Beaufort is one of the oldest towns in North Carolina and arguably its most charming. With a waterfront boardwalk overlooking Taylor Creek, wild horses visible from the dock, and a historic district filled with centuries-old homes and live oaks, Beaufort offers a coastal experience steeped in maritime heritage and Southern grace.
Why Beaufort for Your Second Home
Beaufort is for the buyer who values character over commercialism. This is not a beach party town — it is a sophisticated, historically rich community that rewards slow living and exploration. The town's small size means a tight-knit community where you will quickly become a regular at the coffee shop and the waterfront restaurants. The proximity to Cape Lookout National Seashore — one of the most beautiful and undeveloped stretches of coastline in the eastern U.S. — gives Beaufort a natural asset that cannot be replicated. Real estate here includes beautifully restored historic homes, waterfront properties, and newer construction in surrounding communities. The market is more accessible than many coastal destinations, and the town's growing reputation is bringing increased attention and investment.
Maritime Heritage & Slow Living
Living in Beaufort means being connected to the water in a fundamental way. The waterfront boardwalk is the heart of town, where you can watch wild horses on Carrot Island, see dolphins in the channel, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood on the coast. The North Carolina Maritime Museum, right on the waterfront, is a world-class institution that tells the story of this region's deep connection to the sea. Boating and fishing are central to the lifestyle, with easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway, Cape Lookout, and the offshore Gulf Stream fishing grounds. The historic district is walkable and endlessly interesting, with homes dating to the 1700s alongside small galleries, shops, and restaurants. Beaufort's annual events — from the Old Homes Tour to the Wooden Boat Show — reflect the community's pride in its heritage.
Finding Your Home
The Historic District is the most desirable address, with restored homes on tree-lined streets steps from the waterfront. Taylors Creek and Front Street properties offer direct water views and access. Outside the historic core, communities like Olde Beaufort Village and Gibbs Landing offer newer construction with marina access. On the edges of town, the Town Creek area to the west and Lennoxville Point to the east provide more space and water access at accessible price points.
Plan Your Visit
See our guide to things to do on the NC coast.