travel – Page 10 – The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures!

Searching for somewhere to go on an adventure? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia, St. Paul is a charming town that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, historic significance, and unique attractions. Surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, St. Paul provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hikers can traverse miles of scenic trails, passing breathtaking vistas and lush forests along the way. The Clinch River runs through town, offering fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. The nearby Channels State Forest features majestic sandstone formations carved by water and wind erosion over the eons.

History buffs will enjoy learning about St. Paul’s origins as an early frontier settlement. The town contains well-preserved 19th century buildings and homes that provide a window into the past. In addition to its natural splendor and historical significance, St. Paul hosts a variety of unique attractions.

Check out the various festivals and events held in St. Paul throughout the year, from music festivals to holiday celebrations. The town comes alive during community events like the Clinch River Days. With such diverse offerings, it’s easy to understand why so many make the scenic mountain drive to experience the charms of St. Paul, Virginia.

Everyone I met while visiting was so friendly. If you’re an adventurer or atv lover like me you’ll enjoy this area. The Western Front Hotel is the perfect lodging and a great, “mancation”, spot, or a great hotel to surprise your guy with a trip to.

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Cross off your bucket list being able to take an ATV tour of historic trails and old logging roads winding through the mountains. The Western Front Hotel has the option to book atv packages that include an atv rental during your stay making the booking process easy. The convenience of having the atv rental at the hotel was perfect. The Western Front Hotel provided trail maps and the staff was very helpful to answer any questions we had.

We were able to walk out the back door of the hotel, get in our rental and from the parking lot drive up to the trails. In addition to atv rentals the hotel sells passes for the trail if you choose to bring your own atv, utv, quad or dirt bike. The trails were well kept and were labeled by their level of difficulty as well as what type of atv was allowed on them.

Some of the area trails allowed for Jeeps and 4×4 vehicles and other spots were only accessible by mountain bike or hiking. Our favorite spot was an overlook of the surrounding mountains. While on our adventure we saw deer, turkey and a beer with her cub. The area was very peaceful and a great place to connect with nature.

Mountain View on the Spearhead Trail St. Paul,Virginia — Mountain View on the Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Mountain View Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Sample delicious Southern cuisine at one of the many eateries in St. Paul, from homestyle cooking to fine dining options. The town of St. Paul, Virginia is quaint and offers several restaurants, grocery, a pharmacy and other shopping. I really loved that we could walk from the Western Front Hotel to food options. Make sure to check for local activities during your stay.

The Fat Boys BBQ across the street from the Western Front Hotel, has the sweetest proprietors and they encourage everyone to try the Heart Attack which is a baked potato with cheese and butter topped with BBQ chicken (seen below). Locals like to add baked beans and even coleslaw on top of this creation. This restaurant also, has plenty of other options and cooks all their own BBQ in town.

Heart Attack potato at Fat Boy’s BBQ in St. Paul — Fat Boy’s BBQ in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

The area behind the Western Front Hotel has a stage for live music, a fire pit for s’mores and plenty of room for relaxing. The Western Front hotel is pet friendly as well though we didn’t bring ours dogs on the trip. The hotel has a small gift shop that had some cute merchandise including their pillows, bath products from the hotel, doggie treats and other items.

One of the cutest souvenirs from the Western Front Hotel is a green ceramic rabbit that holds cotton balls (seen below). For more shopping take a stroll through the charming streets of downtown St. Paul and admire the historic architecture and charming shops.

Adorable ceramic rabbit made by a local artist at the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia

Stage area behind the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia — Adorable ceramic rabbit made by a local artist at the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul, Virginia

The St. Paul, Virginia area is also close to many other activities including rafting, kayaking and hiking. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains with various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a bike ride and discover the beauty of Southwest Virginia by biking along world-class trails that offer breathtaking views and exciting challenges.

