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If you’re vacationing in Atlantic Beach, one of the best day trips is the picturesque town of Swansboro, offering all the North Carolina charm you’ve come to expect while adding a fun and unique feel of its own. Swansboro is perfect to see in one day, but once you’ve been, you’ll want to come back for more! Its convenient location near so many Atlantic Beach vacation rentals makes it the perfect destination for an exciting day with the family.
Where Is It?
Swansboro is located east of Atlantic City and can easily be reached in under an hour. It’s one of the smaller towns in North Carolina, and if you’re not looking for it, it’s easy to miss! But the gorgeous views you’ll have on the way are enough to make the drive worth it, and once you arrive, you’ll fall in love with “The Friendly City by the Sea!”
What to Do
Despite its small size, there are tons of fun and intriguing activities in Swansboro. If you’re a history lover, this is definitely the town for you. The historic downtown district is home to Russell’s Olde Tyme Shoppe and plenty of other quaint stores and buildings. Swansboro’s history goes back into the 1700s, so there is always more to learn about!
To experience true North Carolina sunshine, visit Hammocks Beach State Park. This oasis is ideal for relaxing the day away among blue waters and clear skies. You can only access the park by getting across the water in a boat, ferry, canoe, or kayak, so it’s much less crowded than some of the other area beaches. Once you arrive, you can watch the magnificent wildlife, rent equipment to explore the water, have a picnic, or hike the trails.
Want to try your hand at fishing? Sandbar Safari offers fishing charters and eco-tours that the whole family will love. Your trusty guide is experienced and knowledgeable, able to teach you all the ins and outs of the water. Each tour is custom tailored to your group for a completely individual experience. This is perhaps one of the best ways to get up close and personal with the native wildlife in the area.
Where to Eat
When you’re ready for a bite to eat, Swansboro has plenty to choose from. Swansboro Food & Beverage Co. has been serving the community and its visitors since 2014, combining delicious offerings with a hometown feel. Their American cuisine includes some of the best soups, burgers, and drinks in the area, and you can’t miss the homemade desserts!
For dinner with a view, try Saltwater Grill of Swansboro, beautifully situated right on Bogue Sound. Saltwater Grill truly captures the essence of fresh seafood with dishes like lobster ravioli and sesame yellowfin. They also have an extensive drink menu, so you can relax and enjoy your meal with loved ones sipping a cocktail while surrounded by breathtaking views.
Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth at Candy Edventure. You will literally feel like a kid in a candy store surrounded by their 150+ offerings of fudge, chocolates, candies, and more. They also have several “adult candies” infused with alcohol if you need a little extra kick! No matter your craving, Candy Edventure is sure to satisfy.
Places to Stay
Swansboro’s convenient location makes it ideal for a day trip, so you’re able to stay in one of our Atlantic Beach vacation homes and still experience all the town has to offer! From Atlantic Beach, head toward US-70W, which you’ll use to reach NC-24 W. Stay on this road for about 25 miles, and you’ll find yourself in Swansboro!
Ready to plan your getaway? Contact us today for more information about our premier Crystal Coast vacation rentals. We are committed to helping you plan the getaway of your dreams, and our rental properties suit any budget or party size. Ask us more about the area and the phenomenal day trips you can experience by staying in Atlantic City.
