Atlantic Beach, NC

While today the well known Atlantic Beach thrives as a tourist location and commercial beach resort, the town began as nothing more than a vision. The oldest of the five beach communities scattered along the 30 mile stretch of Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach started as a dream in the mind of Appleton Oaksmith, a Carteret County local. In the late 1800's, the creation of a beach pavilion began to attract wealthy guests to the area. From those initial vacationers grew a huge commercial industry of tourism that populates and provides monetary support to the area as a whole.

Today, vacationers flock to the pristine shores of Atlantic Beach in the summer enjoying the many public beach access points and long stretch of white sands. There's never a dull moment in this area as there are plenty amusements and activities day and night. Spend a day with the kids flying kites, building sandcastles or searching for sand diggers (the harmless, tiny crab-like creatures that play under the sand). Take time to visit the many local shops to find presents for friends, family or yourself and see the local artistry displayed in many of these.

Dine at some of the most delicious restaurants, whether you're looking for fine dining along the waterfront or just some of the best local seafood in the area. Then enjoy a night out on the town and go dancing at the many different dance clubs. A local favorite and traditional southeastern coastal dance, the shag, is the dance of choice at Memories Beach and Shag Club; you can even take lessons there from dance instructors. Plan your vacation around the many exciting festivals in the area. The Carolina Kite Fest brings together locals and tourists to sit back and watch or actively participate in the many activities offered, as well as enjoying some great local cuisine. There's always something fun and exciting going on at Atlantic Beach, it has a little something for everyone.