India, Feb. 9 -- While there are many things North Carolina does well-including golf, barbecue, and beaches -quiet small towns and relaxing getaways are pretty close to the top of the list. As you drive across the state, from the mountains to the coast, you'll come across all manner of destinations where life moves a bit slower. Newport, population 4,501, is one of these places. Located on the southeastern side of the state, it's considered the "handshake" or the gateway to the Crystal Coast, a stretch of coastline and barrier islands that extends from Cape Lookout to the mouth of the New River.

"Newport, though large on the map of eastern North Carolina, is a quaint small town. Children still ride their bikes down the sidewalk to get i...