Swansboro One of Coolest Towns in America

"Hammocks Beach is the crown jewel of Swansboro, a one-time shipbuilding hub that’s comfortably transitioned into a historic destination with North Carolina’s most under-appreciated beaches. Hammock Beach is home to Bear Island, a stretch of completely unspoiled, white powder sand beach that’s only accessible via passenger ferry from the park. Even on a summer weekend, it’s not unusual to be one of the only people sunning under the towering dunes along the shore."

"But the beach isn’t the only thing that makes Swansboro so cool. The meticulously preserved downtown has buildings that date back over 100 years.  Your first stop should be Bake Bottle and Brew, where you can try beers from all over the state, then counteract the effects with local coffee. It’s also one of those snarky souvenir stores where you’ll find yourself inexplicably buying mermaid potholders you never knew you needed."

"Swansboro’s historic downtown has no shortage of places to get a meal on the water, either. You can scarf fresh seafood at Saltwater Grill, which offers an elevated perspective and the city’s best burger, or enjoy any of the cafes along Front Street. Just don’t be surprised if you see an MV-22 Osprey aircraft motoring in for a landing during your lunch."