Keeping your boat at Havens Wharf in Washington, NC puts you at the gateway to some of the best boating waters along the Pamlico River. Located right where the scenic, tree-lined Tar River widens into the expansive Pamlico River, Havens Wharf gives you front-row access to historic harbor towns, secluded anchorages, and pristine state parks—all easily reachable for a half-day cruise or a full-day adventure.
Whether you are looking for history, flat-water fishing, or a dock-and-dine weekend, here are some of the top day trips you can take right from your slip at Haven’s Wharf.
Historic Explorations
Historic exploration along the Pamlico River dates back to expeditions from early Europeans in 1584 and 1585; here are some historic sites you can see.
Bath (Approx. 15 Miles East)
If you cruise downriver and head north into Bath Creek, you will be able to explore North Carolina’s oldest town. Historic Bath was founded in 1696 by English farmers and French Huguenots. You can dock at Bath Harbor Marina, visit colonial homes, and grab lunch steps from the water.
One reason we suggest a trip to Bath is that you can visit the famous stomping ground of Edward Teach (Blackbeard). As you stand at the historic Bonner House and look across the bay toward Plum Point, it will become clear to you why he chose this private hideaway. You can also find the Historic Bath Visitor Center just one block from the water.
Belhaven (Approx. 30 Miles East)
If you’re up for a longer trip, we suggest Belhaven. This is a longer full-day excursion where you’ll navigate past the mouth of the Pungo River into the charming waterfront town of Belhaven.
Once there, you can tie up at one of the public and town-owned docks on Pantego Creek and head into downtown. You can shop at one of the boutiques and enjoy lunch or dinner at one of their local restaurants, such as Spoon River Artworks and Market, before heading back to Havens Wharf.
Scenic Anchorages & Wilderness Exploration
If you are looking to stay closer to home and take in the views and wildlife along the Pamlico, here are some additional suggestions.
Goose Creek State Park
Head over to Dinah’s Landing or drop anchor right off the sandy shoreline of Goose Creek State Park. This is one of the best spots on the river to swim. You can also pack a boat picnic and simply admire the iconic Spanish moss-covered oaks right from the water.
South Creek & Aurora
Located on the south shore of the Pamlico, just west of Indian Island is South Creek. This creek is deep, well-marked, and leads all the way to the town of Aurora. If you’re searching for something a little quieter, this is the perfect area for exploration and pristine anchorage.
Quick Cruising & Local Favorites
Other daily adventures enjoyed by boaters who call us home include the quick excursions noted below.
Up-River Tar River Cruise
If you head upriver, you will cruise into narrower, well-protected waters lined with dense trees—ideal for breezy days when you want calm water.
Blount’s Creek & Chocowinity Bay
Head to the other side of the river to explore calm, protected waters perfect for wildlife viewing, flat-water cruising, and great fishing.
Bayview-Aurora Ferry Crossing
Just past Bath, you will encounter a wide, scenic stretch of the Pamlico ideal for dropping anchor and watching the Bayview Ferry make its passage. The Pamlico River is wide, beautiful, and user-friendly, flanked by wooded banks and unique sights like Nutrien’s phosphate mine on the south bank.
No matter which direction you steer from Havens Wharf, the Pamlico River delivers the perfect mix of eastern North Carolina history, quiet waters, and coastal charm. Whether you’re taking quick runs up the Tar River or embarking on full-day excursions to Historic Bath and Belhaven, the waters around Washington offer endless ways to spend your time on the water.
But the real advantage of keeping your boat at Havens Wharf isn’t just the effortless access—it’s having an ideal home port waiting for you at the end of the day. Head back into Washington, tie up, and cap off your trip with dinner downtown as the sun dips over the river. Cast off from Havens Wharf this weekend and start exploring the very best of the Pamlico.
