It is March 7th, and the Season of Renewal is upon us here in Emerald Isle. Daylight hours are getting longer, flowers are blooming, and warmer weather is returning. I couldn’t be more excited about spending more time outside and on the beach with the ocean breeze blowing through my hair, sand between my toes, and the sun warming my face. So, what’s it like in Emerald Isle during March? Read on to find out.
Number One. Oceanfront rental loaded with amenities are inexpensive. Rental rates are at their lowest right now, and a very nice oceanfront home with a private pool, a hot tub, and BBQ grill that might be out of reach during high season may very well fit the budget this time of year. The beaches are spectacular this time of year, and while the ocean water may be too cold for bathing, the shelling is spectacular. The other day, I filled my pockets with some 25 olive shells. With Emerald Isle’s south-facing beaches, chances are good that you will be comfortably warm, too. An oceanfront rental lets you look out at the ocean daily. Look for a property in the 7000s blocks, and you will be very pleased.
Number Two. Local attractions and activities are less crowded. Get up close with marine life at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores! At the aquarium, there is something for all ages. Discover different ecosystems with exhibits highlighting the island’s natural marine habitats. You and your family can also pet a stingray at a touch-tank, see the otters in action in their river exhibit, and get a closer look at sea turtles. Adjacent to the aquarium, check out the 1.3-mile out-and-back trail that winds along a high dune ridge through a maritime forest, bordered by a large salt marsh area and the Bogue Sound. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 23 min to complete. The trail may have a few wet spots during March, but you won’t have to worry about mosquitoes! This trail is great for birding, hiking, and running, and you’re unlikely to encounter many other people while exploring, either. Nor any dogs as they aren't allowed on this trail. If your family has some history enthusiasts, schedule a visit to Fort Macon State Park! Located on the eastern end of Bogue Banks in Atlantic Beach, this historic landmark includes a tour of a reconstructed Civil War fort. View battle reenactments and small arms demonstrations on March 6th, 13th, and 20th. Check the park’s website for scheduled beach scavenger hunts and bird hikes.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to Bogue Inlet Pier, a local hotspot that is loved by locals and visitors alike. It reopens on March 15th. It’s a prime location for fishing, birdwatching, and people-watching.. The pier provides breathtaking views of the shoreline you can’t find anywhere else. Wake up early and catch the sun rising over the island, or stay until sunset and witness Emerald Isle light up as the night sets in. The pier house conveniently sells snacks, drinks, and beach necessities.
Number Three. The weather is perfect for bike riding. A bike ride through the island is one of the best ways to admire the sights! Cruise down Ocean Drive to feel the fresh sea breeze while admiring the endless views of the ocean. Be sure to cruise down Emerald Path! This 11-mile, multi-purpose trail begins in Indian Beach and leads you to The Point. Traveling this route will take you through various breathtaking landscapes, including beautiful wooded areas. It will help you discover new shops and restaurants in downtown's heart.
Number Four. Shops and Restaurants are less crowded, too. . One of the rewards of a vacation is taking a break from your normal routine and indulging in local delicacies. In March, Check out Flip Flops Donuts for breakfast. Here you will find hand made, made fresh donuts, kronuts, bagels, and fresh coffee. Open Saturday and Sunday from 8 AM to noon in early March, the shop expands to four days, Thursdays-Sundays beginning March 14. Kathryn’s Martini Bar and Grill is a top spot for fine dining. Fish Hut Grill also is a lunch and dining experience that reopens mid-March.
Number Five. Visit one of Emerald Isle’s neighboring communities. Head over to New Bern and learn about Tryon Palace. This grand structure was the first permanent capital of North Carolina and served as the home for Royal Governor Tryon and his family. The palace is also home to one of the most beautiful gardens in North Carolina, and the spring season brings blooming daffodils, tulips, and many other seasonal flowers. Take a self-guided tour on sixteen acres while a fresh, seasonal breeze rustles the lush, green shrubs and carries the sweet scents of the garden’s flowers. For something entirely different, visit Harkers Island, home to the Cape Lookout National Seashore and Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center. The museum features wonderful exhibits highlighting the region’s distinctive boat-building and decoy crafting. Here, you will find carvings, waterfowl art, music, storytelling, boat building, and other artifacts that tell the story of the unique Down East area.
BONUS: Number Seven. Attend the annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival at the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center on March 16th. Fun for all ages, the St. Patrick’s Day Festival features live music, amusement rides, 75 arts and crafts vendors,funnel cakes, hamburgers, BBQ, a beer tent, live entertainment and more. On Friday, the night before the festival, it will be armband night for the amusement rides. Pay one price for the armband and enjoy unlimited turns on the amusement rides from 3-8pm. On Saturday, the Festival will run from 9am – 6pm.
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