The 2019 nc seafood festival in morehead city nc

2019 NC Seafood Festival

The 2019 nc seafood festival in morehead city nc

2019 NC Seafood Festival

The 2019 North Carolina Seafood Festival has it all! Who doesn’t love fresh, local seafood, libations, carnival games, fireworks, and more? Seafood and sea-fun meet right here on the Morehead City Waterfront! This year was the 33rd year of the Seafood Festival on our beautiful coast, and we are so glad we got to enjoy all it had to offer.

The North Carolina Seafood Festival is one of our favorites to attend each year. Our bellies get full of some of the most delicious seafood on the coast and local brews and liquors from the Crystal Coast’s distilleries. Sometimes, we muster up the courage to get on the carnival rides – after stuffing our faces! This year’s 2019 NC Seafood Festival did not disappoint! 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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The History of the NC Seafood Festival

The North Carolina Seafood Festival is a not-for-profit organization of Carteret County citizens and businesses in Morehead City. Recognizing the importance of seafood to eastern North Carolina, Seafood Festival, Inc. organized to develop and conduct a festival every year. This festival is held every year on the first weekend of October to promote the seafood industry’s positive social and economic impact on our community.

The Blessing of the Fleet at the NC Seafood Festival

Without the fleet of commercial fishing vessels from Carteret County, the availability of fresh seafood in the state and even the nation would be significantly impacted. The commercial fishing vessels that make their home port in North Carolina provide one of the largest services to the entire country. They continually bring in the wide varieties of fish and shellfish that we’ve become so accustomed to having in our grocery stores.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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The men and women who risk their lives to make a living from the sea are the providers of the bountiful harvest that we enjoy in restaurants. But the sea is sometimes not so forgiving, and we now recognize the importance of controlled harvesting of the fish population, the threat of pollution that may occur hundreds of miles from the shoreline, and the obligation for all of us to work together to ensure a constant supply of quality seafood. The festival’s goal, which is to recognize the many who have given their lives in their occupation and to thank those who do it today, is realized with the emotional Blessing of the Fleet on the Morehead City waterfront. – Guest post by Bluewater’s Marketing Coordinator, Jay White

Let’s Hear From You!

Have you ever been to the NC Seafood Festival? If so, what year did you attend, and what was your favorite part? Don’t miss our monthly Crystal Coast calendar of events for more local festivals and fresh events. 

 

SAVE FOR LATER

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spotlight on vacation rental property in Atlantic Beach - A Pierless Vista

Featured Property: A Pierless Vista

spotlight on vacation rental property in Atlantic Beach - A Pierless Vista

A Pierless Vista

We have the pleasure of featuring “A Pierless Vista.” Spending quality time with family and friends is more fun when you can all be together in one home – like A Pierless Vista.

A Pierless Vista is one of the gorgeous homes in our exclusive Blue Pearl Homes collection. Exquisitely furnished and exceptionally appointed, these luxurious beach vacation rentals are draped like pearls all along our Crystal Coast. Blue Pearl Homes are top-of-the-line vacation homes. This 8-bedroom, 8.5-bath Oceanfront escape has all the amenities you could need while on vacation. With 7 Master Suites, water views and access to Balconies from all Bedrooms, and incredible views of our pristine coastline, you will surely find relaxation on your vacation. The Elevator will make accessing all floors effortless for all members of your vacationing family and also offer accessibility for anyone that might need assistance, with the top floor Master Bedroom being Handicap Accessible. Enjoy your very own private pool and private hot tub.

This beautiful Oceanfront Home is also equipped with a Theater Room, Recreation/Game room, including a Pool Table, Foosball Table & Card/Game Table. Situated in Atlantic Beach, this home is conveniently located in Morehead City, Beaufort, and Emerald Isle! From exploring Fort Macon to playing putt-putt, and shopping in Morehead City to touring Historic Beaufort, you can enjoy all the Crystal Coast has to offer without traveling far from your home away from home! Equipped with High-Speed Wireless Internet for your convenience.

Like what you’re hearing? Now take a peek inside this beauty.

Plan aHistory on the Crystal Coast, Historic Sites on the Coast

Plan an Itinerary Full of History on the Crystal Coast

Plan aHistory on the Crystal Coast, Historic Sites on the Coast

Plan an Itinerary Full of History on the Crystal Coast

If you’re a history lover, you’ll love all the historic sites on our Crystal Coast. We’ve put together a 5-day itinerary to get you started.

