shelling and swimming if you please. When the waves are up, surfing is an option on the Atlantic Ocean side, and kayaking is possible in the Bogue Sound and in the ocean when the surf is down.