Winter on the Crystal Coast is a nature lover's paradise.
The off-season and winter months are an underrated time of year on the Crystal Coast. This season has so much unique coastal beauty that is best enjoyed right now. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts love the off-season months on the Crystal Coast—and for very good reason.
Amazing sunrises and sunsets: Humidity and haze don't dull the effects of the brilliant winter sunrises and sunsets here on the Crystal Coast of NC. The coastal color palette is fabulous and you have the added benefits of sound, waterfront and ocean views.
Hiking and exploring local trails: Local trails and hiking paths are the perfect activity for this time of year in Eastern North Carolina. It's not too hot and not too cold, but just the right temperature for exploring the road less traveled. Explore the great outdoors while getting up-close-and-personal with nature. From the Neusiok Trail in the Croatan National Forest to the Emerald Isle Woods to the McClean-Spell Park to the Cedar Island Wildlife Refuge and everything in between, you have plenty of options.
Birdwatching: In addition to the usual waterfowl and birdwatching opportunities that abound here, Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to many birds during the winter months including ducks and waterbirds. The refuge's main feature is an extensive, relatively undisturbed coastal marsh and with that comes concentrations of diving ducks (lesser scaups, redheads, canvasbacks, buffleheads), sea ducks, American black ducks, black rails, wading birds, and shorebirds. Shorebird and osprey nesting occurs on beaches, islands and points. It's well worth the visit, especially this time of year. Here's what you need to know to plan your visit the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. Don't forget your binoculars and your camera!
Strolling the beach: Strolling the sand isn't just for the summer season. In fact, average winter temperatures in Emerald Isle are quite mild and temperate with 50 to 60 degrees during the off-season months. It's not too cold to walk the shoreline or feel the sand on your feet. Breathe in the salt air, feel the sun on your face, and just enjoy the sights as your walk your way along the Atlantic coast.
Biking: Get around town or pedal the beach where you can take in breathtaking views while getting your heart pumping. The weather is ideal and there are plenty of places to go on your two-wheeled adventures. Cycle along the 12 mile Emerald Isle BikeWay that extends the length of town from the Point to the eastern town limits.
Outdoor attractions: Fort Macon State Park, Cape Lookout, Croatan National Forest, Cedar Island Wildlife Refuge and Hammocks Beach State Park are a few of the wonderful places to visit any time of year, but arguably the best time is right now! Less crowds, less heat and humidity, and less distraction. You get to see and do everything and this results in a better overall experience for you.
Off-season is the perfect time to hunt for seashells, sea glass and shark teeth.
February and the rest of the winter months on the Crystal Coast present the ideal opportunity to take advantage of nature's treasure chest. Hunt for your own coastal treasure this time of year and see what amazing finds await you. Here are a few of the many reasons this is the right time to have a shelling adventure. The other day I found a helmet shell the size of a football!
Less crowds, more chances for good finds: You don't have to beat the competition this time of year on the beach as there are plenty of coastal treasures to go around for those who seek it. Get out there often and keep a close eye on what the ocean washes up and don't forget to dig deep for the best finds.
Winter storms can churn up the sand and wash up some amazing finds: Don't underestimate the benefits of shelling after a storm. Rare finds can wash up after choppy waters and swirling winds displace hidden but totally worthwhile treasures just waiting to be found.
Learn more about the local seashells: Have a family treasure hunt for some of the most popular seashells and other coastal treasures found on our Crystal Coast beaches.
When you get ready to "Come On Down!" go to my website, www.EIHomesforSale.com for my free Guide to Living in Emerald Isle or text your email address to 919-308-2292. And, for more information about everything Emerald Isle, subscribe to my YouTube channel, Emerald Isle Vacation Home Specialist.
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