Several distinct small towns blend together to form the community around Morehead City, commonly called the “Crystal Coast.”  The towns are surrounded by farmlands, the Croatan National Forest, and they flank the Atlantic Ocean on the East, giving a wide diversity of lifestyles and recreation.  The oceanfront is geared toward family recreation and tourism with all types of water sports, fishing and marine activities.   The Crystal coast has year round access to a variety of outdoor activities:  boating, sailing, fishing, surfing, hunting, kayaking, numerous sporting activities, and many festivals – Chocolate Festival and the Wine Festival, both very popular.  Beaches are plentiful and outdoor activities are limitless.  There are many small historic coastal towns to explore along the coastline.  The community is served with several shopping centers, and quaint retail stores, but no malls. 

The Crystal Coast is home to our brave marines – Cherry Point Marine Base and Camp LeJeune.  The cost of living is low and there is plenty of off base housing at the right price. Housing in the area is diverse from upscale luxury on resort property, to quiet county homes, small subdivisions, condos, and trailer property.  Prices for 3 bedroom homes begin around $75,000 inland, and go up.  The closer to the water, or with water access, the higher the prices. 

With the strong influence of the Atlantic, and the nearby Gulf Stream, the climate around Newport and the Crystal Coast is exceedingly mild.  The average annual temperature is 64 degrees.  Freezing temperatures occasionally happen during the pre dawn hours, but quickly warm during the day.  Prolonged freezing temperatures (greater than 3 days) are rare.  Summertime is also influenced by the surrounding waters, with temperatures much cooler than areas 50 miles further inland.  Humidity is high in the summer months making life without air conditioners difficult.  All in all a perfect place to call home