Exploring the Allure of Beaufort, North Carolina: Eight Persuasive Motives
Exploring the Allure of Beaufort, North Carolina: Eight Persuasive Motives
Situated at the southern tip of North Carolina's southernmost hook, which gently curves around the Neuse River and approaches the Atlantic, Beaufort is an ancient fishing village that exudes its storied and salty allure. With its compact central business district, eateries centered on local produce, and effortless access to the water, it's simple to while away a few days—or eternity—in this location. Here are some suggestions for what to do, where to dine, and where to stay in Beaufort, North Carolina, and beware: You might find yourself so smitten that you end up living here permanently.
What to Do in Beaufort, North Carolina
Experience History
Begin with a leisurely stroll around Beaufort's 12-block historic district, where beautifully preserved homes, each adorned with gingerbread latticor and colorful plaques marked with their original proprietors' names, provide a captivating lesson in both aesthetic appeal and architecture. For an overview of the area's maritime heritage, visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum on Front Street. Exhibits cover everything from the town's seafood industry to lifesaving stations, as well as a glimpse into its pirate-filled past, complete with artifacts from Blackbeard's wrecked ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge. Across the street, observe in-progress vessels at the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, where boat-building classes are offered throughout the year.
Engage in Outdoor Activities
Given its seafaring roots, it's no surprise that water-centric activities are a popular draw here. For an exciting experience within reach of town, rent a kayak from Beaufort Paddle and embark on the approximate 20-minute voyage across Taylor Creek to the Rachel Carson Estuarine Reserve. There, you can explore primitive trails, birdwatch for over 200 species such as ibises, herons, and egrets, or horseback ride along beaches that were populated by a local citizen in the 1940s. Precautions should be taken not to take home any inhabited shells.
Board the Island Express Ferry for a 45-minute journey to Cape Lookout National Seashore, where you'll spend approximately two hours; whittle away the time collecting shells on its pristine beaches or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The lighthouse is currently inaccessible for climbing, but it remains a breathtaking sight. For a shorter excursion (just a 25-minute boat ride each way), take the ferry to Shackleford Banks' western end, where you can fish or birdwatch; keep an eye out for the famous herd of Banker horses, believed to be descendants of those that survived Spanish shipwrecks 500 years ago.
Shopping Spree
Front Street is home to a selection of stores for window browsing and shopping. With penny candy, fudge, and various T-shirts and trinkets, Beaufort's General Store offers a delightful blast from the past; indulge in a hand-dipped scoop, which can be enjoyed on the welcoming front porch. Just two blocks away, discover luxurious home goods, indulgent bath and beauty products, and laid-back clothing at Beaufort Linen Co. The store is owned by husband-and-wife team Christina and Richie Cuningham, who relocated to the area after falling in love with Beaufort during weekend trips and summer vacations.
Where to Eat in Beaufort, North Carolina
Morning Delight
Begin your morning with coffee and a pastry from Les Ciseaux, a quaint French bakery and recent arrival in the area. Early birds stand the best chance of securing a coveted sourdough loaf, chocolate croissant, or kouign-amann; arriving 30 minutes before the 8 a.m. opening on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays is crucial.
Favorite Lunch Spot
For lunch, there's no more adored establishment than Beaufort Grocery, a local icon that has been offering picnic-ready sandwiches and fresh seafood since 1991. The BeauGro pimiento cheese (part of Beaufort Cheese and Fruit Board) or Sumpin's Jumpin' fish sandwich (which changes daily) are not to be missed; or visit during dinner hours for a more sophisticated menu.
Dinner and Drinks with a View
Before sunset, head to Moonrakers on Front Street for a pre-dinner drink on their rooftop deck and a stunning view. Descend to the main floor to enjoy their seafood-centric menu, or for a more laid-back experience, walk the short distance to Black Sheep for brick-oven pizza served alongside the waterfront.
Where to Stay in Beaufort, North Carolina
Bed-and-Breakfast Experience
Refurbished in 2022, the Inn on Turner, built in 1866, provides bed-and-breakfast-worthy hospitality without the pompous atmosphere. Owners and innkeepers Kim Bell and Jonathan Haas source their complimentary "field to fork" breakfast fare from local farms and offer daily wine service in the afternoon. The stay is just a stone's throw from the waterfront.
Beyond downtown's hotel and inn options, such as Beaufort Inn & Suites and Pecan Street Inn, Beaufort also boasts a variety of vacation rentals via VRBO and Airbnb that may be more accommodating for large gatherings, families with pets, or small children.
Why Beaufort, North Carolina, Is an Excellent Retirement Destination
The slow pace of life, the charming historic district, the abundance of waterfront activities, and the scrumptious local cuisine make Beaufort an alluring option for retirees seeking a tranquil coastal existence. The small-town atmosphere, coupled with the convenience of shopping and the opportunity to engage in outdoor pursuits, ensures that retirement in Beaufort is an enriching and fulfilling experience.
Past Beaufort's apparent allure ( proximity to the water, relaxed lifestyle, and abundance of stores and eateries), there are pragmatic motivations to relocate to this North Carolina town as well: The state excludes Social Security retirement benefits from taxation, and it's merely 5 miles distant from Morehead City, a community recognized by RetireNC as a Certified Retirement Community. This title signifies that the area caters to "the necessities, services, and activities retirees require to lead active and successful lives, evaluated rigorously against quantifiable standards [established by the North Carolina General Assembly]."
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After exploring the history and charm of Beaufort, consider taking a day trip to nearby Fort Macon State Park. Just over 20 miles north, you'll find this historic fort and nature preserve, offering scenic beaches, a landmark lighthouse, and hiking trails.
Once you've settled into your Beaufort retreat, don't miss the opportunity to dive deeper into the area's rich maritime heritage. Southern Living recommends attending events hosted by the North Carolina Maritime Museum, like their annual Christmas at the Museum which showcases holiday traditions through storytelling, live music, and children's crafts.
Southern Living, known for showcasing the best of Southern lifestyle, has also featured Beaufort in their "Quick Trips" section, highlighting the town's picturesque views, seafood delights, and quaint shops. This recognition further solidifies Beaufort's appeal as a charming, must-visit coastal destination.