Summer Beach Trip

One of the things I look forward to most during the summer is a trip to the beach. I have been to quite a few beaches on the east coast, and there are so many to choose from. My favorite by far is Emerald Isle, North Carolina. Located about 30 miles southeast of Jacksonville, NC it is a fantastic beach to go to, whether you go for the day, or you rent a property for the week. Shorewood Real Estate, and Emerald Isle realty along with a few others are good real estate companies to go through if you are looking for a rental property. Emerald Isle is more of a quiet beach. There are a few amusement places for the kids with Miniature Golf and games, but there isn't a boardwalk with rides and things like that. It is not as commercialized as say Nags Head, NC or Ocean City, MD, but it is a beautiful beach with beautiful waters. There are fun things to do in or around Emerald Isle, including The North Carolina Aquarium, which is located in Pine Knoll Shores, approximately 8 miles from Emerald Isle. Another great trip is to Cape Lookout National Seashore. It is a group of barrier islands located 3 miles offshore, and offers great shelling. You can take a ferry from Beaufort, or Morehead City to the islands then a beach shuttle to the point which is where you will find the best shelling. If at all possible, take the first ferry of the morning, and then the first beach shuttle to the point for the best shelling opportunity. It is an undeveloped beach area, so there are things to keep in mind before you go. On the point there isn't any shade or restroom facilities. There is a visitors center at the lighthouse with restrooms, but not at the point. Also keep in mind that whatever you take into the park, you take out of the park, including trash. For more information on the beautiful park, you can visit their web site at nps.gov/calo It is a fun day trip to take. So with enough things to do to keep busy, but not so much it is overwhelming, Emerald Isle is a great place to go as a family for a relaxing beach vacation.