Atlantis Lodge in Atlantic Beach (Our Piece of Paradise on Bogue Banks)

We could describe Atlantis Lodge in Atlantic Beach as a beach escape but think this place deserves a bit more credit. Anyone who wants to wax nostalgic over relaxing coastal trips will agree that Atlantis Lodge feels like a welcome step back to a long forgotten time.

And you can’t just make a reservation online. Nope. At Atlantis Lodge, if you want a room you will need to pick up the phone. Between us, you’d best call 11 months before your reservation because this hotel between Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach is just that popular!

If you’re lucky enough to get in, you’ll be treated to rooms with views of the water and the beach, with the latter yours to enjoy with chairs and an umbrella. Sounds of crashing waves remind you of the ocean’s presence after the sun goes down each wonderful day.

And if you’re already convinced, booking info can be found at the bottom of this post. But if you’d like to learn more about how Atlantis Lodge stands out and why we’ll continue booking far in advance, keep reading.

This post is part of our series on our favorite places to stay, as well as the awesome spots to visit in Eastern North Carolina.

Atlantis Lodge in Atlantic Beach

About the Hotel

Atlantis Lodge is a vintage 1960s-style three-story hotel, with its own private beach, pet-friendly, and an always-relaxing vibe. It’s located at Mile Post 5 in Pine Knoll Shores, not too far from Atlantic Beach.

And it’s so close to the beach that if you leave your balcony window open, you can hear the waves crash.  

Always Family-Run

AC and Dot Hall wanted a return to a simpler style of life when they started Atlantis Lodge in 1963. They wanted a place for families to make memories and enjoy the beach, but at an affordable and convenient cost.

Today, Atlantis Lodge remains family-run and tradition remains important there. You’ll find that if you keep coming back year after year, it’s exactly how you remember it from the last time—yellow and turquoise paint, modest kitchens, and incredible ocean views.

Pet-Friendly

If you are checking in with a furry four-legged friend, expect a little treat upon arrival for them as well. You will also find a pet washing station, easily accessible scoops and bags, and even a fenced-in Dog Park specifically for Atlantis Lodge guests.

The Rooms

Each of the Atlantis Lodge’s three floors offers an experience distinct from the other two. Several of the first floor rooms open up onto the back lawn, which is really convenient when traveling with small children. But if you really want those beautiful ocean views from your balcony, reserve a room on the second or third floor.

Rooms on the first floor come with a full kitchenette including pots, pans, and even an oven. On the second and third floors, you will find the same amenities minus an oven. When planning your meals for the week, that is a factor worth considering.

Something that we loved about Atlantis Lodge is that it is very easy to move between adjacent rooms. If you are traveling with a group and reserved rooms next to each other, you can move along the doors between the balconies.

We were able to let our little one safely sleep at a reasonable hour while us adults enjoyed an evening of conversation within earshot next door.

The BEACH (and Pool)

When you’re ready to hit the beach, you can do so by just walking outside to the Atlantis Lodge’s private patch of sand. They even offer chairs and umbrellas for you to set up.

The area around Atlantis Lodge isn’t particularly busy compared to the public beach accesses, so it’s easy to find peace and quiet at this oasis on the coast.

For even more watery fun, how about a nice soak in a shady pool? The double level lagoon pool at Atlantis Lodge is absolutely beautiful and a great way to relax.

And if you want to catch a real-time view of the beach when you’re at home, Atlantis Lodge has their own webcam going 24 hours a day. That makes it easy to pop in and soak in some ocean sounds.

Things to Do Nearby (Around Bogue Banks and the Crystal Coast)

If you’re looking for something to do beyond the beach, there are plenty of things to do along the Crystal Coast, especially on the adjacent Bogue Banks communities.

Pine Knoll Shores

Just around the corner from Atlantis Lodge are some fun things to do in Pine Knoll Shores. A popular place to start is at the NC Aquarium, awesome for all ages. Of course, one of us in the family (me) says you’ve haven’t “beached” unless you’ve played a round or two of mini-golf.

Well, you can do that and more at Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway.  

Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is just down the road from Atlantis Lodge and the first town you’ll pass if you arrive from the north. It’s home to quite a few restaurants, including the Shark Shack (great fried seafood) and breweries Crystal Coast Brewing.

Fort Macon State Park is at the eastern end of Bogue Banks. Here, you’ll find a Civil War-era fort, beach access, trails, and an incredible coastal education center.

Salter Path and Indian Beach

Head west from Atlantis Lodge and you’ll run into the communities of Salter Path and Indian Beach. We love to pick up some fresh shrimp and fish at Willis Seafood, whose locations include Salter Path and Emerald Isle.

Emerald Isle

Continue west and you’ll eventually reach Emerald Isle, at the opposite end of Bogue Banks from Atlantic Beach. We think this is one of the most romantic getaways in North Carolina for a few reasons.

It can get busy in the summer, especially when the weather cooperates. Other than perfect water and gorgeous views from The Point, EI also has shops and restaurants to handle the traffic.

Morehead City

If you travel to Atlantis Lodge from the north, you’ll likely pass through parts of Morehead City before crossing over into Atlantic Beach. It’s a nice coastal town and largely known for the annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. That massive summer event brings boats from all over.

The NC Seafood Festival is another Morehead City staple, typically held in October. And throughout the year, Morehead is also a popular place for scuba diving and exploring the many famous shipwrecks found off the coast.

Beaufort

The historic town of Beaufort is a short 20-minute drive and it is worth every minute. We’ve been hooked ever since we first arrived in search of the wild horses at the Rachel Carson Reserve. The town is also known for the North Carolina Maritime Museum.

Some great restaurants in Beaufort include Beaufort Grocery CO and Moonrakers, too. And honestly, you could enjoy yourself here while staring at the boats and water after parking on Front Street.

Enjoy Our Family’s Not-So-Secret Getaway

In writing this post about Atlantis Lodge, I’ve already let you into our biggest family secret. My sister found it years ago and has been coming back every year. Soon after, my mother started booking a week here each year, too.

And now, we’ve fallen in love with this place. We even celebrated Kiddo’s third birthday at Atlantis Lodge!

This is a place where many more families go year after year because it’s beautiful, the people are friendly, and it just feels like home—except on the Crystal Coast. We’ll be back year after year and we think you will, too, after your first time at this wonderful place to stay.

Atlantis Lodge Booking Info and Map

More Things to Do in Eastern North Carolina

20 Wonderful Things to Do on Topsail Island (Outdoor & Indoor Ideas for Your Next Beach Vacation!)

24 Beautiful Outer Banks Vacation Rentals for Your Next Trip!

Exploring Historic Tryon Palace in New Bern

How to Explore the NC Oyster Trail (10+ Adventurous Ways!)