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Three Ways to Enjoy the Best Day Trip to Fort Macon State Park

During your stay on the shores of Emerald Isle, take a day trip to one of the best state parks in the country! Fort Macon State Park was voted the North Carolina State Park of the Year in 2015, and it’s no wonder. The park combines beautiful landscapes with a fascinating history and plenty of local culture. Whether you’re a history buff, traveling with children, or just want to explore the park’s unspoiled shoreline, a visit to Fort Macon makes for a great day trip!
Fort Macon State Park is just one of the many fantastic parks near Emerald Isle. For a full list of our favorite parks, download our free Vacation Guide! From Cape Lookout National Seashore to the quaint Emerald Isle Woods Park, you’ll find plenty of great options for a day in the sun. You’ll also get recommendations for the best restaurants, museums, and family-friendly attractions near the Crystal Coast. You’ll have your trip planned in no time with our free Vacation Guide!

Learn Some Fort Macon History

Fort Macon State Park is part-nature reserve and part-historic site. The park includes a replica of the original Fort Macon, which served as protection during the 18th and 19th centuries. This stronghold has served North Carolina during the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War I. The famous pirate Blackbeard even passed through Beaufort Inlet during his time sailing the seas.

Attend Fort Macon Events

Before you head to the park, be sure to check the website for any upcoming events. Tours of the fort are available Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. and last around 45 minutes. During the tour, you’ll get an in-depth look at the history of the area, from the siege of Fort Macon to its reconstruction. There are also special events, like musket demonstrations and guided hikes, that are worth the trip.

Fort Macon State Park Activities

Once you’re done learning fun Fort Macon facts, explore the rest of the park! Hikers can traverse the various trails through the park, and swimmers will enjoy the beautiful beach. There are also picnic facilities in the park, so bring some food to throw on the grill. If you’d prefer to catch your meal there, there are plenty of opportunities for that as well. You can fish in the park year-round. Expect to snag a variety of fish, including bluefish, pompano, red drum, and whiting, during spring, summer and fall. The best anglers can even pull in a few trout and redfish during the winter.

Relax at a Gorgeous Spinnaker’s Reach Vacation Home

After a day spent at Fort Macon State Park, enjoy an evening of rest in a house from Spinnaker’s Reach. We have the best selection of properties in Emerald Isle, from oceanfront to interior homes. Whether you’re planning a vacation with just your immediate family or a large group of friends, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.
Consider renting Makin’ Waves, a gorgeous five-bedroom, six-bathroom home with a classic, luxurious feel. This home features a private pool, elevator, and is pet-friendly. The first floor features a living room with a ping pong table, card table, and a kitchenette. It’s the perfect place for the kids to hang out during your stay! The second floor has a spacious king suite, a bedroom with a queen-sized bed, and a bunk-bed room for the kiddos. The third floor has an open-space floor plan for the kitchen, dining area, and living area.
Take a look at the rest of our homes and book today! We look forward to having you.