The town known as the “Friendly City by the Sea” is located over the bridge just 5 miles west of Emerald Isle on Highway 24 and sits along the Water Oak River and Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors and residents, alike, enjoy picturesque shopping, dining, beaches, kayaking, and water views as far as the eye can see. Many tourists flock to the area because of its historic downtown district and antique shops.
Settlers first came to Swansboro around 1730, founding a community on the site of an Algonkian Indian village at the mouth of the White Oak River. The colonial port town of Swannsborough was incorporated in 1783 – named in honor of Samuel Swann, who had been speaker of the North Carolina House of Commons. The community’s early prosperity was based on shipbuilding, and its most famous shipbuilder was Captain Otway Burns. Burns, whose exploits as commander of the privateer vessel Snapdragon brought early attention to Swansboro, was also the builder of the Prometheus, the first steamboat constructed in North Carolina.
Although its shipbuilding industry declined, Swansboro found new prosperity in lumber and naval stores, and, in the mid-Twentieth Century, in the commercial fishing industry. Beginning with World War II, Swansboro, like most of Onslow County, began experiencing an economic boost from the nearby establishment of Camp Lejeune, one of the U.S. Marine Corps’ largest bases, and from the growth of coastal tourism – trends that continue today.
With its remarkable heritage, scenic views, great hospitality, and casual lifestyle, Swansboro has retained the quiet charm and unique character of a picturesque colonial port – making it an outstanding community for anyone who wants to join the “Friendly City” tradition to call “home”.
The town also hosts several annual festivals and events, offering family fun and entertainment for locals and visitors. Each calendar year ends with Swansboro by Candlelight, the area’s kickoff to the holiday season where downtown streets are decorated in whimsical scenes and storefronts adorned with beautiful ribbons and bows.
Best Things to Do in Swansboro
1. Go boating down the White Oak River or just cruise up and down the Intercoastal Waterway.
2. Venture to Hammocks Beach State Park. Spend the day fishing, swimming and shelling. And pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the covered shelters that are available in the center of the island.
3. Paddle your way along the trails that lead to Bear Island or the unspoiled maritime forest at Huggins Island.
4. Shop for antiques or keepsakes from your vacation on the downtown waterfront at the Swansboro Antique Center and Pier 58 Outlet.
5. Take a stroll down the boardwalk at Bicentennial Park and take in the views of the tall shrimp boats that mark the horizon.
6. Plan a group deep sea fishing trip with Nancy Lee Fishing Charters and Captain Lee Manning.
7. Enjoy a unique dining experience at one of the delicious waterfront restaurants such as Saltwater Grill, Icehouse Waterfront Restaurant and Yanna's.
Top Events in Swansboro
1. Swansboro Arts by The Sea Festival
2. Swansboro Mullet Festival
3. King Mackerel Tournament
4. Christmas Flotilla
5. Swansboro by Candlelight
Living as I do in Emerald Isle, it is nice to have the varied history, restaurants and activities of Swansboro so close to home. To learn more about Emerald Isle, Swansboro and other communities that make up North Carolina's Crystal Coast, visit my website, www.EIHomesforSale.com for a free Guide to Living Where Yo Vacation. Or, text your email address to: 919-308-2292. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel, Emerald Isle Vacation Home Specialist!
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