This Tiny Town Is The Oldest In North Carolina—And It Has Amazing Waterfront Views

Make no mistake: Bath, North Carolina, is a small town. Its population hovers just below the mid-200s, and there’s not a lot going on in the tourism sector. That said, don’t overlook this waterfront destination just yet. If you’re exploring the neighboring "Inner Banks" town of Washington, save a spot in your vacation itinerary for a half-day trip to Bath.

Established in 1705, Bath is known as the oldest town in the Tar Heel State—its history is prominent—and its views overlooking Bath Creek and the Pamlico River are second to none. It’s even said to have once been home to the English pirate known as Blackbeard.

Here are some of the best things to do, see, and eat in Bath, North Carolina.

What to Do

Step Back In Bath History

Bath’s largest claim to fame is its history, and visitors can immerse themselves in the past at Bath State Historic Site, an area that includes three homes from the 18th and 19th centuries (the Palmer-Marsh House, the Van Der Veer House, and the Bonner House), an exhibit center, and a mile-long walking tour. This is also the best place to get your fill of Blackbeard education and lore. St. Thomas Episcopal Church, which dates back to 1734, is not technically part of the site, but it’s close by and can be toured as well. It’s also the oldest still-standing church in North Carolina.

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historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/historic-bath; 100 Harding St, Bath, NC 27808

Walk Along the Waterfront

While you’re exploring Historic Bath, you’ll also get to enjoy the incredible scenery that comes along with Bath’s position along the water. For charming nautical imagery, head to the Bath Harbor Marina. For a peaceful moment overlooking the river, perhaps while reading a good book, make your way to Bonner's Point.

bathharbornc.com; 101 Carteret St, Bath, NC 27808

historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/historic-bath/history/bonner-house; 200-216 Front St, Bath, NC 27808

Visit Goose Creek State Park

Goose Creek State Park is technically located in Washington, but it’s just a 13-minute drive from the Bath riverfront. Locals and visitors alike venture to the park for its various outdoor amenities and activities, including 8.5 miles of hiking trails, paddling, swimming, and fishing. There’s even a long boardwalk that takes you through the cypress swamp.

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ncparks.gov/state-parks/goose-creek-state-park; 2190 Camp Leach Road, Washington, NC 27889; 252-923-2191

Where to Eat and Drink

Meet for an Old-School Breakfast

It’s tough to beat home-cooked, diner-style food, which is why Old Town Country Kitchen maintains its status as a favorite in Bath. Open at 7 a.m. every day, the restaurant serves up all the breakfast classics: a two-egg plate, omelettes, pancakes, biscuits, and breakfast sandwiches. As the day transitions into lunch and dinner, go for the shrimp burger or country fried steak ‘n gravy.

436 Carteret St, Bath, NC 27808

Enjoy a Pizza Lunch

Like many coastal Carolina towns, Bath touts its significance to Blackbeard, as evidenced by the local watering hole and casual restaurant, Blackbeard’s Tavern. While visitors shouldn’t come expecting fine dining, they should arrive hungry and ready to tuck into a hearty meat-lovers or buffalo chicken pizza.

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facebook.com/p/Blackbeards-Tavern-100063482859629; 101 N Main St, Bath, NC 27808

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Billed as a “one-stop shop for a day on the water,” Quarterdeck is the type of place you swing by for snacks, ice cream, fuel, beer, bait, and souvenirs. After touring around town—or hiking in Goose Creek State Park—a soft serve cone or milkshake should hit the spot.

facebook.com/bathquarterdeck; 503 Carteret St Bath, NC 27808

Where to Stay

Book a Quaint B&B

If you decide to stay the night in Bath, the options are limited but comfortable. The Inn on Bath Creek has four guest rooms and sits right on Bath’s historic Main Street; the bed-and-breakfast’s location doesn’t get any better. Each morning, overnight guests are treated to a three-course breakfast featuring fruit, yogurt, Irish soda bread, and more.

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innonbathcreek.com; 116 S. Main Street Bath, NC 27808

Wake Up to Water Views

The main focal point at the family-run Bath Harbor Marina & Motel? The view over Bath Creek. Each of the four queen rooms, complete with a kitchenette, has access to the back porch, where you can sit back, relax, and take in the peaceful sight. The marina also offers pontoon boat rentals and wakeboard charters if you want to get out on the water as well.

bathharbornc.com; 101 Carteret St, Bath, NC 27808

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