Summer may get most of the attention, but fall is one of the best times to visit Atlantic Beach and the Crystal Coast. The beaches are a little quieter, the temperatures are comfortable, and the calendar fills with festivals, fishing tournaments and plenty of reasons to spend time outside.
If you’re planning a fall getaway, here are a few events to put on your calendar.
Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament
September 26, 2026 | Emerald Isle
Kick off the season with the Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament, a day of friendly competition celebrating one of the Crystal Coast’s favorite fall pastimes. Anglers can compete in King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel and Surf divisions, with weigh-ins and awards rounding out the day.
Learn more about the Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament
North Carolina Seafood Festival
October 2–4, 2026 | Morehead City
Just across the bridge from Atlantic Beach, the North Carolina Seafood Festival takes over the Morehead City waterfront for three days of seafood, live entertainment and family fun. The festival celebrates North Carolina’s commercial fishing heritage with fresh seafood, music, amusement rides and special events.
Learn more about the North Carolina Seafood Festival
Atlantic Beach King Mackerel Fishing Tournament
October 10–31, 2026 | Atlantic Beach
Fall fishing takes center stage during the Atlantic Beach King Mackerel Fishing Tournament. With multiple fishing dates, anglers have plenty of opportunities to land a winning king while enjoying some of the best fishing of the season.
Learn more about the Atlantic Beach King Mackerel Fishing Tournament
Carolina Kite Festival
October 24–25, 2026 | Atlantic Beach
You don’t have to fish to enjoy a beautiful fall weekend on the coast. The Carolina Kite Festival fills the sky near Fort Macon with colorful kites, impressive demonstrations and giant show kites. Bring your own kite or simply find a spot on the beach and enjoy the view.
Learn more about the Carolina Kite Festival
Make Fall Your Time at the Beach
Between fishing tournaments, waterfront festivals and beautiful days on the beach, fall offers a different way to experience the Crystal Coast. Come for an event, stay for the weekend and leave a little extra time to enjoy Atlantic Beach at a slower pace.
Ready for a fall getaway? Find your Atlantic Beach vacation rental and make the Crystal Coast your home base for all the fun.
