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Beaufort Waterfront Front Street

4.3
·919 reviews·Beaufort, United States

Charming waterfront street in Beaufort, NC, offering fresh seafood, stunning harbor views, and lively entertainment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, great sunset views

CrowdLow
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Dining room

Beaufort Waterfront Front Street

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, great sunset views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charming waterfront street in Beaufort, NC, offering fresh seafood, stunning harbor views, and lively entertainment.

4.3
(919 reviews)

"The tuna tacos are the absolute best! So delicious and full of flavor!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Dolphin Magic

Catch dolphins playing in Taylor's Creek during sunset for an unforgettable sight.

🎶 Live Music Vibes

Check for live music schedules; Finz Grill often hosts waterfront concerts.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Dining Views

Waterfront Dining Views

Front Street

Savor fresh seafood with picturesque views of Taylor's Creek and the bustling harbor. Watch boats glide by as you dine.

Dolphin Watching

Dolphin Watching

Taylor's Creek

Spot playful dolphins from the waterfront, especially during sunset. A magical experience for all ages.

Live Music on Front Street

Live Music on Front Street

Various venues along Front Street

Enjoy local and touring musicians performing live, adding a vibrant soundtrack to your evening.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Charm

Beaufort's Front Street is all about the water. Expect stunning views, boat activity, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Arrive early for prime waterfront seating, especially during peak season, as spots can fill up quickly.

Local Favorites & Live Music

This area is a hub for locals and visitors alike, known for its seafood and lively atmosphere. Keep an eye out for live music events, particularly on weekends, which add to the vibrant street scene.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, great sunset views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful, watch the harbor wake up
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What does $3,000,000 buy on Front Street in Beaufort, NC? Come with me to tour this 3 bed/2bath waterfront 💦cottage that just hit the market on Friday! For more info or for a private showing, give me a ring! Listing courtesy of: Alan Sullivan with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast-Atlantic Beach. Carolyn Blackmon,Realtor®️ ☎️252-515-4831☎️ Bluewater Real Estate #frontstreetbeaufort #2205frontstreet #...
carolynblackmonrealtor
24 likes • 1.1K views

🌅 Sunset Dolphin Magic

Catch dolphins playing in Taylor's Creek during sunset for an unforgettable sight. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Vibes

Check for live music schedules; Finz Grill often hosts waterfront concerts. Instagram+1

We’ve been long time fans of @mezcalitonc, but Mezcalito + my favorite town? 😍😍😍 We finally made it to their Beaufort location, and idk if it’s just me, but “vacation” cocktails, guacamole and tacos just hit different! It’s right on Front Street (across from the waterfront) and it can get pretty packed, so try to make a reservation. Or, do like me, and grab a margarita and wait. You’re on beach...
melwistehuff
11 likes • 234 views
Summers in Beaufort are the best!! 📍Shackleford Banks - @islandexpressferryservice 📍Front Street 📍Taylor’s Creek - Beach House Rules @kristywharvey 📍Beaufort Waterfront 📍Taylor’s Creek - @crystalcoastladycruises 📍@moreheadcitycountryclub #bestofbeaufort #beach #beachlife #beachday #beaufort #travel #beaufortnc #summer #happy #nature #explore #seashells #boat #booklover #sunset
bestofbeaufort
124 likes • 3.5K views

🌮 Taco & Guac Heaven

Mezcalito's on Front Street is a must-try for delicious tacos and guacamole. Instagram

🍽️ Locals' Favorite Dining

Many restaurants are popular with locals, offering authentic flavors and a great atmosphere. Reddit

Mel and I toured this impressive waterfront home near downtown Beaufort NC one afternoon! Being a realtor has its perks. You get to just tour random peoples historic homes. The house has so much charm and has a lot of potential. If you want to view 719 Front Street Beaufort NC 28516 give me a call! 252-646-7163 - Listed at $3.5 million - 2800 sq ft - 4 bedrooms - Private dock w/ 2 floating do...
waltoberryrealestateteam
14 likes • 360 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Dolphin Magic

Catch dolphins playing in Taylor's Creek during sunset for an unforgettable sight. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Vibes

Check for live music schedules; Finz Grill often hosts waterfront concerts. Instagram+1

