best nc beaches to visit

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Best north carolina beaches.

From a family-friendly vacation to a Nicholas Sparks-inspired getaway, the coast of North Carolina is characterized by wide, sandy beaches with conserved dunes, beachfront rental houses and a laid-back approach to life. To decide which must-visit stretches of shoreline are worth your vacation days, U.S. News considered scenic beauty, nearby amenities and the opinions of experts and travelers to decide the best North Carolina beaches. Load up your beach wagon , and vote below to help determine next year's list.

Carova Beach

Cape lookout, cape hatteras, emerald isle, kill devil hills, holden beach, bald head island, topsail island, ocracoke island, carolina beach, atlantic beach.

The state's northernmost beach town is the perfect choice for travelers looking to get away from it all. Featuring 12 miles of sandy shoreline dotted with beautiful vacation rentals, Carova Beach is an alluring destination thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and off-the-beaten-path location. Here, travelers can see wild horses roaming the beach or explore the Currituck Sound on a kayak. Just remember that because there are no paved roads in Carova, the town can only be accessed via a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Situated along the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, Cape Lookout National Seashore is one of the state's most underrated beach destinations. Only accessible by boat or ferry, this remote collection of islands stretches for approximately 55 miles, providing ample opportunities to lounge under the sun. When you're not swimming or beachcombing, explore the historic Portsmouth Village or snap a photo with the impressive Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Other activities include fishing, bird-watching, kayaking and stargazing. Tent camping is available for visitors who want to stay overnight, along with cabins that can fit 4-12 people.

Not to be confused with Hatteras Village, the nearly 70-mile Cape Hatteras is known for its unspoiled beaches that comprise Cape Hatteras National Seashore and its iconic black-and-white-striped lighthouse, one of the tallest in the United States. Off-road vehicles are allowed on the sparsely crowded sands with a permit, and there are four campgrounds available. While here, catch a glimpse of sea turtles during nesting season and save time for horseback riding on the beach.

Families return to Emerald Isle year after year for its 12 miles of clean beaches, relaxed atmosphere and popular fishing pier. There are plenty of reasons to choose this stretch of sand to settle on: Emerald Isle offers a wide-open shoreline and beach amenities galore, including showers, picnic pavilions and parking. The Western Regional Access Point also features volleyball courts. Emerald Isle is part of the Crystal Coast section of North Carolina, with Indian Beach nearby.

As one of the most popular destinations in the Outer Banks, Kill Devil Hills offers some of the best East Coast beaches , plus a range of amenities and activities that appeal to all types of beachgoers. Families in particular love this town between Nags Head and Kitty Hawk for its expansive coastline and wide selection of accommodations, which range from affordable motels to multi-bedroom vacation rentals. Less remote than some of North Carolina's other beaches, Kill Devil Hills is also home to a variety of restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques worth exploring. While you're here, don't miss a visit to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the world's first successful airplane flight took place in 1903.

Holden Beach is a small seaside community located about 25 miles from the North Carolina-South Carolina border. A favorite beach destination among families, you'll find countless ways to spend your time here, whether you're keen on active watersports or prefer laid-back pastimes like bird-watching and shelling. Meanwhile, other travelers can try their hand at a round of golf, go fishing or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island's delicious restaurants. If you're planning a fall visit, don't miss the NC Festival by the Sea in October.

Devoid of cars (you'll need a golf cart or bike to get around) and only accessible by ferry, Bald Head Island is ideal for travelers seeking some rest and relaxation. Aside from beachfront rental properties and the highly rated Bald Head Island Club golf course, most of the island's 12,000 acres are undeveloped, so expect the 14 miles of shoreline here – including South Beach and East Beach – to be serene and pristine. It's also a great place to see nature's finest: The island is home to more than 260 bird species, as well as other wildlife like alligators and foxes.

Flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, Corolla wins praise from travelers for its seclusion along the northern coast of the Outer Banks. While you can (and should) spend time exploring the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and strolling through Historic Corolla Village, the main activity here is relaxing on the wide, sandy beaches. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are common on the beaches in Corolla; plus, you'll likely see the wild Spanish horses that roam the island. If you want to get a closer look at these untamed beauties, sign up for a guided tour.

This sliver of land is one of the most popular destinations along the Outer Banks because of its relatively easy accessibility and wealth of amenities. The area boasts seemingly endless sand dunes (at Jockey's Ridge State Park), multiple piers for fishing and the nearby Bodie Island Lighthouse. Nags Head is also home to walking and biking paths, a skateboard park and ample opportunities to hang glide and kite. As an extra thrill, permit holders can drive their four-wheel-drive vehicle onto the beach during the offseason (October to April).

Pronounced "Tops'l," this barrier island located about 40 miles outside of Wilmington is rumored to have gotten its name from the local legend that pirate ships would hide behind the inlet with their topsails showing. Today, this 26-mile-long island is better known for its three main beach areas: Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach and Surf City. While here, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center and check out the southernmost point of the island (known as Serenity Point) for amazing sunset views.

Ocracoke Island may be harder to reach than other spots in the Outer Banks, but the beautiful beaches are well worth the effort. Lifeguard Beach is appreciated not only for its safety but also for its amenities like restrooms and water fountains. Only accessible by boat or air, Ocracoke is also full of history. Most notably, the island served as the former stomping ground of the pirate known as Blackbeard. There's also a small British cemetery that houses the remains of some World War II soldiers, and an annual event honors their memories every May.

Travelers have been enjoying Carolina Beach and its boardwalk since the late 1800s. Throughout the years, this wooden, pedestrian-only walkway has expanded to include multiple shops, restaurants and an amusement park. On the opposite side of the boardwalk, you'll find amazing surf and soft sand. When you need a break from the boardwalk and beach, take a walk through Carolina Beach State Park to try to spot a Venus flytrap.

This small town south of Corolla embodies what the Outer Banks is all about. While you'll find plenty of rental properties that range from modest to expansive, you'll notice few hotels and very little development. And that's just how locals and vacationers like it. The beaches themselves are expansive and offer plenty of opportunities for swimming and lounging in the sun. If you're visiting in the shoulder season, be sure to check out the Duck Jazz Festival held annually in October.

Just 12 miles east of Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach is one of the most developed beach areas in North Carolina, offering many amenities that families love, including a fishing pier and bike and water sports equipment rentals. As part of the Walk Atlantic Beach initiative, there are four marked walking trails around the city to help visitors explore on foot. Want to venture out? From here, you'll have easy access to the aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores and the Civil War-era Fort Macon State Park.

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25 BEST North Carolina Beaches To Visit

It’s no secret that there are some stunning North Carolina beaches. Many always ask what the best North Carolina beaches are, but narrowing them down is hard. The Tar Heel State is blessed with so many beaches, well worth a visit.

Spending time at a beach is one of the best things in North Carolina . One of life’s great joys is to feel the sand between your toes, smell the salty air, and hear the ocean waves. To help you do that, we’ve covered the best beaches in North Carolina, from southern NC to the Outer Banks, in no particular order.

The Best North Carolina Beaches

Ocracoke Island

Take the ferry to Ocracoke, North Carolina, for a beach vacation. Separated from the rest of the Outer Banks by a (free!) one-hour ferry ride, Ocracoke houses a small, resilient beach community where visitors have their run of the whole island.

There are typically more golf carts than cars on this slight stretch of land, and the outskirts of the town are entirely untouched patches of sand. The island has borne the brunt of several large hurricanes, and the fact that the city remains so strong is a testament to its value. It’s little wonder it’s one of our favorite small towns in North Carolina .

Emerald Isle 

The jewel of North Carolina’s mainland coast, Emerald Isle , is a popular beach with something for everyone. The scenic Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier stretches into the ocean and presents a great fishing location for visitors. At the same time, many dining options allow visitors to spend an entire week on vacation without figuring out how to turn on the oven.

There are even a few adventure parks for amusement when the beach gets tiring. Granted, I don’t believe we’ve ever tired of beach days. Check out The Point for one of the best sunsets on the east coast, and take walks through the maritime forest that shades the island in green.

Emerald Isle’s central location on the coast also makes it a remarkable home base for further exploration. I grew up with a family vacation home on the island and still fondly remember the beach.

Close to the border with South Carolina , this stretch of vacation homes has everything you need to spend a week on the island while being close enough to both states’ major hubs to always be within reach.

Oak Island is a thriving area with fresh seafood restaurants , and quirky privately owned homes are abundant. Make sure to stroll through charming Southport after your visit to the beach.

The North Carolina Aquarium and easy access to Myrtle Beach and inland airports are just across the bridge. What’s most charming about Oak Island is that it’s small enough to bike around.

Bear Island 

If you are looking for quiet beaches in North Carolina look no further. Bear Island is a bring-your-own hammock establishment only reachable by boats, and the four miles of pristine barrier island are scattered only with primitive campsites. Brave travelers can paddle their kayaks to the island shores, and the park’s service also offers a ferry service. 

Once on the island, you’ll be surrounded by natural elements in the untouched maritime forest. Programs and exhibitions of the park’s natural features are spread along the shores and one visitor center.

Bear Island is an excellent stop for those seeking a North Carolina beach that gets them out into nature.

Stretches of sand mix with rolling dunes to create a stunning backdrop to this beach in the Outer Banks of North Carolina . The area was developed consciously, meaning there aren’t big resort hotels or large buildings to obscure any views of the Atlantic Ocean. Each day, visitors can walk through pathways carved out in the dunes to get to the shoreline. 

A nice mix of local restaurants and bars coalesce around the Avon Fishing Pier on the inland side of the dunes. Like many North Carolina beaches, the pier marks the center of town and serves as a hub for visitors.

Surf City 

A small slice of Topsail Island, waves are constantly crashing into the piers at Surf City. The area isn’t trying to be anything it’s not, as it simply offers a quiet vacation space with plenty of local restaurants and shopping choices. No grandiose amusement parks or adventure lands are here, just unspoiled beaches.

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Coast and the Intracoastal Waterway, many houses in Surf City have docks that lead straight into the body of water. It allows launching boats, fishing, or going for a kayak from the comfort of the vacation home. For a great embodiment of North Carolina Beach life that doesn’t try to do too much, head to Surf City for a relaxing visit.

Sunset Beach 

Visit this stretch of sand at the right time of year, and you can start your day catching the sunrise and end it underneath a beautiful sunset. The south-facing beach is surrounded by water, leading to a unique opportunity. A lack of development aids in the double sunset views. You won’t find any boardwalks or high-rises here, just unfettered marshland surrounded by sand. 

Walk far enough down Sunset Beach’s shores and find the Kindred Spirit Mailbox. Sunset Beach invites you to share your experiences and reflection in the notebooks enclosed. The beach encompasses so much wonder that it was featured as one of National Geographics’ 21 Best Beaches In The World .  

Rodanthe has embraced the Outer Banks’ laid-back charm to offer a great stop as you head down this unique section of the Atlantic Coast. Full of outdoor activities and nature preserves, Rodanthe is one of the best OBX beaches and allows you to explore everything the beach offers within walking distance of plenty of accommodation options. 

Most Outer Banks visitors don’t make it this far down the peninsula, giving you more freedom to roam across the unique beachfront. National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 400 bird species, inviting visitors to wander in a natural beach refuge.

With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Pamlico Sound on the other, a week in Rodanthe allows you to explore it all. 

Holden Beach 

Holden Beach promises to be one of the best beaches in North Carolina and one of the most family-friendly beaches in the US. A slice of the Brunswick Islands provides wide-open spaces, calm waters, and tranquil sandy shorelines.

Local building regulations have kept a small-town feel to this beach paradise. You’ll find no skyscrapers here, only family homes available for rent and quirky restaurants across the water. 

It’s a quick trip from Wilmington, one of the largest metropolitan areas along North Carolina’s coast, so a stay here will ensure you aren’t too far away from the action and delicious Wilmington restaurants. Holden Beach offers plenty of enticing options for families that want a peaceful place to rest their heads but plenty of enticing options to fill their days with activities. 

Just north of the Outer Banks National Seashore is Nags Head. It’s the most developed town along the Outer Banks, which isn’t necessarily bad as it provides many entertainment, dining , and accommodation options .

OBX is well known for being sleepy, which may not be for everyone! So the offerings around Nags Head are a welcome relief. The town does all this without sacrificing beauty, with charming beach-box homes in many colors.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is close to the town and offers some humongous dunes to explore. Visitors can spend a day wandering through the area, which feels like a desert next to the sea.  

Cape Lookout 

Finding another destination in the United States, like Cape Lookout, is tough. The beloved island is notably difficult to reach as there are no bridges to the island. The only way to access the island is by a ferry that departs from Harkers Island, near the coastal town of Beaufort .

The island presents the unique opportunity to explore a barrier island in its natural state. You won’t find any hotels, restaurants, shops, or fishing piers on Cape Lookout. Instead, the barrier island is managed by the National Park Service as the Cape Lookout National Seashore .

Park rangers have erected cabins and accommodation options, and the whole area is open to primitive camping. A stay in Cape Lookout brings visitors away from any signs of their life back home. There are 56 miles of wild beach to explore, and the only marker of humanity is the Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Feral horses roam the area, and there are more animal species than human residents on its shores. Cars can drive on the beaches here, and there are plenty of options for fishing or just relaxing on the beach. It’s arguably the best beach in North Carolina to enjoy nature and unwind.

Corolla Beach

Corolla is one of the most charming OBX towns on the Northern Stretch of the Outer Banks. As with many barrier islands, visitors can enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean and western views of the Currituck Sound. Corolla is a great base for exploring as it has much more to offer visitors than a beach and hot sand.

Various bars and restaurants are tucked away in the dense maritime forests along the island. The town benefits from many full-time residents, which makes the vacation destination feel more like home. 

Several resorts and accommodation options exist on the beach, but visitors can still find plenty of seclusion around the area. Corolla marks North Carolina Beaches’ northern end and ensures that the coastline stretch goes out with a bang, full of historical significance and natural wonders.

Cape Hatteras 

The highlight of Cape Hatteras is a candy-striped lighthouse that marks the Eastern Most point in North Carolina. Seventy miles of untouched beaches stretch out from the lighthouse, and camping options exist on the oceanfront throughout the area.

Its eastern location makes it a frequent target for big waves and high winds, resulting in a unique geographical landscape and a resilient local population. It’s one of the most notable surf breaks on the entire Eastern Seaboard.

Natural beauty coexists as vacationers spread across the beaches, always with a watchful eye for sea turtles. They’ve been known to nest right under the OBX lighthouse during nesting season. On full moons, the lighthouse opens, allowing visitors to enjoy the nighttime views from the top. 

Topsail Beach 

Known more for its sea turtle residents than human inhabitants, Topsail Beach is home to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehab Center. Visitors can cheer on the rehabilitated turtles as they head back to sea. Stay at one of the locally owned Topsail Beach beach rentals that offer beachfront views. 

Every fall, the beach celebrates the end of the high season with an art crawl. Local artists flock from across the state to display the best of art beach life offers. A public marina and fishing pier provide even more options for entertainment. 

