Carteret County is located in the center of coastal North Carolina on a peninsula that is bordered by the Southern Outer Banks and the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Any location in the county is within ten minutes of water. We enjoy easy access to ocean, sound, rivers and creeks from anywhere along our 88 mile stretch of coastline.
First settled by sea captains, sailors and pirates who found Beaufort a safe homeport, the county became home to fishermen and farmers who found fertile soil and rich fishing grounds welcoming. Large scale growth came in the late 1800s with the arrival of the railroads and wealthy tourists who found Morehead City and Atlantic Beach to be the perfect escape from summer heat in cities. Today the area economy still relies heavily on tourism and fishing.
Recreational boating, fishing, diving and eco-tours draw water enthusiasts to the Crystal Coast for a wide variety of sports and sporting events. Golf courses are popular attractions with year-round golf available at 4 local courses. An active arts community offers regular theatrical productions, musical presentations and art displays to the public.
Fine dining can be found on every corner with fresh seafood topping most menus and a gourmet selection of delectable dishes presented at a wide variety of unique restaurants.
Boutique shops and creative galleries abound for your shopping pleasure.
Take a moment and explore the following links to learn more about Carteret County and The Crystal Coast!
Carteret County Chamber of Commerce
Carteret County Official Website
North Carolina's Crystal Coast
Carteret County Economic Development
Carteret County Public School Systems
Carteret County News Times
Beaufort Historic Site
The History Place
North Carolina ECHO