5-Day Itinerary for History on the Crystal Coast

Day 1 – Plan a trip to Fort Macon. You can enjoy this best with a tour guide straight from the past. 

Day 2 – Drop by The History Place for the morning or enjoy lunch and history with Rodney Kemp. Next, visit Infusion Cafe, a museum with a twist.

Day 3 – Rent a metal detector and explore what may be hidden below our sandy shores. Your treasures await!

Day 4 – Explore the Beaufort historic site, the old burying grounds, and the Maritime Museum.

Day 5 – Take a ferry to Cape Lookout and climb the Diamond Lady for a breathtaking view!

What would you add to this list? Did we miss a historical site that you’d like to see? Let us know in the comments.

2019 big rock tournament, big rock 2019

2019 Big Rock Tournament

2019 big rock tournament, big rock 2019

The 2019 Big Rock Tournament

The 61st Annual Big Rock Tournament took place June 7-15, 2019 in Morehead City. This being one of the largest and oldest fishing tournaments, The Big Rock brings expert deep-sea fishermen to take part in such an amazing event.

“The beauty of the Big Rock is in how it captures a snapshot of the community it thrives in. For the people of Carolina’s Crystal Coast and the greater sport fishing world in general, the Big Rock represents everything we value most, namely:

  1. Family – People of all ages and backgrounds enjoy the Big Rock for a variety of reasons, all of which help us realize the importance of family and the joy of spending special time with loved ones.
  2. Community – Morehead City and the surrounding areas have supported the Big Rock for 60 years! Without the enthusiasm and effort of all community members, the tournament would not be what it is.
  3. Charity – Doing our part to stand by friends, family, and neighbors is rewarding and gratifying, especially when we see the positive impact it has locally. We consider it an honor to team up with some truly remarkable charities.

To all the participants and spectators who take time out of their lives to enjoy all the Big Rock has to offer, thank you! Your interest, dedication, and presence is never overlooked. We will continue working to improve the tournament you love while maintaining the historic tradition it will always carry”

The Big Rock Tournament Winners

“Top Dog” was the big winner of the tournament with a 914.0 lbs Blue Marlin. The prize money was $793,187.50 and major bragging rights. Second place in the blue marlin division was boat “Wolverine”, with a 588.9 lbs catch and prize money of $289,862.50. Then, in a close 3rd, was “Donna Mae” with a 569.9 lbs catch and a prize of $192,575.

frequently asked questions about ocean safety

FAQ: Ocean Safety on the Crystal Coast

frequently asked questions about ocean safety

FAQ: Ocean Safety on the Crystal Coast

If you’ve spent any time at the beach, you’ve probably wondered about ocean safety and might have a few questions.  Here are the most frequently asked questions and answers about beach and ocean safety on the Crystal Coast. 

Beach Safety FAQ:

Watch this short video on beach and ocean safety relating to our coast. The towns of Emerald Isle, Indian Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, and Atlantic Beach have joined together to explain the meanings of the beach safety flag system and also to discuss rip current advice.

Frequently Asked Questions: Ocean Safety on the Crystal Coast

 

1. How do I know what beach conditions are for Emerald Isle?

  • First, you should know that Emerald Isle is ALWAYS at a minimum level of yellow flags. Emerald Isle NEVER flies green flags because we believe there are always inherent dangers when entering the ocean, and you should always use caution. You can check the current ocean conditions on Emerald Isle, daily on the Town’s website.

2. What do the different colored flags mean?

  • GREEN flags indicate that conditions are safe. The Town of Emerald Isle does not fly green flags, as we believe there are always inherent dangers when swimming in the ocean. Therefore, it is never completely safe, and you should always use caution.
  • YELLOW flags indicate moderate hazards, and the public should use caution in the ocean. In Emerald Isle, even the calmest of days on the beach can pose an inherent risk when entering the ocean, and the public is always advised to use caution.
  • RED flags indicate a high risk of strong currents or other hazards, and the public is advised to stay out of the water.
  • DOUBLE RED flags indicate an extremely high risk of strong currents or other hazards. The Town Manager has enacted a prohibition on swimming on our beaches under the authority granted by Town Ordinance Chapter 5 Section 5-25. You can be fined or arrested if you go in the water.
  • PURPLE flags indicate an abundance of potentially hazardous marine life in the vicinity, including Portuguese man-o-war, jellyfish, and other creatures. The town will fly these flags as needed in specific locations. However, the use of PURPLE FLAGS is relatively rare.