Wrightsville Beach 

Wrightsville Beach is one of the most popular beaches for locals from across the state and has one of the best North Carolina beach towns. It’s only two hours from Raleigh , North Carolina’s capital city, making it one of the most popular day trip destinations state-wide. It’s a gorgeous sandy beach, and the water can get dazzling clear when the gulf current swings toward the coastline.

Most notable is its proximity to Wilmington, one of our favorite cities in NC. Which also happens to be home to our alma matter. The city has everything to offer visitors, with plenty of dining options, accommodations, golf courses, events, bars, and an excellent brewery scene. Aside from Asheville , you’d be hard-pressed to find more breweries per capita.

Intrepid explorers with a watercraft can cross the inlet to Masonboro Island, a wildlife reserve adjacent to Wrightsville Beach’s southern shore. This island is an eight-mile stretch of untouched beachfront and one of the best Wilmington beaches. Visitors can camp on the island and enjoy a night under the stars with no one else around. If camping is not your thing, book a night at an oceanfront Wrightsville Beach rental!

Masonboro Island

Masonboro provides a unique experience for a beach in North Carolina. Only a few secluded stretches of sand remain so accessible and untouched. That’s not to say reaching it is easy as it requires a watercraft and work. The result is often blissfully empty beaches, aside from the epic 4th of July party on its northern shores.

To access Masonboro Island, you’ll need to take a boat. You could try making friends with a local boater, hiring the Masonboro Water Taxi, or paddling over in a kayak or canoe. Once you arrive, you can pitch your tent in the sand, immersing yourself in the island’s unspoiled beauty and abundant wildlife.

Researchers and university students flock here to study the island’s delicate ecosystem. If you’re searching for a raw and unfiltered coastal getaway, Masonboro Island is not to be missed. Masonboro holds a special place in my heart, as I have fond memories of the island during my college years. Even now, my family lives across the Intracoastal waterway from the island, and we take frequent family picnics on the beach.

Atlantic Beach 

Atlantic Beach is great for visitors who want to get close to the action. It’s one of the most developed beaches in North Carolina. It features wonderful walking trails, an aquarium, restaurants, a cinema, boat rentals, and beach rental shops. There is something for everyone, making it a great beach in North Carolina for families.

It’s close to all other beaches on the Crystal Coast, but with everything, there is to do in Atlantic Beach, you could spend a week here without ever leaving. If you hop in the car, you’ll be close enough to Fort Macon State Park and Pine Knoll Shores to see both sights in one day and still be back in time to enjoy some local seafood for sunset. 

Atlantic Beach encompasses 85 miles of shoreline in what is sometimes referred to as the Southern Outer Banks. On one side are the warm salty waters of the sea, and on the other is the calm, clear expanse of the Bogue Sound. It’s a great family-friendly destination or a place to spend a romantic weekend eating at one of the best Atlantic Beach restaurants.

Carova Beach 

If you’ve seen the photos of wild horses on a North Carolina Beach, it was likely taken in Carova. The beach is regarded as one of the most secluded beaches in America, and its famous horses have roamed along the shore for centuries. It’s a small community with only a few vacation rentals but plenty of pristine beaches.

No roads lead to Carova Beach; instead, off-road vehicles can only access the beach. It is a great day as you can drive across the vast, sandy beach to find the perfect spot to fish, picnic, or spend the day. If you want to drive on the beach but don’t have a 4×4 several businesses offer rentals to explore the open shoreline.

Waves is an apt name for this outdoor activities hub on the Outer Banks. The water and wind combine here to provide endless entertainment if you’re ready to get wet. Flanked by a sound, first-time windsurfers can learn the sport’s ins and outs in safe conditions before heading out to the Atlantic Ocean. 

It’s far enough from the North Carolina beaches’ main tourist hubs to offer up a more local flavor, and most of the people you’ll meet here live in the area year-round. Planning your vacation in Waves will help you understand life in the Outer Banks. 

There’s only one place in the world that can lay claim to “First in Flight,” and that is Kitty Hawk. The Wright Brothers choose the area due to its miles of open beaches and the gentle onshore breeze. It was the ideal location for their experiments, and since that day, the town has not forgotten its history.

A national memorial to the brothers’ efforts is central to the city, with golden sand beaches and plenty of dining options surrounding it. There are plenty of public beach access points, and if you want more options on your vacation, Kitty Hawk also offers extensive dune areas ripe for exploration.

Its central location in the Outer Banks allows you to explore many nearby beaches and enjoy fantastic OBX restaurants while returning from sunset. 

If you’re traveling with a furry companion, Duck Beach is one of the best beaches to visit in the Outer Banks, as dogs are allowed on Duck’s beach year-round. The beach itself is idealistic, but it’s the cute town of Duck that also makes it a great vacation destination.

There’s a charming boardwalk and an amazing community vibe in Duck. Duck is also famous for being the birthplace of Duck Donuts, one of the most iconic breakfast spots in the OBX.

If donuts and dogs aren’t already calling you, then maybe the people will. The locals are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations on the best pizza or seafood spots in town.

Bald Head Island 

What makes Bald Head Island genuinely unique is the fact that no cars are allowed on its shores. Once you take the ferry to the island, the only traffic you’ll run into is golf carts, typically hopping from the beach to the golf courses to one of the fantastic dining options on the island.

There are 12,000 acres on this island, and developers have committed to leaving a large majority untouched, giving any trip here access to pristine natural settings. fIf you don’t want to spend your vacation in traffic, leave the keys on the mainland and enjoy a different vacation experience.  

Shackleford Banks

Shackleford Banks act as an eight-mile barrier between Beaufort and the Atlantic Ocean. The banks protect Beaufort from the Atlantic Ocean’s full brunt and protect various plant and animal species, some of whom wound up on its shores in shipwrecks. 

The island is open for anyone to roam but is only accessible by boat. If you journey, you will find pristine beaches and the widest variety of seashell activities in North Carolina.

Carolina Beach

Outside of Wrightsville Beach, the next most conveniently located beach to Wilmington is Carolina Beach. Carolina Beach is connected to the rest of Wilmington via Snow’s Cut Bridge. Carolina Beach is on Pleasure Island between the Cape Fear River on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east.

While many consider nearby Wrightsville Beach an affluent beach, Carolina Beach has a much more laid-back and relaxed vibe. Here you’ll see brightly colored pink and yellow buildings, tiki bars, and more golf carts on the roads than convertibles.

If you want to feel like you are in an All-American beach town, consider booking a Carolina Beach vacation rental and staying here for the week. Get ready to walk during your trip and make it a requirement to stroll the boardwalk. The boardwalk is where you’ll find plenty of Carolina Beach restaurants , bars, and even an amusement park in the summer.

A 10-minute drive past Carolina Beach is the much quieter Kure Beach, one of my favorite Wilmington beaches. So if you arrive in Wilmington and check out Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach and decide the crowds are too much, continue driving down Fort Fisher Blvd to Kure Beach.

Here you can enjoy all the beautiful sand, water, fishing, and boardwalk at other beaches without the amusement park rides and busy tiki bars. Kure Beach has a much more laid-back attitude and brings you back to what North Carolina beaches are all about. Walk the Kure Beach Pier and watch the fisherman wrangle one in. The 711-foot-long pier is one of the oldest on the Atlantic Coast.

If you want to fish yourself, you can easily rent a rod and get some bait and tackle from the shop at the pier – with a small fishing admission fee, your fishing license on the pier is included in the rate. Don’t miss getting a reservation at Freddie’s; it’s one of the best restaurants at Kure Beach!

Ocean Isle Beach

Less than an hour from Wilmington is Ocean Isle Beach, just south of Holden Beach but north of Myrtle Beach and the South Carolina border.

Ocean Isle Beach sees a fraction of the visitors of other nearby North Carolina. This small seaside beach is family-friendly and great for those who want relaxation and things to do for the kiddies. Go zip lining at The Swamp Park, or enjoy a kayak in the marsh!

There are plenty of beach restaurants and even a brewery! Makai Brewing Company has all the best tropically flavored IPAs!

Best Beaches in North Carolina Map

Best Beaches in North Carolina Quick Questions

• What is the prettiest beach in North Carolina? We get asked this question often, and while everyone’s opinion differs, our favorite beaches are along the 85 Miles of Coastline that make up the Crystal Coast. Most notably, Emerald Isle Beach is a quiet beach with lower tourism numbers than other beaches in North Carolina.
• What is the clearest beach in North Carolina? While you won’t find clear beaches like in the Mediterranean, some areas of North Carolina are exceptionally clear. Most notably, the Shackleford Banks in the Cape Lookout National Seashore! It’s here you can find the clearest water in North Carolina. This area is also home to over 100 wild horses!
• What is the least crowded beach in North Carolina? One of the most overlooked beaches in North Carolina is Holden Beach on the southern coast of North Carolina. It’s a true escape from the rest of the world with very few commercial properties and businesses. If you want to get away from the business of the Wilmington area, head here!
• Are there white-sand North Carolina beaches? If you come to North Carolina looking for sand that you get in the Maldives you’ll be disappointed. Nevertheless, Carova is where you will find the whitest sand in North Carolina.
• Can you swim on these North Carolina beaches ? You can swim in any of the waters around the NC coast. The best months for swimming are July, August, and September, when the air is warm and dipping in the ocean is refreshing. If you are not a strong swimmer best to stay close to shore as rip currents are the leading surf hazard for all beachgoers. According to The U.S. Lifesaving Association, most surf rescues are related to rip currents.

About Natasha

Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and seven continents. After, many years of international travel they settled down a bit and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina.

1 thought on “25 BEST North Carolina Beaches To Visit”

I was looking to purchase a beach house some where in North Carolina so I could be close to my home base of Charlotte, NC and not feel like when I returned, I would need a vacation from my vacation.. I checked out all the beaches from Sunset to the outer banks and this is what my wife and I surmised: We immediately crossed OBX off our list because it was very far and because of the lack of medical care nearby…you have to think of these things once you have children. Sunset was ok, but not quite what I was looking for in a beach destination. Ocean Isle was very pretty, had lots of charm, but way overbuilt now for my liking. I am needing relaxation from the city enviornment, so I didn’t want to be stressed out at the beach too. We really enjoyed Holden Beach because it was not overbuilt, no high rise hotels or condos, very family oriented and very peaceful…almost like going back in time when things were slower and quieter. Oak island had beach erosion issues which I didn’t want to deal with every year. Wrightsville has become very expensive and very crowded even thought it is a beautiful island. Carolina Beach was a headache to reach and maybe too much of a party town for me. So, there you have it….we settled on Holden Beach and we are enjoying it immensely.

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The 16 Best Beaches in North Carolina in 2023 [Detailed Guide]

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Map of the 16 Best Beaches in North Carolina

1. atlantic beach, 2. bald head island, 3. brunswick islands, 4. cape hatteras, 5. cape lookout national seashore, 6. crystal coast, 7. currituck beach, 9. emerald isle, 10. hammocks beach state park, 11. nags head, 12. ocracoke island, 13. outer banks, 14. sunset beach, 15. topsail, 16. wrightsville beach, final thoughts.

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When you think about North Carolina, you might think of the South, the Wright Brothers, and maybe barbecue. But beaches should be on your list. North Carolina has some of the best beaches on the East Coast, yet its beaches often go underrated compared to other states such as Florida or New Jersey .

There’s plenty to see in North Carolina, so you definitely need to plan your visit. Make sure you schedule a few beach days while you’re there. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled this list of the best beaches in North Carolina.

The 16 Best North Carolina Beaches

As the most picturesque of the communities on Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach is a premier spot for people who want to imagine they’re in a summer feel-good movie while on the sand. The water is sparking and clear year-round, and the sand is nice and soft.

Sunrise is particularly beautiful. You can get up early and sit on the beach to watch daylight break over the horizon before you spend the rest of the day splashing around.

The town is also the oldest in this area. You can practically feel the town’s culture and history seeping through the sand. You can also enjoy long stretches of coastline perfect for walking. Or you can just take advantage of all the room to make sure you scope out the perfect place to set up for the day.

Bald Head Island  deserves particular attention. Initially, the area was known as Smith Island, and it’s found on the east side of Cape Fear River. Though that name might be intimidating, there’s nothing to be afraid of here except falling in love with the beach.

What makes Bald Head Island so special is that its beach offers visitors the comforts of a safe beach experience without feeling like they’re in the middle of a tourist trap.

The island is pretty remote, so the beach never gets too full. You’ll mostly be sharing the sand with locals who are there all year. The sand is soft, and the beach landscape is pretty even, so it’s perfect for taking walks. The water starts warming up in the spring, but it hits its perfect temperature around July.

North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands are a collection of small towns on 5 different islands. Each one of these beautiful little getaway spots could deserve a place on this list, but we’ve grouped them together for now.

The 5 islands are Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island. These islands are also called the barrier islands because they form a wall between the North Carolina mainland coast and the open Atlantic Ocean.

Oak Island is the largest and most popular, but all the beaches have the same sort of ambiance. They’re calm and fairly quiet even during the spring and summer months when more tourists visit.

The beaches are highly recommended for families because they offer safe swimming and splashing around. So if you want to avoid dealing with crowds and have children who aren’t in school, come in late spring or early fall.

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is another point of local pride for people in North Carolina. It not only regularly ranks as one of the best beaches in the state, but as one of the best in the entire country.

That’s all thanks to the wide, flat land and soft sand you’ll find along the shores. Since it’s a nationally protected area, there aren’t as many amenities right on the sand, so it tends to draw fewer crowds. That means you get to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without fighting for a spot.

Even though there may not be too many visitors, it’s still perfect for people of all ages and activity levels. If you want adventure, you can kayak or windsurf. If you want to relax, you can sprawl out on the sand or wade in the clear water.

If you’re looking to escape the mainland for a beach day, head to the Cape Lookout National Seashore . Located just 3 miles off-shore, you can reach the island by boat. You can rent your own boat, but there are also services available that will ferry you to and from the seashore.

The seashore is part of the Outer Banks, also called the Crystal Coast, and it’s one of the state’s most prized natural areas. The seashore is considered a national park, so the area is protected.

You can visit all year, but for the best experience, try to go between April to September. This is the high season when the water is warm, so the park is ready for beach-goers. During this time, you can book a cabin or you can spend your nights camping on the beach. Just make sure you bring your own gear with you.

Some people consider the Crystal Coast of North Carolina to be part of the Outer Banks. However, it’s diverse enough to be considered its own region of the state. The coast is made up of 85 miles of land that spans the territory between the Cape Lookout National Seashore and the New River.

The Crystal Coast is home to some of the best and most picturesque shorelines on the entire eastern half of the U.S. That’s in part because much of the coast is nationally protected, so it can’t be developed or damaged the way other more commercial beach areas can be.

There are tons of activities available for guests during the high season. Boats are available for rent or charter and you can camp, go kayaking, or just enjoy the clear water.

