Bogue Banks runs east to west with coastlines facing the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It meets Shackleford Banks on the eastern side and just past there, is Cape Lookout and the Cape Lookout National Seashore. To the northwest lies Croatan National Forest and Croatan Game Land.
During the later part of the 19th century, the whaling industry began to decline, but fishing was still good along Bogue Banks. Settlers moved west towards the middle and western portion of the island. Atlantic Beach didn't become established until 1887. The bridge leading to the town wasn't built until the late 1920s.
Atlantic Beach shopping consists of locally owned shops selling surfboards, wine, beachwear, spices, antiques, and handmade goods. There are some boutiques offering luxury brands and products.
Dining choices in the village range from quaint cafes to finer seafood restaurants. Most are locally owned. Choose from many different cuisines including Italian, Caribbean, and Mexican.
Hotel options in Atlantic Beach are limited because the community is small. Rest assured, there are many choices along Bogue Banks that are within a short drive from the village. Options include local inns, resorts, and chain hotels.
When to Visit Atlantic Beach, NC
For the biggest savings on hotel rates, the winter months are the right time. While you'll save a bundle on hotel rooms, many local attractions are closed for the winter or operate on limited hours. Temperatures in the winter months from December to February top out near 60 degrees most of the time. Lows rest right around 40 degrees.
The citizens of the Bogue Banks know how to celebrate holidays with style. Every year in December, Atlantic Beach hosts the “Light Up the Night” parade, where participants decorate their boats, cars, trucks, and floats to brighten the night. In Emerald Isle, an Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair lets you purchase handmade crafts and artwork from local artisans.
Spring time is a wonderful time to visit the area because temperatures are warmer and tourist numbers haven't increased yet. Hotel rates will be lower and attractions open for the season. From March to May is a sweet spot for visiting Atlantic Beach. Temperatures start in the mid 60s in March and warm to 80 degrees in May. Overnight temperatures start near 40 degrees and warm to near 60 by May. The spring months aren't terribly rainy, but you can expect some spring showers.
Throughout the spring, enjoy a catered meal and foreign films at the International Film Series. Each year, films from different countries are shown at varying times. In May, the Atlantic Beach Music Festival boasts several local bands playing at the boardwalk. Enjoy warm sea breezes and live music under the bright blue sky.
Summer in Atlantic Beach is peak tourist season with locals and vacationers flocking to area beaches. Temperatures are perfect for beachside activities with highs hovering around 90 degrees and lows near 70 degrees. Summer precipitation comes mostly in thunderstorms which don't occur too often.
Atlantic Beach hosts another music festival in June when the Crystal Coast Music Festival occurs. It's a one-day event featuring several bands playing live on the shoreline. Take the kids for a raucous adventure at The Beaufort Pirate Invasion in August. They can have breakfast with Blackbeard and watch the pirates in swashbuckling performances.
If you come to Atlantic Beach in the fall, you'll enjoy great weather and lower hotel rates. Tourist shops and attractions stay open until late fall and won't be crowded. Temperatures start in the mid 80s in September and fall to the high 60s by November. Low temperatures fall from the mid 60s to the mid 40s through the fall months.
In October, the North Carolina Seafood Festival happens in Morehead City. The weekend includes a sailing regatta, fishing tournaments, a road race, and a boat show. There's a large carnival, tons of vendor booths, and seafood galore. This long-standing event is over 30 years old and counting!
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Atlantic Beach, NC:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Atlantic Beach, NC. Analyze these illustrations to determine the best seasons to book a room in Atlantic Beach for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Atlantic Beach, NC
4 Star Average Prices: $186.54
For top-of-the-line lodging with ocean views, consider the Bask Hotel at Big Rock Landing, an Ascend Collection Member in Morehead City. Your spacious, open room is just across the bay from Atlantic Beach and close to Morehead City Port. Room options range from double bed and single king studios to apartment-like suites. The largest suite boasts three queen beds, a separate living area, and a full kitchen. The kids can watch cartoons in the living room while you enjoy a movie in the bedroom.
Just down the beach lies The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores, where you'll find luxury beachside rooms with stunning views. You're close to the Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area and the North Carolina Aquarium. Each room has a private balcony overlooking the beach or cityscape. Watch a movie on the flat screen while posting beach pictures via the free Wi-Fi. Sip on a cocktail from the poolside bar while the kids splash nearby. The hotel provides beach loungers, towels, and umbrellas to make your days more comfortable.
Affordable Hotels in Atlantic Beach, NC
3 Star Average Prices: $143.60
For simple rooms at a great price, check out Econo Lodge Crystal Coast in Morehead City. You're just across Bogue Bay from Atlantic Beach and close to Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail. Bold pops of color blend flawlessly with the modern decor in rooms that include a fridge and microwave. Stay entertained with cable channels and free Wi-Fi. The multilingual staff will gladly help you with tickets for attractions or tours of the area.
At Days Inn in Havelock, you'll be a stone's throw from Atlantic Beach, the Lake Road Winery, and the Sea Gate Marina. Each room boasts a microwave and fridge to help cut food expenses. Stay connected via the free Wi-Fi while keeping up with the news on cable programming. Family travel is easy with pet friendly rooms, an outdoor pool, and free breakfast.