 

3. What if I don’t see a flag from where I am on the beach?

  • Flags are only posted on the beach strand from Memorial Day to Labor Day (when we have lifeguards). If you don’t see a flag from where you are on the beach, you should know that the Town of Emerald Isle is NEVER under green flag conditions. So, if you don’t see a flag on the beach, you should check with the Emerald Isle Fire Department or the town website to determine our current beach conditions.

4. Why doesn’t the town post flags along the beach all year round? 

  • The only time you will see flags posted along the beach is during the months we have lifeguards patrolling the beach (Memorial Day to Labor Day), and then only when we are under the red flag or double red flag conditions.

5. Why is the town reporting conditions different from the National Weather Service reports?

  • NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) gathers information for their reports from weather buoys positioned 30 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Emerald Isle town staff evaluate our beach conditions daily and communicate this data to NOAA to get the best forecast information possible to provide to the public. Most of the time, the conditions we are reporting in Emerald Isle are consistent with the forecast advisories posted by NOAA for all the beaches in our area. However, there are times when the conditions we are experiencing in Emerald Isle may be more severe than what is reported by NOAA equipment or experienced by other beaches in our area. In that situation, our flag conditions may differ from the NOAA forecast or the flags flown in Atlantic Beach. Please know when that happens, it is because we are reporting the most accurate information possible for Emerald Isle to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors.

6. Can’t you get rental companies to put information in their rental packets for people warning them about the dangers?

  • The town works closely with all major rental companies to get information out to visitors and guests to promote safety in the Town. The rental companies are very proactive in supplying safety information produced by the Town for their guests by putting them in their rental packets and posting information in all of their rental units. This information explains the flags system, rip current information, beach rules and regulations, and even has information about nesting sea turtles.

7. Why doesn’t the town position Jet Skis’ on the beach strand?

  • Town staff is constantly working to improve and perfect our response to all concerns in the town. Over many years of testing different approaches, we have found that the quickest response in these situations is achieved by traveling over the roadways to the closest access rather than trying to work our way through hundreds or thousands of people along a crowded beach. We aim to get there as quickly as possible to have the greatest chance of conducting a successful rescue.

8. Why doesn’t the town buy speed boats along the coastline to perform rescues?

  • The surf, geographical, and even weather conditions have molded our rescue practices over the years. We believe that we are currently using the most effective methods for the conditions along our shoreline. Waves and surf conditions along our shoreline make using a boat a dangerous option for rescue situations.

9. What steps is the town taking to educate people on the dangers posed by these conditions?

  • Each department in the town works very hard to get information out to our residents and guests and educate them on the dangers and hazards present in the ocean. Town staff hosts educational programs on beach safety, rip current dangers, and other hazards multiple times per month to educate beachgoers. The Fire Department conducts public education classes for schools, locals and visitors specifically focused on water safety. These events are publicized on the Town’s website and other social media platforms. Police and lifeguards patrolling the beach hand out flyers with flag warnings, rip current information, and beach rules and regulations. Beach Patrol units stop and have conversations with hundreds of beachgoers every day when they see someone doing something that may be dangerous, hazardous, or illegal to try and keep our beaches and the public safe. The Fire Department presents multiple annual educational classes to the public. It administers the lifeguard program for the town, which includes over 70 hours of training, certifications, and testing for each lifeguard. They also monitor beach conditions and administer our town’s flag warning program. Town staff constantly evaluate local conditions and communicate and coordinate with NOAA and other agencies to provide the most current information on conditions and warnings for our residents and guests. We are constantly updating these conditions and posting warnings or information on our digital media platforms (Facebook, town website, text message alerts, etc…) to give residents the information they need to make good decisions. In emergencies, we frequently put information out to the public through PSAs, Code Red notifications, PA broadcasts along the beach strand, text messages, alerts, and other methods of communication. The town produces thousands of flyers, signs, magnets, newsletters, and other informational sources annually to provide to residents and posts around town to ensure that the information is available to our residents and guests. Our Parks and Recreation department hands out drink koozies with flag and rip current information to every person that pays to park at one of our public beach accesses. They also provide and upkeep 100 rescue buoys along the beach strand for the public to assist swimmers in trouble if they choose to. Our lifeguards at the East and West Regional Ocean Accesses also have life jackets available for toddlers and children who want to borrow them for the day. These are just some of the ways the town employees work with local businesses and the public to ensure the safety and security of all our residents and visitors.