Currituck Beach is the pride and joy of Corolla and Currituck County. Flanked by the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, the island is completely surrounded by beautiful water. Currituck Beach is about 20 miles long, so there’s tons of space available for you to find the perfect spot to set up for your beach day.

The beach is also wide in some spots. It can even reach up to 1.75 miles in width between the water’s edge and the end of the sand in some places. The beach is in pristine condition without looking too commercial.

Even though you’ll never be too far from stores and restaurants, you’ll still feel far removed from the day-to-day stresses of the city while surrounded by the natural flora and fauna of the beach.

It may have a simple name, but Duck (also called Duck Island) is one of the best beach spots in North Carolina. What was once a duck-hunting spot has reinvented itself to be a premier beach-going location. Duck isn’t just a fun name for kids — the entire beach area is considered one of the most family-friendly coastal spots in the U.S.

The beaches are wide with soft, white sand as far as the eye can see. There are waves, but they’re gentle and rolling. You don’t have to worry about them crashing violently or frequently creating dangerous swimming situations.

The beach is also near tons of shops and restaurants, so there’s plenty to do if you decide to take a little break from the sun and water. Even in the winter when the water is cold, you’ll enjoy the beach views.

On North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, you’ll find Bogue Banks Island. Since it’s separate from the mainland and surrounded by water, it’s a popular destination for fishing, water skiing, and of course, going to the beach.

The most popular beach on the island belongs to the town of Emerald Isle . The beaches have white sand and some of the clearest blue water you’ll find anywhere in the continental U.S.

The beach also has a little something for everyone. Some areas are more manicured and give off the typical beach town vibe, while others are a little more tucked away and natural.

The water is pretty calm and stays shallow for a while, so it’s perfect for families, even those with young swimmers. The best time to visit the beach is during the summer. There are more crowds, but you’ll also find more open businesses and lifeguards on regular duty.

Nature lovers who want to spend some time at the beach need to plan a trip to Hammocks Beach State Park . Covering 1,611 acres of land, the beach offers a lot of space to explore and feel like you’re experiencing the coast the way nature intended.

Hammocks Beach State Park is located on Bear Island, so you need to take a boat or ferry to get there. Once on the island, you’ll find designated picnic areas and blue water to swim in.

You can swim all year round, but it’s not necessarily recommended. From October until April, the water gets cold, so you need a wetsuit to be comfortable.

Also, there usually aren’t lifeguards on duty after Labor Day.

Hot Tip: For the best swimming experience at Hammocks Beach State Park, visit during the summer.

Nags Head is the perfect beach spot for people seeking adventure. The town’s beach is known for its tall sand dunes, which are perfect for people of all ages.

Little kids will love running around and playing pretend on this novel landscape, and older visitors can rent dune buggies to use in certain areas of the beach. The beach is pristine yet natural, thanks to the pride the state takes in maintaining it.

It’s also a great place if you want to make sure you’re always within walking distance of whatever you might need. There are tons of beach amenities, from restaurants to shops, so you’ll always be able to get whatever comforts or necessities you’re looking for. However, during the winter months, the island is mostly closed and becomes more deserted because it’s too cold to swim.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Ocracoke Island . Its lighthouse dates back to 1823 and it has a museum for history buffs who want to learn about the island. Still, one of the top reasons to visit the island is to spend a few days on the beach.

The beach sets itself apart from many others in the state for the wide variety of shells you can find on the shore. From whelks to moon shells, you’ll be able to hunt for these natural souvenirs for hours.

If you’re lucky, you might even run into a Scotch bonnet, the official state shell of North Carolina. Even if you don’t want to add to your shell collection, you’ll be able to spend days relaxing on the beach or playing in the water while you fall in love with Ocracoke Island.

Though we’ve already mentioned a few specific beaches on the Outer Banks , the entire area is worth considering if you’re looking to spend beach days in North Carolina. Locals highly recommend planning an entire vacation purely around the shores of these barrier islands.

From windsurfing to kayaking to simple walks on the sand, you’ll find a spot fit for whatever type of beach-goer you are.

Not many people outside of the East Coast know about the Outer Banks, so while there are still tourists during the high season, it’s not as crowded as other beaches in the Carolinas. If you head to one of the shores during the early-mid spring or early-mid fall, you’ll have the place mostly to yourself.

Definitely ask around for some of the best places to hit the beach. Locals might have a few secret spots for you.

If you’d prefer to stay on the mainland of North Carolina for your beach adventures, look no further than Sunset Beach . This little town comes up to the border with South Carolina. In fact, it’s part of the Myrtle Beach area.

However, while Myrtle Beach gets packed with people, especially during the spring and summer, Sunset Beach is a lot more laid back. It still gets tourists, but most of them flock further south, so you’ll have a more local experience when you visit.

Since it’s not quite as crowded or chaotic as Myrtle Beach, Sunset Beach is a lot more family-friendly than many of the other beaches in the area. You can relax and enjoy some peace and quiet on the sand, especially in the early morning or dusk.

You can also rest easy knowing you’re under the watchful eye of a lifeguard.

If you look up Topsail , you might be surprised that a town with a population of fewer than 500 people can manage to have one of the best beaches in the state. However, its coast is a hidden jewel most people don’t know about.

Since Topsail isn’t as busy as some of the state’s other beaches, it’s also a sanctuary for sea turtles. If you’re lucky, while you visit, you might catch a glimpse of one. You may even come across a mother laying her eggs.

You won’t find much in the way of exciting activities on this particular beach, but that’s precisely why it deserves to be on this list. It sets itself apart from many other beaches because it offers a truly relaxing experience. Whether you’re a nature lover or you just want to kick back a while, heading to Topsail might be perfect for you.

If you want to spend your beach vacation somewhere with vibrant nightlife so you can be entertained at all hours of the day or night, Wrightsville Beach is the place for you.

While the beach is still considered family-friendly, people who want to dance and have a good time at a beach party after sunset won’t be disappointed. Since the beach is suitable for people of all ages, it’s considered one of the best vacation spots in the state.

Despite the parties, the beach is also very clean and pristine. The city likes having fun, but it takes pride in its coastal preservation. You’ll also enjoy the small-town vibes the beach and surrounding area give off during the day. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and let your hair down.

North Carolina is a beach lover’s dream spot and you have plenty of options to choose from. Picking a single place to visit can be near impossible. Hopefully, this list has helped you get an idea of which beach you should plan to visit first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does north carolina have good beaches.

North Carolina has beautiful beaches. Like all coastal areas, you have to do a little research to find the right beach for your preferences. Some beaches will be well-maintained and soft, while others may be more natural or have pebbles.

Are there any white sand beaches in North Carolina?

You’ll find multiple white sand beaches in North Carolina. Emerald Isle is one of the state’s more popular beaches with white sand. There are also more typical tan sand beaches, as well as beaches with more rocky shores with pebbles.

Are North Carolina beaches warm?

North Carolina is in the southern part of the U.S., so temperatures don’t get too cold, even in the winter. However, the air can still get chilly. The water also gets too cold for most people to swim in from mid-October to April.

Can you swim in North Carolina beaches?

North Carolina has plenty of swimmable beaches. You’ll easily be able to find places with clean, clear water and calm currents to allow for safe swimming. However, ask locals, look for signs, or research online before you assume a beach is swimmable.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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14 Top-Rated Beaches in North Carolina

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 16, 2023

Author Michael Law is an avid kiteboarder and enjoys visiting the beaches of North Carolina every chance he gets.

North Carolina beaches have been a top destination for families since the 1930s. People come to the coast and rent cottages or stay in beachfront resorts to escape the heat, frolic in the Atlantic waters, enjoy the ocean breezes, and generally have a good time with friends and family.

Beaches come in many shapes and sizes, but a majority of them are on sandy barrier islands, with limited development behind them. This tends to create a relaxed, small-town feel, even though hundreds of thousands of people descend on these areas in the peak season.

Regardless of what you're looking for in a beach vacation, whether it's walking, swimming, shelling, trying your luck with some of the best shore fishing along the Eastern Seaboard, surfing, kiteboarding, or just sitting in a beach chair watching the waves roll in, you can find it on North Carolina's beaches.

If you are traveling with your furry, four-legged friend, you will be pleased to know that dogs are allowed on a majority of the Outer Banks beaches , and in some cases do not even need to be leashed.

To help plan your trip, have a read through our list of the best beaches in North Carolina.

1. Atlantic Beach

2. wrightsville beach, 3. nags head beach, 4. carova beach, 5. carolina beach, 6. beaches on topsail island, 7. emerald island, 8. beaches of bald head island, 9. kitty hawk, 10. corolla beach, 11. beaches in the tri villages: rodanthe, waves & salvo, 12. holden beach, 13. avon beach, 14. beaches of ocracoke island, best time to visit north carolina's beaches, map of top-rated beaches in north carolina.

Highlights : Soft sand and small waves, one of the few North Carolina beaches with sunsets over the ocean.

Located on the state's famed Crystal Coast , Atlantic Beach is one of the more popular destinations, owing largely to its location and the fact that it faces south, protecting it from the wind and waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

The soft-sand beach is wide and backed by shopping and dining options that range from burgers right through to top-end restaurants. For time away from the beach, be sure to check out one of the four Walk Atlantic Beach loops. Each one takes you through different areas of town.

If fishing is your pastime, the Anchorage Marina has an excellent ramp, a good ship store, and lots of parking for your rig and trailer. You can access the beach at any of the 44 well-marked access points with parking nearby.

Off the beach, you'll find a bustling downtown with beach-themed shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. For a bit of Civil War-era history, swing by Fort Macon State Park. This stone fort is perfectly restored and is a great place to explore, with old cannons, stone ramparts, and dark passageways. A rainy-day attraction located nearby is the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores with its 306,000-gallon ocean habitat, the largest in the state.

Atlantic Beach has a long history as one of the top beach destinations on the entire coastline with great accommodation options.

Highlights : Five miles of golden sand with ample opportunities for action-packed water sports.

People love Wrightsville beach because of the stunning blue ocean and captivating Intracoastal Waterway. It's a sunny and warm spot, making it easy to enjoy the sun, sand, and waves. Surfing, paddleboarding, e-foiling, sailing, and boating, are all popular pastimes, and rentals are readily available on the island.

The sunrises are too good to miss. Beach walkers are out every morning enjoying five miles of golden sand lapped by crystalline waters. Off the beach, biking, walking, jogging, one-wheeling, or skateboarding are all popular pastimes on the island's pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and trails.

The local restaurant scene is exceptional; you'll be treated to creative menus featuring the freshest ingredients prepared by the hottest local chefs. Head home early after a tough day on the beach or, if you are a night owl, stay up late and enjoy the live music scene, which keeps the vibe going well into the evening.

Wrightsville Beach is a short drive from Wilmington, NC .

Highlights : Great surfing, swimming, shore fishing, and Jenette's Pier.

Nags Head is known for its wide-open beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming. It was originally settled in 1830 and has been a popular beach destination attracting visitors for decades. Today, you can find plenty of accommodation in the form of hotels or rental homes.

Beach walkers will appreciate the 12 miles of beach. You will likely run out of energy before you run out of real estate. Located on the beach is the 1,000-foot-long Jenette's Pier , a local fishing hot spot. If you didn't bring your own fishing gear, you can rent from the shop on the pier. Also located on the pier is an aquarium. There is a small fee to walk the pier and an additional charge for fishing.

Nearby is Jockey's Ridge State Park with large sand dunes and the Bodie Island Lighthouse , dating from the early 1870s. Invest the effort to climb the stairs to the top for incredible views up and down the coast.

Read More: Best Coastal Towns in North Carolina

Highlights : An undeveloped stretch of beautiful sandy shoreline and dunes with free-roaming wild horses.

If you have a 4WD vehicle and are looking for a completely different beach experience, head out to Carova Beach. This beach is most famous for its wild horses but is also popular for its huge, soft-sand beaches.

You can drive on the beach and go as far as you want to find your own piece of beach paradise. This is also a great area for bird-watching and wildlife spotting, and it's one of the best spots for shelling in the Outer Banks. No services are available out here, so be sure to bring all your supplies with you.

You do not need to have a beach driving permit to drive on the sand here, unlike the national park beaches farther south. However, for the Memorial Day Long Weekend through to Labor Day, a parking permit is required.

Highlights: A perfect family beach with a fun boardwalk and midway that kids will love.

Easily accessible from Wilmington, Carolina Beach is right near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. The beach is backed by a historic wooden boardwalk lined with restaurants and beach shops. The area also has a permanent midway with a Ferris Wheel and other kinds of fun rides for the kids.

If you aren't up for a swim, you can find plenty of other fun things to do here. Grab an ice cream and stroll the boardwalk while gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean, or rent a bike and go for a ride. If you do want to get out on the water, this is a great spot to get an introduction to the sport of stand up paddleboarding.

Dog owners should be aware that dogs are not allowed on the beach from 9am to 5pm and are not allowed on the boardwalk at any time. Camping for tents and RVs is available nearby at Carolina Beach State Park .

Highlights: Almost endless beaches with clear waters and soft sands, a historical pier, and turtle nesting sites.

With over 26 miles of beach and three towns on the island - Topsail Beach , North Topsail Beach , and Surf City - you can choose to be either in the center of the action or out on your own. This is one of the few places that has exceptional beaches on the sound side, as well as the Atlantic side . This means you can find shallow, warm, calm waters that are ideal for families with small children.

On the Atlantic side, beach walkers can enjoy seemingly endless stretches of sand, and shell seekers will be rewarded with some of the best finds on the North Carolina coast. Swimmers can enjoy the waves and rolling surf.

One of the main attractions is the 937-foot-long Surf City Pier . Here, you'll find a popular restaurant and a friendly atmosphere. Typical fish caught here include mullet and king mackerel.

Highlights : Incredible sunsets and sunrises, golden sands, clear waters, and nature trails.

Emerald Island or Emerald Isle, depending on who you talk to, has The Point , one of the best spots to catch a spectacular sunset along the entire coastline. This is a family-friendly beach destination with things to do for all ages on and off the beach, including the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, extensive walking and biking trails, a waterslide park, and mini-golf courses.

Emerald Island was named for the green maritime forest that covers the area. To experience this firsthand, take a walk along one of several nature trails that wind their way through the forest.

Accommodation here is plentiful, with an extensive selection of rental homes, cottages, and condominiums either right on or just back from the beach.

Highlights : Fourteen miles of lightly developed beaches perfect for swimming and walking.

The beautiful beaches of Bald Head Island are reached via a 20-minute passenger ferry from the Deep Point Marina in Southport . Bald Head Island does not allow cars, the only mode of transport is via a tram or golf carts. The tram is free if you are renting a beach house. If you are only day-tripping, golf carts can be rented at the ferry terminal.

Alternatively, bring your bicycle and pedal your way along the 15 miles of trails. The 14 miles of soft-sand beach is definitely the main draw here, but you'll also find a range of activities available, including an exceptional 18-hole golf course, hiking trails, and kayaking, or for those with less active agendas, a day at the spa or shopping at the cute boutiques in town.

