Summer Fun Beyond the Lakeside
At The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, summer is all about sunshine, swimming, s’mores, and time spent together. But when your family’s ready to venture out and explore a little more of Eastern North Carolina, you’re in the perfect spot for fun-filled day trips that are easy, exciting, and totally kid-approved!
From sandy beach days and splashy adventures to hands-on history and sweet local treats, here are the best family-friendly summer escapes just a short drive from your lakeside home base.
Beach Day Bliss: Emerald Isle (35 min drive)
Swim, Play, and Splash the Day Away
When it comes to summer family fun, nothing beats a classic beach day—and Emerald Isle delivers big with miles of soft, white-sand beaches, warm coastal breezes, and calm Atlantic waters perfect for little swimmers and sandy toes. Just 35 minutes from The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, this laid-back beach town on the Crystal Coast is a favorite for families of all ages.
Family Highlights:
The Beach Itself
Emerald Isle’s beach is wide, clean, and wonderfully family-friendly. Set up your umbrella for the day and enjoy swimming, boogie boarding, shell-hunting, and beach games. Public beach access points include:
- Eastern Regional Beach Access – With showers, changing rooms, and picnic shelters
- The Point – A great place for shelling and sunset walks
Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier
Cast a line or just enjoy a walk out over the ocean. The pier offers fishing rentals, snacks, and incredible views—plus it’s a fun photo op for the whole family. Visit Website →
Emerald Isle Woods Park
Need a break from the beach? This quiet park offers shady trails, disc golf, a birding deck, and a kayak/canoe launch into Bogue Sound. It’s a peaceful place for a mid-day picnic or to stretch your legs.
Cool Off with Ice Cream
No beach day is complete without a sweet treat! Two local favorites:
- The Sweet Spot – Candy, fudge, and homemade ice cream—an Emerald Isle classic!
- The Scoop – Delicious hand-dipped and soft serve options just steps from the beach
Souvenir Shopping & Beach Rentals
Head to Beach Wheels Bike & Water Sport Rentals for everything from boogie boards and beach chairs to bikes and kayaks. While you’re in town, check out Emerald Isle Beach Gear or Elly’s Gifts for fun souvenirs to remember your trip.
Bonus: Take a Dolphin Cruise!
Add a little adventure to your day with a dolphin-watching boat tour from nearby Island Water Sports. These family-friendly cruises offer a fun and relaxing way to explore the local waters and spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
Family Tips for the Perfect Beach Day:
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water shoes
- Pack a small cooler with drinks and snacks
- A beach cart or wagon makes it easier to haul your gear
- Don’t forget sandcastle tools and boogie boards!
- Arrive early for the best parking at public access points
After the Beach: Back to The Lakes!
After a full day of surf, sun, and sandy smiles, head back to The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort for a cool dip in the pool, a lakeside sunset walk, or s’mores by your fire pit. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of family adventure!
History Meets Hands-On Fun: New Bern (40 min drive)
A Colonial Adventure with Ice-Cold Pepsi
If your crew loves a little learning mixed with a whole lot of fun, a day trip to New Bern is a must. Just 40 minutes from The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, this charming riverside town is packed with interactive history, kid-friendly attractions, and sweet treats that make it a win for the whole family.
Founded in 1710, New Bern is North Carolina’s second-oldest town—and the birthplace of Pepsi! With cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and loads of walkable attractions, it’s an easy and enriching family outing.
Tryon Palace & Gardens
Step back into the 1700s at this beautifully restored colonial mansion. Kids will love:
- Costumed interpreters acting out daily colonial life
- Hands-on exhibits at the North Carolina History Center
- Seasonal craft stations and scavenger hunts for younger guests
- Stunning formal gardens perfect for strolls and photos
Make sure to check the events calendar—there are often interactive programs, reenactments, or live music on the lawn! Visit Website →
Birthplace of Pepsi Store
Cool down with a fountain Pepsi at the very place where it all began in 1898. The store has:
- Vintage memorabilia and retro signage
- Souvenirs and snacks
- A fun peek into soda pop history
Grab a group selfie outside under the iconic Pepsi sign! More Info →
Bear Statue Hunt
Keep the kids engaged with a little local game—see how many colorful bear statues you can find around town! These artist-painted bears celebrate New Bern’s Swiss heritage (Bern = “bear” in Swiss-German!) and are scattered throughout downtown.
Start at Bear Plaza, then wander the streets to spot bears hiding in front of shops, museums, and parks. (Bonus: It’s totally free fun!)
Union Point Park
This scenic waterfront park is the perfect spot to unwind after touring town. Located at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, it features:
- A playground for little ones to run wild
- Picnic tables and shade trees for snack time
- Walking paths and gorgeous river views
- Feeding ducks by the water (bring some oats or cracked corn!)
Family Dining in New Bern
Looking for a meal with a view? Try:
- Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant – Upscale casual with a kids’ menu and scenic riverfront patio
- Morgan’s Tavern & Grill – Family-friendly with crowd-pleasers like burgers, pasta, and seafood
- Baker’s Kitchen – Famous for homemade cinnamon buns and Southern comfort food
Don’t Miss These Bonus Stops
- Mitchell Hardware – A historic general store with toys, games, and local gifts
- New Bern Firemen’s Museum – A fascinating look at NC’s oldest fire company, complete with old fire trucks and hands-on exhibits
Plan Your New Bern Family Day:
- Start with a morning tour of Tryon Palace
- Cool off at the Pepsi Store
- Bear hunt your way through town
- Have lunch by the river
- Let the kids run and play at Union Point Park
- Head back to The Lakes for an evening swim or s’mores!