10. What can I do if I see someone in trouble?

  • Call 911 before you do anything else! Getting rescue personnel on the way should be the priority.
  • If you believe you are an excellent swimmer and are willing to assist, you can grab a flotation device and go in to help if you choose to. NEVER ENTER THE WATER TO CONDUCT A RESCUE WITHOUT A FLOTATION DEVICE! There are 100 rescue buoys stationed on poles along the beach strand that the town has provided to assist those that choose to help in these situations.
  • Swim close enough to the person so that you can toss them the flotation device, but not so close that they can grab you or you will become their flotation device. Talk to them and try to keep them calm until help arrives.
 
 

11. When do the lifeguards start patrolling the beach?

  • Lifeguards must be certified by United States Lifeguard Association (USLA) to serve on our beaches. Most lifeguards that apply are full-time college students who must complete a 74-hour training before they can begin working. They cannot begin that process until the spring semester has ended. The earliest that we have been able to complete this process and the lifeguards working is the week before Memorial Day each year. Our lifeguard program runs annually from May 20th through September (Labor Day). Stationary lifeguards are located at the East and West Regional Ocean Accesses, and up to 4 roving lifeguards patrol the beach strand daily.

12. Why doesn’t the town have lifeguards year-round?

  • In order to have a program that would meet USLA standards, the town would have to post as many as 57 lifeguards on the beach strand daily. This endeavor would be cost-prohibitive to the Town and is not practical or prudent even if we could get the requisite number of lifeguards, especially outside our busy tourist season. The vast majority of our water rescue calls take place during May through September (tourist season) when people who are not necessarily familiar with the hazards associated with the ocean currents are visiting our beaches. This is the time when our program is active, and while we have experienced tragic situations, the program has successfully completed hundreds of water rescues annually. For example, in 2018, Emerald Isle Lifeguards successfully rescued over 105 people in just 11 days.

13. What other methods has the Town tried to improve rescue operations?

  • Over the years, we have tried many different methods to improve our rescue capabilities. We have tested motorized surfboards, used zodiac boats, tested devices that shoot ropes or flotation devices, and even tested drones to drop flotation devices. The current methods that we use are the ones that are consistently successful, reliable, and effective for the conditions that we have along our beach. Still, we are also constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest rescue aids, equipment, or methods that will help us provide the best assistance we can to those visiting our beaches.

14. Why doesn’t the Town include warnings on the big signs at the bridge? 

  • The digital signs you see when you cross the bridge belong to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, not the Town. We have had many conversations with the NCDOT about using the signs when we have dangerous surf conditions along our beaches to warn beachgoers. NCDOT has denied our requests due to regulations that restrict those signs’ use to only traffic-related messages. To ensure that we are doing all we can to get the word out, the town uses our own portable message signs to inform people coming across the bridge when we have unusually rough beach conditions, especially when the beach is under double red flag conditions.

15. What can I do to be safe?

  • Use common sense and take personal responsibility. Check beach conditions before you go out and know what the warning flags mean. If the water looks rough, don’t go in.
  • Obey the warning flags, even if you are an Olympic-class swimmer! When we have to stop to address the dangers you put yourself in, you take our attention away from others who may need our help.
  • NEVER ALLOW ANY CHILD TO GO UNATTENDED IN THE WATER! If you are more than a foot away, you are too far away from a child. Ocean currents can be extremely strong and sweep adults off their feet in knee-deep water. Children should always be in a Coast Guard Approved flotation device when in the ocean.
  • Don’t assume that the calmest water is the safest place to swim. The area where you don’t see waves breaking is usually where a rip current is located. If you are unsure about the conditions, ask someone!
  • NEVER SWIM ALONE! Always swim with a flotation device.
  • Marine Life Typical feeding times are at sunrise and sunset, it is not recommended to be in the water at these times. While certain marine life feeds at different times of the day, a marine predator may be nearby if you notice a school of fish jumping in the water.
  • On calm days when the water appears flat, attempt to shuffle your feet while entering the water. We experience an increase in stingray incidents when the ocean becomes flat. Calm waters allow stingrays to settle close to shore, by shuffling your feet when entering the water this disturbs the stingrays, and they move away.
  • Emerald Isle, on many occasions, experiences Portuguese Man-O-War jellyfish along our beach strand. This is partly due to our southern-facing beach and our prevailing SW winds. Portuguese Man-O-War looks like blue/purple balloons floating on the surface of the water, their tentacles can reach up to 50′ long. They are wind-driven and can sting both in and out of the water.

