An unspoiled spot on Bogue Banks' western tip, Emerald Isle offers an idyllic base for a vacation on North Carolina's Crystal Coast. Days spent relaxing on the sand, watching kids build castles and anglers cast a line from the Bogue Inlet Pier, are part of the deal, though an array of outdoor activities and visitor attractions for all ages hit the spot for those with a little more get up and go. Whether traveling with family or friends, Emerald Isle vacation rentals, many complete with Atlantic Ocean views, are the ideal place to call home while enjoying this pretty coastal town.
With top spots like Fun World Motorsports and the Salty Pirate Water Park just minutes from most rentals, the focus in Emerald Isle is often on family fun. For animal lovers, the North Carolina Aquarium in nearby Pine Knoll Shores comes up trumps, with weird and wonderful creatures and a chance to go behind the scenes at many of the exhibits. Those traveling without kids can indulge in a wander around the shops in local malls or go in search of a new favorite tipple at one of several wineries dotted along the Crystal Coast.
While many Emerald Isle vacation rentals count a pool among their amenities, the beach will never lose its appeal. In the summer, the town's 12 miles of pristine shoreline ensure there's room enough for everyone to find their perfect spot on the sand. The sea-green ocean waves offer a safe setting for a spot of swimming, while boat tours take in popular sights such as the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and are readily available in nearby Beaufort. Those happy to create their own adventure find the Bogue Sound a haven for water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding.
Emerald Isle is the ideal base camp from which to explore the wonders of Jacksonville. Vacation homes are only a short distance from fun-filled attractions like Lynnwood Park Zoo, an animal park with diverse mammals, reptiles, and birds, and Lejeune Memorial Gardens, a garden that memorializes fallen soldiers. There’s also Riverwalk Park, a grassy parkland with community events, nature trails, and seating areas.
Emerald Isle's humid subtropical climate serves up the perfect backdrop for summer vacations. Sunny days in July and August, when temperatures in the high 80s are common, are perfect for making the most of the beautiful beaches. Things are a little cooler during spring and fall, but with plenty of indoor attractions to complement the area's outdoor scene, it's by no means too cold to warrant a stay in an Emerald Isle vacation rental. Winter temperatures tend to hover around the 50 to 60 mark and snow makes an appearance from time to time.
If a little outdoor time is on the agenda, Emerald Isle Woods Park is a great place to start. Boasting more than 40 acres of space, the park forms part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, with keen birders able to spot everything from wading birds to woodpeckers. North of the park, the Croatan National Forest offers activities such as horseback riding and wildlife watching, while also being home to the carnivorous Venus flytrap. To the east, travelers can admire the wild ponies at Shackleford Banks or, just a little further afield, hunt for pretty shells along the Cape Lookout National Seashore.
The beaches in Emerald Isle are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Emerald Isle Beach, a quiet beach with calm waves and live music, and Hammocks Beach State Park, an island retreat with a sandy beach, campsites, and amenities. You could also explore Bear Island, an island with a park, camping, and sandy beaches.
The nearest airport is in New Bern, NC (EWN-Coastal Carolina Regional), located 28.6 mi (46 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could book a flight to Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ), which is 34.3 mi (55.3 km) away.
Whatever you're looking for in a getaway, you'll find a rental property in or around Emerald Isle that suits your style. These are some of our favorites:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Emerald Isle vacation rental for you.
If you've been busier than a hamster on a treadwheel, you deserve to get away for a few blissful days. Skip out of work early on Friday and live it up at one of these weekend getaways in or near Emerald Isle:
Studio apartments may be small in size, but they pack a punch when it comes to location and convenience. Plonk your bags down at one of these top studio apartments in or near Emerald Isle:
From funky studio apartments to extravagant houses, Vrbo has your mini vacation sorted. Here are just two of our favorite stays in and around Emerald Isle:
Nothing says "I love you" quite like a romantic weekend together. If you're eager to spend a couple of relaxing evenings away with your honey, we've got some romantic getaways in and around Emerald Isle that will whisk you off your feet:
Share your trip and double the fun. Whether you're planning an active getaway with buddies or an overdue family reunion, you'll have your choice of large group vacation rentals in and around Emerald Isle:
Every so often you just need to escape from it all ... With, say, 30 or so of your loved ones. Whether you're searching for a place to stay with the extended fam or you're organizing a shindig, we have large vacation rentals in and around Emerald Isle that'll house your whole party:
Nothing screams fun and frivolity like a pool does. Dust off your inflatable unicorn and check out these houses in or near Emerald Isle that feature this must-have amenity:
Wondering what the weather's like in Emerald Isle? It has a humid subtropical climate, with average temperatures in summer ranging from 75 ºF to 85 ºF. If you're after a little more inspiration on places to stay in this impressive destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to scroll through our entire range of Emerald Isle vacation rentals.
Nana and Pawpaw, Uncle Elijah ... You can add them to your invitation list when you book a large family vacation rental in or near Emerald Isle. Get your nearest and dearest together at one of these spacious options:
As tempting as it may be, don't spend your entire time kicking back indoors. Head out and explore the area's family-friendly attractions, beginning with Core Creek Bridge.
Nothing is more important than family, which is why we'll help you find a place where you can truly connect. Book one of these family cabin rentals in or near Emerald Isle and make memories with the people you love:
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Emerald Isle vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.