Sitting along the coast of North Carolina, Beaufort is an ideal place to get away from it all if your dream vacation entails plenty of sand and water with just a hint of intrigue and mystery. Not to be confused with its namesake in South Carolina, this oceanfront paradise is perfect for a long, relaxing weekend getaway or as a jumping point into the always popular Outer Banks. So pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun in coastal North Carolina.

Before diving into the multitude of water activities, an excellent way to get acquainted with the area is through a boat tour that takes you to the Cape Lookout National Seashore and other surrounding islands. The seashore is comprised of three underdeveloped islands, North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks, that may appear secluded and sparse upon first glance, but which offer an array of historical and natural features that are ripe for exploration. Catch a glimpse of dolphins, wild ponies, and numerous birds aboard one of the many vessels that offer eco-tours out of Beaufort for a rewarding and memorable experience as you begin your Beaufort vacation.

Perfect for beginners or experts, a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure is a great way to view the spectacular marine life that exists off the coast. Whether you have been scuba diving for years or are trying to learn the basics, there are readily available companies that offer lessons and show you the best locations to explore. However, remember to book your water excursion in advance since it is a popular activity for visitors to the area.

No trip to the coast is complete without climbing aboard a fishing charter to reel in a big one. If are traveling with children and want them to experience offshore fishing, an excellent option is fishing in the inland waters off the crystal coast. Inland fishing means calmer waters, preventing the sea sickness that deters many individuals from venturing out to sea, so anyone who has ever desired to fish can try for trout, black sea bass, flounder, croakers, and many other varieties without worrying about queasiness. Of course, there are charters available that extend further offshore, and these are perfect for those who want to catch Spanish mackeral, king mackeral, dolphin, or bottom fish in the summer.

If you want to explore at your own leisure, consider a self-guided kayak tour that allows you to search those areas that interest you the most. If you are not comfortable blazing your own path, there are also tours available that are led by professional guides. After all your offshore activity, throw a towel in the sand and relax to the sounds of the waves creeping up the sand. There is plenty of sun to catch, and the water is perfect for wading when you need to cool off your increasingly warm skin.

Beaufort's distinct history makes for some interesting, can't-miss attractions that you will likely never forget. Throughout the 18th century, many pirates and captains built houses along the coast, settling themselves in cities like Beaufort. The legendary figure Blackbeard was one such figure, whose home, Hammock House, can be toured by visitors looking to hear terrifying tales of murderous pirates. Adding to Blackbeard's lore, the ship that was destroyed in his final battle, Queen Anne's Revenge, was discovered in 1996, prompting even more visitors to come for the historical intrigue of the area.

When planning your vacation to Beaufort, North Carolina, you will need to find accommodations that allow you to enjoy all the beauty and wonder this area has to offer. For convenience and amenities that you usually surrender when traveling to a far off destination, consider a Beaufort vacation rental for your next trip. You can stay along the shores of the ocean and relax as the waves crash into the beach while you drink your morning coffee on the porch. This is your time to truly escape from it all, so make the most of it by staying in accommodations that make it easy to forget all the stress you have left behind.