Morehead City, Crystal Coast
Fall In Love with This Historic and Scenic Seaport
A trip to the Crystal Coast is not complete without experiencing the scenic seaport of Morehead City. The waterfront historic district is bustling with an exciting collection of marinas, fishing charters, tour boats and friendly faces. Promenades, rich history, restaurants, antiques, art galleries and unique shops are also to be found. Located just off Arendell Street, between 4th and 14th Streets, this area is a must-stop for any vacationer looking for a great meal, deal or adventure.
Morehead City celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2007, paying homage to its long history as an important shipping and fishing port in North Carolina’s history. The town was established by a group of investors who sought to take advantage of the deep channel of Beaufort Inlet and build a rail to Goldsboro. The town was laid out in city blocks, much of which still exists today.
Since then, Morehead City has become known as the “Summer Capital by the Sea” (minus a few years during and following the Civil War when the town was occupied by Federal troops) and has been a popular vacation destination and fishing port. In fact, during the 1880s and 1890s, several fishermen moved their houses from Shackleford Banks to Morehead City between 10th and 15th Streets, thereby becoming a crucial part of the fishing industry and economy of the town.
Today, Morehead City’s rich seafaring heritage is evident around every corner. The waterfront area offers many half-day, full-day and overnight charters, and people come from around the country to experience the top notch fishing. With the Gulf Stream only 30 miles offshore, anglers of all ages hook a wide variety of fish and bring them to the docks after 4 p.m. Watch as the fisherman bring in catches of grouper, tuna, snapper, mackerel, mahi-mahi and red drum and ice them down on the dock while overlooking beautiful Sugarloaf Island.
Evidence of the fruitful fishing industry can definitely be appreciated at the dinner table, and Morehead’s waterfront has long been famous for its fine restaurants, featuring all kinds of fresh seafood. Enjoy the catch of the day at one of the waterfront eateries or a classic southern meal in one of downtown’s historic buildings. The selection of fine eateries is diverse with everything from ethnic fare to hearty breakfasts.
After eating, take a stroll to explore the many shops that feature local art, home accessories, clothing, books, collectibles, antiques, stationery, furniture, jewelry and nautical gifts. Morehead City is a town of gifted artists, so be sure to visit the galleries. You just may find the perfect original painting, sculpture, pottery, art glass or handmade textile to grace your home or office with beauty long after your visit has ended.
Besides fishing, there are several other ways to explore the beautiful coastal areas in and around Morehead City. Go to the waterfront and book a day trip to Cape Lookout, a personal guided tour, or a ferry to Sugarloaf Island for an eco-tour excursion. If luck’s with you, you may spot wild ponies galloping on Shackleford Banks and dolphins leaping just off shore.
Learn more about the region’s history at The History Place, downtown’s beloved hands-on museum capturing the life, lore and rich heritage of the Morehead City community. Located at 1008 Arendell St., the museum is a unique collection of Carteret County artifacts. From Indian relics to genealogical information, it’s a history buff’s dream.
Whether you come during the quiet winter, colorful spring or the breezy, tropical summer, you’ll find Morehead City to be the perfect waterfront village for all seasons.
For more information, visit www.downtownmoreheadcity.com.
Morehead City Listings
| Brandywine Bay Country Club 177 Brandywine Blvd. Morehead City, NC Entrances on Hwy. 24 and Hwy. 70 252-247-2541 www.brandywinegolf.com   Buffalo Wild Wings 5136 Hwy. 70W. Morehead City, NC 252-727-9191 and 426 Arlington Blvd. Greenville, NC 252-758-9191 www.buffalowildwings.com  Carlone’s Pizza Subs & More We deliver to Morehead City, Beaufort, Atlantic Beach and Pine Knoll Shores 714 Shepard St. Morehead City, NC 252-240-3500 www.carlonespizza.com   Carolina Princess 6th Street on the Morehead City Waterfront Morehead City, NC 252-726-5479 800-682-3456 Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria Restaurant 4650 Arendell St Morehead City, NC 252-648-8300 www.circa-81.com  Concepts Jewelry Store 508C Evans Street (On the Morehead City Waterfront next to DeeGee’s Gifts and Books) Morehead City, NC 252-247-5244 www.conceptsjewelry.com Dairy Queen Atlantic Beach Morehead City Emerald Isle www.dq.com Helicopter Tours 5962 Hwy 70 Newport, NC 252-514-2242 www.cchelitours.com The Legend of Blackbeard 700 Front Street Beaufort, NC 252-772-9925 www.PortCityTourCompany.com |
Little Caesars Pizza 5208 Hwy 70 St Morehead City, NC 252-240-0026 Morehead City Marlins Morehead City, NC 252-269-9767 www.mhcmarlins.com Pizza Hut 3404 Arendell Morehead City 252-726-7117 www.pizzahut.com Port City Tours Port City Pirates & Ghosts Tour 168 S. 9th Street Morehead City 252-772-9925 www.PortCityTourCompany.com Quality Inn 3100 Arendell St. Morehead City 252-247-3434 • 800-422-5404 www.moreheadhotels.com Raps Grill & Bar 709 Arendell Street Morehead City, NC 252-240-1213 www.rapsgrillandbar.com Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Tour 610 Front Street Beaufort, NC 252-772-9925 www.PortCityTourCompany.com Sanitary Restaurant 501 Evans Street Morehead City Waterfront 252-247-3111 www.sanitaryfishmarket.com Snapperz Grill and Steam Bar 3710 Arendall Street Morehead City, NC 252-240-1313 www.snapperzsteambar.com Spa Nails 5167 Hwy 70 W, Ste 50 Morehead City, NC 252-726-0100 |