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An Expert Guide to the Best Things to do in Emerald Isle, NC, in Winter

If you think of Emerald Isle as a summer-only destination, you’re missing out! During the coldest months, escape the snow and head to the coast for a beach getaway. While our cozy town never gets too busy during the summer, traveling during the off-season means that you’ll be able to enjoy Emerald Isle like a local! Whether you’re visiting for the holidays or you want to start your year off the right way, these things to do in Emerald Isle, NC, in winter are the perfect addition to your itinerary.
Need more help planning your trip? Browse our free Emerald Isle Things to Do List. We’ve made it easy to prep for any type of vacation, whether you’re visiting our town for a family reunion, special occasion, or annual getaway.
Emerald Isle Things to Do

The Best Things to Do in Emerald Isle, NC, in Winter

Enjoy the Mild Weather

We’ll admit it — we don’t know what real cold is. That’s what most of our guests from up north say when they see us shivering in mid-60 weather. Our low tolerance makes sense when you consider that temperatures usually only drop to the high-50s, even in the coldest months. 

Attend a Fun Event

Some of our favorite events in Emerald Isle happen during the coldest months! For example, one of this region’s most iconic events is the Crystal Coast Countdown. There are several events all along the coastline, including Beaufort, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, and (of course) Emerald Isle! You have your choice of ways to ring in the new year. Our favorite way is at the Bogue Inlet Pier, which features one of the best fireworks shows around. 
There are also plenty of great holiday-themed events to get you in the Christmas spirit. You won’t want to miss the Emerald Isle Christmas Parade, the Annual Santa and a Movie, and the Holiday Arts and Craft Fair. 

Take a Day Trip

While Emerald Isle’s attractions are summer-based (like the Emerald Isle water park), there are plenty of cities that are just a short drive away that feature fun things to do. The Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium is a fun place to take the kids for an afternoon. They’ll love seeing all the amazing animals, and you’ll enjoy learning about the local ecosystem. Be sure to check their calendar to see if there are any special events going on during your trip!

Relax in Your Spinnaker’s Reach Vacation Home

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With so many things to do in Emerald Isle, NC, in winter, you may not know where to begin. Our suggestion is to pick out your favorite Spinnaker’s Reach rental home and book your stay! Don’t worry about salting your driveway or shoveling your sidewalks. Instead, visit Emerald Isle and leave your cares at the door. With our amazing customer service and our local knowledge, our staff will help you create the perfect winter beach vacation. 
What are you waiting for? Browse our full selection of vacation rentals and book your stay with us today! We look forward to having you.

Cheese! Visit the Best Places to Photograph on Emerald Isle

Here’s a philosophical question for you: if you went on vacation and didn’t take any photos, did it really happen? If you’re looking for the best places around town to capture the perfect snapshot, we can help! Whether you can balance aperture and focal length without thought or you simply want something to commemorate your trip, you’ll have no trouble finding a scenic spot.  Check out our picks for the best places to photograph on Emerald Isle!
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Visit the Best Places to Photograph on Emerald Isle

Snap a Pic From the Shoreline

It will come as no surprise to anyone, but the beach is one of the best places to capture a stunning photo on Emerald Isle. Many locals and visitors will say that The Point is the top spot, but we happen to disagree. We think the stretch of shoreline along Coast Guard Road is an excellent locale for an impromptu photoshoot. Luckily, guests of Spinnaker’s Reach have easy access to this particular beach. Our vacation homes are just a short walk away. We even have a selection of oceanfront and oceanview properties. Each of these offers a stunning view of the water. You can get an amazing shot without having to leave your front porch!

Visit the Bogue Inlet Pier for Insta-Worthy Shots

The Bogue Inlet Pier is considered by many to be an Emerald Isle institution. The original structure was finished in 1957. Since then, the pier was carefully renovated in 2017 to maintain everything we loved about the old pier, but with a shiny new coat of paint! Apart from the gorgeous views, this is also an excellent fishing spot for out-of-state visitors. Anyone casting their line off of the pier doesn’t need a North Carolina fishing license. 

Hire a Professional

If you’re unsure of your photography skills but still want to come home with some gorgeous prints, we’ve got the solution! While you’re in town, take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and book a beach portraits session with Focus Happy Photography. This is the easiest way to get some gorgeous Emerald Isle beach pictures with you and the whole family! No more setting timers, awkward selfie sticks, or fumbling of the camera. Leave all the hard work to the photographer, and focus on having a fun afternoon with plenty of laughs.

