Rocky Mount - all beaches

This was my inaugural visit to the Atlantic Ocean, and I must say, it is a truly stunning location. However, I wasn't particularly fond of the pay-to-park system, but I understand that's just how things are.

This charming public beach exudes a serene, secluded atmosphere. The gentle waves are noticeably more tranquil than those at VB, making it a delightful spot for observing boats and collecting shells. Perhaps it's pure serendipity, but I have never failed to spot a group of playful dolphins during each of my visits.

This beach park offers a sheltered picnic area and public restrooms for visitors to enjoy. Although it can become crowded during tourist season, the beach is vast enough to wander for miles in search of the perfect spot to soak up the sun and have fun. You may even spot small crabs scurrying about or catch a glimpse of a dolphin swimming in the distance. However, during the summer months, small jellyfish may wash up on shore, which is a common occurrence in many coastal areas. Unfortunately, algal blooms can occur under certain conditions, posing a danger to wildlife. Nevertheless, these blooms can create a breathtaking display of bioluminescent waves that are truly a sight to behold, especially at night.

This military-exclusive campground is top-notch, boasting full hookups and a convenient location within walking distance to the beach. Although the campground itself doesn't offer ocean views, our site overlooked a serene canal that was perfect for fishing. While we didn't have our gear with us, we couldn't help but wonder if there were blue crabs lurking in its depths. The price point falls in the mid-range for military campgrounds, but the amenities are well worth it. The restrooms and showers were immaculate, and although a key card was required for entry, the lock on the men's room was broken. Laundry facilities were available on site, but we were disappointed to find that the MC Exchange store was closed during our stay. We had to venture out to the MCX gas station market, which was a bit of a drive, to stock up on ice. Despite this, we thoroughly enjoyed our time here. We fondly remembered renting one of their old mobile homes on the beach fifteen years ago, but were pleased to see that they had been replaced with charming, two-story cabins. It's worth noting that there is some noise from aircraft and landing craft, but that's par for the course in this military-centric area.

We had an amazing time at the beach and would have loved to extend our stay.

The Surf City Ocean Pier offers a stunning lookout that I highly recommend checking out if you're visiting Surf City. The spectator fee is only $1, and you'll be able to witness skilled fishermen and women casting out. You can even join in on the fun and fish from the pier with their available supplies. Whether you're looking to spend the day fishing or just taking in the beautiful view, this is definitely worth a stop. Have a great trip! ☀️🌅😎