25 Best Things to Do in Emerald Isle NC With Kids
Planning a Family Vacation to Emerald Isle NC?
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Emerald Isle NC with kids, you’re in the right place. Located on North Carolina’s beautiful Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle is one of the state’s most family-friendly beach destinations. Families love its wide sandy beaches, laid-back atmosphere, outdoor adventures, and abundance of kid-friendly activities.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a summer vacation, or a road trip to the coast, there are plenty of ways to keep children entertained both on and off the beach. Here’s our guide to the best family-friendly things to do in Emerald Isle.
1. Spend a Day at the Beach
The beach is the main attraction, and for good reason.
Families can enjoy:
- Swimming
- Sandcastle building
- Shell hunting
- Boogie boarding
- Dolphin spotting
- Beachcombing
Many beach access points offer parking, showers, restroom facilities, and boardwalks, making it easy for families with young children.
2. Visit The Point
The Point is one of the most beautiful spots on Emerald Isle.
Located on the western end of the island, this area is famous for:
- Spectacular sunsets
- Shell collecting
- Wildlife viewing
- Fishing
- Photography
It’s one of our favorite places to visit during every trip.
3. Explore Emerald Isle Woods Park
Many visitors don’t realize Emerald Isle has a wonderful nature park tucked away from the beach crowds.
Emerald Isle Woods Park features:
- Walking trails
- Observation decks
- Sound-side access
- Fishing pier
- Kayak launch
- Bird watching opportunities
It’s a great way to experience another side of the island.
4. Walk Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier
Even if you don’t fish, the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier is worth visiting.
Kids love watching fishermen reel in their catches while families enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Photo Credit: VisitNC.com
Photo Credit: VisitNC.com
Located a short drive from Emerald Isle, the aquarium is one of the best attractions on the Crystal Coast.
Highlights include:
- Sea turtles
- Sharks
- Otters
- Touch tanks
- Interactive exhibits
It’s also one of the best rainy-day activities near Emerald Isle. Be sure to check out our post: NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores: The Ultimate Family Guide
6. Search for Dolphins
Dolphin sightings are common along Emerald Isle’s beaches.
Early mornings and evenings often provide the best opportunities to spot dolphins swimming just offshore.
7. Go Shell Hunting
Kids love searching for treasures along the shoreline.
Popular finds include:
- Scallop shells
- Sand dollars
- Whelks
- Sea glass
The Point is one of the best shelling locations on the island.
8. Ride Bikes Along the Island
Emerald Isle features miles of bike-friendly paths.
Biking is a fun way for families to explore shops, restaurants, parks, and beach accesses.
9. Visit Salty Pirate Water Park
Need a break from the beach?
Salty Pirate Water Park offers:
- Water slides
- Splash areas
- Family-friendly attractions
It’s especially popular with younger children.
10. Go Fishing
Families can fish from:
- Bogue Inlet Pier
- Sound-side locations
- Charter boats
- Kayaks
Fishing is one of Emerald Isle’s most popular activities.
11. Watch the Sunset at The Point
Few places in North Carolina offer sunsets as beautiful as those at The Point.
Bring a beach chair and enjoy the view.
12. Explore Hammocks Beach State Park
A short drive away, Hammocks Beach State Park offers:
- Ferry rides
- Kayaking
- Pristine beaches
- Nature trails
It’s one of the most unique day trips near Emerald Isle.
13. Take a Dolphin Cruise
Several local companies offer dolphin-watching cruises.
These boat tours are often a highlight for families visiting the Crystal Coast.
14. Visit Mac Daddy’s
Perfect for rainy days or evenings.
Mac Daddy’s features:
- Bowling
- Arcade games
- Mini golf
- Laser tag
- Dining
15. Play Mini Golf
Mini golf remains a family vacation favorite.
Several courses are located near Emerald Isle and neighboring beach communities.
16. Visit Water Boggan
This seasonal attraction offers water slides and family fun during summer months.
17. Go Kayaking
The calm waters of Bogue Sound are ideal for kayaking.
Families can rent kayaks and explore marshes, waterways, and wildlife habitats.
18. Try Paddleboarding
Older kids and teens often enjoy paddleboarding along the sound side of the island.
Rental companies make it easy to give it a try.
19. Visit Emerald Plantation
This shopping area includes:
- Local boutiques
- Ice cream
- Specialty shops
- Family-friendly restaurants
It’s a great place for an afternoon stroll.
20. Grab Ice Cream
No beach vacation is complete without ice cream.
Emerald Isle offers plenty of sweet treats, making evening ice cream runs a family tradition.
21. Explore the Crystal Coast
Emerald Isle makes a great base for exploring nearby communities including:
- Beaufort
- Morehead City
- Atlantic Beach
- Swansboro
Each offers additional family-friendly attractions.
22. Visit Fort Macon State Park
History-loving families will enjoy exploring this historic Civil War fort.
Kids can walk through tunnels, view cannons, and learn about North Carolina history.
23. Go Crabbing
Crabbing is a fun and inexpensive activity that kids often remember long after the vacation ends.
Several sound-side locations offer excellent opportunities.
24. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Depending on when you visit, Emerald Isle hosts:
- Concerts
- Holiday celebrations
- Fishing tournaments
- Seasonal festivals
Checking the local event calendar before your trip is always a good idea.
25. Simply Slow Down
One of the best things about Emerald Isle is the relaxed pace.
Unlike some larger beach destinations, Emerald Isle encourages families to slow down, spend time together, and enjoy simple moments like beach walks, sunsets, and ice cream after dinner.
Free Things to Do in Emerald Isle NC
Looking for budget-friendly activities?
Some of our favorite free things to do include:
- Visiting The Point
- Beach days
- Shell hunting
- Walking Bogue Inlet Pier
- Exploring Emerald Isle Woods Park
- Dolphin spotting
- Watching sunsets
- Bike rides
Rainy Day Activities Near Emerald Isle
Bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your vacation.
Family favorites include:
- North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
- Mac Daddy’s
- Shopping at Emerald Plantation
- Bowling
- Arcades
- Restaurants and coffee shops
Where to Eat in Emerald Isle With Kids
Family favorites include:
- Shark’s Den Sports Bar & Grill
- Surf’s Up Grill
- Fish Hut Grill
- Gaffer’s
- Rucker Johns
- Kathryn’s Bistro
Is Emerald Isle Worth Visiting With Kids?
Absolutely. Emerald Isle offers the perfect blend of beach fun, outdoor adventures, family attractions, and small-town charm. Whether your family enjoys nature, water activities, fishing, wildlife, or simply relaxing by the ocean, Emerald Isle delivers a memorable coastal vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Emerald Isle NC with kids?
Popular activities include visiting The Point, Emerald Isle Woods Park, Bogue Inlet Pier, the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, dolphin cruises, and beach days.
Is Emerald Isle family-friendly?
Yes. Emerald Isle is widely considered one of the most family-friendly beach destinations in North Carolina.
What is Emerald Isle known for?
Emerald Isle is known for its beautiful beaches, family atmosphere, fishing, shelling, boating, and Crystal Coast scenery.
Are there free things to do in Emerald Isle?
Yes. Families can enjoy beaches, sunsets, parks, shell hunting, fishing piers, and nature trails at little or no cost.
How many days should you spend in Emerald Isle?
Many families spend a long weekend or a full week enjoying everything Emerald Isle and the surrounding Crystal Coast have to offer.
Other Posts You Might Like:
Family Trip to Emerald Isle NC: The Ultimate Guide for Families Visiting the Crystal Coast