Positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil waters of Pamlico Sound, North Carolina‘s Southern Outer Banks provides a unique and dramatic backdrop for a cycling tour. Embark on a journey through sparkling sandy beaches and charming fishing villages, indulging in delectable seafood and soaking in the serene ambiance of this coastal paradise. With two nights in Ocracoke Village, known as “the Pearl” of the Outer Banks, you’ll have ample time to explore its quaint streets and vibrant culture.
…‘Company’ is misleading: this is a personal experience…Count on excellent routing, craft-quality laminated and color-coded cue sheets, a daily pre-ride briefing, convenient and dependable sag support, and smaller, friendly groups. The clinchers for me, though, were the gourmet meals and the accommodations at small inns…I’ve been on 3 different trips with them now, and all cycling agendas have been represented and handled on each trip.
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Trip Overview
Price
Early bird discount: $2325 per person
Full price: $2425 per person
Bicycle rental : $100
Single room supplement: $500
Upcoming tour dates & status
- 5/5/24 -5/9/24
- 5/12/24 – 5/16/24
Check back soon for 2025 dates.
Meeting/Departure Point
Nearest Airport
EWN Coastal Carolina Regional Airport
Duration
5 days, 4 nights
Tour difficulty
Flat terrain
Included
- Lodging:
4 nights at boutique inns and lakefront resorts. - Meals:
Dinner on nights 1, 2 & 3; all lunches except 1; all breakfasts; snacks; and hors d’oeuvres most nights. - Full Route Support & Luggage Transfer:
Service of 1 – 2 support vans on route every day. - Complimentary Airport Transfer from Albany or Saratoga Springs:
Carolina Tailwinds picks up EARLY on the morning of Day 1 in the Raleigh area and mid-day in the New Bern area. Carolina Tailwinds drops off in the late afternoon in the New Bern area and in the early evening on Day 5 at the Raleigh Durham Airport area or airport inn locations to and from our tour start in Beaufort, NC. Timing formally coordinated 2 weeks prior to the tour date.
Group Size
Carolina Tailwinds maintains a guest to guide maximum ratio of 7:1 on all our tours
About your guide
Expert guides ready to show you the hidden wonders of each and every destination
What You’ll See & Do
Day 1
25–40 miles, flat terrain
We meet in Beaufort, North Carolina’s third oldest town. Arrive early to explore the marina boardwalk and historic downtown on foot. After custom fitting your bike in the early afternoon, we’ll lead you on a pedaling tour of Beaufort’s waterfront and historic sites, including the Old Burying Ground. We will gather prior to dinner for wine and cheese on the waterfront at our hotel, overlooking the marina and nearby barrier islands. Our restaurant for the evening is the wonderful 34 North, featuring fresh locally caught seafood and farm to table vegetables.
Day 2
20–42 miles, flat terrain
Today we explore the barrier island of Bogue Banks. Home to summer vacation communities of Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Salter Path and others, this island has long been the happy place for families from near and far. Most of the island has a detached, paved bike path, so it is perfect for riding on two wheels. One highlight is the perfectly preserved Civil War era Fort Macon. Now a state park, it stands at the dramatic Beaufort Inlet on the Atlantic Ocean. We’ll also enjoy fresh local seafood overlooking the ocean at lunch.
Day 3
25–40 miles, flat terrain
After breakfast, a brief van shuttle takes us to Harkers Island. Our bike route takes us through the breathtaking salt marsh expanse of the Cedar Island Wildlife Refuge and past tiny coastal fishing communities to the first ferry of the tour. This 2 hour trip transports us across sparkling Pamlico Sound, providing time to enjoy a delicious catered lunch. We land in the quirky fishing village of Ocracoke with time to explore the village on bike and walk the sandy side streets, shop artists’ shops which line the village roads, or relax by the heated pool at the inn. Later, we’ll recap the day’s adventures over wine and cheese on the rooftop widow’s walk at the Castle, prior to walking to our favorite Ocracoke restaurant, for another gourmet dinner.
Day 4
25–40 miles, flat terrain
Multiple activities will keep you on the move today. Enjoy an early beach walk before breakfast, or sleep in as you see fit. After a spectacular breakfast at the Castle on Silver Lake, we take a guided kayak tour on beautiful Silver Lake Harbor and nearby creeks on the island. Later, you’ll have time to bike to the north end of Ocracoke Island and back, paying a visit to the wild ponies of Ocracoke Island along the way. The evening is yours to enjoy at any of the numerous restaurants on your own, including Howard’s Pub, boasting great food, over 200 beers, and the island’s only raw bar.
