The coastal landscape of Atlantic Beach and the eastern tip of Bogue Banks offers a wonderful mix of maritime history, scenic natural trails, and classic beachside nostalgia. The town’s distinctive south-facing shoreline creates a remarkable outdoor playground. Visitors can enjoy calm sound-side marshes just a short walk from the open Atlantic surf.
At the historical heart of the area sits Fort Macon State Park — a 424-acre park anchored by a fully restored, five-sided 19th-century brick fortification guarding Beaufort Inlet. Beyond the historic fort walls, the park preserves a rugged coastal ecosystem where outdoor enthusiasts can spend hours trekking the trails of Fort Macon State Park. The trails wind through low-lying maritime forests, trace quiet salt marshes, and open onto wide, undisturbed sandy beaches.
Beyond the state park, Atlantic Beach offers several other classic coastal experiences. The iconic Oceanana Pier has served as a beloved staple of the waterfront since 1959. Today, it offers panoramic coastal views just a short distance from The Circle — the historic heart of the town’s resort beach scene. Just off the main thoroughfare, the Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail offers a quieter retreat from the busy beachfront. Its scenic boardwalk winds through a beautifully preserved maritime forest ecosystem. Click on any of the attractions below to explore the spots we’ve personally visited around Atlantic Beach.
