Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

The town of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, is a real, living beach town. By that I mean people live here year round, not just during tourist season. Because of that, businesses must maintain quality goods and services all year, even if hours are occasionally cut.

While off season schedules may vary (some restaurants may close Mondays or Tuesdays for example) summer choices for eating out are many. Seafood is a favorite when visitors come to the beach and nearly every restaurant in the area serves it up. One local favorite is The Channel Marker on the causeway. The menu is broad and their varied methods of preparation will give most anyone enough choices to find that just-right meal. If you want more than seafood, another great restaurant is Amos Mosquito's on East Fort Macon Rd. The décor is quite creative and the food is always excellent. There is also a nice bar area which many nights offers live music. Driving west down the island will take you to another great restaurant: Shooter's. American fare, great steaks, seafood, and when it's in season, a raw bar, combine to make this a great place for a date or for the whole family. Many visitors to the Crystal Coast like the Crab's Claw, the town's only ocean-front restaurant. Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere is not a cliché here, it is standard operating procedure. A great bar, varied menu, and a terrific view of the Atlantic Ocean make this a must-see.

If fishing is your thing, you have several options. Pier fishing is very popular in this area, and the Oceanana Family Resort and Fishing Pier is a favorite with both locals and visitors. Even if you are not a guest at the resort, you may access the pier via the public parking area. Note also that no fishing license is required if you fish off the pier! If you wish to surf fish, you will need to go to a fishing supply shop and purchase a license. The oldest and largest in the area is Freeman's Bait and Tackle on the causeway. If it relates to fishing, you can most likely find it here. Captain Stacy's offshore fishing is the best way to have a "reel" adventure. Partial day or full day trips are available and are the best value in the area.

Need some t-shirts, beach gear, trunks, swimsuits, or anything beach related? Then try Bert's Surf Shop. Bert's has been around for many years and always has quality, name-brand merchandise, not the cheap junk offered in many beach towns. Another favorite with locals is the AB Surf Shop. Recently remodeled, the AB has what you need to surf, relax, work on your tan, or just look good around town in their sportswear.

Want something interesting, educational, fun, and FREE? Then follow Fort Macon Rd to its end at-you guessed it-Fort Macon. This is a revolutionary era fort, built on one of the most unique in-ground designs I've seen. Visit the barracks, food stores, battlements, and look back at a few hundred years of American History. Check out the book store for a great collection of books, maps, souvenirs, and pictures. Check the schedule for entertaining demonstrations and reenactments!

For a quick rundown of area attractions and many of their web addresses, you can also visit www.abshortlist.com for info on a few local favorites. Come visit!