marykurek's VirtualTourist Home Page

I've lived at Atlantic Beach, NC for more than 15 years and was raised in this area. I work from home as an author/speaker and business coach. I love the beautiful views, calming beach strolls, friendly locals, and uncluttered lifestyle. As a creative type, I find this environment great in balancing a busy, project-filled life. Formerly, I was the Exec. Director of the Chamber of Commerce for an adjacent town, and I know the area business community. Situated minutes from the world's largest Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point, this community invites a diverse mix of young families, retirees, and "beach bums." I include myself in the latter. Quaint outdoor eateries and bars like the "Shark Shack," "Beach Tavern" and "Monkey Bar" dot the area amid the finer dining spots of "Island Grille," "The Watermark," and "Amos Mosquitos." Almost nowhere would you be unwelcome in flip flops and shorts. Housing ranges from old 50s beach cottages to magnificent homes in beautiful neighborhoods. The beaches are clean with plenty of room to spread out, crime is low, and while the town is growing and changing a bit with its offerings, it is still uncommercial to a large degree. You'll find a country club here, historic and tourist attraction within a 15 minute drive, as well as a golf course on the island. Boating and fishing are still main attractions, and live music and events all summer make for a wonderful location whether visiting or living. I live right on the main drag -- Fort Macon Road -- and love having a side walk right out front to walk or bike. A short 5 minute walk and I'm on the beach. I enjoy watching the ships pull into port just "across the pond" in Morehead City, and when the lights from the mainland come on at night, it is breathtaking. I'm blessed to live here -- any true beach bum would know right away what makes Atlantic Beach the best place to live.

I love hanging out at the great restaurants at Atlantic Beach. In my book, they should have excellent fresh food, wonderful wine selection, attentive and witty bar tender and an open and friendly environment. My husband and I spend a lot of time at local spots chatting with friends and making new friends who are either visiting Atlantic Beach and are making it their second home. In deed, it is fast becoming home away from home for people from Raleigh, Kinston, and Wilson. Raleigh is only about 2 1/2 hours away. Kinston is an hour and Wilson about 1 hour and 45 mins. The hangouts we frequent are Island Grille for a great bar atmosphere and delicious and inventive food. What the chef can do with a fresh tuna is amazing. Ask him (Mike) to come out if you can think of something you'd like to have -- he'll play with you if he can. Their signature steak dish is to die for, and don't miss Mike's crab bisque. Laid back atmosphere in small setting within walking distance of the ocean. Two for one night every Monday and Tuesday brings in tons of people. Amos Mosquitos attracts more of a family clientele, but their Karaoke night on Thursdays rocks the house. Great crab cakes and encrusted trigger fish. Bartenders are cool and owners Sandy and Hallock are terrific. Tell them I sent you. Monkey Bar is just fun -- what can I say. Love this sign behind the bar: "Don't make me get my flying monkeys." Emily Procter of CSI Miami fame owns a place in on the island and was spotted in June 07 by a friend here. Just a fun local hangout --open early -- serves good diner fare. The Watermark has moved a few doors down from its location a couple of years ago -- but still in Atlantic Station. Nice long bar -- specialty is steak but they have some giant shrimp that I adore. They have the capacity to open up a side area for some great live bands they bring in on weekends. Check it out. Beach Tavern has been around longer than any establishment I think -- a local fave -- mostly a sports bar, but they serve a mean burger. Pool and occasional karaoke. Crab's Claw has probably got the best view around. Located right at the circle or main beach -- their window view pulls you right into the ocean. Not a huge bar, but good eats. Love doing lunch there. On the causeway, McCurdy's is fairly new, and while I've not eaten a whole meal there, myself, I hear it is quite good. I do love sitting on their deck sipping wine -- fabulous sunsets. Good service, too. Channel Marker is situated right at the base of the bridge as you are coming into the beach and has a magnificent deck overlooking the sound. I enjoy the bar; and locals night at these last two places is popular. If you come to the beach -- give these all a try and see what you think. Ask around for me -- I may be sitting right across from you at the bar.