Great Beaches Near John & Lucille's

Crystal Coast - Mild weather year round - Golfing - Kayaking - Shopping - Festivals!

Emerald Isle is one of the most beautiful beaches along the east coast of the United States and 8 miles from the John & Lucille's Country Retreat. It offers visitors a peaceful, family atmosphere and stunning white sandy shores; the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the sound/ intra-coastal waterway on the other. There are activities for all ages and interest along with fantastic restaurants and shops. The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is known for the clear, clean, unspoiled beaches, abundance of wildlife and friendly people. The Cameron Langston Bridge on Highway 58 crosses over Bogue sound to the island. The view of the sound from the bridge is spectacular year round.

The Western Beach access is about 10 minutes from John & Lucille's. It has great parking, bathrooms, covered area and wooden walkways to the beach. There is also an outside shower to wash off near the boardwalk. Tip: To get a parking space arrive early because this is a popular spot for visitors and locals as well.

John & Lucille’s Country Retreat is nestled on 50 acres tucked in the farm lands of Stella, only 8 miles and one stop light from the beaches of Emerald Isle. Whether a romantic getaway, a reunion of family and friends, an anniversary, or for out of town wedding guests, I invited you to experience the luxury of a unique vacation farm rental that is beautiful adorned and accommodates up to 8 people. Spend the day on the beach or stroll among the shops and museums of historic Swansboro, Beaufort, New Bern, and Morehead City. The Crystal Coast is an ideal location for fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking and golf. John & Lucille’s Country Retreat is in the center of everything that southeastern North Carolina and the Crystal Coast has to offer.

Enjoy the Crystal Coast any season of the year!

Come stay at John & Lucille's and enjoy all the coast of North Carolina has to Offer!

For reservations and information : stella@ec.rr.com

Croatan National Forest Recreation Area

The Perfect Spot - Kayaking, Boating, Hiking

The Croatan National Forest at Cedar point is located on VFW Road off Highway 58 going toward Emerald Isle, North Carolina. There is a boat ramp, nature trail, parking, picnic area and bathrooms.

John & Lucille's Country Retreat is only 10 minutes from the Cedar point Boat ramp and the National Forest. Visit http://www.stellacountryretreat.com/ for information on renting the farmhouse.

Tideland Nature Trail

The nature trails wind through the woods, across wooden walkways, and down to the White Oak river. You can get a beautiful view of the river and the marshlands.

The paths are gravel, making it a great place to jog or casually stroll. You can take a short or long walk. The paths circle around and bring you back to main path or can enjoy all the twist and turns of this nature trail. Wonderful for children and adults.

Boat Ramp
It is a great spot to launch a kayak and paddle out to Jones Island, across the White Oak River and under the Swansboro Bridge, and then up the intra-coastal Waterway. There are lots of sandy beaches to pull up and have lunch. At low tide it can be difficult for boats. Check the tide schedule before coming. Otherwise, it is a great boat ramp.

Picnic Area, Parking, & Bathrooms

There is a grassy area with picnic tables, grills and lots of shade. There is plenty of parking for cars and larger parking spaces for those pulling boats. The bathrooms are always clean. It is a perfect place to bring children for a picnic and hike the nature trail.