Enjoy scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Drive through rolling hills and lush forests along the scenic byways in the area. Spend a relaxing day on the water fishing for trout or paddling along the scenic river. Go fishing or kayaking on the Clinch River. The choice is yours and there is truly something for everyone to do in the area surrounding the Western Front Hotel. I can’t recommend this hotel enough especially for ATV lovers. This adventure is waiting for you and it’s only in beautiful Virginia at the Western Front Hotel.

Riding on Mountain View Spearhead Trail Virginia

📌If you enjoyed my article on the Western Front Hotel and St. Paul, Virginia please be sure to share on your own social media and pin it.

If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Visit to Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park

June 13, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

With the continued rise in fuel cost many people may be looking for alternative destinations for summer vacations this year. Staycations have become more popular recently as people look for things to do within driving distance of their home to save on fuel and entertainment costs. Living in the Old Dominion there is no shortage of things to go do for a day trip as our state offers both beaches and mountain fun.

I was born in and have lived in Virginia for 35 years and there is still much I have not seen. I am always finding new places to see and explore that are unique to my state. With the first permanent settlement in 1607 at Jamestown being close by I grew up surrounded by history. So many historical places are in Virginia it’s hard to decide where to visit first. I always tell people a visit to the historical triangle including Williamsburg and Yorktown are wonderful places to have a day trip, a weekend stay or staycation.

I enjoy traveling and sharing my travels with others. I feel history, especially comes alive when you are immersed in it. Recently I traveled to Appomattox, Virginia for work. I had not been prior and during my stay I made time to explore the Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas. Appomattox, Virginia is a beautiful area with a small town feel and a history buff’s dream. The downtown has multiple shops and restaurants to visit. In addition the town also, is home to several food trucks and stands. Consider supporting these small businesses while you’re in town.

Appomattox Inn and Suites

While in Appomattox, Virginia I stayed at the Appomattox Inn and Suites . I found the hotel to be very clean, comfortable and economical. The lobby had some nods to the Civil War as do the hotel rooms which are decorated with pictures from the nearby battlefield and grounds. The hotel has a bar area that was open till 10pm for drinks and a restaurant named Cannonball for appetizers and small bites.

If you’re into history or Civil War sites this hotel is perfect because it is very close to the Appomattox battlefield and Appomattox Courthouse village where the American Civil War came to an end in April of 1865. The American Civil War museum is a close by area attraction to this hotel as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the American Civil War or what the area has to offer the hotel staff are very friendly and the hotel has available maps and information on local attractions.

The Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas are very well laid out and it is easy to follow the information trail to understand what took place here in April 1865. Even someone unfamiliar with the American Civil War will feel educated on the topics after visiting thanks to the labels, maps and informative signage. The area can be explored at one’s own pace or one can choose to join an on-site tour. The grounds also, include trails to walk and there are maps and signs available to follow for them.

The buildings that make up the village grounds of the Appomattox Court House (some seen above) are well preserved and maintained. There were multiple guides dressed in period costume to explain the layout of the grounds and to answer any questions. The courthouse itself has a museum in it with a 17 minute video I would suggest watching it during your visit as it explains what took place on the grounds and leading up to the end of the American Civil war.

For me seeing the markers for the last shot fired during the American Civil War and the marker for the spot where Grant and Lee met was very humbling and thought provoking. No matter a person’s views about the America Civil War I believe we can all agree that the people who fought in it were American and it is a travesty the lives that were lost on either side. The American Civil War is part of our history and I believe it is important that people educate themselves about it and preserve these hollowed grounds.

This room inside the Clover Hill Tavern was made into a makeshift printing press and here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers

The layout and information provided at the Appomattox Courthouse village is very thorough and attention to detail is given inside the buildings. The Clover Hill Tavern for example, is set up to show what it must have looked like when one of its rooms was made into a makeshift printing press. It was here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers. To be able to stand within the walls of this building is especially memorable for someone that loves history.

