19 of The Best Things to Do in Morehead City, NC (2024)

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Guest post by Abby and Sam Price

Are you looking for the best things to do in Morehead City? Morehead City is a picturesque waterfront community full of terrific views, endless outdoor adventures, delicious restaurants, and a charming coastal town.

Whether you are looking to uncover the best beaches, hit the water for some incredible fishing, or looking to explore all that this small town has to offer, continue reading down below to explore the best things to do in Morehead City for a memorable vacation on the Crystal Coast.

Best Things to Do in Morehead City

1. Take in the Waterfront

Morehead City’s waterfront is in the heart of its downtown area. Whether you would like to stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and admire the yachts and fishing boats docked at the marina, eat at one of the many delicious waterfront restaurants, or stop by one of the adorable boutiques or galleries in the area, the Morehead City waterfront is one of the best places to explore and get to know the area like a local!

2. Relax at One of The Crystal Coast Beaches

One of the best things to do in Morehead City is to check out one of the nearby Crystal Coast beaches. There are countless Crystal Coast beaches within just a few minutes’ drive of downtown Morehead City.

Whether you would like to visit the lively atmosphere of Atlantic Beach or head down the road to the more relaxed Emerald Isle, be sure to spend some time soaking up the Crystal Coast as you spend the day under the North Carolina sun and cooling off in the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Indulge in Delicious Foods and Fresh Seafood

Morehead City is full of delicious restaurants. Whether you would like to indulge in some fabulous Italian cuisine, eat traditional American bites, chow down on some fresh seafood, or indulge in a tasty brunch, Morehead City has something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to its scrumptious restaurants and bars.

4. Go Fishing

The small coastal town of Morehead City is known for being a fisherman’s paradise. Whether you’d like to explore some of the best surf fishing in North Carolina or you would like to embark on a deep sea fishing journey from the Big Rock Landing, fishing in Morehead is unmatched and must be on your bucket list.

5. Attend a Festival or Celebration

Whether you are interested in attending the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament or the North Carolina Seafood Festival, Morehead City is known for throwing some huge celebrations right on the waterfront.

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament is typically held in June of each year. This tournament is the perfect event to attend for those interested in seeing 400 to 700 pound marlins caught off the shores of Morehead City!

For those looking to taste some of the best seafood in the state, be sure to visit Morehead City during the North Carolina Seafood Festival held in October of each year. This is the perfect celebration for those looking to taste some great food and enjoy live music and entertainment.

6. Learn More About Morehead City’s Rich History at the North Carolina Maritime Museum

The North Carolina Maritime Museum is the perfect place to visit for history buffs or those looking to learn more about North Carolina’s maritime history.

This museum is full of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that allow you to gain a glimpse into the coastal ecosystems and maritime history of Morehead City and the surrounding areas.

7. Check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is the perfect place to visit for those looking to explore and learn about the local marine life, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

This aquarium showcases countless different animals, ecosystems, education programs, and exhibits. It is a great place for both adults and children to gain some knowledge and insight on North Carolina’s coastal habitats.

Whether you are looking to get out of the sun for a few hours or you are looking for the perfect rainy day activity while visiting Morehead City, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is the perfect place to visit for those looking for one of the best things to do in Morehead City while on vacation in the area!

8. Hit the Links

There are countless golf courses surrounding the Crystal Coast. This is the perfect activity for those looking to enjoy the coastal scenery, improve their golf skills, and take a break from the beach for the day!

9. Watch the Morehead City Marlins Play at Big Rock Stadium

Whether you are a huge baseball fan or just looking for something fun to do in the area, be sure to check out the Morehead City Marlins play at Big Rock Stadium!

This is an excellent way for couples, individuals, or families to spend some time outside and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Plus, this is a great opportunity to cheer on the Marlins with the Morehead City locals! Be sure to check their schedule for special event nights or fireworks for some added excitement and entertainment!

10. Eat Something Sweet at HappyCakes Cupcakery

HappyCakes Cupcakery is one of the best places to grab a sweet treat in the Morehead City area. Not only is this cupcakery known for serving up delicious and fresh baked goods but they are also known for winning an episode of Food Network’s Cupcake Wars!

One of our favorite things about HappyCakes Cupcakery is that they don’t add any food coloring or artificial flavors to their cupcakes. Plus, they make their cupcakes fresh daily! We love that they release their monthly menu and that their cupcakes change everyday so you can plan which flavors you want in advance.

11. Visit Radio Island

Radio Island is one of Morehead City’s best “hidden gems.” This island is the perfect place to go to avoid the big crowds that pack the surrounding Crystal Coast beaches.

Whether you are looking to take a stroll along the water, relax on the sand and take in the surrounding views, or looking to bring your furry friend along for a walk on the coast, Radio Island is the perfect place to visit for those looking for coastal views and a relaxing atmosphere.

12. Walk Around Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park is a great place to visit for those looking to learn more about the Crystal Coast’s military past and it is the perfect place to embark on outdoor recreational activities.

