Front Street Friday, barrier islands Saturday

4:00 PM

Stay at Inlet Inn NC.

Front Street inn beside Taylor's Creek, within the walkable harbor district and near the NC Maritime Museum and downtown restaurants; room choices include waterfront categories and…

6:30 PM

Start with Moonrakers Beaufort.

Wood-fired seafood and local beer on Front Street, with a rooftop bar and covered open-air patio overlooking Beaufort's waterfront and boardwalk.

8:00 AM

Beach Bowls before check-in, when seasonal hours allow

Acai bowls, smoothies, and dairy-free or gluten-free options in Beaufort; seasonal opening hours determine whether it is available before a ferry departure.

9:30 AM

Board the authorized ferry for Cape Lookout or Shackleford Banks

Island Express is the authorized concessioner from Beaufort and Harkers Island. At Cape Lookout Lighthouse, the dock closure currently requires a beach landing and a 5-10 minute soft-sand walk that may cross water; the lighthouse is closed to climbing and interior entry.

4:30 PM

Return to Front Street before dinner

Allow for the actual ferry return, then walk the waterfront or rest before driving to dinner.

7:00 PM

Drive to 34 Degrees North for Taylor's Creek views

34 Degrees North sits at Beaufort Hotel on Lennoxville Road outside the downtown walking core, with Southern-inspired cooking and views across Taylor's Creek.

9:00 AM

Walk Ann and Turner streets before the museums open

Walk Ann and Turner streets and Old Burying Ground before continuing to the museum block on Front Street.

11:00 AM

Continue to the NC Maritime Museum

The NC Maritime Museum covers boats, coastal life, and Blackbeard artifacts; the nearby Watercraft Center shows traditional boatbuilding.