252-247-7610
Atlantic Beach is North Carolina’s tourism gem on the eastern end of Bogue Banks south of Morehead City.
Atlantic Beach boasts vast stretches of sand, turquoise blue waters, plenty of activities and attractions, and beautiful vacation condo rentals. The perfect family-friendly vacation getaway, there’s something for everybody in Atlantic Beach.
While you’ll want to do your share of relaxing under the sun on the beach, be sure to plan a few other activities, too. Atlantic Beach is yours to discover this vacation, with both adventurous and family-friendly things to do. Below is a list of some of the top activities in the area.
See the Marine Life at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
Location: 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, NC
If you’re looking for a deep-sea adventure, the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium is for you.
An underwater zoo of sting rays, sharks, otters, and other local marine life, this aquarium offers educational exhibits and programming for all ages. Get up close and personal by visiting the touch tank of sting rays who love to be “cuddled” – with two fingers along their spine, that is.
The aquarium also works with preservation groups and conservation programs to protect turtle populations and wildlife rehabilitation.
The aquarium is located about 12 minutes west of Atlantic Beach. It makes for a lovely day trip for visitors, where kids can let loose among the submarine tanks, touch pools, and the otter exhibit.
General admission is $10.95 per adult. The rate for seniors is $9.95, and for children aged 3 to 12 is $8.95.
The aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week. North Carolina is also home to four sister aquariums that collaborate on exhibits, programming, and conservation efforts.
Soar Over the Sea with AB Watersport Adventures
Location: 612 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, NC
Sail through the skies and ride the waves with a parasailing adventure with AB Watersport Adventures.
Groups and families can book an adrenaline pumping flight above the Atlantic with a double parasail. Get strapped in and hang side by side below a kite, while being towed by a certified boat captain along the shoreline.
Besides parasailing, the company offers an assortment of watercraft rentals such as jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards, and pontoon boats for those looking for a slightly more reserved ocean experience. Tours of Cape Lookout are also available from the company.
AB Watersport Adventures is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. Call the front desk at (252) 422-0520 for booking and rental details.
Take a Family Hike at Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail
Location: Milepost 3.5, Hwy. 58, Atlantic Beach, NC
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity, hike the Hoop Pole Creek Trail.
This moderate and relatively level hike is the perfect trail for families with young children and older relatives, and those less interested in a rugged trek. The path is about a mile roundtrip, making it one of the best outdoor family-friendly activities.
As a protected wildlife refuge, deer, raccoons, and a variety of butterflies are common sightings on this relaxing walk. The area is open from sunrise to 5 p.m. – earlier is often best for spotting wildlife.
The above is only a brief introduction to this exciting beachside vacation getaway spot. Out area has a rich restaurant and nightlife culture, interesting historic sites, and many other types of ocean adventures such as fishing charters and sightseeing tours.
You can contact us at (252) 247-7610 to learn more about the most exciting things to do in Atlantic Beach. Our vacation rentals on Atlantic Beach are sure to bring you right to the heart of the fun here.
