Tiki Time on Taylor’s Creek: A Beaufort Sightseeing Cruise Across the Crystal Coast
Wild horses, sandbar stops, and BYOB breezes—two hours that feel like a vacation inside your vacation.
The tide exhales and Taylor’s Creek stirs to life. On the dock behind the Beaufort Hotel, a thatched-roof tiki boat rocks with a friendly sway, its bar gleaming with condensation from a cooler packed with ice. Gulls argue over the breeze. Across the water, a band of wild horses flicks their tails on Carrot Island, as if to remind you that here, the coast keeps its own calendar. You step aboard, slide your favorite beverage into a cup, and the motor hums low—more suggestion than command—while the creek urges you forward.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early, Launch Smooth
Park at the Beaufort Hotel and check in 15 minutes before departure to get settled, load your drinks into the onboard cooler, and catch the best seat for wildlife viewing.
BYOB, Chill the Smart Way
Bring your favorite beverages and snacks; ice, cups, and water are provided. Pre-chill cans or bottles so the ice lasts longer in summer heat.
Sun Strategy Matters
Wear reef-safe sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a brimmed hat. Even on breezy days, UV reflects off the water and sneaks up on you.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Admire the Rachel Carson Reserve’s wild horses and dolphins from afar—no feeding or approaching. Binoculars make the moment better and safer.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bird Shoal’s outer sandbar for sweeping views back to Beaufort and, on clear days, a faint peek toward Cape Lookout
- •The quiet spit off Carrot Island at very low tide—prime for shells and wading (respect closures and wildlife)
Wildlife
Wild horses of the Rachel Carson Reserve, Bottlenose dolphins
Conservation Note
The Rachel Carson Reserve is part of the NC Coastal Reserve; observe wildlife from a distance, pack out all trash, and avoid trampling marsh grass or shellfish beds.
Beaufort, founded in 1709, has deep maritime roots; Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, ran aground near Beaufort Inlet in 1718 and was rediscovered in 1996.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temps, Active wildlife
Challenges: Gusty winds, Variable temps
Fresh breezes and new growth across the marsh make for clear views and comfortable cruising; pack a light layer for wind on the water.
summer
Best for: Sandbar lounging, Warm water
Challenges: High UV, Afternoon storms, Biting flies
Classic Crystal Coast weather—hot, bright, and social. Plan earlier or later departures to beat heat and bring extra sun protection.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Golden light
Challenges: Shorter days, Occasional nor’easters
Stable weather and crisp sunsets make this a photographer’s dream; check forecasts and aim for golden hour.
winter
Best for: Crisp, clear air, Quiet creeks
Challenges: Cold wind, Limited departures
Bundle up for tranquil waters, long horizons, and excellent birding; bring a windproof layer and warm hat.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts surface glare so you can spot dolphins, rays, and the sandbar edge with ease.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Strong coastal sun reflects off water; a reef-safe formula protects your skin and the estuary.
Light Windbreaker or Sun Hoodie
Spring and shoulder-season breezes feel cooler on the water; a thin layer keeps you comfortable.
Small Dry Bag
Protects phones, wallets, and keys from spray during breezy runs or sandbar stops.
Common Questions
Can I bring alcohol on the cruise?
Yes—this cruise is BYOB, and the crew provides ice, cups, and bottled water. Pack what you enjoy and sip responsibly.
Is there a restroom on the tiki boat?
Most tiki boats do not have restrooms. Use the facilities at the Beaufort Hotel before boarding.
Are children allowed, and do they need life jackets?
All ages are welcome. Per Coast Guard regulations, children 13 and under must wear a life jacket at all times; notify the operator in advance so the right sizes are onboard.
Will we stop at a sandbar or go swimming?
Sandbar stops are tide- and safety-dependent and at the captain’s discretion. Ask at check-in; when conditions align, it’s a highlight.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Captains continuously monitor conditions. If weather affects your cruise, you’ll be offered the option to reschedule or receive a refund.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The dock and location are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Boarding assistance is available—contact the operator ahead of time to discuss specific needs.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for spotting wildlife; Reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and estuary; Light windbreaker for breezy runs on the creek; Small dry bag to keep phones and keys safe from spray.
Did You Know
Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, was discovered in 1996 near Beaufort Inlet; recovered artifacts are displayed at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort.
Quick Travel Tips
Book an earlier or sunset departure for softer light and fewer boats; Pre-chill drinks and bring snacks—ice, cups, and water are onboard; Use the Beaufort Hotel restroom before boarding; Check tide charts if you’re hoping for a sandbar stop—ask your captain for the day’s timing.
Local Flavor
Post-cruise, stroll Front Street for a scoop of coastal life: wood-fired pies at Black Sheep overlook the water, Moonrakers’ rooftop nails sunset, and Beaufort Grocery Co serves low-key brunch with local flair. Grab a pint at Fishtowne Brew House or tuck into Backstreet Pub’s courtyard for a salty tale or two.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: EWN (New Bern) ~45 minutes by car. Launch: Boathouse/Beaufort Hotel dock at 2440 Lennoxville Rd. Drive time from downtown Beaufort: ~5 minutes. Cell service: Generally good along Taylor’s Creek with brief dead spots near the islands. Permits: None required for passengers; BYOB allowed for adults 21+; Coast Guard life-jacket rules apply for children.
Sustainability Note
You’ll cruise alongside the Rachel Carson Reserve, a sensitive estuarine habitat—pack out all trash, avoid feeding or approaching wildlife, and minimize anchoring or wading in seagrass beds to protect juvenile fish nurseries.
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