Emerald Isle, North Carolina

Where to Stay…

In my opinion, there is no better place to stay than The Point when you are at Emerald Isle. The Point is the most western end of the island and is typically pretty secluded. If you like a relatively empty (and huge) beach, plenty of real estate for setting up, and overall friendly neighbors, this is your spot! This area has extremely limited public parking spots, making it ideal for those staying exclusively in The Point. If you are up for a walk, the end of the island provides some beautiful sunsets and also perfect spots if you enjoy looking for shells.

If you are not into the seclusion and want more of a crowd, I would recommend staying closer to town or near the pier. I’ve stayed at Pebble Beach Condo Complex many times and the location is perfect for a quick trip to town, or even easy access across the bridge to Cape Carteret. Once you head out of town and past the fire department, the beach calms down again and is very family friendly and quiet overall.

There are a few rental companies on the island, but I’ve had the best customer service and wonderful properties with Century 21 Coastland Realty and Bluewater Vacation Rentals.

Where to Eat…

Emerald Isle provides a great assortment of options without the hassle of chain restaurants! While I’ve tried quite a few of the local options, here are the ones I never miss when I am in town.

1. Snapperz Grill and Steam Bar: My go-to for fresh and delicious seafood! Prices are average for a beach seafood restaurant and there are also plenty of options for your non-seafood eating friends. The wait in the summer can get lengthy, but the front porch and ‘beach’ provide a great place to grab a drink and relax.
2. Shepard Barbecue: If you enjoy barbecue, you simply can’t miss this stop! Plan ahead, they always sell out early during peak season. I try to use a rainy day and arrive when they open or shortly after. My biggest advice…try it all! Everything is delicious and it doesn’t hurt that they were featured by Guy Fieri!
3. Lazzara’s Pizza and Subs: My favorite place for calling in a pizza! There is limited seating at the restaurant, so takeout is my typical option. The pizza is always delicious and make sure not to miss the garlic knots (they often sell out). They are closed on Sunday, so don’t bank on pizza take out from here if you are a Sunday changeover!
4. Fish Hut Grill: The Fish Hut is almost a right of passage to anyone staying on the island! Fresh seafood, open air seating, and a line typically stretching into the parking lot provides the true island feel. Another to beware of the hours and plan accordingly, as they are closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday!
5. Gaffer’s Restaurant: If you’re looking for something a little more high end, Gaffer’s is a great choice. A great atmosphere and a variety of menu choices create a perfect opportunity to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself to a nice breakfast, lunch or dinner!
6. Flip Flop Donuts: Not so much a restaurant, but one of my favorite places to start a morning in Emerald Isle! There is usually a line out the door and down the sidewalk for these creations! My personal favorite would be the vanilla iced cake donut topped with Fruity Pebbles!

Where to Drink…

While I can’t say that you are going to be bar hopping in Emerald Isle, there are a few great spots on the island (or relatively close) to kick back and have a drink! If you’re looking to stay local, Goose Creek Growler Company is always a great and easy stop. Bar 1957, Beachside Emerald Isle, and Thirsty Surfer are also relatively new bars in town with great ratings. There is also a new bottle shop in town, Velvet Anchor, with a huge selection of craft beers and more. I would highly recommend visiting here if you’re looking for some great brews to enjoy while you’re soaking up the sun!

If you’re looking for the craft brewery scene, unfortunately you won’t find it in town. However, there are a few options within a short drive! I would highly recommend visiting both Crystal Coast Brewing Company in Atlantic Beach and Fishtowne Brewhouse in Beaufort. Both offer a variety of styles, great atmosphere, and the drive to get there is worth the views! For even more of a drive, Shortway Brewing Company is also a great find!

Where to Play…

While Emerald Isle provides an overall small town feel, there are plenty of options for a rainy day or beach day break. From the classic four screen Emerald Plantation Cinema or Salty Pirate Waterpark in town, to Mac Daddy’s in Cape Carteret and the North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores, there are plenty of options to keep you busy and entertained for more than a day! Check out the list of options for your next non-beach Emerald Isle adventure!

My Totally Random Don’t Miss Things...

There are a few things that I never miss when visiting Emerald Isle…

For my teacher (or reader) friends, there are two amazing stores that I almost never miss a visit to. The first is Emerald Isle Books & Toys. I would argue that you will not find a more quaint and amazing little bookstore. There’s never a ton of sales, but I always try to support this place by buying a book or two for the beach! The second place is Teacher’s Pet in Morehead City. Even if you are on summer vacation, it’s hard to take a teacher out of the classroom. This place is a teacher’s paradise for all things that are teacher supplies! Even on vacation I’ve been found there stocking up for the next school year!

As always, thank you for reading and happy travels! Feel free to comment, like, share, and add your favorite Emerald Isle places or memories!