New Bern, North Carolina serves as the perfect gateway to the Crystal Coast, combining rich colonial history with convenient access to pristine Atlantic beaches. Located at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, this charming city of approximately 32,854 residents offers visitors an ideal base for exploring Eastern North Carolina’s coastal attractions while maintaining its status as the second-oldest European-settled town in the state.
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What Makes New Bern Special for Travelers?
New Bern served as North Carolina’s capital from 1770 to 1792 and today features over 150 historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The city’s strategic location provides unparalleled access to both riverfront activities and ocean beaches, making it a unique destination that satisfies history buffs, beach lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Getting to New Bern: Airport Guide and Transportation Options
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) – Your Gateway to Eastern NC
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) serves as the primary commercial airport for New Bern, located just three miles southeast of downtown. The airport has experienced significant growth, with a 41% increase in passenger traffic in 2024, largely due to new airline services including Breeze Airways, which began operations in May 2024.
Current Airlines and Destinations:
- American Airlines/American Eagle: Service to Charlotte (CLT) and other major hubs
- Breeze Airways: Nonstop destinations including Hartford and expanding route network
Airport Features:
- Three gates with shared boarding area
- Free Wi-Fi throughout terminal
- Security checkpoints open 1.5 hours before departure
- Easy parking with short walking distances
- General aviation services through Tidewater Air, LLC and Tradewind International
Alternative Airport Options
For additional flight options, consider these nearby airports:
- Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Richlands: 60 minutes drive
- Wilmington International Airport (ILM): 2 hours south via US-17
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU): 2.5 hours northwest
Beach Access from New Bern: Your Complete Coastal Guide
Atlantic Beach – The Closest Ocean Destination
Atlantic Beach stands as the nearest ocean beach to New Bern, located approximately 35-40 miles southeast, making it easily accessible for day trips or extended stays. This Crystal Coast gem offers:
Travel Time: 55-60 minutes via US-70 East What to Expect:
- Wide, sandy beaches perfect for families
- Calm waters ideal for swimming and water sports
- Fort Macon State Park nearby with Civil War history
- Vibrant boardwalk with restaurants and shops
- Circle Regional Beach Access for prime beach positioning
Emerald Isle – The Crown Jewel
Located about 45 miles from New Bern, Emerald Isle offers stunning beauty with miles of accessible beaches, clear waters, and extensive water sports activities.
Perfect for:
- Fishing enthusiasts (surf and charter fishing)
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Sunset viewing and photography
- Beach house rentals for extended stays
Additional Beach Destinations
Cape Lookout National Seashore
- Accessible via ferry or kayak, approximately one hour’s drive to ferry departure points
- Features wild horses on Shackleford Banks and 80-degree water temperatures
- Pristine, undeveloped barrier islands
- Excellent for shelling and wildlife viewing
Fort Macon State Park
- Just over 40 miles from New Bern
- Combines beautiful beaches with preserved Civil War fort
- Educational programs and guided tours available
- Covers 389 acres with stunning inlet views
New Bern’s Top Attractions and Activities
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Tryon Palace and Gardens New Bern’s most popular attraction, Tryon Palace served as the first capitol of independent North Carolina and the former Governor’s residence. The North Carolina History Center, part of the extensive Tryon Palace complex, is a $65 million facility that transports visitors through more than 300 years of local history.
Birthplace of Pepsi New Bern holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, with the original pharmacy location on Middle Street now serving as a museum and soda fountain. Visitors can enjoy authentic fountain drinks while learning about the beverage’s medicinal origins.
Historic Downtown District New Bern features a 20-block historic district with more than 150 significant buildings, showcasing colonial, Georgian, Federal, Greek revival, and Victorian architectural styles. Since 1979, over $200 million has been invested in preserving and revitalizing the downtown area.
Outdoor Recreation and Natural Areas
Croatan National Forest Located just 12 miles south of New Bern, the Neuse River Recreation Area within Croatan National Forest offers hiking, camping, and nature exploration opportunities. The forest provides a perfect mix of hiking trails, beach access, and camping facilities.
River Activities New Bern offers more than 250 miles of paddling trails along the Neuse and Trent Rivers, perfect for:
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Fishing (both saltwater and freshwater species)
- Boating and water skiing
- Crabbing and recreational fishing
Golf Courses The area features seven public or semi-public golf courses that operate year-round, taking advantage of the mild coastal climate.