Besides the buildings the story of the people involved in the battle comes to life on the grounds. There is a small family style graveyard on the grounds, a single grave under an old cedar tree belonging to Lafayette Meeks an area resident and a 19 grave cemetery a short walk away which has several unknown confederate soldiers, plus one unknown union soldier. It is interesting to read the documented history of these individuals and it helps to bridge the human connection to these past lives lost.

A short walk from the Appomattox Courthouse village one can also, follow signage and learn more about the events leading up to the surrender. There is an area with information about Grant’s Headquarters, open fields to walk and a small monument to see as well. Following signage by car the battlefield continues into the town of Appomattox, but wasn’t open when I visited (June 2022). The gate was locked and the area didn’t look maintained, but hopefully will open back soon to the public.

There was plenty to see and explore on the ground of the Appomattox Courthouse village, the surrounding areas and the town. I think a day trip or weekend staycation in Appomattox, Virginia would be perfect for a history lover or someone wanting to learn more about the American Civil War. I enjoyed my visit to Appomattox, Virginia and learning more about American history.

If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to Virginia please share my article with them ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Camping on the Outer Banks: Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

March 23, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

If you’re looking for a waterfront campsite close to the action in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but still quiet enough to relax I recommend checking out the Refuge Campground in Wanchese, North Carolina on Roanoke Island. The 15 back-in style campsites at Refuge are located directly on water. These nightly rentals are part of a larger campground community that has yearly residents/owners. This was our first trip of the year camping and we were at Refuge during the off season (March) so there were not a lot of people moving about.

Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

The campground at Refuge has beautiful walkways around the water, areas to fish (catch and release), a seasonal pool, picnic area and a climate controlled bathhouse. Next door to Refuge is a convenience store with fuel, basic foods and camping essentials. The campground and facilities were very clean and the camp host was friendly.

Rainbow over Refuge Campground in Manteo, North Carolina

The wifi was pretty slow, so if that is important bring your own hotspot. The tv channels we picked up from our antenna were also, limited in this area so bring a dish or a DVD player. Most importantly though for us there were many things within a short drive from the campground to do and see. Refuge also, had a sister campground Beechland in Manteo if Refuge is full during your dates or you can also, look into camping at the local National Park.

This location offers a peaceful retreat amidst the coastal beauty of North Carolina. Nestled away from the bustling tourist areas, Refuge Campground provides a perfect setting for those seeking tranquility and a closer connection to nature. The campsites are set among the maritime forests, providing a secluded and serene atmosphere for campers. Each site is equipped with basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire pits, encouraging cozy evenings spent under the starry skies. The gentle rustling of leaves and occasional calls of local bird species create a soothing backdrop, enhancing the camping experience.

Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of wildlife that inhabits the refuge. The area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Binoculars in hand, visitors can observe migratory birds and resident species in their natural habitat. The tranquil waters surrounding the area also attract kayakers and canoeists, offering a serene way to explore the coastal marshlands and waterways.

When planning a camping trip to the Manteo Refuge Campground, packing essentials such as camping gear, insect repellent, and comfortable hiking shoes is recommended. While the campground provides basic amenities, including restroom facilities, campers should be prepared with food and water supplies. Reservations are advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a spot in this peaceful oasis on the Outer Banks.

Camping in the Manteo at Refuge Campground offers a serene and enriching experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From exploring the coastal marshlands, birdwatching from your campsite, or immersing yourself in the local history and culture, this hidden gem on the Outer Banks promises a memorable escape into the heart of nature. Embrace the tranquility and natural beauty of Manteo Refuge Campground on your next camping adventure in North Carolina’s coastal paradise.

Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Festival Park, Roanoke Island, North Carolina — History is alive in Manteo, North Carolina

For those interested in history and culture, nearby attractions provide opportunities to delve into the area’s rich heritage. The historic town of Manteo itself offers charming shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, making it a delightful destination for a day trip from the campground. Not far up the road to the right from the campground is the quaint town of Manteo, North Carolina famous for the wonderful outdoor drama the Lost Colony. If you’re a nature lover definitely take time to visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island while you’re in town. There is plenty for the history buffs too like visiting Festival Park to see a replica Elizabeth II ship and historical artifacts from the area.

