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Sanctuary Vineyards
Located on a seaside farm, Sanctuary’s 10 acres of syrah, tempranillo, viognier, norton and muscadine grapes are nestled within hundreds of acres of farmland and wildlife. Check its Instagram to see if a food truck is on-site, and get there in time for lunch and enjoy a tasting.
Vineyards on the Scuppernong
Drive through Manteo to reach this charming winery, known for its native scuppernong muscadine wines. The Scuppernong River region produces the native scuppernong muscadine grape, which is considered to be one of the healthiest grapes grown and makes for a delicious fruity wine. Stroll through galleries and eateries afterward.
Oriental Marina & Inn
Head into Oriental, known as the “Sailing Capital of North Carolina,” and check in at the Oriental Marina & Inn. Situated on the town harbor, the inn features one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, all with water views. Walk next door to Toucan Grill & Fresh Bar and feast on a seafood dinner while watching the boats come and go. Afterward, enjoy live music on the patio or stroll along the harbor.
The Bean
After breakfast and coffee at The Bean on the harbor, spend the morning exploring the riverfront town of New Bern. Visit Tryon Palace and the North Carolina History Center, wander through the spectacular gardens, historic homes and quaint shops of downtown, or stop by the Birthplace of Pepsi before continuing your tour of the coastal wineries.
Yana’s Restaurant
Head to Swansboro, the “Friendly City by the Sea,” for a nostalgic meal at Yana’s Restaurant. The 1950s diner interior and juicy burgers make for a memorable lunch stop.
Huffman Vineyards
Stop by Huffman Vineyards for a taste of dry whites and reds, as well as its large selection of fruit wines. Try these in the tasting room or on the outdoor patio and chat with the winemakers.
The Country Squire Restaurant, Inn, & Winery
Check in to your room overlooking the vineyard and settle in for a relaxing evening of wine and food. Take in the gardens, grounds and charming gazebo as you head to the Tartan Wine Tasting Room & Gift Shop. Taste the various wines or have a pre-dinner glass while you explore the gift items there. Then enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the dining room of a steak cooked to perfection, or poultry, pork or seafood entrées.
World’s Largest Frying Pan
Make a quirky roadside stop to see this 15-foot, two-ton frying pan — big enough to cook 365 chickens at once.
Duplin Winery
Dating back to the 1970s, Duplin Winery has a tank capacity of more than 1.8 million gallons and is one of the largest wineries on the East Coast. Its award-winning wines include Magnolia, a favorite summertime wine, and Hatteras Red, which pairs perfectly with North Carolina barbecue. Take a tour, taste the many sweet and dry wines, and purchase a bottle to take home.
Noni Bacca Winery
Sip your way through nearly 50 wines at this Wilmington winery, featuring everything from Italian-style reds to refreshing fruit wines and decadent dessert wines.
River 128 Restaurant
Dine on Southern coastal cuisine at this scenic riverfront restaurant, formerly called The George. The restaurant has been recently reimagined, but favorites such as lobster ravioli and Cajun penne can still be found on the menu.
Silver Coast Winery
Situated by lush woods and only 15 minutes from the beach, Silver Coast Winery offers tours of its production facility, wine tastings of traditional European-styled wines, a gift shop and an eclectic art gallery featuring local artisans. If you want to spend more time in Ocean Isle Beach, make plans to visit Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille, where the outdoor dining options feature a spacious patio, tiki bar and gazebo, all with amazing views.
Grapefull Sisters Vineyard
Tour the vineyards, taste some of the muscadine wines, sit on the serene deck, bask in the charm and toast to your wonderful wine weekend.
Winery schedules vary seasonally, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm hours. Please drink responsibly. Designate a driver.