The BEST shrimpburger: Before you fight us on this, we know, we know, that feels blasphemous to say (sorry, El's and Big Oak). But, you really can't beat it. Usually located in Salter Path in front of Island Encore Consignment (old IGA), across from SummerWinds. On Sundays, you can find it in front of the wine market in Emerald Isle.
Fort Macon State Park
2303 East Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, (252) 726-3775
Check out the fort, museum, walking trails and beach.
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
1 Roosevelt Boulevard, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512, (252) 247-4003
Reservations may be required due to Covid precautions
Atlantic Beach Coffee
1010 West Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, (252) 773-0895
Crystal Coast Brewing Company
219 West Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, (252) 296-2841
Local brewery with lots of beers on tap and cider, seltzer* and wine options as well
*Would not recommend their in-house seltzer. The canned options might be a better call for your tastebuds.
The Friendly Market
205 Friendly Road, Morehead City, NC 28557, (252) 222-0273
The perfect place to pick up pre-made dishes for a crowd
Amos Mosquito's Restaurant
703 East Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, (252) 247-6222
Beloved local spot (and right across from the Dunes Club)
The Island Grille
401 Money Island Drive, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, (252) 240-0000
Ruddy Duck Tavern
509 Evans Street, Morehead City, NC 28557, (252) 726-7500
Promise Land Market
909-B Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557, (252) 222-0422
If you’re staying on the EI end of the island, it’s a
great spot for a nicer dinner. The crab cakes are excellent (and you know we're picky about that)! The rooftop bar is lovely for a cocktail and a view.