Highlights : Almost unlimited beach walking in either direction and easy access from the Wright Memorial Bridge.

The golden sand beach at Kitty Hawk runs for miles. It's easy to find your own patch of sand and set up your beach outpost. Parking is relatively easy at one of the many beach access points. Kitty Hawk is the first town you come to when arriving from the north after you cross the long bridge on Highway 158 across Currituck Sound.

One of the great advantages of Kitty Hawk is the accessibility and availability of service. Along the four-lane highway, you'll find a great variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and interesting retail shops selling everything you could ever need for your beach outing. Kitty Hawk is also home to the Wilbur Wright Memorial, ideal for an outing on a cloudy or rainy day.

Highlights : A low-key, undiscovered beach with amazing white sand.

Corolla Beach has always flown under the radar as a popular beach destination in the Outer Banks and those in the know would probably prefer that it stays that way. A bit of everything can be found here: stunning white beaches with miles of untracked sand, a historical lighthouse for something to do off the beach, and a wide array of easily accessible services nearby.

Located near the northern end of the Outer Banks, Corolla Beach is located just north of the fun and funky town of Duck. As the beach is near the Currituck National Wildlife Reserve, you may find you are sharing your perfect patch of sand with a few wandering horses who have made their way down from farther north.

The town of the same name just back from the beach is an interesting mix of Outer Banks casual and high-end luxury. Easygoing restaurants or white-tablecloth fine dining, funky beach shops or the latest designer threads — the choice is yours.

Highlights : Long stretches of undeveloped white-sand beaches and large dunes, plus the beaches on Pamlico Sound are a hot spot for kitesurfing.

The beaches at these three cities meld into one another as you head down the Atlantic coastline. Like many of the other beaches along the Outer Banks, the beach along the Atlantic is wide and backed by dunes. These beaches are perfect for those looking for a little solitude and seclusion. The farther south you go, the less development you'll find, as the beaches are managed by the National Parks Service.

Kitesurfing is also a big deal in this area of the Outer Banks, primarily on the sound. The main location for kiteboarding is in the towns of Salvo and Waves. Here, you'll find excellent facilities to learn, buy gear, or just access the water. If it's windy, don't miss out on seeing something unique. Head over to REAL Watersports in Waves and grab a table on the patio at Waterman's Grill and watch the kiters zipping across the calm waters of the sound.

If you are a fan of Richard Gere or Diane Lane, the famous beach house used in the movie Nights in Rodanthe , moved just inland off the beach in 2010 due to erosion, can be seen off Highway 12 on Beacon Road.

The Tri Villages have the best commercial campgrounds of the Outer Banks , and if you are towing an RV, this is where you'll likely find yourself set up.

In addition to camping, the local realty agencies have an extensive selection of cottages for rent.

Highlights : One of the most southerly beaches in the state, and a hot spot for shelling.

Holden Beach is one of the best family beaches in North America. Generations of families return year after year to this little slice of paradise. Located in the Brunswick Islands, Holden Beach has a wonderful long stretch of sand facing out to the Atlantic, perfect for swimming, shelling, and strolling.

If you work up an appetite, just head over to the other side of the island where waterfront restaurants look out over the Intracoastal Waterway. Holden Beach is only 35 minutes south of Wilmington, making it a nice day-trip destination. If want to stay in this area, you may want to consider renting a beach house or set up in Wilmington for a bit more city action and culture.

This area has a very relaxed feel and look. Local building regulations state that no structure can be higher than 35 feet.

Highlights : A long stretch of golden sand backed by dunes, and a historical fishing pier.

Avon is a small town with little tourist-focused development. You won't find mini putts, a Ferris wheel, or hotels here. You will find a few local restaurants, a decent grocery store, and miles of beaches.

Long stretches of sand backed by rolling dunes describe the beaches of Avon. Except for only the tallest houses, other developments are hidden behind the dunes, so as you walk along the beach, it can feel remote. The beaches at the north end of Avon are wider, with big dunes backing them; the beaches to the south are a bit narrower, and the dunes are smaller.

The main gathering place along this stretch is the famous Avon Fishing Pier . Here, you'll find a convenience store, tackle shop, and everything you'll need for fishing. For a small fee, you can walk out on the pier.

Accommodation here is in the form of beach homes, and the listings and availability are managed by the local real estate companies.

Highlights : Isolated and pristine white-sand beaches perfect for getting away from it all.

If you truly want to get away from it all, head to Ocracoke Island. As you drive off the ferry, you'll feel your heart rate slow as the relaxed island vibe hits you. Although it's only a 25-minute ferry ride from Hatteras Island , you'll feel far from civilization.

The island is small, but the beaches are wide and unpeopled. A funky little town with a variety of restaurants and services rounds out the experience. Accommodation options range from a national park campground to traditional hotels, beach houses, and bed-and-breakfasts

Local legend is that the pirate Blackbeard called Ocracoke home. Getting to the island is easy. Car and passenger ferries run on a regular basis from Hatteras Island and Cedar Island to Ocracoke Ferry Terminal. The crossing from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke is free.

The best time to visit North Carolina's beaches is in the summer months of June, July, and August. At this time, the sun is shining, the ocean has warmed up (especially in August), and the beaches and resort towns are packed with people having fun.

The months of May, September, and October are also great times to visit. The days are warm and the beaches less crowded, but keep an eye out for wayward hurricanes in the fall.

April and November are true shoulder season months, with changeable weather and cooler temps, but you will truly have the places to yourself. If you seek good deals and long, quiet walks on the beach, this is the time to come.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring the Outer Banks: On rainy days or when you just need a break from the beach, you can still find ways to spend your time in the Outer Banks. Have a read through our list of things to do in the Outer Banks .

More on North Carolina

THE 10 BEST North Carolina Beaches

Beaches in north carolina.

• Golf Courses
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Hiking Trails
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

2. Oak Island Beach

3. Currituck Beach

4. Wrightsville Beach

5. Carova Beach

6. Frisco Beach

7. Holden Beach

8. Hammocks Beach State Park

9. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach

10. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

11. The Point

12. Coquina Beach

13. Canadian Hole

14. Salvo Beach

15. Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

16. Bald Head Island Beach

17. Ocracoke Beach

18. The Point

19. Ocracoke Lifeguard Beach

20. Beach4x4

21. Cape Point Beach

22. Carolina Beach

23. Obx Fitcations

24. Wrightsville Beach Park

25. New Inlet

26. Wrightsville Beach, Nc

27. Onslow Beach

28. Sandling Beach State Recreation Area

29. Prospect Avenue Public Beach Access

30. Sun Ease Rentals

What travelers are saying.

North Carolina's top 12 beaches for swimming, surfing and sea turtles

Apr 14, 2022 • 8 min read

North Carolina's beaches offer everything from action-packed adventures to lazy days in the sun © VisitNC.com

With 300 miles of barrier-island beaches and innumerable coastal towns waiting to be explored, North Carolina’s shoreline attracts millions of visitors each year – and it’s not hard to see why.

From romantic escapes to kid-friendly family vacations, and action-packed adventures to lazy days in the sun, the region offers something for everyone. Here are a dozen of the best beaches in the state. 

Atlantic Beach

Best beach for day trip from Raleigh 

Just 150 miles southeast of Raleigh on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Atlantic Beach is an easy drive from the state capital, and it can draw a crowd in the peak summer months.

Located on Bogue Banks, a small barrier island tucked between Bogue Sound and the ocean, it’s the first stop off the causeway from Highway 70, making it an easy option for a weekend getaway or a longer escape.

With a boardwalk, a fishing pier, wide sandy beaches and offshore activities like parasailing, kiteboarding, jet-skiing and kayaking, it's no wonder the place garners so much attention. And let's not forget the  kitschy souvenir shops and restaurants galore,

At the island’s eastern point is Fort Macon State Park , and the eponymous fort saw action in the Civil War. Tour the premises, then settle on the beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with a bathhouse, concessions, wheelchair-accessible areas and lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day. 

Emerald Isle

Best beach for upscale crowds 

Not 15 miles west of Atlantic Beach is Emerald Isle , a bit sleepier than its neighbor, with fewer hotels and more condos, cottages and houses. The town is a bit more upscale, with art galleries, boutiques and fine-casual dining.

Emerald Isle may be on the quiet side, but there’s plenty to do on and off the 12 miles of beach, especially for families – everything from putt-putt and disc golf to paddleboarding, surf lessons and fishing off the pier. It’s also easy to reach from Raleigh, with its own causeway to help drivers beat the cross-island traffic. 

Bald Head Island

Best beach to escape the crowds 

A secluded, car-free retreat between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Bald Head Island can only be reached by ferry or private yacht. Once you’re onsite, bikes and golf carts are the only means of transportation.

As a result, the vast majority of the island's 12,000 acres – including salt marshes, maritime forests, and 14 miles of beaches – remain pristine and untouched. For a solitary escape à deux, it's tough to get better than this. 

The Bald Head Woods Coastal Reserve is a prime spot for birdwatching and the Kent Mitchell Nature Trail has paths suitable for a range of abilities. The Bald Head Island Conservancy offers guided kayak tours, tidal-pool explorations and birding tours. Sea turtles – mostly loggerheads – nest here from June to August. The beaches are great for shelling, especially around low tide. 

Best places to visit in North Carolina 

Ocracoke Island

Best beach for shelling 

Once a hideout for the infamous pirate Blackbeard and the site of his death in 1718, Ocracoke Island is known today for its natural beauty and low-key vibe.

Located on the southern end of the Outer Banks , most of the island is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore  – protected land administered by the National Park Service. Its beaches are stellar spots for shelling, with beachcombers turning up conchs, sand dollars and Scotch bonnets on a regular basis.

The waves can be turbulent this close to Cape Hatteras, but the water is warmer here than it is further north, thanks to the Gulf Stream off the coast. 

Corolla Beach

Best beach for families with young kids 

Just below the Virginia border on the Outer Banks, Corolla (pronounced “kuh-RAH-luh”) is a go-to choice for families with young kids, thanks to its gentle waves and 24 miles of wide, white sand.

Corolla is the only place in the region that allows four-wheel-drives directly onto the beach year round, fee-free (though you'll need a permit if you want to park).

Interestingly enough, the 4x4 beaches are also where you’ll find Corolla’s best-known attraction: wild horses. Descended from Spanish Mustangs, these horses have had the run of the place for hundreds of years. It’s illegal to come within 50ft of the horses, but a handful of tour operators can get you close enough for a photo opp. 

Wrightsville Beach

Best beach to visit all year round 

Across the Cape Fear River from the port city of Wilmington,  Wrightsville Beach  is as solid an option throughout the year, thanks to a winning combination of urban attractions and outdoor adventures. 

The mild weather and sprawling sands attract families, retirees and college crowds, while activities like surf camp, sailing school and diving classes keep them busy both on and off the water.

Get up early to catch the sunrise over the Atlantic, hit the Oceanic Pier for a magic-hour stroll, and in the summertime, catch an outdoor concert at the park. Head over the causeway for dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants, followed by a show or movie at the historic Thalian Hall – a 19th-century theater on the National Register for Historic Places.

Best beach for families with teens 

Barely 15 miles south of Corolla, the resort town of Duck has just 500 permanent residents, but its numbers swell during the summer season. It’s a hugely popular destination for families, especially those with teens.

On the eastern ocean-facing side of town, shops and restaurants are clustered around a six-mile-long trail with sidewalks and bike lanes.

On the western side, Duck Town Park covers 11 acres of greenspace, with a playground, a public canoe and kayak launch and a mile-long boardwalk that winds along the Currituck Sound. The town plays host to an annual jazz festival – in 2022, scheduled for October 8 and 9 – and its beaches are private and well-kept.

Topsail Island

Best beach to observe sea turtles 

North of Wrightsville in Onslow County, the 26-mile-long Topsail (pronounced TOP-sul) was once another rumored hideaway for the pirate Blackbeard. Today, its beaches are laidback and family-friendly, with waters conducive to fishing any time of the year.

Surf City is the island’s commercial hub, with well-kept beaches and a year-round population of nearly 3500. To the north is North Topsail Beach and Ocean City, a quiet community established in 1949 as the first beach destination on the Atlantic where Black people could own property, and to the south is Topsail Beach, a town with 400-some year-round residents and zero high-rise development allowed.

The island is fertile ground for nesting sea turtles, and the ​Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center offers educational programs and public releases of the loggerheads its staff has nursed back to health.

Carolina Beach

Best beach for boardwalk fun 

Carolina Beach is an epicenter of family fun, nestled on the aptly named Pleasure Island between Wrightsville Beach and Bald Head Island on the Atlantic coast. 

Its boardwalk is often called one of the best in the US. It lives up to the buzz with rides and arcade games, bike rentals, restaurants and concessions, and weekly fireworks during the summer.

On the Cape Fear side of the island, Carolina Beach State Park boasts 761 acres of nature trails, campsites and beach. It’s also a native habitat for the Venus flytrap. The wheelchair-accessible half-mile Flytrap loop provides a look at the carnivorous plants in the wild.

Best beach for hang-gliding 

One of the best-known towns in the Outer Banks, Nags Head is a destination for spring-breakers and multi-generational families. Its location on Bodie Island, a few miles south of Kitty Hawk and the Wright Brothers National Memorial, makes it a draw for aviation buffs. 

It can get very crowded in the summer, so it’s almost better to visit during the off-season. Less crowds mean more space to yourself for fishing off the pier, hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge – a state park with the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern US.

Average temperatures don’t usually dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius), so a wintry stroll on a beach wouldn't be too uncomfortable. 

Bear Island

Best beach for beachcombing and bird watching 

Accessible by ferry and private boat only, with primitive camping and virgin beach, Bear Island is at the heart of Hammocks Beach State Park – a peaceful and secluded respite from the modern-day beachgoing throngs.

Home to shore birds and tidal pools teeming with life, the four-mile barrier island is heaven for beachcombers and birdwatchers. There’s marshland to explore via paddling trails for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards (available to rent in season).

The oceanfront campsites are open year-round, so you can sleep beside the dunes and under the stars practically any time you choose.

Best beach for Dirty Dancing recreations 

The North Carolina coast is a beachy bonanza, but those who prefer freshwater excursions have options too. Chief among them is Lake Lure, located less than 30 miles from  Asheville  in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The manmade lake and the surrounding area served as a backdrop for Dirty Dancing , that ‘80s classic starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. Recreate your favorite moments from the film with a stay in a themed cabin or a photoshoot at one of the movie’s exterior locations. (Superfans should visit in September for the Dirty Dancing Festival ).

If that’s not your idea of fun, you can still have the time of your life fishing, boating and swimming at Lake Lure or hiking and rock climbing at nearby Chimney Rock State Park .  

You may also like:  Best time to visit Charlotte   How to road trip the Southeastern US on a budget Fall road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains  

This article was first published March 2021 and updated April 2022

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North Carolina Coast

Otherworldly isn’t that far away.

