(NAPSA)—For vacationers seeking an escape from the ordinary, an authentic and undiscovered “coastal experience” can be a memorable way to arrive at the extraordinary. The Crystal Coast, North Carolina’s Southern Outer Banks, fea- tures water of crystalline purity bordering sandy, sparkling beaches wherevisitors can learn of an eccentric history steeped in legendary tales of swashbuckling pirate adventures and ghostly encounters. Those looking to escape can find affordable weekly rates for oceanfront homes, condominiums and hotels. Relaxation seekers find the freedom to walk for miles on the beach without passing another soul; however, there is an array of activities for those looking for adventure. Landlubbers can board an authentic English double-decker tour bus and see Beaufort, which Blackbeard thepirate once called home and which, in more recent years, has served as the backdrop to many of Nicholas Sparks’ best-selling novels. Setting sail on one of many area boats, explorers visit Shackleford Banks, where wild ponies run free, or venture to the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, both located along the 56 miles of pristine sands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Dangling like a delicate strand of pearls off the coast of North Carolina, the favored Atlantic beach destination of generations represents one of the only remaining natural barrier island systems in the world. The islands are strung together with 85 miles of A unique “coastal experience” in North Carolina can be a memorable way to relax and explore nature’s wonders. silken coastline along the South- ern Outer Banks, 56 miles of which are protected within the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Miles of shimmering water reflect countless tiny suns during the day and shatter the moon into a thousand pieces at night. Lush maritimeforests edge the silken coast like emerald jewels studding a royal crown. The barrier islands take a curious southward curve, blessing the Crystal Coast with beaches that course east and west, making it possible to admire the dazzlingly bright sunrise to greet the day and then slip into the shimmering translucent blue waters in the evening during a spectacular North Car- olina sunset. For more information, visit www.crystalcoastne.org.
