Explore the best dining and shopping in Crystal Coast—from local boutiques and artisan markets to family-friendly restaurants serving the freshest ingredients
The Crystal Coast offers a diverse shopping scene that blends coastal charm with unique, locally owned boutiques and markets. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures, stylish beachwear or handcrafted goods, the Crystal Coast has something for everyone. After a full day of shopping, enjoy any of Crystal Coast’s numerous waterfront dining options, including casual eateries, upscale restaurants, cozy cafes and plenty of outdoor seating for your family.
Discover more incredible Things to Do in Crystal Coast, NC, and start planning your next group trip today!
Local Boutiques and Specialty Shops
From the heart of Beaufort to the shores of Emerald Isle, you’ll find an eclectic mix of boutiques offering everything from coastal-inspired fashion to handmade jewelry and home décor. Stroll through charming streets lined with shops, and you’ll uncover treasures that reflect the local culture and natural beauty of the coast. Don’t miss the opportunity to find locally crafted art, stylish beachwear and timeless coastal gifts. Be sure to visit the numerous bookstores, art shops and olive oil companies for memorable souvenirs or gifts.
The Crystal Coast draws surfers from all over to test their skills in the Atlantic. Stop into Bert’s Surf Shop, a local staple providing gear, surfboards, clothing, and accessories for decades. Beaufort Pet Provisions has everything your four-legged family members need, including healthy treats and quality pet products. Peruse new and vintage toys, comics and pop culture souvenirs at Extreme Toy Collectibles in Morehead City and drink while you shop and reunion plan at Gaffer’s Sip & Shop in Emerald Isle, featuring packaged gourmet treats, mixers, wine by the bottle and more surrounding the café and bar. Anglers will enjoy shopping at Cape Lookout Fly Shop, which has served Atlantic Beach and the Crystal Coast since 1996. They provide affordable and quality tackle and charter services for fly fishing excursions.
Farmers Markets & Artisan Goods in Beaufort
Local markets are a highlight of the Crystal Coast’s shopping experience. The Olde Beaufort Farmers Market, which operates seasonally from April to December, showcases fresh produce, homemade treats, and artisan goods from local vendors. In addition, other weekly markets in the area offer fresh, locally sourced products, handmade crafts, and unique treasures from regional artisans. These markets are perfect for picking up locally made crafts, jewelry, and hand-poured candles that bring the coastal charm to your home.
Local artisan shops in Beaufort, like The Old Beaufort Shop and Sea Bags, offer a glimpse into the artistic culture of the Crystal Coast with handcrafted goods and unique wares not found anywhere else. The Beaufort Olive Oil Company sells fresh, premium olive oils, vinegars and other provisions with samples available. Perk up with a cup of Costa Rican or Columbian coffee in the heart of Beaufort at Cru Wine Bar & The Wine Store. The local hangout serves freshly baked pastries, pizzas, sandwiches, wine, beer, and cocktails and hosts live music every weekend.
Coastal Treasures and Antiques
For those who love hunting for rare finds, the Crystal Coast is home to a variety of antique shops and coastal treasures. Browse through stores that offer vintage collectibles, nautical antiques and coastal-inspired décor. These shops provide a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of the coast’s history and character.
Peruse antique furniture and housewares at Taylors Creek Antiques & Collectibles in Beaufort and repurposed and hand-painted furniture at The Red Elephant in Cedar Point or Refreshed Furnishings in Morehead City. Visit Emerald Isle Books & Toys, which has been open since 1989, and browse unique reads, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, gifts, toys, and more.
Shopping in Crystal Coast
Waterfront Shopping & Family Dining
Enjoy shopping in the breezy, picturesque atmosphere along the coast. Many boutiques are nestled alongside waterfront dining spots, so you can shop for unique finds and relax with fresh seafood and drinks overlooking the water afterward. This combination of shopping and dining offers the perfect coastal experience for multigenerational groups. Watch the surfers catch waves over detectable steak and fresh seafood at the Bogue Inlet Pier’s bar and grill, or watch kiteboarders in Atlantic Beach for a casual dining experience on the water.
Shops along the Beaufort waterfront provide breathtaking coastal scenery while you pop in and out of boutiques and specialty stores. Beaufort Home Shoppe is the place for one-of-a-kind furnishings, pottery, and jewelry. At the same time, Beaufort Linen Co. features a thoughtful collection of exceptional linens for any home and style, sure to add southern charm to your home decor.
When it’s time to eat, you’ll be delighted by the wide variety of culinary options at the Crystal Coast. You don’t have to cast your net far to find fresh seafood prepared any way you like it.
Local eateries such as Southern Salt in Morehead City, Caribsea in Emerald Isle, and Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar in Atlantic Beach offer their own takes on our favorite food group. For dock-to-dish delights made with fresh seasonal ingredients, including hand-crafted sushi, don’t miss Amos Mosquito’s in Atlantic Beach. And at Black Sheep in Beaufort, you’ll enjoy an elevated take on the most classic of dishes: pizza.
The Island Grill in Atlantic Beach offers groups casual fine dining experiences featuring delicious menu items such as filet mignon, fresh catches, duck, pork and loads of seafood options. At Rucker Johns in Emerald Isle, explore the menu filled with savory options, including fresh salads, backyard classics, shareable appetizers, fresh seafood, flavorful ribs, chops and tender steaks, served in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Head to Beaufort and experience Moonrakers, a coastal restaurant with rooftop dining and delicious seafood and local fare. Offering lunch, dinner and kids’ menus, your group is sure to find something tasty.
Plan your next family adventure and find all the coastal treasures waiting for your group. Start here: Things to Do in Crystal Coast, NC.
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