Emerald Isle vacation rentals

Explore the beauty of Emerald Isle from vacation home rentals

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.

Tourist attractions near Emerald Isle vacation rentals

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.

Activities near Emerald Isle vacation homes

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.

Best time to travel to Emerald Isle vacation homes

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.

Explore the great outdoors in Emerald Isle

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.

Beach locales near Emerald Isle vacation rentals

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.

How to get to and around Emerald Isle

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.