Crystal Coast _ a true gem on the Atlantic
One of the most picturesque regions of North Carolina, the Crystal Coast is a scenic stretch of shoreline that's known for its broad, sandy beaches, charming waterfront homes, and rich southern history. The inlets, bays, and straits around Harkers Island are home to countless marinas and wildlife preserves, and the nearby Shackleford Banks island is famous for its thriving wild horse population. Water activities are a major draw, and a Crystal Coast, Harkers Island vacation rental will put the area's best diving, boating, fishing, and swimming destinations right outside your door.
Crystal Coast sightseeing _ it's for the birds
For a quirky take on local history, head to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center. Here, you can see a vast collection of carved duck decoys _ a treasured art and craft in Harkers Island _ as well as several exhibits about the area, its past, and its ecological diversity. A short ferry trip away, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse is open to visitors during the summer months. If you're up for it, you can climb the 207 steps to an observation gallery, where you'll get spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding coastline.
Water, water everywhere in Crystal Coast
Grab your towel and sunscreen _ a visit to Crystal Coast wouldn't be complete without exploring the countless waterfront activities available. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes, and you'll find plenty of outfitters offering boat rentals and guided tours. Looking for something a little more intense? You can always give shark diving a whirl _ a number of agencies offer shipwreck dives where you can encounter the impressive _ but thankfully docile _ sand tiger shark. The wildlife preserves and offshore islands in the area are big spots for birdwatching, and you can spot plenty of waders, herons, and shorebirds all year round.
Islands in the stream in Crystal Coast
A sprawling oceanfront gem, the Crystal Coast spans more than 80 miles, including 56 miles of protected beach and wetlands. A few miles inland, Harkers Island is a low-lying island on the Back Sound, connected to mainland North Carolina by a car-friendly bridge. It's surrounded by creeks, inlets, bights, and bays, as well as a number of small barrier islands, many of which are dedicated to wildlife preserves. Harkers Island vacation rentals are popular with birdwatchers, and the area's wide array of species include osprey, egrets, oystercatchers, and more.
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