Book Your Next Stay With Spinnaker’s Reach

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Some of the best places to photograph on Emerald Isle are outside the front door of a Spinnaker’s Reach rental home! You won’t find a better selection of Emerald Isle houses to rent anywhere else. With top-notch amenities and convenient locations, it’s no wonder that guests choose to book with us year after year. No matter the size of your party or the reason for your stay, you’ll find the perfect accommodations in our catalog. Discover for yourself why Spinnaker’s Reach is known for offering the best places to stay on Emerald Isle.
Browse our inventory of vacation rentals and book your stay with us today! We look forward to having you.

Set Sail With the Best Boat Rentals in Emerald Isle, NC

For some of our guests, a day on the shore just isn’t enough. Some visitors need to set sail off the coast of Emerald Isle to explore the waters of the Bogue Inlet. However, hauling a boat and equipment thousands of miles to Emerald Isle isn’t always practical. Luckily, there’s an easy solution thanks to these boat rentals in Emerald Isle, NC! Enjoy the freedom of the open water when you reserve a vessel from one of these local businesses. Plus, discover where to find the best vacation rentals on the Crystal Coast!

Browse our Things to Do List

The Best Boat Rentals in Emerald Isle, NC

Emerald Isle Adventures

Fishing charters, boat rentals, and family photography — oh my! Emerald Isle Adventures is a multipurpose business that offers charters, pontoon rentals, and professional photoshoots to capture those special moments. This eclectic selection means that Emerald Isle Adventures is an awesome option for guests who are traveling for a reunion or annual family vacation. Emerald Isle Adventures offers half and whole-day rentals for $300 and $400, respectively. We suggest you call to reserve your boat after you book your vacation home with Spinnaker’s Reach. Their availability fills up far in advance!

Crystal Coast Boat Charters

If your goal is to explore some of the other beautiful towns along the Crystal Coast via boat, book a rental with this fantastic company! Crystal Coast Boat Charters offers full-service rentals, and gas, tax, and beach gear are included in the price. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, you can have your boat captained by one of their local guides. Then, just as their motto states, you’ll be able to relax and let them do the work! If you want something truly special, book their Sunset Cruise. This two-hour excursion is a favorite among visitors to the area. 

Book Your Stay With Spinnaker’s Reach

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Is there anything better than relaxing with a glass of wine or mug of tea after a day on the water? After your maritime adventure, be sure to return to a gorgeous home from Spinnaker’s Reach. Here, you’ll find the same attention to detail found at these boat rentals in Emerald Isle, NC. From the amenities to the furnishings, we make sure that all of our homes are top-notch. Are you hoping to enjoy an oceanfront view? Do you need pet-friendly accommodations? We have all that (and so much more) in our wide inventory. Best of all, when you stay in our neighborhood, you’ll be able to enjoy our community pool and other resort-like amenities. Discover for yourself why so many guests choose to stay with Spinnaker’s Reach year after year. 
Browse our full selection of vacation rentals and book your favorite today! We look forward to having you.

Here Are Some More Ways to Enjoy Your Day on the Water

What Are the Best Things to Do in Emerald Isle, NC, When It Rains?

The staff at Spinnaker’s Reach works tirelessly to make sure that our guests have an amazing vacation. Unfortunately, there are some things that are out of our control. While Emerald Isle is home to sunny skies most of the time, we do get our rainy days. If one of these happens to fall on your vacation, don’t worry! There are still plenty of fun things to do in Emerald Isle, NC, when it rains. Check out some of our favorite suggestions below, and start planning your next getaway today!
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The Best Things to Do in Emerald Isle, NC, When it Rains

Have a Drink

If you’re anything like us, you love to indulge in a warm mug of coffee or tea during a rainy day. If you’re experiencing inclement weather during your getaway, head to a local cafe! 4 J’s Coffee Shop is an option. They offer a wide range of baked goods, including authentic New York bagels. How authentic, you ask? They’re made with water from Brooklyn! You have to get there early in the morning on Saturdays or Sundays to snag these, though, as they sell out quick. 
If you’re traveling with your four-legged friend, visit Muttigans! This pet-friendly cafe offers goodies for dogs and humans. You can enjoy a latte or a smoothie while your pup enjoys a bully stick. They also carry a selection of toys, treats, and healthy pet food!

Take a Day Trip

If you don’t mind driving in the rain, consider visiting the aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores. You can easily spend a full day seeing the exhibits and exploring the halls of this impressive establishment. This is fantastic for kids of all ages, as there is a play section for “little minnows,” plus displays geared towards older children. 