Where to Stay in New Bern
Historic Downtown Hotels
- The Aerie Bed & Breakfast: Victorian-era charm in the heart of the historic district
- DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern: Modern amenities with river views
- Hampton Inn & Suites New Bern: Reliable chain hotel with complimentary breakfast
Waterfront Properties
- BridgePointe Hotel & Marina: Features a marina location with easy waterfront access
- Comfort Suites New Bern: Business-friendly hotel offering free breakfast, parking, and airport shuttle service
Unique Accommodations
- New Bern KOA Holiday: Waterfront camping experience located right on the Neuse River
- Vacation rentals in nearby Fairfield Harbor for extended stays
Dining and Nightlife Scene
Must-Try Restaurants
- Captain Ratty’s: Seafood institution with waterfront dining
- The Chelsea Restaurant: Upscale dining in a historic setting
- Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant: Contemporary cuisine with river views
- Morgan’s Tavern & Grill: Casual dining with local favorites
Local Specialties
- Fresh seafood from local waters
- Eastern North Carolina barbecue
- Regional craft beer from local breweries
Day Trip Destinations from New Bern
Beaufort, NC (15 minutes from Atlantic Beach)
Known for the wild horses of Rachel Carson Reserve, Beaufort features the North Carolina Maritime Museum with Blackbeard artifacts and waterfront dining along Front Street.
Highlights:
- Historic waterfront district
- Maritime museum with whale skeleton displays
- Water taxi services to undeveloped islands
- Beaufort Grocery Co. and Moonrakers restaurants
Jacksonville, NC (45 minutes)
Home to Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville offers Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Zing Zumm Children’s Museum, and Walton’s Distillery for tastings and tours.
Havelock, NC (25 minutes)
Features the Havelock Tourist & Event Center and Marine Corps Aviation Exhibit, showcasing military history and regional information.
Seasonal Travel Tips and Weather
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, blooming azaleas, fewer crowds
- Summer (June-August): Peak beach season, warmest water temperatures
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant weather, reduced crowds, lower accommodation rates
- Winter (December-February): Mild compared to northern destinations, indoor attractions shine
Weather Considerations
New Bern experiences relatively mild weather year-round, with tornado activity below the national average. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing.
Practical Travel Information
Getting Around New Bern
- Rental cars: Available at Coastal Carolina Regional Airport
- Walking: Downtown historic district is easily walkable
- Biking: Bike-friendly streets and dedicated paths along rivers
- Public transportation: Limited options; car recommended for beach access
What to Pack
- Sunscreen and beach gear for coastal excursions
- Comfortable walking shoes for historic district exploration
- Light layers for variable coastal weather
- Camera for historic architecture and scenic river views
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit beaches during weekdays for lower accommodation rates
- Take advantage of free activities like river walks and historic district touring
- Consider vacation rentals for extended stays and groups
- Book flights to EWN in advance for better rates
Planning Your New Bern Itinerary
3-Day Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Historic New Bern exploration – Tryon Palace, Pepsi Museum, downtown dining Day 2: Atlantic Beach day trip – beach time, Fort Macon State Park, seafood dinner Day 3: Outdoor adventures – kayaking the Neuse River, Croatan National Forest hiking
Week-Long Adventure
Extend your stay to explore multiple beaches, take a day trip to the Outer Banks, enjoy fishing charters, and fully immerse yourself in the region’s rich maritime culture and natural beauty.
Transportation Connections and Regional Access
New Bern’s strategic location places it 112 miles east of Raleigh, 89 miles north of Wilmington, and 162 miles south of Norfolk, Virginia, making it an excellent hub for exploring the entire Eastern North Carolina coast.
Major Highway Access:
- US-70: Primary east-west corridor to beaches and inland areas
- US-17: North-south coastal route connecting to other coastal cities
- NC-55: Connection to inland attractions and Raleigh area
Conclusion: Why New Bern Should Be Your Next Coastal Destination
New Bern offers a rare combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern conveniences that make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and coastal recreation. Whether you’re flying into the convenient Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, exploring pristine beaches just minutes away, or delving into centuries of American history, New Bern provides an authentic Eastern North Carolina experience that larger coastal cities simply cannot match.
The city’s continued growth and development, evidenced by its 5.02% population increase since 2020 and expanding airport services, signal a bright future while maintaining the small-town charm that makes it special. From the historic streets where colonial governors once walked to the pristine beaches of the Crystal Coast, New Bern truly offers the best of both worlds for discerning travelers.
Plan your visit today and discover why New Bern, North Carolina, continues to captivate visitors from around the world with its unique blend of history, hospitality, and coastal beauty.
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