For a day trip to Carteret, North Carolina, you can choose from several things to do, including the Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores, shooting the waves, or strolling the beautiful beaches. In addition to these attractions, downtown Carteret also offers a variety of great shopping options.
Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores
Recently, the North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores in Carterert County was named the winner of a national video contest. The organization received a check for $25,000 to support its Save Animals From Extinction (SAFE) campaign and North Carolina Sea Turtle Conservation Plan. The winning video showcased efforts to restore coastal habitats damaged by Hurricane Florence. The restoration project involved 70 volunteers who worked along five miles of coastline.
During the past few years, the Aquarium has been collaborating with the Coastal Federation to protect the shoreline. In 2001, the federation planted marsh grasses along the shoreline. It also constructed a 400-ft. living shoreline, which has helped slow coastal erosion. However, areas of the shoreline that had not been protected by a living shoreline continued to erode, which resulted in the loss of important oyster reef and salt marsh habitat. The federation’s staff collaborated with scientists from the UNC Institute of Marine Sciences to help protect the shoreline.
The aquarium’s educational programs are especially designed to help families learn about marine creatures. It has several free programs daily, including “Live Dive!” shows, where experienced divers submerge into the giant tank and feed sharks. Kids can also enjoy interactive activities and video presentations. The aquarium also offers special family events, like “Trick or Treat Under the Sea.”
Fishing on the beach
If you are looking for a family day out, fishing on the beach in Carteret County is a great option. You can try for doormat Fluke, Dogfish, and trophy Stripers. The county has many beaches for you to choose from, such as Atlantic, Bettie, Ocean, Pine Knobroom, Sea Gate, Sea Level, and Wildwood. Several of the beaches offer restrooms and a parking lot.
In the fall, you’ll find that the fishing in the Back and Bogue Sounds is at its best. These waters are a popular breeding ground for a number of fish species, including black drum and mullet. You can try bottom fishing to catch a variety of other species, including croaker and Pufferfish.
Downtown Carteret shopping
Whether you want a manicure or a new pair of earrings, you can get a variety of services at Downtown Carteret shopping. There are also salons that offer hair styling and eyebrow coloring. You can even get dog training and pet supplies. Whether you’re a city girl or a country boy, you’re sure to find what you need at Downtown Carteret. The waterfront and local businesses will add to the city’s appeal.
If you aren’t a big eater, there are several food delivery services in Carteret. Some of these services offer free pick-up and drop-off service, which can make ordering food a bit more convenient. You can also order food through apps like Uber Eats, where you can browse hundreds of different restaurants, place your order, and track your order by the minute.
Scuba diving
There are plenty of great places to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Carteret County. The area is known for its mild climate and more than 80 miles of sandy beaches. It is a popular vacation destination and a top scuba diving destination. If you have never been scuba diving in Carteret County before, here are some things to know before you book a trip.
First of all, the county boasts an immaculate Atlantic coastline, warmed by the Gulf Stream and protected by a number of barrier islands. Scuba diving in this area can be an excellent way to get out into the warm waters of the Atlantic. The area is also home to the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most popular and oldest marlin tournaments in the country. This is the largest community event in the county and attracts people from all over the world.
Scuba diving at Hawk Rise Sanctuary
The shipwreck trail offers a variety of scuba diving sites for divers of all levels. The sites range from shallow snorkeling to deep dives. However, divers should be aware of rip tides and strong winds that may create large waves. For these reasons, you should dive at least 30 feet deep in these waters.
Hawk Rise Sanctuary is a 95-acre ecological preserve and wetland complex located in Linden, New Jersey. It was created in 2012 on an industrial area that once housed a landfill. The sanctuary is surrounded by scenic walking trails and a boardwalk. One of these trails leads to an overlook of the Rahway River.