Day 5
25–40 miles, flat terrain
We catch the early ferry, and enjoy a delicious breakfast onboard as we slip by bird-covered sandbars and formations of brown pelicans. After landing on Cedar Island, we cycle along the sparkling waters of the Core Sound prior to returning to Beaufort. We enjoy one last catered lunch together on the porch of the Beaufort Hotel. Showers are available prior to saying farewell to your new friends.
What’s Included in Your Tour Price?
Tour prices are per person rates and include all of the following:
- Lodging costs (double occupancy rooms), including all taxes and fees
- All breakfasts and most lunches
- All dinners described in the tour itinerary (alcoholic beverages in restaurants are generally not included)
- Morning and afternoon snacks
- Route planning and detailed laminated cue cards daily
- Guide support along the route
- Van support along the route
- Luggage transfer
- Fees for all ferries, tolls for all highways and any park entrance or guided tour fees where noted
- Transportation back to starting point
- Costs for any special activities such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing or rafting where noted
- Carolina Tailwinds t-shirt or day bag, water bottles, complimentary digital photo files from your tour
- Gratuities for restaurants at included meals and gratuities for housekeepers at included lodging
Please note:
All lodging costs are based on double occupancy. The single room surcharge rates apply to single room occupants.
Single travelers who desire a roommate match will be paired with other tour guests of the same gender in a room with two beds, if available. If a match can’t be found for a single traveler, a single occupancy surcharge will be assessed. To find out if a roommate match is available, call us. We will be happy to put you on a waitlist for a match if one is not already available.
Single travelers may request a private room, subject to availability, and to the single room surcharge rate payable in full at the time of the reservation.
Transportation to the tour starting point, including airfare and any airport transfers, is not included in the tour price. We can assist you with making any airport transportation arrangements or advise you on the nearest and most convenient airport.
Alcoholic beverages at restaurants are not generally included . A separate beverage tab may be run for anyone who would like a drink with dinner. Settling this tab will be the responsibility of the individual participants.
Bicycle rental is available as an option (prices above). We have road touring bikes and hybrid bikes for your use and invite you to forego the hassle of transporting your bike to and from the starting point. Click here for more information on the equipment available for your use.
Want to know more about our policies, terms and conditions? Click here to review our deposit requirements, cancellation policy and more.
We will be happy to address any additional concerns or questions you may have.
Simply email us at our Contact Us page, or call us at 1-888-251-3206 (local number is 336.794.1054). Ready to make your reservation? Click here to reserve a spot online, or call us at 1-888-251-3206 (local number is 336.794.1054).
Travel Insurance: We strongly encourage you to consider travel insurance. You may research and compare competing travel insurance policies at websites such as www.squaremouth.com.
Where You’ll Be Staying
Night 1 & 2
Beaufort Hotel, Beaufort, NC. The resort-style hotel is minutes to Beaufort’s historic district, Crystal Coast beaches, Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Shackleford Banks, and the Rachel Carson Reserve. Fitness center, pool, and onsite restaurant and bar are among the many amenities. Rooms have refined coastal décor and luxurious bathrooms.
Nights 3 & 4
The Castle on Silver Lake, Ocracoke, NC. You will not want to leave the island hospitality provided by this beautifully restored bed and breakfast! Relax with friends by the private heated pool, on the widow’s walk, or in the parlor complete with billiards table.
Get Prepared!
Cycling
Bring your own bike, or rent one of our high quality bikes. You can read more about our rental fleet here: Our Bicycles | Carolina Tailwinds
Designed for flexibility, our routes offer up to 25 – 40+ miles each day (at your option). Less ambitious cyclists take advantage of short cuts and “leapfrog” van shuttles along the route to tailor the route to their needs. Because the route distance options are so flexible, this is one of the best tours for bicycling companions of differing riding styles.
The terrain is flat, making it accessible to all ability levels. Strong coastal winds sometimes present a minor challenge, but they are just as likely to propel us along our route! Several ferry rides are scattered throughout this tour, allowing pleasant opportunities to relax. Along the way, observe coastal wetlands as you bike through the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge and charming undeveloped Ocracoke Island.
Tour Point of Origin
Beaufort, NC
Getting to the Tour Start (Beaufort, NC):
Driving: Approximate travel distance to Beaufort–
- Wilmington, NC: 104 miles
- Raleigh- Durham, NC: 171 miles
- Richmond, VA: 254 miles
- Atlanta, GA: 505 miles
- Charlotte, NC: 319 miles
- Cincinnati, OH: 672 miles
- Washington, DC: 364 miles
Airports:
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern, NC is approximately 40 minutes away. American Airlines provides 6-8 daily flights from Charlotte. AA reservations: 800-433-7300.