16. What if I do get caught in a rip current?

  • REMAIN CALM! This is the most important thing you can do. Many drownings attributed to rip currents are caused by a person exhausting themselves fighting against the current and going into cardiac arrest.
  • Let the current take you to the release point. Most rip currents will only take you out a few hundred yards. Relax and float until it releases you, and then swim parallel to the shoreline. The waves will bring you back in.
  • Wave your arms above your head and yell for help. Someone will see you and call for help. If you can swim back towards the shore, do it without exhausting yourself.

You can learn more about beach and ocean safety directly on the Emerald Isle website at: Emerald Isle Beach Safety Information

Memorial Day Weekend On The Crystal Coast

Memorial Day Weekend On the Crystal Coast!

Ready to spend your extended weekend on the Crystal Coast? We have a list of the best things to do this weekend.

First things first, we would like to give a BIG thanks to all those who served and all of those who currently serve. We are forever grateful for your sacrifices. With The Crystal Coast being next to two Marine Corp bases, we give and extra thanks to those military members that call the Crystal Coast home.

This is a busy weekend in our amazing beach town. We have complied a list of the best events this weekend!

Olde Beaufort Farmer’s Market Farm to Table Dinner 

Date: May 23, 2019

Time: 6 PM – 8 PM

Join the Olde Beaufort Farmers’ Market for their annual fundraising Farm to Table Dinner on the Harborside Park deck overlooking Taylor’s Creek on the waterfront in downtown Beaufort. This fine dining experience features a menu prepared by the chefs at Clawson’s Restaurant from the freshest meats and vegetables raised by the market farmers and delicious breads and desserts from the market bakers. Live entertainment will be provided by the Beaufort Blues Project and wine and beer are included. Tickets may be purchased online at: oldebeaufortfarmersmarket.org or at the market on Saturday mornings thru the 18th. Don’t miss this event that is sure to please! For more details, 252-564-8822 or www.oldebeaufortfarmersmarket.org.

Into the Fog @ Cru Wine Bar

Date: May 24, 2019

Time: 8 PM – 11 PM

Into The Fog is a string band out of Wilmington, NC that encompasses a wide array of genres from bluegrass to country to folk to rock n’ roll. The band is made up of Brian Stephenson on Vocals and Guitar, Winston Mitchell on Vocals and Dobro/Mandolin, and Derek Lane on Vocals and Bass. After competing in the Telluride Bluegrass Festival band competition, Into the Fog is quickly making a name for themselves throughout North Carolina and catching audience’s attention with their high energy blend of traditional bluegrass and modern folk. With two lead singers and a lot of instrumentation the band has a way of grabbing people’s attention, no matter what their musical preference. For more details, 252-728-3066 or www.beaufortcru.com.

Jonathan Bryan Williams @ Promise’ Land Market

Date: May 24, 2019

Time: 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM

Jonathan Bryan Williams of the Pat McGee Band will be here. Super talented. Come on out! For more details, 252-222-0422 or www.promiselandmarket.com.

Mikele Buck Band @ Salt 

Date: May 24, 2019

Time: 9:30 PM – 12 AM

The Voice 2018 contestant Mikele Buck was born in the Hills of West Virginia, where his family was steeped in the traditional music of the Appalachians. Playing drums in rock bands for most of his high school days, after graduation Mikele bought his first guitar. He started writing songs and playing local taverns, bars, and bonfire parties, testing his own songs out on friends and family. His original songs are a blend of all his musical influences, including Steve Earle, Garth Brooks, Travis Tritt and Red-Dirt artists like Randy Rodgers Band and Reckless Kelly. After returning from the Iraq war in 2005, Mikele went to Nashville to record his first CD and established his first band near Greenville NC. This band’s popularity grew and soon they were opening up for major acts such as Jason Aldean and Joe Nichols. From NC night clubs and fairs, the Mikele Buck Band began drawing record crowds of their own. His latest iTunes release has been pouring through car speakers all over the east…

Kayak for the Warriors 5K and 10K Beach Run 2019

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 8 AM – 10:30 AM

Kayak for the Warriors™ is an annual fundraising event for HOPE FOR THE WARRIORS® to benefit our brave, combat injured and fallen service men and women and their families, sponsored by the Town of Pine Knoll Shores, NC.

