By now, we all know the best way to get to know your latest duty station is to jump into the local scene and embrace what the area has to offer. MCAS Cherry Point has the advantage of a coastal location, offering built-in things to do along the shore, but the surrounding cities also have plenty to offer. Now is the time to perfect your axe-throwing skills!
Check out our list of things to do near MCAS Cherry Point to get started on your North Carolina coast adventures! And, if you’re searching for housing near MCAS Cherry Point, read on, we’re highlighting the perfect pick.
8 Fun Things to Do Near MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina
1) North Carolina Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores
Military families love Pine Knoll Shores for so many reasons! It’s not just for the amazing animal exhibits and displays, but because they also have specialty programs scheduled throughout the day. If your kids have ever asked what goes on behind the aquarium’s closed doors, enroll them in the behind-the-scenes tour to learn some of the aquarium's best kept secrets. Or, try an immersive day camp for more hands on entertainment.
2) Emerald Isle, North Carolina
Sure, you’ll have access to plenty of shoreline line while stationed at MCAS Cherry Point, but Emerald Isle is a next level beach experience. The Atlantic Ocean isn’t really known for clear water a la the Caribbean, but Emerald Isle is the exception. Somehow, Emerald Isle’s water is crystal clear and shifts in shades of green and blue. Of course, the soft sandy beaches are a draw, too. The drive is just about 45 minutes, perfect for an afternoon trip. Or, spend the night to take advantage of unique restaurants and shops.
3) The Flip’N Axe
If you haven’t heard by now, throwing axes for fun is a thing. Tossing axes into wood walls isn’t just for bachelor party weekends; The Flip’N Axe Havelock wants families to stay and play awhile. Relieve some stress, master the technique, join an axe-throwing league, and invite your friends for a private party. Jump online before you come and register for Axe Throwing 101 instructional videos to get a head start. The company is veteran-owned and offers discounts for all servicemembers and first responders. Two requirements: ages ten and up and you have to wear close-toed shoes! Yikes!
4) Croatan National Forest
North Carolina has gorgeous weather year-round, so why not take advantage and plan a camping or day trip to nearby Croatan National Forest? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because the park is the only true coastal forest on the East Coast and one of four National Forests in the state.
Just be sure to take precautions with your picnics—there are black bears out there! You’ll also see plenty of water birds, turkeys, deer, and alligators. Oh, and an extraordinary plant creature called a Venus Fly Trap. The saltwater estuaries, tidal rivers, and Bogue Sound are perfect for canoeing and fishing.
Searching for MCAS Cherry Point housing? Here’s the perfect move-in ready home!
300 Derby Park Avenue, New Bern, NC, 28562
- 3 Bed, 2 Bath (Single Family)
- Rent: $1,400
- MilitaryByOwner Listing MBO1472080
Searching for an updated rental home with an ideal location is challenging, but this lovely brick home is available in New Bern, perfect for commuting to MCAS Cherry Point. You’ll certainly appreciate the new HVAC system during North Carolina’s scorching summers, but you’ll also fall in love with the recently installed, easy-to-clean floors throughout the house. The overall neutral interior accommodates a wide range of decorating styles.
Beach lovers, take note, this home is an easy drive to Atlantic Beach, a local favorite. As the weather turns comfortable, you’ll have the advantage of the classic Carolina front porch to watch your family and neighbors play on the expansive corner lot.
Let an experienced real estate professional help you with your PCS to MCAS Cherry Point and take a look at our business directory.
5) New Bern Tours
If history and charming downtowns are more your idea of fun, head to New Bern to jump on a trolley tour. You’ll learn about three centuries of architecture and history over the 90-minute tour. Your guide will fill you in with all the details of New Bern’s royal past and teach the stories behind popular sites like New Bern Academy Museum, Cedar Grove Cemetery, and Christ Episcopal Church. Custom tour packages are available.
Need even more fun things to do? Choose Your Adventure near MCAS Cherry Point, NC
6) Crystal Coast Lady Cruises
Dog owners, this cruise is for you! It’s hard to leave the dog home alone while exploring the area around MCAS Cherry Point, so bring the pup onboard Crystal Coast Lady Cruise’s boat tours and cruises. On the biggest boats (with a restroom) in Beaufort, you can cruise over to where wild ponies graze and dolphins frolic. Miss Crystal Coast is the newest catamaran and takes 49 people per trip. The boat’s 360-degree views help even the youngest passengers catch a glimpse of the North Carolina coast’s wildlife.
7) Beaufort Historical Tours
The South loves to share its history, and Beaufort continues the tradition. Check out the city’s lineage through historic buildings through a walking tour or aboard a 1967 English double-decker bus. You’ll tour and see the Old Burying Ground, cited on the National Register of Historic Places; historic homes and buildings like the Josiah Bell House, John C. Manson House, the Carteret County Jail; and the Apothecary Shop and Doctor’s Office. All are known for their elaborate furnishings and period-accurate details.
8) Fort Macon State Park
Fort Macon State Park has roots dating back to English colonists, the prime years of Atlantic pirate activity, and finally as a Civil War fort. Today, you can visit the coastal education center to learn everything from history to the importance of the local ecology of salt marshes, estuaries, and dune fields. Or, plan a day to play, swim, surf, fish, or search the beaches for sea glass and shells.
Did you choose your favorite activity or two? After you’ve unpacked a functional kitchen and rebuilt the beds, take a day break to one of these destinations and get excited about the possibilities near your new home at MCSA Cherry Point.
