Welcome to Beaufort, North Carolina! 

Beaufort is the Carteret county seat. The Carteret county area of the southern Outer Banks has been dubbed "the Crystal Coast" of North Carolina. 
Founded in 1709, Beaufort is a historic seaport that is a favorite stop along today's Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.   Beaufort's waterfront  on the Bogue sound is protected by the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  Located between Turner's Creek and Taylor Creek, the area is recognized as an abundant habitat and valuable wintering area for migrating waterfowl. Carrot Island,  visible from the downtown waterfront, and other small islands are also home to the famous Shackleford Wild Horses.  And the nearby Cape Lookout lighthouse is the most famous of the six historic lighthouses stationed along the Outer Banks.

This coastal area is a favorite destination for all water sports including:  scuba diving, sailing and kayaking.  Black Beard's Queen Anne's Revenge lies just 3 miles off shore about 20' under.  Beaufort's Maritime Museum and the NC Aquarium at nearby Pine Knolls Shores have activities throughout the year bringing together new and old treasures from both the land and sea.

Since the 1960's, the Historic Beaufort Association has helped preserve the area's charm and older structures in the historic district. 2009 marks Beaufort-by-the-Sea's 300th Anniversary.  In 2006, the entire town extended southern hospitality to the Americas' Sail Tall Ships and a pirate encampment as part of their 4th of July celebrations.  Several annual festivals bring out the best in music, seafood, wooden boats, and pirates!

Visit for more information:
 NC Beaches - The Crystal Coast 
Carteret County Chamber of Commerce