Emerald Isle vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Emerald Isle vacation rentals

Stay near Emerald Isle's top sights

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier77 locals recommend
Fish Hut Grill69 locals recommend
Salty Pirate Waterpark63 locals recommend
Caribsea63 locals recommend
Rucker Johns Restaurant60 locals recommend
Gaffer's53 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Emerald Isle

  • Total rentals

    560 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $50 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    16K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    480 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    190 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    200 properties have a pool

Your guide to Emerald Isle

All About Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle is a small-town beach retreat. It offers beautiful sand-dune-covered beaches beribboned with leaning wooden fences and a quaint village of cottages and low-key seafood joints. A big day here involves a leisurely kayaking trip followed by a stop at the local ice cream shop, where you can sit in one of the several brightly colored rocking chairs lined up outside. Emerald Isle is one of a network of Outer Banks barrier islands, which intersects with North Carolina’s Crystal Coast — an 85-mile stretch of pristine coastline that has long attracted those seeking a refuge from the demands of daily life.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Emerald Isle

April through June in Emerald Isle is warm and sunny, with temperatures in the low 70s to mid-80 degrees Fahrenheit. July through September grows hotter, with temperatures in the mid- to high 80s, and October through March cools down considerably, with temperatures in the high 50s to mid 60s, with forays into the 40s. Emerald Isle is prone to rain year round, so pack an umbrella no matter the season.


Top things to do in Emerald Isle

The Point

Emerald Isle is home to 12 miles of sandy beaches, but locals and visitors alike tend to agree that the Point is the prettiest. Located on the westernmost tip of the island, this expansive, undeveloped strand offers unobstructed ocean and sunset views. To access this beach, you’ll have to nab one of the limited number of spots in nearby Station Street Park, then walk about a quarter mile. The sense of isolation is part of the Point’s appeal, but it also means there are no restrooms or shops nearby, so plan accordingly.

Bogue Inlet Pier

A stroll down the 1,000-foot Bogue Inlet Pier is a great way to take in ocean views, watch surfers playing in the waves below, or partake in one of Emerald Isle’s big draws: fishing. Every year people line up along the pier to cast off and try to snag trout, mackerel, and tuna — or even blowfish or barracuda. You can buy day fishing passes and rent equipment at the pier. If you’d rather someone else catch your dinner, or you want to enjoy the ocean views with a drink in your hand, the pier’s bar and grill has got you covered.

Emerald Isle Woods Park

Escape into the shady, forested environs of Emerald Isle Woods Park, bordered on the north by Bogue Sound. Its 41 acres are criss-crossed with walking trails, and a wooden boardwalk will lead you to a floating dock and kayak launch. This park is a favorite of birders, who come here to spot ospreys, egrets, woodpeckers, and other feathered locals. It also features a nine-hole disc golf course.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Emerald Isle?

    Emerald Isle has a mild, oceanic climate. Summers are warm, with temperatures around 85°F (29°C), while winters are mild, with temperatures typically around 50°F (10°C). The area receives occasional rainfall throughout the year.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Emerald Isle?

    Popular activities in Emerald Isle include sunbathing on the beautiful Emerald Isle Beach, exploring the Emerald Isle Woods Park, fishing at Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, and visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Emerald Isle?

    The most popular time to visit Emerald Isle is from May to September, when temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The annual Emerald Isle Beach Music Festival in September is a popular local event.

  • What are the best places to stay in Emerald Isle?

    Popular areas to stay in Emerald Isle include Ocean Drive, near the beach, and Islander Drive, close to the Emerald Isle Woods Park. Downtown Emerald Isle, with its variety of shops and restaurants, is also often recommended.

  • What are the best places to visit in Emerald Isle?

    Emerald Isle, North Carolina, invites you to explore the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, the Emerald Isle Woods Park, and the Water Boggan water park. For history enthusiasts, the North Carolina Maritime Museum is a frequent suggestion.

  • What are some hiking trails in Emerald Isle?

    In Emerald Isle, you can wander through nature on the Emerald Isle Woods Park Trail, a 0.88 mile (1.42 km) loop trail. For a coastal experience, the Point Emerald Loop offers stunning beach views.

  • What are some family activities to do in Emerald Isle?

    Families in Emerald Isle can enjoy an active day at the Emerald Isle Woods Park, explore the sea life at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, or take a scenic bike ride along the Emerald Path.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Emerald Isle?

    A day trip to nearby Beaufort, just 30 miles (48 km) away, provides a chance to explore the Beaufort Historic Site. You could also venture 50 miles (80 km) to New Bern, home to the Tryon Palace and Gardens.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Emerald Isle?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 210 vacation rentals in Emerald Isle featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Emerald Isle?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Emerald Isle. Choose from more than 190 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

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