Get Ready for Summer at the Crystal Coast Boat Show on the Morehead City Waterfront

As the number of days leading up to summer gets shorter, the list of things to do while vacationing in Emerald Isle gets longer! We know, we know. Beach time is a top priority. It's easy to fill the days with sun, sand, and surf. If you want to spend all of your days staying on the beach, we won't mind one bit. We just like to give you plenty of options while you're here.

As mentioned in our last blog, there are several waterfront towns that are worth visiting if you have the time. Morehead City is one of those towns. It's conveniently located off of Bogue Banks by taking the Atlantic Beach Bridge right into Morehead City. It's perfect to add as a day trip any time of year with opportunities to shop and dine in some fabulous establishments along the waterfront. Take a stroll down Charter Boat Row and enjoy firsthand views of topnotch fishing boats and charter vessels.

Speaking of boats, this weekend is a great opportunity to see in-water and on-shore boats—and lots of 'em. The Crystal Coast Boat Show runs Saturday, May 19 (10a.m. - 5p.m.) through Sunday May 20 (11a.m. - 4p.m.) along the Morehead City Waterfront and attracts people from all over. Gear up for the summer season by visiting the various vendors on-hand showcasing everything from marine products and services, outdoor gear, and fishing tackle to fishing clubs, resource conservation groups, and so much more. 

This is another free (we love free!) event open to the public offering a variety of activities for the entire family.

Additional Highlights of The Crystal Coast Boat Show Include:

• ARTrageous public art event right on the waterfront hosted by the Art Council of Carteret County.
• Annual Antique Auto Show sponsored by the Antique Automobile Club of America happens at Katherine Davis Park in Morehead City.
• Sunset Party in the Park Concert by the Steady Eddies at Jaycee Park in Morehead City.
• Band concerts.
• Pirate Treasure Hunt for the kids (12 and under). Kids cruise on a ferry boat to Sugarloaf Island to hunt for treasure with real pirates. Argh!
• Food and beverage vendors (just in case you get hungry or thirsty).

For a full listing of activities, days, and times, please check out the schedule of events.

With all the buzz about boats, fishing, and being out on the water it may not be enough to just vacation here. Perhaps you should consider a permanent relocation at the beach? Then you could partake in the coastal scenery and activity year-round. We highly recommend it!

Tell us about your favorite things to do in the water, on the water, or near the water. We love your input, so please feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.