Delta Airways flies twice daily between Craven Regional and Atlanta. 888-736-3738.
Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, NC is approximately 1 hour’s drive away. American Airlines provides 3-5 daily flights from Charlotte. Delta Connection connects daily to Atlanta.
Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) is approximately 3-1/2 hours away. It is served by most major airlines.
Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is approximately 2 hours away. Service provided by US Airways and Delta.
Ground Transit:
Rental cars are available at the Jacksonville, Raleigh-Durham, & Wilmington, NC airports. A complimentary Carolina Tailwinds shuttle will be available to and from the Raleigh-Durham airport at a designated time on the morning of Day 1 and on Day 5 after the tour concludes.
Parking: We have arranged for complimentary long term parking for the duration of your tour. We will end the tour at the same inn with an opportunity to shower there prior to departure.
Arrival/Departure Timing
Try to arrive no later than 2:00 p.m., or 1:30 if you are renting a bike from us. That means an EARLY morning or day prior arrival at RDU, and a morning or noon arrival at EWN. Departure time from Beaufort on the last day is between 2 – 3 p.m. and return flights should be no earlier than 5 p.m. from EWN and 8 p.m. that evening from RDU.
Extend Your Vacation
After our activity packed tour, you may want to relax for a few days. Perhaps in the historic district of Wilmington. Or continue your visit to the coast by driving up to Manteo and Kitty Hawk. There is plenty to see and do in eastern North Carolina. We’ll be happy to make suggestions for you and help with arrangements.
The New Bern Area: There is a lot to do in and around New Bern if you have time. Tryon Palace, the meticulously reconstructed and furnished colonial era capital and governors mansion provides a fascinating look back in time through guided tours. Admission to several nearby historic homes are included with admission to the Palace, as is admission to the 1809 New Bern Academy, which now houses exhibits about the history of New Bern.
Aviation buffs will want to visit the Havelock Tourist & Event Center, which houses Marine Corps aviation exhibits. Havelock, a 20 drive from New Bern, is home to Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station, and the 2nd Marine Air Wing.
Shoppers will enjoy downtown New Bern’s many and diverse shops in a walkable, pleasant environment.
Rental Bikes for Your Tour
Our Selection
Women’s Road Bike ⇒
⇐ Men’s Road Bike
Hybrid Bike Small ⇒
⇐ Hybrid Bike Large
Step Through Bike ⇒
Why Choose This Tour?
Explore historic Beaufort’s waterfront and charming downtown before indulging in locally caught seafood
Cycle along the barrier island of Bogue Banks, passing through vacation communities like Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle, and visit the Civil War-era Fort Macon
Journey through the scenic Cedar Island Wildlife Refuge, enjoy a ferry ride across Pamlico Sound to quirky Ocracoke village, and unwind with wine and cheese overlooking Silver Lake before a gourmet dinner
Experience a guided kayak tour on Silver Lake Harbor, bike to see the wild ponies of Ocracoke Island, and savor island cuisine at Howard’s Pub
Conclude your adventure with a ferry ride back to Beaufort, cycling along Core Sound, and enjoying a final catered lunch at the Beaufort Hotel porch before bidding farewell to your fellow travelers
See What Our Customers Say About Us
We love this company. We have toured with them three, going on four times and their attention to every detail and their organization skills keep us coming back for more. we have toured with three other companies, vbt, bike vermont, and pedal and sea adventures, and they surpass all of them. Food especially is excellent.
Carolina Tailwinds gives every attention to detail towards their customers. The routes they map out are clear and safe. The accommodations that Carolina Tailwinds select are 5 star all the way, from the lodging to the restaurants. The guides are friendly and accommodating to the cycling level of their guests. The size of the tour group are intentionally small to give the customer that undivided attention they deserve on their vacation.
We had used several bike tour companies and thought that they all did a good job. However, Carolina Tailwinds’ tours are operated by the owners of the company. Thus, their level of service exceeds that of other companies. We have now completed 5 tours with them and have another scheduled. Greg and Anne, the owners, are now like members of our family.
We are in our mid-seventies & have just re-discovered the joys of biking the past 3 years, biking over 2500 miles each of the last 2 seasons mostly hear in upstate NY. We’ve started the past 2 seasons with a Carolina Tailwinds tour & plan to do the same again this season. Anne & Greg just do a terrific job guaranteeing a wonderful vacation for us.
We did the Florida tour with a group of 16. The inns selected by Anne and Greg were a pleasant surprise as were the restaurants. Steve’s patience and guidance while biking was greatly appreciated. We have toured together before but this was the most supported experience we have had. Their bikes were excellent. I highly recommend scheduling with this company.