The North Carolina coast comprises 300 miles of barrier-island beaches, each with its own unique vibe and variety of things to do. Quaint coastal towns and endless activities guarantee there’s always something new to explore.

Exploring responsibly is a hallmark of North Carolina and ensures our beaches and coastal natural spaces stay pristine for generations to come.

Inner Coastal Plain

Pair Revolutionary and Civil War historic sites with local flavor ranging from fine dining and craft beer to muscadine wine and barbecue.

Skylight Inn & Barbecue Stops • Home of the “Birthplace of Independence” • Civil War Battlefields • Vivian Howard's Chef & the Farmer Restaurant • Duplin Winery

Brunswick Islands

On our southernmost shores you can enjoy 35 golf courses, Calabash seafood and family-friendly beaches boasting sunrise and sunset views.

6 Beaches on 5 Barrier Islands • “North Carolina’s Golf Coast” • Safe Haven Movie Locations • “Old Baldy” and Oak Island Lighthouses • Home of Calabash-Style Seafood • Bald Head Island Conservancy

Topsail Area

This tranquil beach destination located on our southern coast is a haven for anglers, boaters, campers and visitors looking to unwind.

3 Quiet, Low-Key Beaches • Fishing • Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue • Boating & Water Sports • Lejeune Memorial Gardens

Crystal Coast

These south-facing beaches are home to cool small towns, Cape Lookout National Seashore and the nation’s best wreck diving.

85 Miles of Coastline • Cape Lookout Lighthouse • Home of “America’s Favorite Town” • Cape Lookout National Seashore • Wild Spanish Mustangs • Scuba Diving & Water Sports

Outer Banks & Currituck

Visit Cape Hatteras, stand where the Wright brothers took flight and watch wild horses run free along the shores of our northern coast.

100+ Miles of Beaches • Cape Hatteras National Seashore • The Lost Colony • Kiteboarding & Water Sports • 4 Coastal Lighthouses • Wild Spanish Mustangs

Wilmington Area

Tour the Historic River District, board Battleship North Carolina, and enjoy the surf and sand at Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville beaches.

3 Family-Friendly Island Beaches • “Hollywood East” TV & Movie Sights • Airlie Gardens • Wilmington Historic District • Surfing & Water Sports • Battleship North Carolina

Albemarle & Pamlico Sounds

Visit our first state capitol at Tryon Palace, walk in Blackbeard’s footsteps in Bath, and enjoy year-round sailing, fishing and paddling.

Charming Small Towns & Colonial History • Birthplace of Pepsi • Nicholas Sparks Book & Film Sights • Tryon Palace • Blackbeard & Pirate History • River Fishing & Paddling

The Best Beaches in North Carolina

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot to lay down your towel or an empty sand dune-fringed stretch for long walks, we’ve got you covered..

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North Carolina is bordered by miles of deserted sand.

Photo by Jeremy Tyree / Shutterstock

With 300 miles of coastline, rugged sand dunes and countless estuaries, North Carolina is ripe for a beach vacation. Throw in a bunch of idiosyncratic towns, a smattering of maritime history (including several pirates and early aeronauts), as well as untold miles of fairly quiet hiking, and you have a perfect region for a week or two by the ocean. Many of these beaches are just a four- or five-hour drive from Charlotte, which is home to the state’s largest airport for those arriving from farther afield.

Some of the finest beaches in North Carolina are spread out along the Outer Banks, a 200-mile collection of spits and barrier islands that stretch north into the bottom corner of Virginia. So we’re starting our rundown of 11 of the best beaches in North Carolina beaches with those. From north to south, our favorites include Duck Beach, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head.

Socially distanced hiking options abound on North Carolina’s beaches.

Courtesy of Unsplash

Why the name? It’s down to the ducks, of course. They’ve been there since the 1800s. Duck itself is a tiny resort town of some 500 lucky residents on a long, thin stretch of coastline sandwiched between Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors here spend their days combing the sand for shells or kayaking in the gentler waters to the west. The October Jazz Festival, back in 2022, is now a two-day event worth hooking an off-season trip around, starting with a Concert on the Green–style event on October 8 and followed by a full-day free festival on October 9.

Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills

Eight or nine miles south is the seafront town of Kitty Hawk , with Kill Devil Hills just below. Kitty Hawk beach is a rugged stretch of sand with mellow waves set to a backdrop of a maritime forest for peaceful meandering. Kill Devil Hills, meanwhile, is celebrated among the surfer community for its friendly boarders, with decent breaks either side of the pier.

Kitty Hawk also owes its name to feathered fowl; its original Native American name was Chickahawk, meaning “a place to hunt geese.” There’s history here, too; the Wright Brothers took their first flight in a powered vehicle in 1903, and the Wright Brothers National Monument tells the story. So raise a Bloody Mary to those guys next time you’re being whisked somewhere distant at 35,000 feet.

Another famous stretch of fine sand bordered by wild dunes, Nags Head beach is a quintessential North Carolina beach. The long pier, the “tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic coast” ( Jockey’s Ridge State Park), and Bodie Island Lighthouse are all decent diversions when you’re done chilling on the sand. There are plenty of hang gliding opportunities here, too.

The southernmost spot on the Outer Banks, Ocracoke sits on an island accessed by ferry, private boats and air, and is steeped in pirate history; Blackbeard had his head lopped off somewhere around these parts. Today, though, the beaches (part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore) bring less nefarious voyagers for their secluded charms. There are also plenty of independent restaurants in Ocracoke Village and the state’s oldest operating lighthouse , built in 1823 (make time for the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum ). Enjoy sunset from the docks before heading to Ocracoke Oyster Co. for dinner. Order the famed oysters and sip on an oyster stout beer, made in part from oyster shells.

North Carolina’s coastline is characterized by long spits and inland waterways.

Photo by iofoto / Shutterstock

Emerald Isle

Famous humorist David Sedaris bought a beachfront home here (he mentions it a lot in Calypso ) and it’s easy to see why. The long stretch of sand backed by more tufty dunes is perfect for inspiring strolls and contemplation—whether you’re a navel-gazing writer or not. Its south-facing location, on the barrier island of Bogue Banks, attracts big crowds in the summer, but the windswept region is equally beguiling off season.

The title of “surf city” is usually disputed between two California coastal cities (Huntington Beach and Santa Cruz), but this NC spot of the same name also offers decent surfing, swimming, and sunbathing—with none of the crowds of its West Coast namesakes. Positioned north on Topsail Island, another long (26-mile) barrier island, it’s a small settlement of some 1,800 people, meaning plenty of room on the sand.

Topsail Beach

Farther down Topsail Island, Tops’l (to give it its phonetic name) is historically another place haunted by the ghosts of fearsome pirates. Look down from an aerial perspective and you can see why; the area is riddled with channels and coves perfect for hiding and ambush. Nowadays, visitors prefer to swim oceanside, kayak, or fish in the protected waters to the west, and look for—and protect—the area’s turtle population.

Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach, with its white sand, gentle surf, and wooden pier perfect for anglers looking to hook a flounder or a mackerel, has plenty to offer. But beyond the beach, the eponymous State Park entices travelers with miles of hiking trails, a couple of campsites, and a marina—a perfect jumping-off point to discover the length and breadth of the Cape Fear River.

Bald Head Island

Accessed by ferry from nearby Southport and almost car-free (residents drive golf carts instead), Bald Head Island is everything you want from an unplugged and relaxing retreat. Like much of the North Carolina coastline, it’s fairly undeveloped, so don’t expect big hotels; instead, opt to explore the maritime forest, salt marshes and freshwater lagoons, and miles of sand across its three distinct beaches.

Sunset Beach

Our journey south through the best beaches in North Carolina ends in Brunswick County, around four hours by car from Charlotte. Here, the usual sand-and-sun draw is augmented with several recreational opportunities, including birding, sunset kayak tours, and several golf courses. The Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium , meanwhile, includes an aquarium and displays of local maritime and Native American history. As you’d expect, the sunsets aren’t bad either.

This article was originally published in 2020. It was updated May 28, 2022, with the latest information.

>> Next: The Best Small Beach Towns in the United States

• Last Updated On
• August 21, 2023

17 Best Beaches in North Carolina — The Top Beaches to Visit!

As one of the nation’s top beach destinations, North Carolina is a hidden treasure tucked away at the edge of the Atlantic coast.

My family had a whale of a time while unwinding and relaxing in the ocean air in North Carolina.

But with plenty of options, deciding the perfect destination can be challenging.

That’s why I’m here to give you a hand in finding the best beaches in North Carolina to soak up the sun and have some fun with your family or friends.

During my beach exploration, I acquired some knowledge by chatting with other beachgoers and researching to provide credible information.

Through these insights, you can create a truly unforgettable experience worth a while.

I’ve also classified my bet based on its amenities, family-friendliness, water quality, accessibility, and safety.

Prepare your itinerary as you visit the best spot escapade with your family and friends and feel the sun.

Best Beaches In North Carolina Compared

Catch some sun and feel the heat as you explore the pristine waters and amenities in the area.

Each beach is handpicked and carefully selected to captivate and attract your attention.

Editor’s Choice

Emerald Isle

If you’re looking for the amazing beach to swim in North Carolina, consider visiting the immaculate beaches and cozy ambiance of the luxurious Emerald Isle.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Amenities: 4/5
• Water Quality: 5/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Bald Head Island

Make sure not to miss the beachfront of Bald Head Island—one of the prettiest beaches in North Carolina.

#3rd Best Choice

Cape Hatteras — Manteo

Go to one of the best beach spots in North Carolina, the peaceful Cape Hatteras!

• Amenities: 3/5
• Water Quality: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

Here are the top 17 beaches in North Carolina.

1. Emerald Isle (Editor’s Choice)

7500 Emerald Drive Emerald Isle, NC 28594 (252) 354-3424 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Enjoy a plethora of sightseeing
• It has a perfect blend of solitude and activities
• A little crowded

Why We Recommend This Beach

Emerald Isle is well-known to be a family beach destination.

As the beach offers a plethora of amenities and outdoor activities, Emerald Isle is just a beach setting you cannot resist.

The beach also features scenic warm ocean waters during summertime for swimmers to enjoy, making this exceptional beach worth visiting.

Make your Emerald Isle trip a memorable one by visiting The Point.

It is where the beautiful sunsets occur, and you will love nature’s beautiful scenery that highlights Emerald Isle.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Islander Hotel & Resort

Related: Best Family Beaches in North Carolina

2. Bald Head Island

P.O. Box 3069 Bald Head Island, NC 28461 (830) 549-6373 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Do you love the panoramic view of the vast ocean?

Then make sure not to miss the beachfront of Bald Head Island—one of the prettiest beaches in North Carolina.

• Seaside golf and excellent fishing
• Outdoor activities
• Limited access

Take your beach getaway to the next level by visiting Bald Head Island.

Home to a grand ocean view and lavish accommodations, you will have the best island experience in this laid-back and relaxing beach setting.

Maximize the fun on this island and utilize the unlimited movie rentals each night you stay!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: River Hotel of Southport

3. Cape Hatteras — Manteo

1401 National Park Drive Manteo, NC 27954 (252) 473-2111 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Are you looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of urban life?

• Relax and feel the sound of ocean waves
• The starry night sky
• The weather may be unpredictable

Cape Hatteras is indeed a great destination to relax with your loved ones or by yourself.

This lovely beach site features amenities and beach activities that will make your hearts happy.

Moreover, you also occasionally see wildlife inhabitants in this beach destination, from sea turtles to different bird species—you will not get bored exploring the beauty of this beach setting.

If you want to make your visit to Cape Hatteras more interesting, climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and get a better view of the beautiful scenery the beach offers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hatteras Island Inn

Related: Best Things to Do in North Carolina

4. Ocracoke Island — Ocracoke

1075 Irvin Garrish Hwy Ocracoke, NC 27960 (252) 928-6711 Visit Website Yelp Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for a unique laid-back beach experience, the top beach to go to is the lovely Ocracoke Island.

Boasting 16 miles of beautiful shoreline and pristine turquoise waters, Ocracoke Island is the best alternative to Bald Head and Cape Hatteras.

Boasting its 16 miles of undeveloped shoreline, you’ll be surprised with what’s in store in Ocracoke Island.

This destination showcases pristine and uncrowded beaches that any visitor would love.

Furthermore, Ocracoke Island highlights outdoor activities such as watersports, kayaking, and more!

It is indeed a destination that will captivate you in a heartbeat.

Make sure to do your tastebuds a favor and savor different mouth watering dining options in this destination–the food is simply phenomenal.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ocracoke Harbor Inn

5. Topsail Island — Topsail Beach

820 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach, NC 28445 (910) 328-5841 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Do you fancy an aesthetically pleasing yet historically rich beach site?

Explore the picturesque Topsail Beach to experience the best of both worlds.

Among all of the North Carolina beaches on this list, this treasure is worth mentioning.

As it showcases historical ties in World War II, this beach also boasts a family-friendly beach experience that will speak to your heart.

With readily accessible motels, restaurants, gift shops, and more — it would be foolish not to consider visiting this landing place.

Check out the Serenity Point in this destination as it offers a panoramic sunset view that will leave you coming back for more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Shell Island Resort – All Oceanfront Suites

6. Corolla Beach — Corolla

601 Ocean Trail Corolla, NC 27927 (252) 232-2947 Visit Website Yelp Open in Google Maps

Are you looking for more nice beaches in North Carolina?

Check out Corolla Beach and its array of features that will exceed your expectations.

The sandy Corolla Beach offers a memorable vacation experience that is perfect for any family.

As it highlights a plethora of attractions, beach activities, and amenities that engulfs the lovely beach site⁠—this destination is going to be worth your time.

This unique destination offers guided tours in specialized vehicles that enable you to catch sight of roaming wild horses in Corolla and Carova beach. Make sure to check it out!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Outer Banks/Corolla

Related: Weekend Getaways in North Carolina

7. Wrightsville Beach

321 Causeway Drive Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 (910) 256-7900 Visit Website Yelp Open in Google Maps

If you are looking to elevate your beach experience, consider dropping by at one of the clear water beaches in North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach.

Wrightsville Beach is an award-winning beach site filled with fun-loving beach activities that will make your heart feel ecstatic.

From going on a scenic cruise to surfing the calm waves of the ocean, there is nothing in this destination that will bore you.

Make your coastal experience a lot more interesting by exploring the other features that Wrightsville Beach showcases, like the historic square and the waterbird sanctuary.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

Also See: Beaches Near Asheville Beaches Near Charlotte Beaches Near Raleigh

8. Oak Island

4601 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island, NC 28465 (910) 278-5011 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Do you love a simple yet elegant beach destination in North Carolina?

Then the awe-inspiring Oak Island is your go-to destination to visit.

Nestled on the southern end of North Carolina’s shoreline, Oak Island highlights beauty and accessibility.

As it offers panoramic views of the sunrise and the sunset across the ocean, the beach also makes itself accessible to casual civilians and people with disabilities.

Oh, did we also mention that this beautiful beach is home to friendly sea turtles?

