From swashbuckling pirates to Civil War battles, this region has seen some interesting times. Tour important Civil War sites, such as Fort Macon, which was bombarded by a Union land-sea operation, or the battlefield of the famous Battle of New Bern, in which Union forces took control of the important city.

The historic town of Beaufort, incorporated in 1722, is in fact the oldest town in North Carolina, and features many Civil War as well as colonial highlights in its historic district. A tour of the waterfront town with its oak-lined streets, Victorian homes and quaint atmosphere is one of the best ways to capture the essence of days gone by.

Just three miles off the coast of Beaufort are the remnants of one of the region's most famous visitors, Blackbeard the pirate. At the bottom of the sea lay Blackbeard's infamous ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge. Discovered in 1996, the watery grave has been off-limits to everyone but state officials and archeologists until now—this summer, the state implemented a Dive Down program that will allow visitors to take a look at what remains of the legendary ship. You can also see artifacts collected from the site at North Carolina Maritime Museum in downtown Beaufort.

Of course, deep diving is one of the most popular activities for visitors and locals, due to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, and plentitude of wrecks to explore. In fact, there are more than 2,000 vessels underwater. And with water as warm and clear as Caribbean seas, it is an experience like no other.

There are hundreds of other ways to explore the multiple waterways surrounding the Crystal Coast, as well. With the longest fishing season on the Atlantic Coast, anglers can enjoy year-round success on the rod. Multiple species pass through these waters, all of which can be found grilled, steamed, blackened and fried at area restaurants. From gourmet plates to mom-and-pop delights, dining options are quite varied, but you're guaranteed to find the freshest seafood and a friendly face wherever you go.

If your vacation goal is solitude, getting away from it all is easy to do on the Crystal Coast. Navigate your own kayak or canoe around the undisturbed shoreline of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Fifty-six miles of shores surround the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, and it is all undeveloped, quiet and beautiful.

So whether you're here to learn about times past, explore the serene beaches of our coast, or stroll through our many quaint shops, we hope you have a wonderful time discovering the Crystal Coast.

Enjoy your stay!