We kick off our Kayak for the Warrior activities by hosting 5K and 10K Beach Runs on Saturday, May 25, at 8:00 a.m. The event fee for the 5K is $25 and the 10K is $30. Both include a t-shirt. Runners will begin at the The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores and run east and return on the beach. Additional information and registration can be found at www.k4tw.org or at www.runtheeast.com.

Cannon Day @ Fort Macon 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Come down to Fort Macon and learn how different Civil War era cannons were loaded, aimed, and fired.  Cannon demonstrations will be at 10:30, 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30.

Caviar Farm Tour & Tasting 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 11 AM – 12:30 PM

That’s right, there’s a caviar farm right here in Carteret County!

Marshallberg Farm is the largest producer of Russian Sturgeon caviar in the U.S.A., with capacity to produce up to 3 tons of caviar per year. Due to popular demand, the Down East facility will be holding a series of farm tours and caviar tastings.

The tour includes a guided walk amongst 40 indoor recirculating aquaculture tanks that teem with sturgeon and span some 54,000 square feet of building space. Following the tour, there will be a caviar and smoked sturgeon tasting and a chance to purchase products.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online at www.marshallbergfarm.com/tours. Spaces are limited.

Big Drink Music @ The Trading Post 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Big Drink Music will be bringing the boogie to the Trading Post!

A Great Gatsby Party (with The Raynor Brothers Band) 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 7 PM – 9:30 PM

The Roaring Twenties… The Jazz Age…
GREAT GATSBY! The party of the season…
Destination The Infusion Cafe… Copacetic! (And how!)
On the evening of May 25, 2019, our joint will be jumpin in the jazz.
On the square! The cat’s meow… featuring the smooth jake sounds of ‘The Raynor Brothers Band!
(That’s the Raynor Brothers… They got the goods! See.)
This jazz ensemble is the bee’s knees!

Timmie Raynor III and
Gabriel Raynor will be leading the band.
The event’s gonna be a lollapalooza- and like Gatsby himself said,
“A little party never killed nobody!”
All you cats and dames hip to the jive, grab your glad rags and get ready to start “putting on the Ritz!”
Our kitchen artists are dreaming up a swanky 3-4 course meal that hit on all sixes and take you straight back to the 1920s like nobody’s business. Dinner will be served up with our famous ‘noodle juice’ and ‘joe’ (that’s twenties speak for tea and coffee- savvy?)… all this, our live-wire staff in the get up and The Raynor Brothers too!
This is sure to be the party of the season… and a night you wont want to miss.

Tickets Required. Seating is limited.
Call 252-240-2800 for event information and to guarantee your seats!

Irish Robinson @ Promise’ Land Market 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10 PM – 1 AM

Join us for music by Irish Robinson. We have live music EVERY weekend. For more details, 252-222-0422 or www.promiselandmarket.com.

Hannah Wicklund and The Steppin’ Stones @ Salt 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10 PM – 1 AM

Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin’ Stones are fronted by a 21-year-old powerhouse guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. The South Carolina-born artist, who formed the band as an eight-year-old, has developed a powerful and sublime synthesis of skills and makes it clear that the future is hers to conquer.
See her live @ https://youtu.be/PxWTf46X7qE
On their new self-titled album, Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin Stones (available everywhere now) the band — who’ve played over 2,000 shows — digs to their core and leaves it all on the floor. The album is an aural kaleidoscope of blazing guitars and searing vocals, all of which establish Wicklund as a triple-threat player, singer and writer.
Hannah credits her father with instilling the lesson of never losing the intensity that music requires. Her first guitar was a present from him, as a kind of atonement for getting rid of her backyard trampoline. That very night, he taught her to play “Rockin’ In The Free World” and Tom Petty’s “It’s Good To Be King.” (Creativity runs through the family: her mother, a talented artist, painted the latest Steppin Stones album cover.) She grew up knowing that her life would be consumed by music. And somehow it feels as though it is only the beginning…
Past appearances including major events such as the Peach Music Festival, Firefly Music Festival and Kaaboo Del Mar.