While you’re in the area consider a visit the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life and a ship wreck where an immersed model of the the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. The North Carolina Aquariums are one of my favorite places to visit and two are on the Outer Banks area.

Bodie Lighthouse girl in Lilly Pulitzer — Bodie Lighthouse

The Bodie Lighthouse is nearby over the Washington Baum Bridge and then right on rt12 toward the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Here you’ll find one of my favorite North Carolina beaches Coquina beach and another camping spot Oregon Inlet Campground. If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter out of Oregon Inlet (across from the OI campground).

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Airplanes which is at the Manteo Airport right behind the North Carolina Aquarium. You’ll definitely get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks is laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself! If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brother’s Memorial and walk the grounds on foot.

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

go 4x4 in the obx — Renting a 4×4 vehicle or brining your own to drive on the beach is definitely a memorable experience.

For a day trip I suggest visiting the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an atv and ride the dunes. Some areas of the Outer Banks allow you to get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or you can rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can also, drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food and fun apparel shopping. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX. Spending a day at H2OBX definitely is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

Go for a Walk or Run

Besides the tourist attractions get out and go for a run or walk on the beach or the many other places to venture. Walking on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge is a local favorite. Visiting the Nags Head Woods Preserve is another great place to go for a run or walk. There are several well marked trails to follow including one that goes out to the Roanoke Sound and a picture perfect skeleton tree beach.

Trails 4/5 goes by small ruins of an old homestead and has a family graveyard with some graves dating back to the 1800s. The area seemed safe and we saw both families and single runners out on the trails. The area was very peaceful and filled with birds and wildlife. The visitor center had trail maps and area information and I would recommend going there first.

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

The area near the campground Wanchese, North Carolina is known for seafood and has several areas in season to buy fresh fish and seafood. Fresh North Carolina shrimp are hard to beat! Cooking up fresh, local seafood at your campsite makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience. There are too many great restaurants in the area to name here. I suggest exploring the area and trying new places. Avoid chain restaurants while on vacation and get something you can’t get at home.

In the near by towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills you will also, find many stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. If you’re looking for some of the freshest all you can eat seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

Nags Head pizza — Sushi at Single Fin OBX

If you like sushi you’ll want to try Single Fin OBX in Nags Head. It is the best in the OBX and has a huge menu. There are plenty of specialty restaurants as well in the Outer Banks that cater to specific dietary needs. Nags Head pizza has a great gluten free, vegan and vegetarian menu for example.

Another one of my favorites located in Kill Devil, North Carolina is Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill. I love the island vibe and all the tropical inspired dishes. They have a excellent drink menu too with many of their drinks coming in unique take home cups (they can make non alcoholic too). Visiting here always gets me in a vacation mood.

Back on Roanoke Island you will find that it is home to many restaurants and shops too. I recommend a stop at Vineyards on the Scuppernong in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to NC and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine while you are in the area.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo, North Carolina

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Refuge Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping near the water was a big perk of this campground and the close proximity to everything we wanted to see. I would highly recommend camping here on a trip to the OBX.

Beautiful sunset in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to the Outer Banks please share my article with them too☺️ If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

A Visit to Jennette’s Pier Nags Head, North Carolina

March 16, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, North Carolina is really a unique and interesting site to check out when visiting the Outer Banks. The original pier was built in 1939 and had to be rebuilt in 2011 after a hurricane. The 1000 feet long concrete fishing pier offers numerous informative signs talking about the rich history of the pier and fishing in the Outer Banks.

Inside the building at the pier there are a couple of tanks with fish on display and information about them. A walk on the pier is only $2 for adults and $1 for children (free to North Carolina Aquarium members with card). Even if you’re not interested in visiting the pier to fish it is worth it for the views. The pier also, has a North Carolina Aquarium gift shop with some items themed for Jennette’s Pier. I personally love their vintage pier post cards.

