Quite a bit closer. Actually, Atlantic Beach is only a 20 minute drive. That's just off of the City of Morehead, around 18 miles from here. But the ferry to Okracoke is in Beaufort. That's an interesting little place in and of itself, and has a wonderful Pirate Festival every summer. I've only gone once, but I loved it! It would be so much more fun now that I have the walker with the seat...I could get around so much better. And sit for a few when I got tired,
It sounds like you're closer to the ocean than I am. Also, have more islands available! I'm about 2.5 hours away from the water (depending on beach traffic.) Assateague Island is really a special place -it's a State Park with very interesting birds and plants, as well as the ponies. Plus you can camp there. Remember the insect repellent, though. The insects are voracious!