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Morehead City, NC is a beautiful coastal town with plenty to do year-round. However, during the off-season, there are even more activities to explore and enjoy! While restaurants featuring eastern NC seafood might take the spotlight, there’s plenty else to see and do. From fishing charters to up-and-coming breweries, there’s plenty to discover here. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular off-season activities in this charming coastal town.

  1. Take a hike or bike ride through the Croatan National Forest This beautiful national forest is located just a short drive away and offers miles of trails for hikers and bikers to explore. Some popular trails in the Croatan National Forest include the Neusiok Trail, which offers 20 miles of challenging terrain, and the Cedar Point Trail, which leads to the beautiful Cedar Point Tideland Trail and offers views of the coast. While the spring and summer months offer blooms, the fall land winter months of the off-season mean fewer hikers and more wildlife on the trails. Keep an eye out for critters!
  2. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Adjacent to Morehead City, NC, this popular attraction is open year-round and offers a variety of exhibits and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. Some highlights at the North Carolina Aquarium include The Living Shipwreck exhibit, The Touch Tank, and The Ocean Explorer exhibit. See sharks and colorful fish up close, touch a stingray, and learn about the marine life that calls the North Carolina coast home at this affordable aquarium.
  3. Go Fishing

    Home of the Big Rock Fishing Tournament, Morehead City is known for fishing! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, there are plenty of local fishing charters and guides available to take you out on the water. While fishing is more common during the spring and summer months, in the off-season anglers can often find deals on fishing charters. Some local charters offer discounts for weekdays during colder months when there aren’t as many people out on the water.

  4. Check Out Crystal Coast Brewing

    Located in the heart of Morehead City, NC, this brewery offers a range of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. The taproom has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and the spacious outdoor patio is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a beer with a view. The also offers a menu of pub-style fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. The brewery often hosts events such as live music and trivia nights, making it a great place to spend an evening out!

  5. Sample Local Seafood at Sanitary Fish Market and Restaurant Sanitary Fish Market and Restaurant is located on Evans Street in downtown Morehead City, NC. Our market and restaurant provide the area with the freshest catch by local fishermen. You’ll find in-season cold favorites like oysters, clam, mackerel, and tuna. While we do close our eastern NC seafood restaurant for winter in late December, this slower month is still a great time to visit! In addition to virtually no wait times, without the tourist crowd, you’ll have unobstructed views of the water. Come in from the cold and warm up with our crab cakes, pasta dishes, and fried flounder. Just make sure you leave room for our divine desserts!

Sanitary Fish Market and Restaurant | Morehead City, NC

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or just want to relax and unwind, there’s something special waiting for you in Morehead City, NC! Looking for good food near me? You’re in the right spot. Our landmark seafood restaurant serves up warm dishes for both seafarers and land-lubbers, so no matter what you’re craving, you’re shore to find something for everyone in your crew. Come see why our historic restaurant was featured in Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. To learn more about our historic restaurant, visit our website today!