Fishing from the pier is $14 for adults and $7 for children and includes a one day admission. Other options are available for multiple days and annual passes. A NC fishing license isn’t required in addition to this fee to fish from the pier as the fee covers a person for the paid period (on the pier only). Information on different types of fish that can be caught as well as citation information can be obtained from the visitor’s desk.

One of the coolest features of this North Carolina Aquarium location is the public beach access and free parking! Jennette’s Pier Piet also, offers Summer Camps and learning experiences for schools (including free programs for Title 1 schools) and children. In addition the pier has is a beautiful rentable venue for events, special occasions and weddings. Jennette’s Pier is definitely a place you’ll want to visit on your next trip to the OBX.

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

I appreciate that the North Carolina aquariums contribute a lot of their resources to conservation and research. Plastic is causing many issues for ocean life. We can all do our part to reduce, recycle and reuse! Considering buying a reusable straw or skipping one all together. Each little part can add up to something big. I personally carry one of these straws on my wallet and use it almost everyday.

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

If you’re interested in more information about the Outer Banks check out my article Camping on the OBX which includes a lot of interesting area information as well as information on the Oregon Inlet Campground and Visit a North Carolina Aquarium which includes a full listing of all the North Carolina Aquarium sites.

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

6 Reasons You Need to Visit the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

January 26, 2022October 24, 2024 Krystle Kitchen

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is known for being a beautiful vacation spot with areas of emerald green waters, delicious fresh seafood and a variety of activities. The historic home lined streets of Beaufort, North Carolina and the tales of pirate’s treasure have lured me south of Virginia many times.

There is so much to do and see in the 11 distinct communities that make up the Crystal Coast which begins below Okracoke, North Carolina. In this blog I will highlight six things I believe make the area unique enough to make you want to visit. I know every time I visit I always find new things to do and see.

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

If you’re in the Morehead City area of North Carolina I recommend checking out one of my favorite Morehead City, North Carolina restaurants Southern Salt Seafood. At this restaurant they serve up Bekah’s Bay Oysters and the owner of this oyster company is a true girl boss. These oysters are some of the best I’ve ever had and they keep me coming back to Southern Salt Seafood Company every time we are near Morehead City, North Carolina. The drinks are also always tasty and unique.

Crab dip and pita chips at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

Appetizer Special featuring pimento cheese, Dijon mustard, Foie gras, celery and bread at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina — Crab dip and pita chips at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

There are many different restaurants on Front Street to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina as well. One of our favorites is Moonrakers which offers roof top dinning, a bar and a notable wine list. According to the front of the menu the restaurant is named for, “a square sail flown immediately above a skysail on the royal masts of a square rigged sailing ship”. The menu is full of delicious seafood dishes and unique local favorites. The service is great and the drinks are just as delicious as the meal.

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

After dinner in Beaufort, North Carolina I recommend walking around Front Street and looking at some of the beautiful historic homes that line the street. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Beaufort, North Carolina and some ghostly fun taking a ghost tour might be interesting. I have been on the Beaufort Ghost Walk and enjoyed the stories that were told especially about the Old Cemetery.

Borden House 1768 Beaufort, North Carolina — Historic Home Beaufort, North Carolina

One of my favorite places to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina is actually the Old Cemetery. I have to walk through it every time I’m in town. I’m not morbid, but this cemetery dates back to the 1700s and has so many stories to tell. A list of the note worthy gravesite can be found online or on paper in a small box attached to the graveyard fence. Tour Companies in Beaufort offer up guided tours of the cemetery and ghost tours that include spooky tales of those entombed in the Old Cemetery or you can grab a paper guide from the box and look around at your own leisure.