🌮 Taco & Guac Heaven

Mezcalito's on Front Street is a must-try for delicious tacos and guacamole. Instagram

🍽️ Locals' Favorite Dining

Many restaurants are popular with locals, offering authentic flavors and a great atmosphere. Reddit

🚗 Golf Cart Parking

Expect to see many golf carts parked, indicating a strong local presence. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(919 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning waterfront views and the delicious, fresh seafood, particularly tuna tacos and calamari. The lively atmosphere, often enhanced by live music and the chance to spot dolphins, is a major highlight. Some find the patio seating can be loud and note that smoking is permitted outdoors.

"Nice restaurant right on the water. Great views. The food was good. The restaurant is obviously popular with the locals. More golf carts parked outside than cars. Being a locals favorite is always a good thing.
Just FYI it was really loud on patio bar where we sat. Inside would have been much quieter. And they allow people to smoke on their patio. Uck"

elle fore

"This restaurant is super nice and the food is delicious! I really love how it is right on the water. If you are inside there is a nice intimate vibe and if you are outside you get a nice outdoor experience with the water right by. Would recommend to anyone visiting Beaufort!"

Madelynn Hill

"We love this restaurant! The tuna tacos are the absolute best! So delicious and full of flavor! The rice and black beans that come with it are delicious as well! The staff are all always so kind! Most if not all the dishes come with plantains which I'd never had in my life but they are delicious here!"

Amanda Cooper

What People Like

Beautiful waterfront views
Fresh, delicious seafood
Lively atmosphere & music

What People Dislike

Loud patio seating
Outdoor smoking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Beaufort's Front Street is easily accessible by car. Parking can be found along the street and in nearby lots. Many visitors also arrive by boat, docking at the town's marinas. Reddit

While there isn't extensive public transportation directly to Front Street, local taxi services and ride-sharing options are available for getting around Beaufort. Reddit

Walking is the best way to experience Front Street, allowing you to browse shops, enjoy the views, and hop between restaurants. Reddit

Yes, Beaufort has excellent docking facilities, and arriving by boat is a popular option for many visitors. Reddit

Driving along the Crystal Coast to Beaufort offers beautiful coastal scenery. Consider routes that hug the coastline for a more picturesque journey. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to Beaufort's Front Street itself is free. You only pay for food, drinks, shopping, or specific tours and activities. Reddit

Front Street is always open as a public thoroughfare. Individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to evening. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to simply walk along Beaufort's Front Street and enjoy the waterfront views. Reddit

For popular activities like ferry trips to Shackleford Banks or boat cruises, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Instagram

Weekdays, especially weekday evenings, tend to be less crowded than weekends. Arriving earlier in the day can also help avoid peak crowds. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the stunning waterfront views, the chance to spot dolphins in Taylor's Creek, and the vibrant atmosphere of the shops and eateries. InstagramReddit

You'll find a variety of boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and specialty stores offering coastal-themed items and local crafts. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy watching boats, looking for dolphins, and exploring the shops. Ferry trips to nearby islands are also a hit with kids. Instagram

The best time to see dolphins is often during the early morning or late afternoon/sunset. They are frequently spotted in Taylor's Creek. Reddit

The sidewalks along Front Street are generally flat and accessible, making it manageable for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Popular spots include Finz Grill for waterfront dining and live music, and Mezcalito's for tacos and guacamole. Many places offer delicious seafood. InstagramReddit+2

You'll find a focus on fresh, seasonal seafood, including local catches. Expect options like fish tacos, calamari, sea bass, and tuna. Reddit

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer salads and other dishes that can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets. It's best to inquire directly. Reddit

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends, as popular spots can get very busy. InstagramReddit

Dining prices can vary, but expect mid-range to slightly higher prices due to the prime waterfront location and quality of seafood. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the picturesque harbor, historic boats, charming storefronts, and the stunning sunsets over Taylor's Creek. Instagram

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the water and boats. Reddit

Many beautiful waterfront homes line the area. While you can photograph them from public spaces, be respectful of private property. Instagram+1

The historic boats docked along the waterfront, the iconic Beaufort Hotel, and the views across Taylor's Creek are popular photo spots. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive waterfront views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Beaufort's Front Street is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will love watching the boats and keeping an eye out for dolphins playing in Taylor's Creek, especially around sunset. Reddit Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy a meal without too much fuss. Consider a ferry trip to nearby islands for a fun adventure. Instagram

Walking along the waterfront is an engaging activity for all ages. The shops offer interesting souvenirs, and the general ambiance of a working harbor is captivating. Parking can be found, and the sidewalks are generally accessible for strollers, making it a convenient outing for families with young children.

