The Beach

From Atlantic Beach, the oldest of the five beach towns that dot Bogue Banks, to Emerald Isle, the largest, visitors find mile after mile of sun, sand and surf. The collection of communities feature a variety of accommodations, restaurants and shopping. The area, while limited in full-time population, swells each summer as second home owners and vacationers make the trek to the shore.

SEASIDE CINEMA: Take in a family-friendly film while enjoying the sea breeze at Atlantic Beach Town Park, 915 W. Fort Macon Road. Each summer the town offers a weekly movie on a large outdoor screen. Movies begin at dusk – about 8:30pm. Lawn chairs, blankets and other comfort items are welcome. Best of all? It’s always free! Scheduled movies include: JULY 2 – FINDING NEMO JULY 9 – JURASSIC PARK JULY 16 – TOM & JERRY JULY 23 – A BUG’S LIFE JULY 30 – RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON AUG. 6 – ONWARD

PADDLE TIME:Explore the ecology and scenic beauty that makes up Bogue Sound with the N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores this summer. Paddle trips are planned each Wednesday morning and Saturday evening through August. Appropriate for age 8 and up, the expedition with aquarium staff is a great introduction to the nature that surrounds us on the Crystal Coast. Cost is $25 and canoes and kayaks are provided. Learn more at www.ncaquariums.com or call 252-247-4003.

EVENING GUN: Hear the boom each Wednesday as volunteers from the nearby U.S. Coast Guard Station demonstrate the firing of a 19th century cannon at Fort Macon State Park. Gather in the fort to catch this 4pm weekly demonstration. RUNNING IN THE SAND: July 13 & 27 and Aug. 10 are the the final runs of this year’s popular Beach Run series. Organized by the county’s parks and recreation department, the evening events feature a 1-mile, 5K and 10K options for all skill levels. These family-friendly runs cost $7 per race and on-site registration begins at 5:15pm or online at ccpr.recdesk. com. Races begin at 6:30.