Ferns growing on the trees at the Old Cemetery in Beaufort, North Carolina

My favorite grave is that of Captain John Hill (1817-1879) his grave reads: “The form that fills this silent grave Once tossed on ocean’s rolling wave, But in a port securely fast,He’s dropped his anchor here at last.” Some of the old grave stones are quite thought provoking and interesting. The ferns that grow on the trees within the Old Cemetery add to its charm.

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

The marina in Beaufort, North Carolina has much to offer for water activities and tours.

If you enjoy getting out on the water Beaufort, North Carolina also has a lot to offer for water activities. A simple walk down to the marina on Front Street and you can find a variety of boats ready to take tourist on tours, pirate cruises, fishing charters and out to go shelling on Shackleford banks. I have personally used the Island Express Ferry system and had great service.

Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Take a private charter and go shelling or hang out with the locals — Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Across from the marina on Front Street if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the wild horses on Carrot Island. For a closer look at Taylor’s Creek and beautiful views of a crystal coast sunset I recommend taking a sunset cruise on the “WANDERER” with Captain Ron. Tales of buried pirate treasure while watching dolphins play made our trip to Beaufort very memorable.

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

If pirates are your forté I definitely recommend a trip to the North Carolina Maritime Museum. There is a lot of interesting information about the area and pirates like Blackbeard that stalked the waters off the Carolina’s. Blackbeard called Beaufort home. The museum has so many cool artifacts relating to Blackbeard and the Queen Anne’s Revenge which is located in the Beaufort Inlet off the Fort Macon State Park. This museum kept me busy reading and exploring for a couple hours.

Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

Queen Anne’s Revenge model inside the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina — Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

If you’re not familiar with Blackbeard (Edward Teach) his former house which is known today as the Hammock House is also located in Beaufort, North Carolina. It is the oldest house in Beaufort. The house sits off Hammock Lane and is a private residence. There is a plaque outside the home noting the historic significance.

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

When you explore the Crystal Coast of North Carolina the area of Atlantic Beach is worth a visit and offers many beautiful beach spots. This area also is home to the Fort Macon State Park. The fort is a must see for Civil War enthusiasts and offers a lot of information relating the the war between the states.

Exploring the restored fort and going back in time is thought provoking. The views from the top of the fort are gorgeous and the beach area outside the fort is perfect for a beach walk. The exhibits both inside and out the fort, the guided tour and the musket/canon demonstration make this one of the places I would recommend visiting on a trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

A short drive from Beaufort is the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shore. This location has a very unique feature which is a replica of the U-352 German submarine. This submarine is very special because it is the first U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard. There is information about this submarine outside the display. This tank is very interesting to watch and often has divers inside to answer questions. I like that this tank has nurse, sand tiger and sandbar sharks along with other fish and a green sea turtle.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores — Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

In addition this aquarium also has an area dedicated to loggerhead sea turtles and their journey. Seeing hatchlings that are being rehabilitated at the aquarium is a really cool experience. In addition this exhibit offered information about helping efforts to save loggerhead turtles and to prevent pollution on our beaches. Plastic straws and plastic pollutants are especially deadly to these fragile creatures.

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

These are just a small sample of the many things that can be found on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. The perfect summer vacation spot! Come for the history and stay for the sunsets. Historical sites that you can’t see anywhere else, delicious local seafood, prestine beaches, fun local activities, wild horses and the beautiful sunsets are in my six top reasons to want to stay for a day, weekend or week(s) on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. Whatever you find to do on your visit to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina you won’t be disappointed and you will be sure to leave with many memories. I hope you’ll enjoy one or all of these things on your next trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

Know someone planning a trip to North Carolina? Please share my article with them!

North Carolina Aquarium Tips

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.

Tag: travel

Western Front Hotel- St. Paul, Virginia

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

Visit to Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park

Appomattox Inn and Suites

Camping on the Outer Banks: Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

Go for a Walk or Run

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

A Visit to Jennette’s Pier Nags Head, North Carolina

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

6 Reasons You Need to Visit the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

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Appomattox Inn and Suites

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Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

Go for a Walk or Run

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

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Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

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Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

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