Tailwinds offers routes that can vary from easy to challenging, but that are always scenic and engaging. The support on the road is absolutely best in class, the lodgings are always interesting, and the food is terrific. Best of all, the owners and guides personify “customer service.” Taking a Tailwinds tour is always the highlight of my cycling year. All of this at prices which are reasonable.
We just got back from a fantastic vacation with Carolina Tailwinds. They were super accommodating and fun. The trip had good variety including cycling, two boat rides, beach walk, kayaking, amazing food and happy hour every day. Every expectation was exceeded as they booked a private tour for my husband’s birthday bash. Equipment was fantastic and the guides were personal me and knowledgeable. Booking was easy and every detail was take. Care of. Thank you to the whole team.
We are two retired friends who left our non-cycling husbands at home to have a biking adventure. We throughly enjoyed our Florida tour…Anne and Greg attending to every detail…Although it seemed we were on our own, our guides were at our backs to provide snacks, sun screen, and any assistance needed…The bikers we rented from CT were fitted to us and were maintained in perfect condition…FIRST RATE! We’re ready to book another CT trip!
We have completed 4 trips with Anne and Greg and have another on reservation. Their attention to detail is evident throughout the tour but especially in the excellent route selection. Good riding is of course why most people go on a bike tour and we have never been disappointed with the miles they carefully select. Good food, nice accommodations, interesting off bike activities and leisurely happy hours all adds up to a relaxing vacation.
This company is awesome! I’ve been on several week long tours and this is by far the best company. My husband and I just completed our second tour with CT and every aspect was first class. The guides are attentive no matter what your skill level. We’re planning a third trip next year.!
…Having been on several other bike companies’ tours I have a good perspective to highly recommend Carolina Tailwinds…They were perfectly organized, personally knowledgeable of the routes, and prepared for everything we wanted or needed for a great week…All through the week CT added fine touches to our trip which you’ll just have to experience on your own CT tour. You’ll have an awesome week.
Excellent value. Routes, accommodations, food, activities, support, and equipment were all top notch. Superb attention to details big and small. I have toured with nearly a dozen companies. They were all good, but Carolina Tailwinds has been my favorite. You can spend more, but you won’t get more than you get from Anne and Greg.
The attention to detail and the readiness to accomodate requests from the riders separate Carolina Tailwinds from any other tour group that I have ridden with. One other feature that has to be mentioned is the standard of the accomodations and the food. They are both of the highest standard. The Carolina Tailwind tours are fun!
…The scenery was abolutely spectacular! Traffic was light and road conditions excellent. The routes were well-planned with detailed cue sheets that were easy to follow. The support we received from the CT team was first rate before, during and after each day’s ride. Accomodations were very good if not top of the line. The tour operators, Anne and Greg, are well-organized, friendly, and good companions on a ride. We will be repeat customers this Summer.
Carolina Tailwinds, hands down, is the best bicycle touring company anywhere. Their attention to detail and willingness to accommodate personal preferences are unsurpassed. Their routes are well-planned and the support and ability to deal with different riding levels…My wife and I have done nine tours with Carolina Tailwinds…We are veteran cyclists; if their tours were not really good, we would have never returned…we are going on our tenth this year.
We just signed up for our third tour with this excellent bike tour company. We fly from California just to go with Carolina Tailwinds. Their attention to every small detail is amazing. I think their personal attention as owners of the company is what makes the difference…really do care that each of their customers has the best possible biking vacation.
…The routes afforded beautiful scenery, and were well-supported…We especially liked the personal touch that Anne and Greg provided. They picked us up at our hotel; they kept a watchful eye on rider groups with a broad range of skills; and they hosted informal drinks and hors d’oeuvres each night before dinner…great exercise during the day and relaxing evenings with interesting people, comfortable lodging, and excellent meals.
Aside from knowing some of the most unique biking, lodging, and dining spots in the Mid-Atlantic area, Anne and Greg obviously love what they are doing…This husband and wife team is really tops when it comes to personal, friendly service and they excel in accommodating the needs of riders of all abilities…Our only complaint is that we never seem to lose any weight on their tours, but as they always remind us – “It’s a vacation, you’re not supposed to lose weight!” Looking forward to our fourth trip in four years with Carolina Tailwinds!
Trips are well planned and very well supported. The lodging chosen by the company suits the trips, are comfortable, and often unique. But the most notable item is the personal attention a rider receives throughout the trip. I’ve completed three trips with Carolina Tailwinds and have signed up for a fourth.
