PINE KNOLL SHORES • NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM • DINNER:

This morning we begin our vacation to North Carolina's Crystal Coast. Located just south of the Outer Banks, the Crystal Coast is an 85-mile stretch of coastline known for its untamed beauty. We have opportunities to explore the pristine beaches, see the wild horses and even hunt for shells. When we arrive in Pine Knoll Shores, we visit the aquarium where thousands of aquatic animals take us on a journey from the state's grand peaks to the open Atlantic. We enjoy a delicious included dinner before checking into our oceanfront hotel for a three nights stay. (D)

FORT MACON • BEAUFORT • MARITIME MUSEUM • WILD HORSE & DOLPHIN CRUISE • DINNER:

Enjoy a leisure morning before we visit Fort Macon State Park. The fort, once a project of Robert E. Lee as a young army engineer, has a unique & intricate history. Next we have time to explore the many shops in Beaufort and grab lunch before visiting the North Carolina Maritime Museum and Harvey Smith Watercraft Center. Both highlight Beaufort's maritime history and the art of traditional boat building. As we cruise across the calm, sun-kissed waters, we discover the natural beauty of Beaufort and the surrounding area. Our captain will help us look for the wild horses on the Rachel Carson Reserve, where the horses roam freely in their natural environment. Be on the lookout for the playful, intelligent bottlenose dolphins as they swim through the scenic waterways! Dinner is included tonight at one of the local restaurants before returning to the hotel. (D)

HARKERS ISLAND FERRY • CAPE LOOKOUT LIGHTHOUSE • FREE TIME AT THE BEACH • DINNER:

This morning we travel to Harkers Island where we board a ferry and sail over to Cape Lookout. Upon arrival you can take the boardwalk to see Cape Lookout Lighthouse and keeper's quarters. You will have time to explore the shoreline which is a great place for shell seekers. This afternoon you will have free time to rest or grab some sunshine on the beach. Tonight we enjoy another delicious dinner together. (D)

RELAX AT BEACH • AIRBORNE & SPECIAL OPS MUSEUM • HOME:

Take time to walk on the beach before we head home. As we make our way west, we stop in Fayetteville at the Airborne and Special Ops Museum. From the early days of parachute testing to our current war on terror, the museum recognizes the legendary feats and recounts the actions of heroic soldiers who defend our nation's interests.