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78 maconmagazine.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 CATCH AND RELEASE YOUR INNER PIRATE Summer may be prime time in Onslow County for reading romance novels and building sandcastles, but fall is officially adventure season. Release your inner pirate to discover hidden gems and secret treasures. Enjoy the beaches, the bounty, and the bold spirit of adventure in North Carolina's diverse coastal region. You can always take a classic walk on any of the beautiful beaches to find shells, but locals will dare you to book an adrenaline-rushing adventure with Marsh Cruises. Step aboard a 22-foot skiff bound for Bear Island to find the mother lode of marine treasures. Hold on and boldly go on a private charter expertly navigated by Captain Darryl Marsh, who knows every twist and turn of the tricky treasure map like the back of his hand. Getting there is half the fun! Bring your binoculars and cruise along the coastline where 200 species of birds reside and dolphins play along the way to Bear Island, a natural wonder of Hammocks Beach State Park. This undeveloped island is only three miles long but takes visitors a million miles away with its unspoiled beaches and native flora and fauna. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on this deserted island oasis. Search for sand dollars and discover shark's teeth. Trips can range from shelling and eco-adventures to peaceful nighttime stargazing. Visit marshescruises.com to book a private dog-friendly charter. Prices start at $175. Expert Tip: Hammocks Beach State Park's crown jewel, Bear Island, is one of Travel + Leisure's Top 10 North Carolina Beaches, accessible only by water and just a passenger ferry or private boat ride away. Relish the "back to nature" vibe of this island that is free of cars and houses. For more information about Hammocks Beach State Park, call 910-326-4881 or visitncparks.gov/hammocks-beach-state-park. BLACKBEARD'S NOTORIOUS SWAN SONG Speaking of pirates, the North Carolina coast is often referred to as the Graveyard of the Atlantic. The shallow waters, hidden sandbars, and narrow inlets have caused many shipwrecks. Listen to legendary pirate tales of the notorious Blackbeard, who was known to hang out around Bear Island near Swansboro. Fresh seafood, a clambake, or an authentic low country boil make more family-style memories in Swansboro. Whether you are on a chartered excursion or just enjoying the outdoor seating in a waterfront café overlooking the beautiful White River, you will not forget this experience. In addition to its over 40 shops, boutiques, and restaurants, Swansboro is also the access point for amazing water recreation and outdoor adventure. Cruise the waterways around one of the oldest ports in North Carolina. Hear of pirates and privateers, haunted houses, abandoned forts, and forgotten cemeteries where the residents keep turning up. Baylus Brooks will present the Quest for Blackbeard at the Swansboro Historical Association's November meeting on Nov. 11.