Whether you are a history buff looking to take a guided tour of the area or someone looking to gain knowledge and insight on the fort or you are looking to go hiking, walking, or fishing in the area, Fort Macon State Park is a great area to explore and spend some time outdoors.

13. Take in the Art Scene at the Arts Council of Carteret County

For art lovers and those looking to support local artists, you must check out the Arts Council of Carteret County. This nonprofit organization strives to promote and encourage creativity and arts education.

Whether you are looking to take in the views of some of the terrific art pieces, wanting to visit one of the local art galleries in the area, or would like to join one of the creative workshops that they hold, the Arts Council of Carteret County is a great place to visit for those looking to appreciate local art and talent.

14. Support Local Businesses at The Friendly Market

The Friendly Market is the perfect place to visit for those looking to support local businesses and buy fresh goods, produce, and plants.

One of our favorite things about The Friendly Market is the beautiful nursery area that grows countless plants, herbs, vegetables, and so much more. This is the perfect destination for those looking to take in the views of gorgeous vegetation or for those looking to purchase a plant or two to bring back home from vacation!

15. Take a Stroll on the Calico Creek Boardwalk

The Calico Creek Boardwalk is the perfect place to take a stroll in Morehead City and admire the fabulous views, potentially see some of North Carolina’s coastal wildlife, and enjoy some time spent in the great outdoors.

For bird lovers, this is the perfect place to be on the lookout for various species of coastal birds in their natural habitat.

16. Go Scuba Diving

For those looking to take in the Crystal Coast from a new perspective, consider going scuba diving in the area! The Crystal Coast is known for having a tremendous amount of wreck scuba diving locations. This is a fabulous way to spend some time in the water and take in the North Carolina coast from a new viewpoint in the Atlantic!

17. Enjoy Cold Craft Beer

Morehead City is most commonly known for its fabulous fishing, beautiful waterfront scenery, and charming coastal town but did you know there are quite a few fabulous breweries in the area?

Be sure to head to Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company, Crystal Coastal Brewing Company, or Fishtowne Brew House for some delicious pints of beer right by the North Carolina coast!

18. Go On a Day Trip

One of the best things about Morehead City is its phenomenal location. For those looking to explore nearby towns, consider going on an epic day trip to nearby areas, including New Bern, Wilmington, Goldsboro, or Carolina Beach.

19. Explore the Coast by Kayak

For those looking to explore the Morehead City area from the intercoastal waterway or nearby Crystal Coast ocean waters, consider going on a kayak adventure.

This is a great way to take in the views of the tranquil water, beautiful coastal scenery, and get some exercise in too!

Morehead City is known for having an abundance of kayak launching sites making it an easy activity to do and plan your route according to the different put in and take out locations.

FAQs About The Best Things to do in Morehead City

Is Morehead City NC worth visiting?

Morehead City, NC is definitely worth visiting! Between the fabulous waterfront area downtown, the delicious and fresh seafood cuisine, and the delightful southern hospitality, it is a place that should be on your bucket list to check out.

What is Morehead City known for?

Morehead City is known for its fabulous fishing. Whether you are looking to go deep sea fishing and catch a large blue marlin or you are looking to stay on the coast and fish for red drum, mackerel, mah-mahi, or many other varieties of fish. Morehead City is a great place to visit for fishermen.

If fishing is not your thing, Morehead City is also known for its proximity to the coast and the beautiful Crystal Coast beaches nearby. It is the perfect city to visit for those looking to spend some time on the waterfront but would like to visit some of the nearby popular destinations such as Beaufort, Atlantic Beach, and Emerald Isle.

It is truly a remarkable place to visit for anyone looking to spend some time in a small southern town on the coast of North Carolina with endless outdoor recreational activities to embark on.

Does Morehead City have a boardwalk?

Downtown Morehead City has a small boardwalk that expands the distance of the waterfront.

Additionally, Morehead City has the Calico Creek Boardwalk which sits on the northern borders of downtown and is a great place to go for a stroll.

Does Morehead City have a downtown?

Morehead City does have a small downtown area! The downtown area is right on the waterfront and consists of a handful of restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and art galleries.

How far is Morehead City from the ocean?

Morehead City sits on the intracoastal waterway and is just 4 miles from Atlantic Beach! It takes under 10 minutes to get from downtown Morehead City to the closest beach.

Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Morehead City

Whether you are looking to soak up the coastal sun, embark on a deep sea fishing adventure, take in the beautiful coastal scenery, or indulge in delicious seafood, Morehead City has endless things to do and is the perfect place for a coastal vacation.

Author Bio:

Abby and Sam Price are the founders and storytellers behind Trekking Price’s, a couples travel and outdoor adventure blog. They are local to the coastal North Carolina area and are passionate about sharing their travels, tips, and recommendations with others.

Check out some more coastal Carolina posts:

• A Tour of NC Lighthouses
• Carolina Beach’s Murals
• Where to Eat and Drink in Carolina Beach

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