Crystal Coast Vacation Rentals

Our Favorite Family Activities on Emerald Isle

For some down-to-earth family fun and bonding, there is nothing better than a vacation in North Carolina, specifically the small seaside community of Emerald Isle. It is a peaceful, quiet community but still has plenty of things to do for families that will keep everyone entertained. While staying in one of our Emerald Isle or nearby Atlantic beach vacation rentals, here are some of the top family-friendly activities to enjoy. 

Emerald Forest Golf

For an afternoon of entertainment, pay a visit to Emerald Forest Mini Golf. The courses are well maintained and appropriate for all age levels. This is an excellent opportunity for the youngest members of the group to practice their putting! As an added plus, crowds tend to be smaller than other attractions in the area, so you won’t have to waste much time in lines.

One round of mini-golf costs $11 per person—and children six or under cost only $6. Visit the course at 8720 Reed Drive. 

boy mini golfing at atlantic beach course
Photo from Shutterstock

Salty Pirate Waterpark

The Salty Pirate Waterpark is the place to be for some slippin’ and slidin’ fun! This pirate-themed park provides pirate ships to climb on and slide down from. Slides are exciting but not too scary, and they offer the perfect relief from the hot North Carolina weather! 

The park is open exclusively during the summer season, until Labor Day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 7 p.m., depending on the day of the week. Tickets are sold exclusively at the park, and they cost $20 for anyone six years or older. However, if you show up near closing hours at 5 p.m., the cost is reduced to $10!

Drop by and make a splash at 8915 Reed Dr. Emerald Isle. 

Emerald Isle Woods Park

Spend a laid-back afternoon at Emerald Isle Woods Park. At this 41-acre park, you’ll find all the amenities you need to hold a picnic and then burn off those calories. Groups can meet at the picnic pavilion and prepare a backyard barbecue on one of the complimentary grills. Afterward, play disc golf or go for a swim. There are many trails to explore that are ideal for birdwatching. 

Emerald Isle Woods Park is located at 9404 Coast Guard Road. To reach it, turn right just after reaching Deer Horn Dunes. 

movie theater in atlantic beach
Photo from Shutterstock

Emerald Plantation Cinemas

Spend a night out at the movies! The Emerald Plantation Cinema is an old-fashioned theater that has managed to survive and thrive to the present day. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like attending a movie theater during cinema’s golden age, now you can find out! The experience is very different from a modern theater. Sometimes you can even hear the faint sounds of a movie playing in the theater next door. 

Both classic cinema and newer films are shown, and you can check out their website for viewing times. The cinema is located at the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center at 8700 Emerald Drive. 

While planning your stay in North Carolina, look no further than our Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle vacation rentals. We provide oceanfront rentals and other homes with pools. To avoid the hassle of finding a pet sitter, we also have pet-friendly rentals available for your convenience. 

Our rentals are centrally located and are equipped with all the comforts of home. For assistance finding the right rental for you, our staff will be happy to assist you! Our goal is to provide you with more than just a place to stay. At Emerald Isle, we hope you make memories that last a lifetime! 

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