Selah Dubb @ Off The Hook 

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10 PM – 12 AM

Come check out Selah Dubb at Off The Hook. Come on out for great food, drink specials and LIVE entertainment!

Memorial Day Pig Pickin and Hawaiian Shirt Contest

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10 PM – 12 AM

Fishtowne is throwing a Memorial Day Pig Pickin Luau and want to celebrate with their craft beer Ohana! Sunday, May 26th from 12pm – 5pm they will be cooking up a pig along with a Hawaiian shirt contest. Games, music and door prizes all day with the best Hawaiian shirt winner announced at 3pm. Winner receives a special edition Fishtowne Hawaiian Shirt. So join them at Fishtowne for a hella good BBQ and a hella good time! For more details, 252-838-1102 or www.fishtownebrewhouse.com.

Sea Stars and Stripes Event Salutes Active Military @ the Aquarium

Date: May 25, 2019

Time: 10 PM – 12 AM

 There is a significant United States military presence in North Carolina. All four branches are represented in some way; from Seymore Johnson Airforce Base in Goldsboro and Fort Bragg near Fayetteville, to Camp Lejeune and Cherry Point closer to Carteret County. On Memorial Day, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores will host Sea Stars and Stripes as a way to salute active military and their families. The event is specifically designed for currently serving military who have young children. Join us for an evening after hours for dinner, live animal presentations, and take-home crafts that children of all ages can enjoy. For more details, 252-247-4003 or www.ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores.

crystal coast watersports and activities

Water Activities on The Crystal Coast

crystal coast watersports and activities

Water Activities on The Crystal Coast

How about a little vitamin sea? If you’re looking for some fun water activities on the Crystal Coast we got some great suggestions for you!

Bogue Banks comprises five townships – Emerald Isle at the western end of the island, followed by Indian Beach, Salter Path, Pine Knoll Shores, and Atlantic Beach at the eastern end of the island.  Located just east of Bogue Banks are The Cape Lookout National Seashore and Shackleford Banks, where you can catch a glimpse of the wild island ponies, explore and collect shells and even climb the Cape Lookout Lighthouse!

You’ll find an endless variety of water activities while you’re here; surfing, body boarding and skimboarding, kayaking, parasailing, and scuba diving – you name it, you can do it on the Crystal Coast!

Consider These Fun Water Activities on The Crystal Coast

Surfing

Surfing the Crystal Coast is a popular pastime for locals and vacationers.  Pick a day with light winds and find a secluded spot on the beach to test the waters.  Using a longer surfboard and practicing standing up on the beach will make learning more straightforward if it’s your first time riding the waves.  If you’re a more experienced surfer, try the waves at The Point.  The currents tend to be stronger, and paddling out is more challenging.  Need a board or surfing lessons?  Call our office or visit a local surf shop.

Bodyboarding is also a great alternative to surfing for kids to try.  Kids will want to look for a soft board for safety.  Take the board out into the breakers and when a wave comes, paddle with it under your body, using it to ride the wave without standing up.

Kayaking

The Intracoastal Waterways and rivers that empty into it make for excellent kayaking.  You can start anywhere on the island and explore the barrier island system.  Swansboro is a great spot to start if you’re new, as there are several kayak companies that will not only rent you the gear but also do guided kayak tours.  Kayaking is great for beginners at water sports and generally doesn’t involve deep waters.  Double kayaks are great for parents and kids or couples to ride together!

Skimboarding

Bodyboarding and skimboarding are great for beginners.  For either, just grab the board and head out over the waves to try your hand at surfing back in.  Skimboarding takes a bit more practice and coordination to master.  Catch the shoreline near low tide, so that you have a wider expanse of flat, sandy beach to work with.  Toss the board onto a shallow part of the tide and take a running leap to catch the board in motion and “skim” over the water.  Skimboards are thinner than bodyboards, allowing you to glide over the shallow water as it recedes with each incoming wave.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers an enjoyable and peaceful way to explore the waters of the Crystal Coast.  This sport has become a popular coastal activity as well as a great workout.  One advantage to SUPing, as opposed to other water sports, is standing at full height – you are inclined to see many sea creatures during your travels and can easily hop off to explore.  This sport is also a great way to incorporate the kids and even your dog!  

