Slow Morning on the Waterfront
Begin your visit with a leisurely breakfast along Front Street, where the breeze drifts through town and sunlight shimmers across the water nearby. Afterward, savor a coffee-to-go overlooking the docks as boats ease through the harbor. Swansboro’s historic waterfront sets the tone — unhurried, friendly, and filled with coastal charm.
📍Iconic Views at Bake, Bottle & Brew
Boutique Strolls & Coastal Finds
Explore one-of-a-kind boutiques housed in 19th-century storefronts. From coastal décor and the latest fashions to fine art and locally made soaps and sweets, every stop offers a personal touch. Take your time — it’s all walkable, and every shopkeeper has a story to share.
📍Corner of Front & Main Streets in Historic Downtown Swansboro
Dine by the Docks
Pull up a chair at a waterfront restaurant and let the menu do the storytelling — fresh-caught seafood, Southern flavors, and that unmistakable view. Whether you’re toasting the sunset with a glass of wine or grabbing a casual bite with friends, dining in Swansboro is pure coastal pleasure.
📍 Friends enjoying a seafood boil on the waterfront at Boro Low Country Kitchen
Paddle, Ferry, or Float Away!
Just a short boat charter, ferry ride, or water taxi away lies Bear Island at Hammocks Beach State Park — where nature and beach adventures reign. Spend the afternoon kayaking through salt marshes, spotting herons, shelling, or beachcombing along the quiet shores. It’s coastal North Carolina at its wild, beautiful best.
📍 Paddling views along the waterways at Bear Island
Sunset & Stay Awhile
When the sun melts into the horizon, Swansboro’s magic lingers. Cozy cottages and historic waterfront rentals invite you to stay the night and wake to another coastal sunrise. Once you’ve been here, you’ll understand why visitors return year after year — it just feels like home.
📍 Sunset cruise aboard the Carolina Swan (available via Lady Swan Tours)
