Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive cruising guide to Beaufort, but a summary of our experience and recommendations and what we believe would be interesting to fellow travelers. If you have additional recommendations, please feel free to reach out.
Every time we’ve taken the ICW, we stop at Beaufort, North Carolina. Cute town that is easily walkable and a great spot to meet up with fellow cruisers.
Anchorage and Dockage
Taylor Creek
- The anchorage is right in front of town with easy access to a public dinghy dock a Grayden Paul Park. During peak season, there can be lots of boats, but there is another anchorage on the other side near the Beaufort Highrise Bridge (I-70).
- For Google Maps coordinates, click here.
Town Creek Marina
- We have only stayed here once in 2019. We prefer to be at the anchorage, but this is located a short walk from town. From what I remember, the facilities were nice and easily accessible from the ICW.
Provisioning
- Piggly Wiggly – Although it was more expensive than expected, the store is a few miles up the main road. If you decide to walk, you go through a cute neighborhood that are advocates of the cruiser culture.
- West Marine – The closest one is in Morehead City. Unfortunately it was an expensive Uber ride from Beaufort, but it is there in times of need.
Things to Do
- North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort – This is free to visit, but donations are encouraged.
- Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center – Across the street from the maritime museum, you can see boat building in action.
- Rachel Carson Reserve – On the south side of the anchorage, you can walk the beach and a short path around the island.
- Backstreet Pub – This is a dog friendly pub that is used to cruisers coming in and out. After dropping anchor, this is our first stop.
- Fishtowne Brew House – A trip to Beaufort is not complete without a stop at Fishtowne. They have a variety of beer with options to get growlers and crowlers to go.
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