We don’t know about you but, Oak Island is definitely something we wouldn’t miss out on.

If you are with a loved one with a disability, Oak Island has got you covered.

They offer beach wheelchairs your loved one can use so that they can still enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach with you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport – Oak Island Area, an IHG Hotel

1200 Duck Road Duck, NC 27949 (252) 255-1234 Visit Website Yelp Open in Google Maps

Are you looking for North Carolina beach places to visit?

Dive into the safe waters of Duck Beach and check this lovely destination out.

Known as one of the top 15 Family-Friendly Beaches in America, Duck Beach proudly boasts its cleanliness, beauty, and safety, making it among the best destinations for a family beach vacation.

Furthermore, the beach features “red flags” to determine when it is safe to swim since swimming in the open waters can be dangerous at times.

Rest assured, this beach site is a commendable beach setting for safe swimming.

Keep in mind that before you swim, ask a lifeguard first, and always be with someone when swimming.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk

Related: Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

10. Nags Head

5401 S. Croatan Hwy. Nags Head, NC 27959 (252) 441-5508 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for popular beaches in North Carolina, make sure to visit the relaxing sandy shores of the Nags Head beaches.

The scenic beaches in Nags Head are among the ideal places to create precious memories with your loved ones as it features pristine coastlines, occasional dolphins, and warm sunshine.

Moreover, the beach site is a well-known vacation hotspot for families, open to the public, and handicap-friendly⁠—a beach destination worth mentioning.

If you’re planning to stay and watch the sunset with the family, try to get a permit that enables you to set up beach fires on the beach site.

It will elevate your beach experience to another level.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Nags Head Oceanfront, an IHG Hotel

Related: Restaurants: Nags Head, North Carolina

11. Atlantic Beach

25 West Fort Macon Rd Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 (252) 726-2121 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Do you want a dreamy beach vacation in North Carolina?

Consider looking into Atlantic Beach and experience the beach getaway of your dreams.

Home to the friendliest people and astonishing coastline, Atlantic Beach will not disappoint your dreamy heart.

The lovely beach site features an abundance of places to stay, eat , and shop in the area so that you maximize the fun that surrounds the public beaches of Atlantic Beach .

Moreover, did you know that the destination also has Beach Music Festivals?

We don’t know about you but, a combination of music and beautiful scenery is the secret recipe in making any vacationer’s trip worthwhile.

Make sure to go to the Oceanana Fishing Pier in Atlantic Beach and watch the picturesque sunsets or go fishing with your family.

Regardless, you will have an ecstatic time with your loved ones.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Atlantic Beach Resort, a Ramada by Wyndham

12. Hammocks Beach State Park — Swansboro

1572 Hammock Beach Road Swansboro, NC 28584 (910) 326-4881 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Are you feeling a bit daring?

Then consider exploring the beautiful coast of the one-of-a-kind Hammocks Beach State Park.

Known as the crown jewel of the North Carolina shore, Hammocks Beach State Park is a local treasure you should look out for.

The beach site offers good kayaking and camping experience that will leave you in awe.

Additionally, this beach setting is the safest beach for kids.

Unlike other beaches, Hammocks Beach State Park is unspoiled and features gentle waves making it a good destination for your kiddos.

Be prepared to go on a short well-worth hike to access this beautiful destination.

You will not regret taking on this venture.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn and Suites Swansboro Near Camp Lejeune

Related: North Carolina Travel Tips

13. Sunset Beach

700 Sunset Blvd. N. Sunset Beach, NC 28468 (910) 579-6297 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

If you fancy a world-class vacation hotspot, spend your day at the scenic Sunset Beach and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this landing place.

Recognized as one of the best beaches worldwide, it’s no question that this beautiful beach site deserves a spot on this list.

Sunset Beach is your go-to destination if you love the panoramic view of the sun across the ocean.

Strangely enough, this beach site is unlike any south-facing beaches in North Carolina.

This beach has a unique position where you can appreciate the beautiful sunrise and sunset.

Among all of the beach destinations on this list, consider starting and ending your day at this beautiful destination.

It’s definitely the best way to experience the beauty of Sunset Beach.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Islander Inn

14. Carova Beach — Corolla

1999 Sandpiper Road Corolla, NC 27927 (252) 435-3970 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

Are you looking for more clean white sand beaches in North Carolina?

Then consider dropping by at the outgoing Carova Beach.

Just a few miles away from the neighboring Corolla Beach, Carova Beach is an underdog you should consider checking out.

As the beach showcases its private nature, the beach spoils you with an array of beach activities you can do.

From taking Instagram-worthy photos of wild horses roaming around the beach to picking up seashells with your loved ones, Carova Beach is easily a go-to destination worth mentioning.

Throughout summertime, Carova Beach is the best beach for swimming in North Carolina as the ocean temperature stays consistently warm, so make sure to time your visit right.

15. Kitty Hawk Beach — Kitty Hawk

101 Veterans Memorial Drive Kitty Hawk, NC 27949 (252) 261-3552 Visit Website Yelp Open in Google Maps

Do you ever wonder what makes Outer Banks a worthwhile vacation spot?

Well, Kitty Hawk Beach features everything Outer Banks has to offer, so make sure to check it out!

Kitty Hawk Beach features a plethora of beach activities and amenities that you will frequently find on other beaches.

But what separates this destination from the others is its famous coastal reserve that enables visitors to catch sight of native Outer Banks species and panoramic views.

We don’t know about you but, this alone makes Kitty Hawk Beach a destination to keep in our books.

Maximize your stay in this destination and dine in for a delightful seafood buffet or all-you-can-eat fresh.

It’s a mouthwatering experience that will leave you coming back for more!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beachwoods by Diamond Resort

16. Holden Beach

Ocean View Blvd Holden Beach, NC 28462 (910) 755-5517 Visit Website TripAdvisor Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for a fun-loving beach like no other, keep your eyes peeled at the exquisite Holden Beach in North Carolina.

Crowned as one of the best family beaches in America, this small-town beach features unspoiled beauty that will perhaps make your hearts happy.

As Holden Beach showcases its ecstatic and wild nature, it’s a destination to keep in mind for your next beach vacation.

Wait for low tide so that you’ll be able to see curious marine wildlife or scout for playful dolphins that occasionally swim near the coastline.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ocean Isle Inn

17. Avon Beach — Avon

39311 Wahoo Cir Avon, NC 27915 (877) 629-4386 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Are you looking for an ideal beach getaway with your family?

Then visit one of the best beaches in North Carolina, the quaint Avon Beach.

Avon Beach is an exceptional beach destination for any family who seeks a quiet yet scenic beach setting.

Unlike other beaches in Outer Banks, Avon Beach allows beach fires near the coast and 4×4 driving, enabling you to explore all of Hatteras Island.

As the beach site showcases more amenities and features this destination boasts, Avon Beach is indeed a vacation spot you should consider.

The best time to visit Avon is during the summertime since most of Avon’s businesses are seasonal.

Time your visit right, and we are sure you will have a blast.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Swell Motel

Related: Best Family Resorts in North Carolina

Beachgoer Guide

Comparing beaches: which one is right for you.

If you’re on a roll to find the best place to dig in and splash, check out the best North Carolina beaches.

Emerald Isle is a family beach destination offering many amenities and outdoor activities.

This beach is somehow overcrowded due to its popularity.

Bald Head Island is home to a grand ocean view and lavish accommodations.

The downside is that this beach has limited access, so you must either come early or book in advance.

The Cape Hatteras is the most excellent destination to relax with your loved ones, family, or yourself.

Although it’s beautiful, you might as well come prepared because the weather in this area is unpredictable.

Ocracoke is the best alternative if you’re looking for a mesmerizing and less crowded space.

How I Picked The Beach Spots 

As a parent, traveler, and seasoned blogger, I scoured all the essential information about the most adoring beaches in North Carolina.

I’ve also reviewed some research and interviewed the families visiting North Carolina to gather valid and up-to-date information.

I also gathered other local’s points of view and opinions, including some review sites, for the beaches I look forward to visiting.

Our Beach Rating Method

I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:

• Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion. 
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach. 
• Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach.  Is it equipped with restrooms, showers, and changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach. 
• Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nicest beach in north carolina.

The nicest beach in North Carolina is Wrightsville Beach. With its pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a vibrant atmosphere, Wrightsville Beach offers a picturesque coastal escape that attracts both locals and visitors alike.

What Beach Has The Clearest Water In NC?

The beach often considered to have the clearest water in North Carolina is Emerald Isle. With its crystal-clear, emerald-colored waters, this barrier island beach provides visitors with a stunning coastal experience and excellent water visibility for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

They don’t call these family-friendly spots the best beaches in North Carolina for nothing.

We enjoyed the amenities and fishing at Bald Head Island.

We adored Cape Hatteras’ crystal clear waters and complete amenities that doubled the fun of our family while we stayed.

But the best of all is Emerald Isle.

This perfect beach getaway has sealed a special place in my heart.

As you step afoot on the sandy shores, you’ll get an instant feeling of relief.

Moreover, the salty sea breeze blowing on your skin is the epitome of relaxation.

The feeling of basking under the warm sun and your kids building sandcastles is enough to convince you.

Although it sounds simple, but the unfiltered bundle of joy is top-tier.

It’s the place for heartwarming memories to remember during a busy day, leaving you with a warm smile.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

My 11 Favorite Beaches To Visit In North Carolina

(Photo Credit: Outer Banks Visitors Bureau)

• Destinations
• North Carolina
• United States

There are so many amazing beaches to visit in North Carolina, it’s hard to choose just one favorite! North Carolina boasts 322 miles of shoreline along the Atlantic and more than 25 different beaches offering stunning views and unique experiences. From the vast, sandy shores of Outer Banks to the secluded coves and inlets of the Crystal Coast, there’s something for everyone.

I don’t live at the beach and have never found a beach I didn’t enjoy. As I tell my friends, my favorite beach is the one I’m currently visiting. In May, three other travel writers and I visited the Outer Banks. We talked to a lot of the locals and enjoyed the area.

The best time to visit is late spring through fall. September and October are great if you want to avoid the summer crowds. 

Here is a list of my favorites, based on my experiences and those of some close friends. The beaches are listed north to south according to their location.

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau hosted our visit. All opinions are my own .

(Photo Credit: Wild Horse Adventure Tours)

1. Corolla Beach

Corolla Beach is a perfect choice if you desire a secluded beach. It is located on the Outer Banks’s northern coast, sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound. 

Wide beaches are the main attraction; you can drive on this beach with your four-wheel-drive vehicle. There is a historic district and a lighthouse to explore. On a rainy day, you can visit the Wild Horse Museum while in Corolla or visit the red lighthouse. One of the highlights of this area is the wild Spanish Mustang horses roaming the island.

Pro Tip: Horses are wild. Please do not attempt to feed or touch them. If you want to be sure and see them, sign up for a guided tour.

(Photo Credit: Robin O’Neal Smith)

A small, upscale beach town just south of Corolla, Duck attracts many visitors each year to enjoy the 7 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, exceptional dining, and a shopper’s paradise.

Due to rain, we were only able to visit during the evening, so we didn’t get to see as much as we would have liked, but we loved the water’s edge boardwalk and can’t wait to return to this fun little beach town.

If you visit Duck, you will want to be sure to enjoy a Duck Donut . The line may be long, but getting one of these nationally famous donuts from the original location is worth it.

Rental properties are abundant for your stay, but there are few hotels.

Bathhouses and free parking are available at the public beach access points along Highway 12.

3. Kitty Hawk

When arriving from the north on Highway 158 across the Currituck Sound, Kitty Hawk is the first town you come to. This historic coastal town has fabulous beaches in the Outer Banks. Low-rise buildings dot the town, and a rustic vibe helps maintain its unique character. You will have no trouble finding your spot on the beach to enjoy the sunshine and the ocean.

You can also kayak or hike the marine forest reserve.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial in neighboring Kill Devil Hills is a fun activity for a less-than-perfect weather day. It is the site of the first successful motor-operated flight in 1903.

Visitors to Kitty Hawk enjoy a large variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and shops. Free parking lots and public beach access points are available along Highway 12.

Pro Tip: Kitty Hawk welcomes dogs year-round. 

4. Nags Head

Boasting summer fun for the whole family, Nags Head is one of the most popular Outer Banks beaches, with wide golden sand beaches and crystal clear water. There is easy access and a wealth of amenities to enjoy.

We visited in May and found the area to be delightful and full of fun things to do for the entire family. Besides hanging out on the beach, you can parasail, play mini-golf, fish, eat delicious food, visit a lighthouse, and enjoy some unique ice cream treats. 

The beach is pet-friendly, so bring Fido along on vacation. As you travel Highway 12, free parking and public beach access points are available.

There are 12 miles of beach to walk, so be sure to bring your walking shoes, unless you are like me and prefer to walk barefoot in the sand.

If you get tired of the beach, visit the Bodie Island Light Station . You will find spectacular views up and down the coast when you climb to the top. Tickets must be purchased online.

Walk down to the 1,000-foot-long Jennette’s Pier , a local fishing hot spot. There is a fee to walk the pier or to fish, but we enjoyed walking under the pier and taking photos. If you don’t bring your fishing equipment, you can rent it from the shop on the pier.

Nearby is Jockey’s Ridge State Park , an excellent place for hiking, flying kites, and taking a hang-gliding lesson with Kitty Hawk Kites . The four of us took a lesson, climbed the vast sand dune, and tried our luck at hang-gliding. What fun! It is a fantastic beach activity that doesn’t involve water.

There are a variety of hotels, beach cottages, and vacation rentals available. When we visited, we stayed at the Whalebone Cottages by Kees Vacation Rentals, Building E . It was a two-story, four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home with free parking under the house. We were steps from the ocean and in an excellent location for all the things to do in the area.

Pro Tip: Four-wheel-drive vehicles can drive on the beach only during the off-season (October to April).

5. Coquina Beach

This beach was one I hadn’t heard of until we visited. When we talked with the locals about their favorite beaches, they kept mentioning Coquina Beach — so we set out to see it for ourselves. 

We found it just south of Nags Head and understood why everyone was raving about it. The beach was a wide and secluded undeveloped shoreline. There is a boardwalk to part of the beach area, we didn’t notice that until after we visited and climbed over sand dunes to get to the beach.

There were only a few other people and lots of shells.

6. Cape Hatteras

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is beautiful, with miles and miles of unspoiled beaches and a striped lighthouse. You will have the beach primarily to yourself, and off-road vehicles are permitted on the beach. 

You might find some sea turtles during nesting season if you are lucky.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is beautiful and worth the time to visit. (At present, due to ongoing restoration efforts, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is not available for climbing, but it is still a great visit and an Instagramable site.)

7. Ocracoke Island

I didn’t get to visit Ocracoke Island , but from what everyone has told me, it is the place to go to get away from it all. Even more remote than the Cape Hatteras Seashore, you can only access it by riding the 25-minute ferry from Hatteras Island. You can take your car on the ferry with you. 

