Beaufort, North Carolina, is one of the oldest towns in the state and has a rich history shaped by maritime life, trade, piracy, and military activity. Originally called “Fish Town,” its location on Beaufort Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean made it a strategic port.
Blackbeard ran the ship Queen Anne’s Revenge aground near Beaufort in 1718. The wreck was discovered in 1996 and is a significant archaeological site. The town continues to celebrate its heritage with events like the Beaufort Pirate Invasion and Wooden Boat Show.
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What to Do in Beaufort
Whether you’re into history, nature, boating, or just relaxing by the water, Beaufort offers a variety of things to do.
Beaufort Historic Site– Tour the collection of historic buildings, which serves as a living history complex that captures and shares the story of life in Beaufort. The site also operates double-decker bus tours of the town. 130 Turner Street
Fort Macon State Park– Built between 1826 and 1834, Fort Macon was one of a series of coastal forts constructed after the War of 1812 to protect the U.S. coastline. It was seized by Confederate forces in 1861 and retaken by the Union in 1862. It is now a museum with trails and beach access. 2303 East Fort Macon Road
North Carolina Maritime Museum– This must-see museum features artifacts from Blackbeard’s ship and tells the story of the region’s nautical past. It also has over 5,000 seashells and a historic Fresnel lens. 315 Front Street
Old Burying Grounds- This historic cemetery has graves dating back to the early 1700s, including that of the rum barrel girl, who didn’t survive the journey from England and was buried in a rum barrel. People leave toys and offerings for her. 411 Ann Street
Rachel Carson Reserve– Spanning approximately 2,625 acres, the reserve encompasses a network of islands offering a haven for diverse wildlife and serving as a living laboratory for environmental education and research. It’s only accessible by boat and home to wild horses. 2370 Lennoxville Road (boat launch)
Tours- There are several ways to experience Beaufort, including kayaking tours to the Rachel Carson Reserve, oyster tours with Seashore Oyster Company and Oysters Carolina, and a sunset sailing trip with Lookout Cruises.
Day trips- Beaufort also makes a good jumping-off point for trips to New Bern (home of Pepsi), Ocracoke, Cape Lookout, and the local beaches.
Where to Eat in Beaufort
Beaufort, North Carolina, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its coastal heritage, offering everything from upscale waterfront dining to casual eateries.
34 Degrees North– Located at the Beaufort Hotel, this award-winning restaurant offers Southern-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, local seafood. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Taylor’s Creek and the Rachel Carson Reserve from the open-air patio. 2440 Lennoxville Road, (252) 838-7250
Beaufort Grocery Co.– By day, it’s a charming café offering sandwiches and salads; by night, it transforms into an upscale dining venue with a sophisticated menu and an extensive wine list. You can also get boxed lunches to take with you on a day trip. 117 Queen Street, (252) 728-3899
Blue Moon Bistro– Set in a historic 1827 building, Blue Moon Bistro provides a romantic ambiance and a menu crafted by chefs trained under Michelin-starred Marc Meurin. Signature dishes include lobster bisque and seared tuna Caesar salad. 119 Queen Street, (252) 728-5800
City Kitchen– The waterfront restaurant is located above Town Creek Marina in Beaufort, North Carolina, offering a blend of Southern, Caribbean, and Asian-inspired cuisine. Favorites include shrimp and grits and Korean-style pork belly tacos. 114 A Town Creek Drive, (252) 648-8141
Mill Whistle Brewing– This is the town’s first craft brewery, offering a unique blend of local history, community spirit, and small-batch brewing. Established in 2013, several beers are named for Beaufort legends like the rum barrel girl. 1354 Lennoxville Road, (252) 342-6929
Moonraker’s– Situated in the Beaufort Historic District, Moonraker’s offers coastal cuisine in a state-of-the-art setting. The rooftop dining area provides stunning views, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. 326 Front Street, (252) 838-0083
Where to Stay in Beaufort
Staying in Beaufort allows travelers to choose between boutique hotels, charming inns, and beachfront rentals on nearby Atlantic Beach.
Beaufort Hotel– Set along the water, this hotel has perks like an excellent bar and restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool open seasonally, and a fitness center. Rooms come with coffee machines and fridges. 2440 Lennoxville Road
Inn on Turner- The charming inn often has repeat guests, who enjoy the cozy rooms steps away from Beaufort’s shops and restaurants. Guests enjoy daily breakfast and evening wine receptions. 217 Turner Street
Rentals- The area has plenty of options for rentals, especially if you’re traveling with a group, like this nautical cottage, Sea Suite, or even a houseboat rental. Emerald Isle Realty has the market covered on homes on Atlantic Beach and the surrounding area.
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