The Emerald Isle, NC real estate market offers oceanfront homes along the Atlantic Ocean and waterfront homes on the shores of Bogue Sound. There are beachfront "sand castles" and snug bungalows among the trees of the island's interior. Many homeowners treat their homes as investments or income property by renting them as vacation homes. Competent local rental management companies offer professional services.

Emerald Isle is approximately 13 miles long and 1/2 mile wide. The island is a part of North Carolina's Outer Banks barrier islands that protect the mainland. Between the islands lie the sounds. Bogue Sound lies between Emerald Isle and the mainland.

Emerald Isle is a family beach and the watersports of swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, as well as nearby golf and shopping are attractions of the island.