We ran out of time and weren’t able to make the trip. While a bit harder to reach the beach, I’m told it is worth the extra effort, and we have it on our list for the next visit. 

Ocracoke Island is small and full of history. It is thought to be the home of the pirate Blackbeard. The beaches are wide, and the people are sparse on Ocracoke Island. It is a unique town with some restaurants and services. There are national park camping, hotels, and beach houses.

(Photo Credit: The Crystal Coast Tourism Authority)

8. Atlantic Beach

Part of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Atlantic Beach is a favorite family destination. Famous for its crystal clear waters and easily accessible walking trails, they have many fun activities, including swimming, fishing, biking, water sports rentals, and other attractions.

There are many eateries, the North Carolina Aquarium , and some boutiques. Fort Macon State Park offers a bit of Civil War-era history. To help visitors explore the area on foot, there are four marked walking trails around the city as part of the Walk Atlantic Beach initiative.

For accommodations, you can find just about everything from the large chain hotels to comfy vacation rentals.

Parking lots along the beach are for a fee and are charged by the hour (credit cards only — no cash).

9. Emerald Isle

Rated the top North Carolina Beach by U.S. News , Emerald Isle offers 12 miles of clean wide beaches, a fishing pier, and a relaxed atmosphere.

You will often see a dolphin or possibly even a wild horse on the beach. There is plenty to do on Emerald Isle with mini-golf courses, a waterslide park, biking trails, a fishing pier, and more. 

“The Point” is an ideal spot for catching a spectacular sunset. 

Lodging is primarily vacation rentals on and off the beach with only one oceanfront hotel, the Islander Hotel & Resort .

Some access points have free parking and a few charges on weekends only.

10. Topsail Beach

Located on the southernmost end of Topsail Island, Topsail Beach has fantastic sunset views. Pronounced “Tops’l,” it is a small, quiet beach community focused on conservation efforts and preserving the natural environment.

Topsail is the place for a tranquil beach getaway in a vacation rental in a peaceful, non-commercialized environment. There are no high-rise condos.

The beach is excellent for gathering shells and participating in water sports. You have exceptional beaches on both the Atlantic and Sound sides of the island.

Public parking lots are available at beach access points.

(Photo Credit: Wrightsville Beach)

11. Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is in the Wilmington area and is a favorite among people of all ages. People travel from around the U.S. to visit because of its deep blue sparkling waters and wide sandy beaches. 

Wrightsville Beach alone has 44 public access points. 

Thought to be the birthplace of surfing on the East Coast, Wrightsville Beach is also a popular spot to catch some waves and a prime location for kiteboarding and stand-up paddleboarding. 

Nearby you will find golf courses and jogging trails. 

Wrightsville Beach offers a mix of short-term vacation rentals, oceanfront hotels, and resorts.

Pro Tip: Surfing is strictly forbidden in front of the lifeguard stands. 

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, North Carolina is the place to be. With miles of coastline and plenty of beaches to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sand and surf. So pack your sunscreen and swimsuit and head to North Carolina for a beach getaway in the Tar Heel State that you won’t forget!

For more on North Carolina , explore these articles:

• How To Spend A Long Weekend In Beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina
• 9 Fabulous Southern Restaurants To Try In Winston-Salem, North Carolina
• The North Carolina Culinary Trail Serving The World’s Thinnest Cookie

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

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The 21 Wildest East Coast Beaches

Not all stretches of sand are created equal. These are the Atlantic’s best, most adventurous shorelines, from Maine to Florida.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

If you’ve ever lived along the East Coast, there’s a secret that all curious, outdoorsy people soon discover: the wildest, most deserted places are often those abutting the Atlantic. That’s right, the best East Coast beaches can be every bit as remote-feeling as Western landscapes. This is easier to comprehend when you realize that the East Coast has roughly 30,000 miles of coastline. (The entire Pacific Coast, by contrast, has 7,863.)

This revelation came to me early, while exploring New England in my twenties, and re-confirmed it in my 30s and 40s, as I looked to escape New York City on weekends. Since then, I’ve driven as far as Maine and North Carolina’s Outer Banks—roughly eight hours in either direction—from NYC to explore an “undiscovered” beaches and maybe catch a fish or two. I’ve also road tripped all over the south’s Lowcountry looking for an empty stretch of sand, and have spent way too much time on Florida’s Atlantic Coast trying to to catch a redfish or bonefish on a fly rod.

Look, I’m not foolish enough to think anyone can be an “expert” on 30,000 miles worth of barrier islands, salt marshes, and tiny beachside communities. But I’ve explored enough to say with confidence that there are some wild damn places out there, and I’ve been lucky enough to discover a few that are well worth a visit.

Here are just a handful of my favorites. This list also includes a mix of both remote, undeveloped gems and impossible-to-ignore standbys that are great simply because of their, well…beach vibes. It’s a whole thing, and any town that has it, like Cape May, New Jersey, or Folly Beach, South Carolina, is worth a look-see, too. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with any of these beaches, as long as you’re packing some sunscreen (and maybe a bottle of bug spray for the real remote ones).

Best Beaches in Maine

Sand beach, maine.

Location: Twelve miles south of Bar Harbor Why We Love It: Soft sand surrounded by the coniferous forest of Acadia National Park

This is probably Maine’s most iconic beach —a pocket of white sand framed by rocky shorelines and wind-flagged trees—and one of the most beautiful beaches in U.S. National Parks . For New Englanders, Sand Beach is well-known—for good reason. It’s one of the few sandy beaches in this part of the state (hence the name), and it’s sheltered just enough from the wind that it’s often perfect for sunbathing on a warm day. In the summer months, there’s even a lifeguard on duty. This all means that it’s popular and you can expect crowds in July and August. Even then, only a handful of people venture into the water, because its temperature usually peaks south of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. But if you’re willing to brave the cold Atlantic, swimming here can be good. Despite its popularity, it can even feel secluded on the right day. There’s also hiking and paddling in nearby Acadia. One of the more difficult and popular treks is Beehive Trail , a 1.4-mile loop that ascends 450 feet and offers stunning views of the below.

Know Before You Go: Even though it’s inside Acadia National Park, there is no fee to access the beach. The parking lot, however, occasionally fills up on busy weekend days, so it’s best to arrive early.

Bonus Beach: Roque Bluffs State Park, Maine

Location: In the heart of Down East Maine, eight miles from the small town of Machias Best For: A choose-your-own-adventure swim, either in the cold ocean waters or in a freshwater pond

The bulk of this 274-acre park is a half-mile crescent of sand and pebbles that divides the shallow waters of 60-acre Simpson Pond from Englishman Bay. In the heat of summer, it’s possible to swim in either—or both, a plunge in the brisk saltwater followed by the comparably warm waters of Simpson Pond. While it’s great for a plunge, this is not a lounging beach, to be clear, as the pebbles make laying on a beach towel uncomfortable. But Roque Bluffs does offer a relaxing stroll with dramatic views of rugged islands jutting out of the ocean waters. There’s also a series of short trails in the fields and woodlands inside the park, with an excellent vantage point of Pond Cove and Great Cove. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a dip.

Best Beach in New Hampshire

Seabrook beach, new hampshire.

Location: 15 miles South of Portsmouth, near the border with Massachusetts Why We Love It: A quieter alternative to its more bustling neighbors, with pristine sands

New Hampshire has the shortest coastline in the U.S. at just 18 miles, but it packs some excellent beaches into that stretch. Its most famous is Hampton Beach, a classic New England destination with white sand, long boardwalks, and a circus-like atmosphere, thanks to its string of arcades. Much better is Seabrook Beach, across the inlet from Hampton, with impossibly white sand, consistent waves, and none of the crowds. By comparison, it feels hidden, serene, and impossibly quaint. There’s a reason for this: parking is nearly impossible to find because it’s prohibited without a resident parking permit. But if you make it here, you’ll have a wide expanse of sand to stroll along or set up an umbrella. The surfing is good here, and the dunes make it seem wild, even if you’re only a few minutes to the Hampton Beach circus.

Know Before You Go: To get around the parking, take an Uber or ride a bike from the town of Seabrook, less than 5 miles away. You can also pay for parking at Hampton Beach and walk across Hampton Bridge, then down to Seabrook, a little over a mile walk.

Best Beaches in Massachusetts

Cape cod national seashore, massachusetts.

Location: The Outer Cape, roughly 90 miles from downtown Boston Why We Love It: Unparalleled, wide-open stretches of soft sand and wind-swept dunes

No list like this would be complete without including Cape Cod National Seashore , 40 miles of pristine beaches, freshwater ponds, and high dunes interspersed by lighthouses, cranberry bogs, and hiking trails. The recreational opportunities are practically endless, and whole books have been written about how to make the most of the beaches here. But if you want a down-and-dirty guide for newbies, this is it. Coast Guard Beach, in the town of Eastham, is one of the most popular beaches because it’s great for lounging and swimming on the Atlantic side, and it also offers paddling in nearby Nauset Bay or Salt Pond Bay. If you want to feel like you’re walking off the Eastern Seaboard, head to Marconi Beach, with sweeping Atlantic views. Hiking along the bluffs here will make you feel as if you could see a white whale at any moment.

Know Before You Go: Traffic headed to the Cape is infamous on summer weekends, so if you go during peak times, it’s best to stay overnight or through the weekend. (Or instead, go during the week.) If you do stay overnight, Provincetown, despite its crowds and high price tags, is worth the added cost. This artist colony and LGBTQ+ capital is brimming with verve and quirkiness and the energy it adds to a vacation is a perfect complement to days spent in the salt and sand.

Bonus Beach: Crane Beach, Massachusetts

Location: Five miles from the town of Ipswich, 30 miles north of Boston Best For: Escaping the crowds and enjoying a slice of bucolic New England on your way to the beach

Cape Cod gets nearly all of the beach attention in Massachusetts, but this one, on the North Shore, features four miles of pristine shoreline backed by tall dunes and salt marshes. It can get busy on a summer weekend, but otherwise offers a peaceful opportunity for walking on the sand, hiking five miles worth of trails through the dunes, birdwatching, and paddling in the nearby Ipswich River or Essex Bay. Beach passes are required and can be purchased in advance . If you come, don’t leave before checking out Castle Hill on the Crane Estate , a palace-like summer estate built for industrialist Richard Teller Crane Jr., with impeccably maintained gardens and a rolling grass lawn stretching to the water.

Best Beach in Rhode Island

Sachuest beach, rhode island.

Location: In Middletown, next door to Newport Why We Love It: A city-person’s beach that has a good hike within walking distance

Locals call this mile-long stretch of sand on the southeastern shore of Aquidneck Island Second Beach , but it is anything but secondary. Not only does it have great swimming and sunbathing, the western flank of Sachuest, called Surfer’s End, is known for its consistent swells. If you get bored sunbathing on the beach, you can also easily walk to the eastern end, which is the beginning of Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge , with three miles of trails. Birdwatchers are common here because of the diversity of species, including the second largest wintering population of harlequin ducks on the Atlantic coast. It also has great fishing from shore, including an active night fishing permit system for striped bass.

Know Before You Go: This is a full-service beach, with concession stands, bathrooms, grills, etc., so don’t expect pristine wildlands—or to be by yourself. Rent a surfboard from the rental area and, after your session, check out Gilded Age mansions in Newport.

Best Beaches in New York

Ditch plains park beach, new york.

Location: Two miles east of Montauk Village, on the far eastern end of Long Island Why We Love It: It’s home to one of the best surf breafks on the East Coast.

For many New Yorkers trekking out to the Hamptons, this two-mile beach is as much a part of summer weekends as Hampton Water rosé. That’s, in part, because Ditch Plains is such a great place to set up for a day in the sun, thanks to its swim-friendly waters  (depending on conditions) and lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day (roughly). There’s also a food truck next to the beach, called Ditch Wich , that serves up some of the area’s best poke bowls and wraps. But the reason this beach is on this list is because of the surf break just offshore, which offers good waves in just about any swell direction. The lineup is notorious for getting crowded, but there are definitely days in the fall when, midweek, you can find yourself sharing swells with only one or two other surfers—or even snagging them all for yourself.

Know Before You Go: Parking in the lot next to the beach requires an East Hampton permit (available to residents only). In the summer, take an Uber/Lyft or, better yet, rent a cruiser bike in Montauk and ride here.

Bonus Beach: Napeague Beach, New York

Location: Between Amagansett and Montauk, on the east end of Long Island Best For: Getting a taste of what Long Island beaches felt like before the crowds invaded

Tucked off Highway 27 between the prim and proper Hamptons and the bustling beaches of Montauk lies one of the area’s great secrets: a two-mile stretch of sand that even locals overlook. Technically, it’s part of 1,364-acre Napeague State Park , but the beach here feels private, in part because it’s sandwiched between two neighborhoods who guard their sand with zeal. Napeague Beach is, however, open to the public, and it’s popular with 4x4ers that have beach driving permits . You can easily walk to the sand, however, by parking at a small, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot on the south side of Highway 27. This is where 4x4s access the beach, and you’ll have to walk from here through the dunes. Doing so only makes the empty beach feel that much more rewarding once you get a full view of the wind-swept dunes, with the occasional surfcaster chucking rigs far out into the ocean. Thanks to its remoteness, this beach is also popular with the endangered piping plover, so it’s often closed during summer nesting season. When it’s open, however—especially in fall—it can feel downright abandoned.

Best Beaches in New Jersey

Island beach state park, new jersey.

Location: Barnegat Peninsula, south of the town of Seaside Heights Why We Love It: White sand beaches in a wild landscape that feels frozen in time

Many New Jerseyans have never even been to this park, with 10 miles of sand dunes, maritime forests, and freshwater wetlands. That’s because this place is as far from the manicured sand, boardwalks, and hotdog stands as it gets. Island Beach State Park is proof that remote-feeling beaches can exist anywhere, even in New Jersey. In addition to being home to the state’s largest osprey colony, it’s frequented by peregrine falcons, waterfowl, shorebirds, and migrating songbirds. Fishermen flock here, too, whether they’re targeting the surf on the Atlantic side or casting in Barnegat Bay. There’s a designated swimming beach (called Ocean Swimming Beach), surfing, an area for kitesurfing, and even eight miles of trails. Sunbathing is really the only thing you shouldn’t do here, because you’ll be missing out on so much else.

Know Before You Go: One of the best recreational opportunities may be paddling from Island Beach into the Sedge Island Wildlife Management Area, one of New Jersey’s most productive wildlife habitats, with four different water trails to paddle through it.

Bonus Beach: Cape May Beach, New Jersey

Location: Cape May, on the far southern coast of the state Best For: Relaxing on manicured sand next to one of the most charming towns in all of New Jersey

This is the beach that many New Jerseyans will point to as their state’s best—and for good reason. The town of Cape May is lovely as hell, and downtown is adjacent to the main beach, with sugary sand that is raked cleaned nearly every day during summer, making it feel, well, pristine. It’s also welcoming, full of sunbathers and swimmers chilling out on the weekend, which is all part of the charm. This is a social beach, with the occasional fireworks show or movie on the beach night . If you want to sneak away from some of the crowds during the day, walk to the West, towards Cove Beach, which usually has more room to lay out an oversized beach towel (and great sunset views). There’s also plenty of activities nearby, including a few beach breaks good for groms, skimboarding, fishing, and paddling in the harbor.