Spend an Afternoon at Home

With amenities like the ones that come with our gorgeous homes, you’ll have no trouble having a fun afternoon with the family in your Spinnaker’s Reach rental. Properties like Sunkissed come with an amazing rec room that features air hockey and ping pong. A little bit of healthy competition is the perfect way to shake off those rainy day blues! The third floor features a living area with a big-screen TV, surround sound, and plenty of comfortable seating. Pop some popcorn, and have a movie night! If you’d prefer to have an afternoon to yourself, head to the master suite on the second floor and take advantage of the soaking tub. Is there anything better than relaxing in the tub with a glass of wine, a good book, and the sound of raindrops hitting the windows? 

Book Your Next Getaway

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The only thing left for you to do now is to book your trip with Spinnaker’s Reach! We have the best inventory of properties on the Crystal Coast. Plus, with our incredible staff of engaged locals, you’ll have no trouble planning your vacation. We’ve got amazing suggestions for attractions no matter the weather. So whether you’re looking for more things to do in Emerald Isle, NC, when it rains or you’re looking for pet-friendly activities, we can help! 
Browse our full list of vacation rentals and book your home today! We look forward to having you.

Your Complete Frothy Guide to the Best Emerald Isle Bars

Experience a bit of the Emerald Isle nightlife during your stay on the Crystal Coast! From upscale bistros to fun sports bars, there are plenty of fantastic options for a fun night out. Discover the best bars on Emerald Isle, NC, as well as where to find the best vacation rentals in town!
Browse Our Things to Do List!

Visit 6 of the Best Emerald Isle Bars

  1. The Emerald Club

If you’re in the mood to listen to some live music in Emerald Isle, NC, visit The Emerald Club! This beach and tiki bar has been a staple on the island for 16 years. Check out the list of awesome weekly specials, like Trivia Night every Tuesday with $2 beer. If you’re looking for a place to watch some football, stop by The Emerald Club on a Monday and enjoy free food and $3 shots and drinks. Or you can win up to $500 at Musical Bingo, every Thursday night at 7:30.

  1. Salt Bar

Are you looking for the best live music in Emerald Isle? Stop by Salt! This great dance club features live music, fun events, and delicious drinks. Grab your girlfriends and head to Ladies Night or check out one of the many live concerts. You’re sure to have a fun time at this awesome bar!

  1. Shark’s Den Sports Bar & Grill

For yummy food and a fun atmosphere, head to Shark’s Den Sports Bar & Grill! This isn’t your average sports bar. The food is prepared to order, and there are 16 beers on tap, including some beers brewed in North Carolina. Whether you’re in the mood for some classic barbecue or scrumptious seafood, you’ll find it here. There are even some healthy options available! If you’re coming to watch the big game, be sure to order some of their famous wings. Shark’s Den has a selection of 18 wing sauces, from smoky to sweet and tangy.

  1. Kathryn’s Bistro and Martini Bar

For those who prefer a more upscale experience, stop by Kathryn’s Bistro and Martini Bar. This is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy an artisanal cocktail and an expertly prepared entree. Kathryn’s Bistro features some classic French dishes, like duck confit in puff pastry or escargot prepared in a garlic butter. There are also more modern dishes, like polenta-crusted fried goat cheese, served with roasted garlic and port wine-poached pears, or a salmon fillet with a raspberry beurre blanc and lemon-scented jasmine rice.

  1. Goose Creek Growler

If you’re just looking for a drink with no frills, stop by Goose Creek Growler’s Emerald Isle taproom. They carry some of the best craft beers in the region, including some locally made varieties. A couple of their most popular brews include the Weeping Willow Wit or the Hoptimist IPA. No matter your preference, you’re sure to find something at Goose Creek Growler.

  1. Island Time Tavern

Island Time Tavern is about having fun. They feature plenty of weekly events that are always a fun time. Put your knowledge to the test at their Trivia Night every Monday or try your hand at Thursday night karaoke. They have around a dozen beers on tap at any time, as well as plenty of great snacks to nibble on.

Stay With Spinnaker’s Reach

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After you’ve treated yourself to an evening out at one of the best bars in Emerald Isle, NC, return home to a stunning vacation rental from Spinnaker’s Reach. We have an incredible selection of properties that will suit any of your needs. Whether you prefer something more upscale and elegant or cozy and comfortable, you’ll find what you need in our selection of properties.
Check out all of our vacation rentals and book your home today. We look forward to having you.

Contact Us

Spinnaker's Reach Realty
[email protected]
Call 252-354-5555
Text 252-648-7262
9104-D Coast Guard Road
Emerald Isle, NC 28594

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