Whether you’re raising future history buffs or just want a cute downtown with plenty to do, New Bern is an ideal summer day trip that blends learning, laughter, and family fun.
Coastal Adventures: Morehead City & Atlantic Beach (50 min drive)
Boats, Seafood, and Wild Horses
If your family is up for a day of seaside exploring, salty air, and hands-on history, then a trip to Morehead City and Atlantic Beach is a must. Just about 50 minutes from The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, this coastal combo offers a full day of fun for active families with older kids and curious adventurers.
From Civil War forts and sparkling beaches to dolphin cruises and wild horse sightings, this day trip is anything but boring!
Fort Macon State Park
Kick off your day with a visit to one of North Carolina’s most popular historic landmarks. This restored Civil War-era fort offers:
- Self-guided tours through real stone barracks, powder magazines, and tunnels
- Cannon demonstrations and ranger-led programs (seasonal)
- Breezy hiking trails with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Beaufort Inlet
- An uncrowded oceanfront beach great for swimming and wading (lifeguards on duty during peak season)
Kid Tip: Ask for a Junior Ranger activity sheet at the visitor center!
Wild Horse & Dolphin Tours – Shackleford Banks & Cape Lookout
Book a family-friendly boat tour from Beaufort or Morehead City and set off on an unforgettable adventure to Shackleford Banks, where wild horses roam free across the dunes.
Many tours also include dolphin watching and shell hunting stops at Cape Lookout National Seashore, famous for its black-and-white lighthouse. Island Express Ferry →
Tours to Check Out:
- Island Express Ferry Service
- Lookout Cruises – For dolphin and sailing trips
- Waterbug Tours – Smaller boats great for younger families
Pro Tip: Pack water shoes, binoculars, sunscreen, and plenty of water—it’s a mix of beach day and nature safari!
Atlantic Beach Fun
After your morning adventures, cool off with a swim in the calm, clear waters of Atlantic Beach. This beach is perfect for families:
- Clean restrooms and public beach access points
- Great conditions for snorkeling, shell collecting, and boogie boarding
- Plenty of space for a picnic or sandcastle competition
For a quieter spot, try Circle Regional Beach Access with shaded picnic areas and nearby snack stands.
Lunch with a View: Sanitary Fish Market
Don’t let the name fool you—this iconic Morehead City restaurant has been serving up fresh, local seafood since 1938! It’s right on the water, and the views are as good as the hush puppies.
Kids will love watching boats pull into the harbor as they munch on popcorn shrimp and mac & cheese. Parents—go for the crab cakes or flounder platter! Visit Website →
Bonus Stop: Morehead City Waterfront
If there’s time, take a stroll along the Morehead City boardwalk.
- Browse beachy gift shops and local boutiques
- Grab an ice cream cone from Beaufort Creamery or The Treat Shop
- Watch fishermen unload their catch of the day or book a quick sunset cruise
- Explore More →
Wrap It Up Lakeside
After a full day of waves, history, and wild wonders, head back to The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort. Rinse off the salt, toss your shells in a keepsake jar, and settle around your fire ring for stories and s’mores. That’s what summer is all about!
Easy Outdoor Escapes: Jacksonville (20 min drive)
Kayaks, Parks, and Playground Time
Sometimes the best family outings are simple ones, and Jacksonville delivers. Just 20 minutes from the resort, you’ll find peaceful riverside parks and open green spaces perfect for paddling, playing, and picnicking.
Family Highlights:
- Riverwalk Park & Wilson Bay Park – Walking trails, fishing piers, and picnic spots.
- Kayak Rentals – Paddle along the New River and see local wildlife.
- Lejeune Memorial Gardens – A quiet place to reflect and learn about U.S. military history (great for older kids).
Don’t miss a stop at The Kettle Diner for a classic, kid-friendly lunch—or swing by Duck’s Grille & Bar if the grownups are craving seafood.
Why Families Love Summer at The Lakes
After your day of exploration, you’ll love coming back to the comfort of The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort. Whether you’re relaxing in a shady hammock, roasting marshmallows at your fire ring, or taking a sunset stroll along the Lakeside Trail, the memories just keep coming.
At the resort, families enjoy:
- A shallow-entry pool perfect for little swimmers
- Lakeside fun at Dozer Beach
- Fishing from the shore or boat
- Spacious cabins with full kitchens and room to stretch out
- Bike-friendly paths and nature trails
- Family games, crafts, and weekend activities all summer long!
🌟 Plan Your Summer Adventure Today
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Emerald Isle, sipping a cold Pepsi in New Bern, or splashing in the pool back at the resort, every moment at The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort is a chance to make memories together.
Book your summer stay today and start exploring!
📍 Maysville, NC | 📞 (910) 595-4112 | 🌐 thelakesrvcabinresort.com
Because this summer, life’s better at The Lakes. 🌞🏕️💦
