Beaches & Parks near Beaufort, NC

This charming coastal town of Beaufort, North Carolina borders beautiful beaches and nature preserves ideal for relaxing, exploring and getting close to wildlife. Staying at Compass Hotel Beaufort puts you right on the doorstep of some of the most beloved parks and beaches on the Crystal Coast.

Cape Lookout National Seashore – 3 Miles by Ferry from Beaufort

Just three miles offshore from Beaufort, Cape Lookout National Seashore stretches for 56 miles of undeveloped barrier islands. Accessible only by boat or ferry, this natural paradise is home to the famous black-and-white diamond lighthouse, pristine beaches perfect for shelling, and the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. For visitors to Compass Hotel Beaufort, Cape Lookout is a must-see day trip that combines adventure, history, and iconic coastal scenery.

Rachel Carson Reserve - Across Taylor’s Creek from Downtown

Right across the water from downtown Beaufort lies the Rachel Carson Reserve, a protected estuarine sanctuary where kayakers and paddleboarders can explore tidal flats and salt marshes. Keep your eyes open for dolphins, shorebirds, and the island’s own wild horses grazing along the shoreline.

Fort Macon State Park – 10 Miles from Downtown Beaufort

Located about 10 miles from Beaufort near Atlantic Beach, Fort Macon State Park blends history and recreation. Visitors can tour a fully restored Civil War fort, hike scenic trails, or relax on a wide beach with lifeguard service in summer months. It’s one of North Carolina’s most visited state parks and a favorite Crystal Coast day trip.

NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Trails – 25 Minutes from Beaufort

Roughly 25 minutes from Beaufort, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a family-friendly attraction with an added bonus: a nature trail system winding through maritime forest and soundside habitats. It’s an ideal stop for combining wildlife education with an easy outdoor adventure.

Radio Island Beach – 5 Minutes from Downtown Beaufort

For a quick beach escape close to town, this tucked-away shoreline offers calm waters, soft sand, and a laid-back local vibe that’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun. With easy access and fewer crowds than the bigger beaches, Radio Island is a convenient spot to slip into island time.

Atlantic Beach – 10 Miles from Beaufort

If you are looking for a lively stretch of sand with plenty of energy, Atlantic Beach is just 10 miles from Beaufort on Bogue Banks. Here, wide beaches, rolling surf, and a classic boardwalk atmosphere make it a favorite for families and groups. Here, you’ll find everything from beach rentals and snack shacks to fishing piers and oceanfront fun.

Emerald Isle Beach – 25 Miles from Beaufort

With a reputation for being one of North Carolina’s “family beach” towns, the beaches of Emerald Isle feature gentle surf, safe swimming areas and plenty of room to spread out. Visitors love seeing the natural beauty of the Emerald Path — a scenic 12-mile greenway perfect for biking or walking between beach stops.

Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge – 30 Miles from Beaufort

For those craving a deeper dive into coastal Carolina’s untamed beauty, Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge delivers the goods. Spread across 14,000 acres of marsh and woodland, this hidden gem is a bird-lover’s dream. Peaceful, wild, and wonderfully off the grid, it’s a coastal adventure worth a detour.

Plan Your Outdoor Escape

From Cape Lookout’s windswept beauty to the trails of Pine Knoll Shores, Beaufort is the gateway to some of North Carolina’s best natural attractions. Guests of Compass Hotel Beaufort can spend the morning exploring wild beaches, the afternoon shopping and dining downtown, and the evening relaxing poolside with coastal views — all in a single getaway.

Explore More