Parasailing

For the more adventurous explorer, try parasailing! Flying high across the coastline, you will see breathtaking views of the coast like never before.  You can fly single or double, and kids as young as six can go up! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see our island from a “birds-eye” perspective, and is something your family will remember for years to come.  It’s also a remarkably safe adrenaline rush on your family’s summer vacation!

Scuba Diving

Our coastline is considered one of the country’s finest collections of shipwrecks to dive and explore sharks, stingrays, dolphins, sea turtles, and an endless variety of fish and plants.  We are blessed with the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, allowing summertime water temperatures near 80 degrees and winter temperatures near 60 degrees.

Although there are hundreds of sunken vessels to explore while you’re scuba diving, our most visited underwater spot is the German submarine “U-352”.  It was sunk in April 1942 as it patrolled the eastern seaboard during World War II.  There are several dive companies on the eastern end of the coast, all of which offer beginner’s scuba diving classes and various chartered tours.

First Visit to the Crystal Coast



Our vacationers recall their first visit to the Crystal Coast…

Here at Bluewater, we strive to provide family getaways that will create memories you and your family will never forget.

Want to share your first memories of the Crystal Coast? Send an email to marketing@bluewaternc.com to be featured on this page!


After nearly 30 years going to North Myrtle Beach, I have returned to the Crystal Coast. My first visit to Atlantic Beach was nearly 75 years ago, so it’s like home. As a kid, we could not afford a hotel, but that didn’t stop two mothers who loaded up their sons, headed to Atlantic Beach, spent the night in the car, and provided us a day at the beach. They were two determined mothers.

-David Pittman


My first time vacationing at Emerald Isle was in 1988 when I was 1 year old. We have vacationed at Emerald Isle every year since then and I am now 31. I continued the tradition with my kids who are 12, 10, and 3. So many traditions and memories made. We absolutely love the Carolina coast – doesn’t get much better!

-Jessica Wilson


After traveling 12 hours from Southern Indiana, the Kelly Family first visited the Crystal Coast in May of 2018 when tagging along with in-laws to visit family. During their stay, they explored our coast and beaches spending lots of time at The Point. The Kellys had “such an amazing and relaxing vacation,” but realized “7 days was just not enough time and we will be returning again this year!”

-The Kelly Family


The first time I came to the beautiful coast was in 1973. When we started seeing the beautiful white, fluffy clouds, we were so excited. Loved hearing the ocean waves and seeing the beautiful sun rise up over the ocean is something I will never forget.

-Helen Snyder

Hurricane Relief Workshop

Atlantic Beach – Hurricane Relief Workshop

Hurricane Relief Workshop

Atlantic Beach – Hurricane Relief Workshop

If you missed our first Hurricane Relief Roundtable or are still looking for help fixing your home from storm damage, we’re hosting a hassle-free Hurricane Relief Workshop in Atlantic Beach for those affected by storm-related property damage. This event is open to the public.

The presentation will be held Saturday, March 30th, from 9:00 – 11:00 AM at the Atlantic Beach Town Hall (125 W Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512)

We look forward to hearing the latest news from an insurance agent, a public adjuster, and other consultants, who will also answer questions you may still have lingering. Linda Rice of Stearns Home Lending will talk about a few options for home loans that can be used to cover rebuilding expenses, as well as options for anyone interested in selling their home “as is.”

Some of the guest speakers at the will include:

  • Linda Rice – Stearns Lending
  • Jonathan Hughes – East Coast Restruction
  • Ron Hicks – Public Adjuster
  • Mike Hancock, Insurance agent, Farm Bureau in Beaufort
  • Infinity Roofing and Siding

A handful of Bluewater REALTORS® will also provide insight into today’s Real Estate Market and informational assistance to those in need. We will also distribute a list of reputable companies, including roofers.

We’re hoping this event will help provide some additional resources to those still struggling with financing or finding local service professionals to finish their jobs and get back into their homes.

Again, this event will be held on Saturday, March 30th, from 9-11 AM at the Atlantic Beach Town Hall, which is connected to the AB Fire Station (125 W Fort Macon Road). We had a great turnout for the first time we hosted a similar session in Emerald Isle. We know there are still families in similar situations in the Atlantic Beach area that could benefit from these resources. Refreshments will be served, and attendees can register to win a door prize.

If you have any questions about the event or if your business would like to speak during the session, please reach out to Cathy Sheaffer at (252) 354-2128