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OAJ Layover Ideas Ellis Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Ellis Airport

Long layovers can be a drag, but not when you're at Ellis Airport. Located in Onslow County, North Carolina, this airport offers access to a region filled with natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich history. Here are the top five layover ideas for those with a few hours to spare.

1. Explore Hammocks Beach State Park

If you're a nature lover, a trip to Hammocks Beach State Park is a must. This nationally acclaimed coastal wildlife nature preserve is home to maritime forests, broad salt marshes, impressive sand dunes, and pristine beaches. You can reach the park by private boat or the passenger ferry operated by the park. Keep an eye out for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle, as these beaches are their favorite nesting sites.

2. Enjoy Water Sports

Onslow County offers a wide range of water activities. With the warm, blue Atlantic Ocean surf and the Intracoastal Waterway nearby, you can enjoy swimming, surfing, sailing, wind surfing, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, boating, snorkeling, and offshore diving. These options are available year-round, making them perfect for a layover adventure.

3. Try Your Hand at Fishing

For outdoor enthusiasts, fresh and salt water fishing are highlights of the region. The New River and its tributaries are favorites for fresh water anglers. The coast offers pier fishing, miles of uncrowded beaches for surf casting, and offshore fishing by boat. Each of the coastal towns hosts a King Mackerel tournament during the year, adding an extra layer of excitement to your fishing trip.

4. Visit the Onslow County Museum

Step back in time by visiting the Onslow County Museum. Discover the history of one of the oldest and most diverse maritime counties in North Carolina. See the longest Native American dugout canoe found in North Carolina and learn about the museum's growing artifact collection and research room. This is a great way to spend a few hours, especially for history buffs.

5. Relax on the Beach

Finally, if you simply want to relax, Onslow County boasts over 30 miles of wide, unspoiled beaches. Take a leisurely stroll, collect shells, or just sit back and enjoy the beautiful coastal view. With its abundant marine life and sporting wildlife, this natural coastal beauty is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the next leg of your journey.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through OAJ Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of OAJ's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Ellis airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near OAJ to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

For those fortunate enough to have a longer layover of 12 to 48 hours, the region surrounding Ellis Airport offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, there's something for everyone in Onslow County, North Carolina.

1. Visit the Historic Town of Swansboro

Known as the "Friendly City by the Sea", Swansboro is a charming coastal town with a rich history. Wander through the historic downtown area, browse unique boutiques and antique shops, and enjoy waterfront dining at one of the many local restaurants. Don't miss the Swansboro Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into the town's past.

2. Explore the Croatan National Forest

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Croatan National Forest. This 160,000-acre forest boasts a variety of ecosystems, from pine forests and saltwater estuaries to pocosin wetlands. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for hiking, camping, bird-watching, and picnicking.

3. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum

Delve into the region's maritime history at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort. The museum features exhibits on the state's rich boatbuilding history, the seafood industry, Blackbeard and his infamous pirate ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge, and more. It's a must-visit for history buffs.

4. Take a Ferry to the Outer Banks

Take advantage of your extended layover to explore the Outer Banks, a 200-mile-long string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. Known for its pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and unique wildlife, the Outer Banks is accessible by ferry and offers a perfect getaway.

5. Sample Local Cuisine

Last but not least, treat your taste buds to the local cuisine. North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, seafood, and southern comfort food. Visit a local eatery to enjoy fresh-caught shrimp, crab, or flounder, or try the state's signature pulled pork barbecue. It's a delicious way to round off your layover in Onslow County.

Updated on: November 22, 2023