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Details, Details

The Crystal Coast has a bunch of free and budget-friendly activities suited to all ages and dispositions.  Head to Fort Macon, North Carolina’s most visited State Park and home to a 19th Century Civil War Fort.  Families can tour the grounds and enjoy nature, the beach and history… for free. And for families looking to continue their budget-friendly history lesson, head into Beaufort, a coastal town that was founded in 1709. 

The Beaufort Historical Association offers a Double-Decker Bus tour that visits historic homes, the old jail, courthouse and apothecary while telling tales of pirates (Blackbeard’s treasure is rumored to be buried in the town) and Confederate spies.  Or depending on the time of your visit, families can opt to visit the Old Burying Grounds.  Tours (check website for schedule) are $8 for adults and $4 for children, but discounted group rates are also available.

Budget island-hopping is even possible with $10 round-trip ferry trips to both Cape Lookout and the Shackleford Banks.  Pristine, undeveloped beaches await families on Cape Lookout, where kids and grandparents can visit the historic lighthouse and Portsmouth Village.  Animal lovers will enjoy a trip out to Shackleford where genetically unique horses with lineage dating back 400 years roam freely.  Plus at both locations, families can even save money by packing a picnic lunch.

Other money-saving ideas in the Crystal Coast include the North Carolina Maritime Museum (suggested donation is $5) and the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores ($8).  But remember, with that beautiful beach house to call your home during this family reunion, all the budget-conscious family really needs at the Crystal Coast is a towel and some sunscreen.

Ready to rent? To find specific house rates through the area’s top realtors, visit the well illustrated websites of Cape Lookout Realty Company, Atlantic Beach Realty, and Emerald Isle Realty. The closest airport is in New Bern, North Carolina, about 30 minutes away by car. For lodging options for the smaller family and other savings tips, contact the Crystal Coast Tourist Office.

A final note: since it this is an Atlantic Oceanfront beach destination, summer is probably the best time for a visit, but also the most expensive. Consider June or September, just after Labor Day (when the oean is warmest), for your value reunion experience.