💰 Budget Travelers

While some waterfront dining can be pricey, Beaufort's Front Street offers ways to enjoy it on a budget. Opt for lunch specials or happy hour deals at restaurants like Finz Grill or Mezcalito's. Instagram+2 Grabbing a casual bite or enjoying ice cream while strolling is also a great option. The main attraction – the waterfront views and the lively atmosphere – is free to enjoy. Reddit

Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy by the water. Instead of a full boat tour, you can often spot dolphins from the shore, especially during dawn or dusk. Exploring the shops for unique, affordable souvenirs can also be a fun, low-cost activity.

💑 Couples

Beaufort's Front Street offers a romantic setting, especially during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely waterfront dinner at a restaurant with a view, perhaps catching some live music afterward. Instagram+1 The intimate vibe inside some eateries and the scenic beauty outside create a perfect backdrop for a date. Reddit

Take a romantic stroll hand-in-hand along the boardwalk, watching the boats and enjoying the coastal breeze. Consider a sunset dolphin-watching cruise for a truly memorable experience. The charming shops also offer opportunities for finding unique gifts for each other.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Beaufort's Maritime Heritage

Beaufort's Front Street is steeped in maritime history, evident in its charming waterfront and the boats that grace its waters. The town itself is North Carolina's third oldest, and its connection to the sea is palpable. From historic schooners to modern yachts, the harbor is a constant reminder of Beaufort's seafaring past and present. Many of the buildings along Front Street have been renovated from their original boathouse or warehouse structures, retaining their historic character while serving modern purposes. Reddit

Visitors can delve deeper into this heritage by visiting the nearby North Carolina Maritime Museum, which offers fascinating exhibits on shipwrecks, pirates, and the region's naval history. Taking a boat tour or a ferry to the Rachel Carson Reserve or Shackleford Banks also provides a direct connection to the natural and historical landscape that has shaped Beaufort for centuries. The waterfront itself acts as an open-air museum, showcasing the enduring relationship between the town and the water. Instagram

Culinary Delights on the Waterfront

Beaufort's Front Street is a culinary hotspot, particularly renowned for its fresh seafood. Restaurants here pride themselves on serving locally sourced catches, offering a true taste of the Crystal Coast. From casual eateries to more upscale dining, there's something to satisfy every palate. Popular dishes include tuna tacos, sea bass, and calamari, often prepared with a unique local flair. Many establishments also feature plantains and delicious key lime pie, adding to the distinct culinary experience. Reddit

Beyond the seafood, the atmosphere of dining on Front Street is a major draw. Many restaurants boast prime waterfront locations, allowing diners to enjoy stunning views of Taylor's Creek and the passing boats. This is especially magical during sunset, when the sky paints a vibrant backdrop. Live music is also a common feature, particularly at venues like Finz Grill, transforming a meal into a lively evening of entertainment. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak times, to secure a table with the best views. InstagramReddit+2

Capturing the Beauty of Beaufort's Waterfront

The Beaufort Waterfront Front Street offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from the picturesque harbor to the charming architecture. The interplay of light on the water, the colorful boats, and the historic buildings creates a visually rich environment. Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset, is particularly magical, casting a warm glow over the scene and often providing opportunities to photograph dolphins. Reddit

Photographers will find ample subjects: the docked sailboats and yachts, the quaint storefronts with their unique signage, and the expansive views across Taylor's Creek towards the Rachel Carson Reserve. Even the residential waterfront homes, like those featured in real estate tours, add to the scenic beauty. A versatile lens, such as a zoom that covers wide-angle to medium telephoto, is ideal for capturing both the grand vistas and the finer details of this coastal gem. Instagram+2

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