Travel in the coastal area is done almost exclusively by car. US-70, which runs through downtown Morehead City, is the main connector within the Crystal Coast. If you want to visit the Bogue Banks cities primarily Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle, you'll want to take NC-58, which runs the length of the island.
There isn't really any regular, reliable public transportation in the area. Carolina Trailways, a member of the National Trailways Bus System, makes periodic stops in the area. There's also the Carteret County Area Transportation System (http://www.co.carteret.nc...) CCATS, which is mainly used for human-services-related transportation, but provides a passenger service as well. Tickets must be reserved in advance; travel within a single zone is $2.50. The main bus station is in Morehead City: 105 N 13th Street, 252-726-3029.
Given the ease of accessibility to water, you can also take the opportunity to travel by boat. There are a variety of marinas in the area, if you want to use your own boat. Some of the other areas - notably Cape Lookout - are only accessible by ferry, and you'll also have to take the ferry if you want to visit more of the Outer Banks. Numerous ferry ports (http://www.crystalcoastnc...) dot the soundside, but remember that you'll most likely need a car once you reach your destination, so even with sea travel you can't leave it behind. All ferries in the area are equipped to accommodate vehicles.
BY CAR
Most western beaches are located along NC 58 on the island of Bogue Banks, while the "Down East" beaches are located on the far eastern extremities of US 70 as well as the southern end of NC 12.
NC 58 offers easy access from Trenton and Jones County as well as an quick shortcut from Kinston and north to the Bogue Banks
NC 24 offers easy access from US 17 South, US 258 South and the Jacksonville area
Otherwise, US 70 is the best bet.
