By Nellie Day
Things to Do at Emerald Isle in North Carolina
North Carolina's Emerald Isle got its name before the first building was even erected. A consultant to the island's developers was flying over the island when he noticed how much it resembled an emerald. Today, island visitors enjoy shopping, fishing, bicycling, swimming and walking on the
beach.
Fishing at Bogue Inlet Pier
Bogue Inlet Pier is a premier fishing destination for Emerald Isle residents and tourists. There are convenience stores and stands nearby that sell bait and provide gear for catching sheepshead, black drum, barracuda, blowfish, speckled trout, bluefish and pompano. There is an $8.50 fee for fishermen, while spectators can visit the pier for free. The pier offers a lookout deck and nearby shopping opportunities.
Bogue Inlet Pier
(252) 354-2919
bogueinletpier@gmail.com
Ecology Tour
Ecology tours from Emerald Isle are both educational and fun. There are two tours that leave from Emerald Isle to explore the Crystal Coast. Coastal Ecology Sails conducts its tours on the Good Fortune. This yacht takes up to six passengers on a 90-minute tour of the Atlantic Ocean, Beaufort Inlet and Newport River, where they can watch birds and dolphins andf learn about the history and currents of the waterways. Call to book your ecology tour, which costs $25 per person. The second eco tour is conducted by Pelican Charters and Captain Paul Dunn. Though Pelican Charters customizes its tours to the group's preferences, they generally focus on marine wildlife. The tour typically stops along Crystal Bay's barrier islands, where passengers can look for wildlife. It also stops at numerous spots where dolphins and sea turtles have been seen. This tour is more extensive and hands-on than Coastal Ecology Sails. It takes five to six hours and costs $300 for up to six people. Call for reservations.
Coastal Ecology Sails
252-247-3860
rwhite010@ec.rr.com
Pelican Charters
(252) 504-2447
captainpaul77@yahoo.com
Rent Bikes
Renting bicycles is the perfect way to explore Emerald Isle. There is very little traffic, making it easy to spend your whole day getting around by bike. If you're looking for souvenirs or a true island shopping experience, ride over to the Bell Cove Village and Veranda Square. Be sure to take in the beautiful beach scenery as well; bike paths along Emerald and Ocean drives often run along the water. The bikes can also be used to access several beaches, including Station Street Park, Emerald Isle Woods Park, Ocean Oaks Park, Merchants Park and Blue Heron Park.
About the Author:
Nellie Day is a freelance writer based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. She has her Master's degree in broadcast journalism from USC, and Bachelors' degrees in English and sociology from UC Irvine. Ms. Day's work can regularly be seen on newsstands, where her specialties include weddings, pets, real estate, electronics, product reviews, business, architecture and design, Southern California, food and wine, and travel and tourism.
Photo Credits:
commons.wikimedia.org
