Swansboro, called the "Friendly City By The Sea", was settled around 1730 and grew out of early port activity on the White Oak River. The old section of town is situated on a former Algonquian Indian village and is filled with historical homes today. Swansboro was incorporated in 1783 and is the oldest town in Onslow County.

Swansboro's historic downtown waterfront offers a variety of restaurants and shops. The restaurants range from fine dining to casual and the shops include antique and unique gifts.

The Saturday after Thanksgiving the waterfront is the scene for the Christmas Flotilla. The town is also home of the Mullet festival which is held every year on the second Saturday in October. Other events held in Swansboro include the King Mackerel Fishing tournament on Memorial Day weekend. June brings the Storytelling festival and Arts-by-the-Sea.