The ideas in this post were not sponsored by the tourism office. These activities were funded at my own expense. All thoughts are my own.

The Crystal Coast boosts far more than what I've recommended through the past attractions and dining experiences I've written about. I thought I'd share with you some of the exciting things I experienced alongside of my created itinerary. 

The Coast is full of bountiful opportunities to play in the water, to discover history, and yes, even to eat. 

Most of my time was spent in Beaufort. As I shared in previous posts, this little seaport town has lots of great history in its 300 years of life. There is much to do here besides the Ghost Tour and dining opportunities, so spend some time researching and planning your visit.

Other highlights your family might enjoy include:

• The Beaufort Historic Site Tour Offerings: Three tour experiences help your family to understand the deep and rich culture of this community. There are self-guided tours as well as paid tour experiences by knowledgeable guides. You may discover the original historic homes and stories of their inhabitants in the Historic Site. You may learn about the Old Burying Ground and all who are buried there (as I did, with a guided tour that was absolutely fantastic), and in high season, a double-decker bus tour is offered to those who want the full town's history. 

The Guided Old- Burying Ground Tour was $15.00. This was more than enough to learn about the history, Beaufort's people, and a bit about her current residents.

• Beaufort Water Tours. The riverfront is home to many boat tours and companies that are looking to take your family out on your next adventure. Experience Pirate Life aboard a pirate cruise. Head over to one of the islands in the Rachel's Preserve and hunt for sand dollars or shells. Rent a kayak. Take a sunset cruise with Lookout Cruises and find dolphins along the way while seeing some incredibly fantastic colors. In fact, a lot of times, the sunset cruise has locals on it that can give you recommendations and ideas of things you hadn't thought of! I really enjoyed a sunset cruise with Lookout Cruises and would highly recommend them. This family owned operation obviously has a love for their craft, loves their community, and loves the people that visits their town. 

The Lookout Cruise is currently on a winter break. I managed to catch their last sunset sail of the season!

• Beaufort Museums. Beaufort is home to the NC Maritime Museum and the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center. I'll be honest.. I didn't have time to get into these, but everyone kept talking about them. Guess I have to go back soon to experience! 

• Take a trip over to Fort Macon. To be perfectly honest, my history minor self forgot this fort existed. Yet, it is an absolute MUST. It's a free state park, the exhibits of Fort Macon and her grounds are free, and there are lots of hiking, biking, and beach trails nearby. It's a must-do and must-see for the Crystal Coast area. Be sure to bring your walking shoes, though! 

• Emerald Isle: Emerald Isle is just down from Atlantic Beach by traveling Rt. 58. It boosts lots of family fun with its plentiful beach access points, the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, and the pointe (a place to go shelling and playing in the waters). Along the way, you might discover some putt-putt, fishing, and picnic areas. The Bogie Inlet Fishing Pier is worth visiting for its views, the restaurant nearby, and of course, a cool fishing spot for those who enjoy! 

• Salter Path: As the oldest incorporated community on the Bogue Banks, Salter Path is home to fishermen and is an area created and known for seafood. Salter Pathers were fisherpeople and that was how their village and community was formed. Here, visit Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Q for their famous shrimp burger (its not something I actually enjoy, but people in this community LOVE them.. I prefer my shrimp steamed with old bay), bbq plates, or burgers. My burger did not disappoint. 

Each community also has parks, public beach access, picnic spots, and playgrounds to offer you and your family as well. Grab a blanket, grab some games, and head down to the river or the beach for some good fun with your family! Take a walk and get some fresh air and work off all the wonderful meals! See what wildlife and marine life you can spot along the way. If you look hard enough, you might be able to see dolphins playing in the distance. Or, perhaps they will surprise you and come right up along your dock or boat to say hi.