Best Beach in Delaware

Delaware seashore state park beach, delaware.

Location: Seven miles south of Rehoboth Beach Why We Love It: Six miles of ocean-front sand and 20 miles of bay shoreline full of possibilities

This popular state park offers easy access to the junction of Indian River Bay, Rehoboth Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. As such, it is overflowing with activities: swimming, surfing, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, hiking, paddling, crabbing, and camping, among others. There are two ocean swimming areas, patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season, and there’s a decent surf break at the Indian River Inlet , which can be great with some southerly wind protection (but is also challenging, thanks to its shallow water). If you want to stretch your legs, there’s a one-mile hiking trail through the adjacent Burton Island Nature Preserve , with raised boardwalks over the marshlands.

Know Before You Go: There’s a $5 daily entrance fee ($10 for nonresidents), but those fees help make this an extremely well-managed park, with great resources to help you plan practically any adventure, whether it’s birding, surfcasting, paddling, or something else.

Best Beach in Maryland

Assateague island national seashore, maryland & virginia.

Location: Maryland’s Eastern Shore, roughly 10 miles from Ocean City Why We Love It: 37 miles of remote dunes with herds of wild horses

There is no other place on the East Coast that demonstrates just how wild a coastline can be like this national seashore, which stretches across the Maryland and Virginia border. Assateague is one of the largest barrier islands on the eastern seaboard with uninterrupted coastal habitats, and it has become famous for its wild horses, which have been here for hundreds of years. If you want to see them, you’re probably better off  heading to the Maryland side or by booking a tour with a third-party organizer. There are two entrances, one in the north and one in the south, and there is no vehicle access between the two (other than by going back to the mainland). If you want to really explore the beaches—and you have a four-wheel drive rig—you can apply for and purchase an over-sand vehicle (OVS) permit , which allows you to access nearly the entire length of the beach . You can fish mile after mile of remote surf or just find an open stretch of sand to sit down and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Know Before You Go: Nearly every year, it seems, Assateague breaks its previous record for visitation, with 2.3 million people coming here in 2022 . So yes, expect to share the sand. The northern end of Assateague Island tends to be less busy than the southern end, but the surest way to get away from the crowds is with an OSV permit or by walking a few miles down the beach.

Best Beach in Virginia

False cape state park, virginia.

Location: Roughly 19 miles south of Virginia Beach Why We Love It: It remains one of the last undeveloped shorelines in this part of the Atlantic coast.

This is not the place to come if you’re hoping to lay out a towel and soak in some rays (there are no dedicated swimming areas, either), but it is one of Virginia’s most dramatic, and least visited, parks. Situated between Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the North Carolina border, False Cape State Park offers excellent stretches of open sand that are accessible only by hiking, biking, or boating to them. The reward is stunning coastal views, good surfcasting, and on the bay side, a maze of water trails to paddle. There are a series of hiking trails to choose from, too, which total 15.3 miles. These include Barbour Hill, a 1.42-mile self-guided trek through the dunes to the ocean. If you’re committed, there’s even a primitive camping program, which requires a hike into your site of anywhere from five to nine miles. But you’re almost guaranteed to be all alone.

Know Before You Go: The park operates a tram ($8 per person) that offers a four-hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park, which is a good way to see the wildlife here without committing to a longer hike or adventure.

Best Beaches in North Carolina

Cape hatteras national seashore, north carolina.

Location: On the Outer Banks, along highway NC-12 Why We Love It: Iconic lighthouses, unparalleled surf, and vast natural habitats

It’s hard to think of a better beach for a list like this. In reality, though, this is an entire ecosystem, with 70 miles and 30,000 acres of grass-covered dunes, wide sand beaches, marshes, and woodlands that are home to some 400-plus bird species, among other critters. Sure, there will be crowds and traffic in summer, but it’s hard to find a more alluring coastline with so many activities. Surfing is excellent here, with regular swells at a range of spots, including Canadian Hole and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, both near the town of Buxton. It’s also very well established as a kite-surfing hotspot, with consistent winds blowing through Pamlico Sound (launch from Kite Point ). Fishing is great, too—both on the ocean and sound sides—and paddlers can explore the flat waters on the sound side as well, launching from the Oregon Inlet Kayak Launch. There are even three different hiking trails, including a nine-mile trek through the dunes and maritime forests on Hatteras Island. Frankly, it’s hard to imagine a better seashore for basically anything you want to do outside.

Know Before You Go : Cape Hatteras National Seashore is free to enter, but there are fees for just about everything else—off-road vehicle use, camping, and climbing the 200 steps to the top of Bodie Island Lighthouse, for example ( $10 per person ). Also, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a highlight for many people, is closed for at least the next year or two as it undergoes repairs.

Bonus Beach: Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Location: In the southern Outer Banks , across the channel from Hatteras Island Best For: Getting away from it all

Technically, this 13-mile-long barrier island is part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, as most of it is managed by the park service, but it feels a world apart, thanks to its frozen-in-time quirkiness and just how raw the landscape feels. Ocracoke is also a testament to how going the extra mile is totally worth it. The island is only accessible by ferry , which makes the beaches here much, much less crowded. It can often feel as  if you’re alone, especially in early fall. For surfing, the beach near Ocracoke Inlet offers consistent waves, and fishermen can surfcast along the Atlantic shores or set up on the sound-side shoreline, like at South Point. Hammock Hills Nature Trail offers a good walk for hikers. There’s even a herd of ponies managed by the park service that are descendants of wild horses that have lived on the island since the 17th or 18th century, give or take a 100 years.

Best Beaches in South Carolina

Folly beach, south carolina.

Location: Twelve miles from downtown Charleston, on Folly Island Why We Love It: An eclectic mix of Southern charm and seaside cool that’s hard to find anywhere else

Folly Beach is no secret—tourists have been coming here for generations—but this 12-square-mile barrier island is the epitome of what a great seaside community should be. “Beaching” is just a way of life here, which makes the whole thing irresistible, even if you’re just walking down the fishing pier. Of course, there’s a reason people flock here: six miles of white sand, palm trees, and warm Atlantic waters ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and, of course, surfing. Folly’s most famous break is the Washout, known for kicking up some of the best waves on the East Coast. There’s also plenty of other outdoor activities, from kayaking and SUPing through the marshes on the Folly River side of the island to riding a cruiser bike around town. Folly Beach can be a bit of a scene at night, but that also makes it great for snagging some beach town energy and good eats, from fresh seafood to beachside tacos. There’s perhaps no better place to escape reality for a weekend (or two).

Know Before You Go: While surfing at Folly Beach is better in the winter, the summer months are the prime time for live music, festivals, outdoor movies, and crowds, making it the best time to experience its full intensity. Parking can be a challenge, so if you’re only coming for a weekend day, it’s best to rideshare.

Bonus Beach: Hunting Island State Park Beach, South Carolina

Location: 15 miles east of the town Beaufort, and roughly 90 miles south of Charleston Best For: A beach trip that’s as much about outdoor adventures as lying on the sand

Hunting Island State Park is South Carolina’s most popular park—5,000 acres of pristine Lowcountry that’s full of salt marshes, palmetto and live oak forests, and a four-mile-long stretch of white sand. Even with the crowds on a summer weekend, however, this barrier island feels pristine, as it’s almost totally undeveloped. And if you come on a weekday (or, better yet, in the fall,), it’ll feel downright remote. There are a number of great hiking trails in the park, including the 1.9-mile Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail and the easy-peasy Marsh Boardwalk , which might be the best spot along the coast for taking in the sunset. There’s a 950-foot fishing pier, and paddling in the marshes surrounding the island. As for the beach, it doesn’t disappoint either, and if you walk to the southern end you can see Little Hunting Island Boneyard Beach, where skeletal remains of dead trees dot the sand.

Best Beaches in Georgia

Sapelo island, georgia.

Location: Roughly 75 miles south of Savannah, near the tiny town of Darien Why We Love It: Untouched natural beauty and a rich history on the South’s most overlooked coastline

Sapelo Island, the fourth largest barrier island in Georgia, is one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets. There are miles and miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes across this 12-mile-long island, which has hardly changed since the 1980s—or even the 1880s. While the landscape here is unforgettable, the island is mostly known for its unique history, being home to the Hog Hammock community, one of the South’s few remaining Gullah Geechee settlements , descendants of enslaved West Africans brought to work on plantations along the Atlantic coast. Today, there are roughly 70 people who live in Hog Hammock. Each of the island’s two most famous buildings, the R.J. Reynolds Mansion and the Sapelo Island Lighthouse, have over 200 years of history on the island, too. In short, if you want a place that’s perfect for disconnecting from the modern world, this is it. You can ride a bike down the empty streets, kayak to Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge (of Blackbeard pirate fame) for bird-watching, or simply stroll along the untouched shores—all of which can be mind-blowingly deserted. Nanny Goat Beach, for example, is completely wide-open sand with hardly a soul on it. It’s hard to believe a place like this even exists today.

Know Before You Go: This is not the place to come if you’re looking for a quick getaway. The only way to arrive at Sapelo is via a 30-minute ferry ride, provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources ( $5 per person ). Planning ahead is essential, as you’ll likely need to stay the night and there are very few places to crash. AirbnB may be your best bet or reserve a spot at Cabretta Campground . Locals still protect this island and its heritage as if it’s their own—because it is. A little respect goes a long way to making your visit feel rewarding.

Bonus Beach: Cumberland Island, Georgia

Location: On the far southern coast of Georgia, just across the water from Fernandina Beach, Florida Best For: Camping in one of the South’s most serene, untouched landscapes

Cumberland is Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island, and it’s easy to add another superlative to this list: wildest. This national seashore stretches over 17 miles of empty beaches, framed by majestic live oaks and palmettos, and is home to a population of feral horses, which you can often see passing by on the unpaved roads. The island’s isolation is its appeal, but there is plenty to do, too. There are wide sandy shores to walk on, ruins from Dungeness Mansion to explore, and an extensive network of trails to amble around on. Access to Cumberland Island is controlled via the National Park Service, and the easiest  way to get here is via a 45-minute ferry ride (and you’ll need an advanced permit if you plan to camp here). There are no stores and very limited facilities, so you also need to be self-sufficient. But the experience of camping under the stars with the sounds of the ocean and the sight of wild horses is simply unmatched.

Best Beaches in Florida

Cocoa beach, florida.

Location: A little over an hour East of Orlando, just a short drive from Kennedy Space Center Why We Love It: A surfer’s paradise with a laid-back atmosphere on Florida’s “Space Coast”

Cocoa Beach, with its endless stretches of soft, sandy beaches, and consistent waves no matter the season, is one of the East Coast’s most iconic beach destinations. No other city on the eastern seaboard is so well-known for its surfing and surf culture (it’s the hometown of Kelly Slater, after all). It lives up to the hype. There are waves for beginners and seasoned surfers alike, with the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier providing the perfect backdrop for those looking to simply enjoy the view of the lineups. The area is also steeped in space history, being just 20 miles to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral. You can even watch a rocket launch from the beach if you time it right (check out the rocket launch calendar at the space center’s website). If you’re looking for slower-paced activities, there’s decent fishing from the pier and the Banana River is great for paddling. Windsurfing is common here, too, so there’s plenty going on, even without rocket ships to the moon.

Know Before You Go: It may seem like cheesy activity, but the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is totally worth the trip. The same can be said of the Ron Jon Surf Shop , which bills itself as the largest surf shop in the world, at 52,000 square feet.

Bonus Beach: Sebastian Inlet State Park, Florida

Location: Florida’s central east coast, roughly 17 miles north of Vero Beach Best For: Surfing and fishing excursions

Sebastian Inlet State Park is well-known for its surf breaks and its fishing spots, which are both excellent on account of the park being situated where the Indian River flows into the Atlantic. The park’s First Peak and Monster Hole offer some of the best surf breaks on the East Coast and its waters are teeming with snook, redfish, and Spanish mackerel, making it a premier fishing destination. The Indian River Lagoon has calm waters that are good for paddling and there’s even a decent trail in the park to walk on, called Hammock Trail. There are, of course, long stretches of unspoiled sand great for sunbathing and shell collecting (this is a Best Beaches list, after all.) It’s a bit of an ordeal to drive to it, because the causeways accessing the barrier island are miles apart, but that also makes it less crowded. The best part, though, is that it’s far away from the hoopla of the Miami metroplex in the south and Daytona Beach in the north, meaning this beach is totally worth the extra effort to get to it.

Ryan Krogh lived on the East Coast for 12 years, split between Boston and New York City, and spent nearly every weekend finding the area’s best nooks and crannies for adventures. Among the many great ones was a day at Napeague Beach , reeling in striped bass on a fly rod. He now lives in Austin, Texas, where he spends much of his time exploring the Hill Country and the Texas coast while dreaming of getting on another fall striped bass blitz off the shores of Long Island.

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Vote for your favorite beach in North Carolina!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

North Carolina is home to two national seashores, seven coastal lighthouses, and some 300 miles of barrier island beaches — nearly all of it open to the public. Sandy expanses in the Tar Heel State are often remote and rarely crowded, and a charming Southern coastal town is seldom far away. An expert panel has nominated their favorite beaches in North Carolina. Which beach is your top pick? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 20 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 29.  Read the official  Readers' Choice rules .

North Carolina is home to two national seashores, seven coastal lighthouses, and some 300 miles of barrier island beaches — nearly all of it open to the public. Sandy expanses in the Tar Heel State are often remote and...   Read More

Best Beach in North Carolina Nominees

Photo courtesy of Eifel Kreutz / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

A popular destination along North Carolina's Crystal Coast, Atlantic Beach offers stunning scenery along the Atlantic Ocean and sprawling Bogue Sound. In addition to soft sand and nice waves, the region also comes complete with Atlantic Beach Town Park, a popular recreation spot thanks to its 18-hole mini-golf course.

Photo courtesy of MargaretW / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Measuring in at a titanic 56 miles in length, Cape Lookout National Seashore serves as crucial haven for a wide array of native Tarheel State species. Upon arrival, visitors can discover a spectacular array of birds searching for food, with the preserve's pristine beaches hosting all sorts of marine invertebrates. Beachgoers can also enjoy camping, fishing, shelling, and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Wilmington and Beaches CVB

Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

For a laid-back and down-to-earth beach vacation on the Atlantic coast, look no further than Carolina Beach. The vintage Carolina Beach Boardwalk bustles in summer, as families stroll past shops, restaurants, and bars on the way to the seaside amusement park. A number of different beach activities are available to enjoy, too, from surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, to fishing and diving.

Photo courtesy of Justin Manners / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Carova Beach

Carova, North Carolina

The northernmost point in the Outer Banks, Carova Beach is home to vast swaths of pristine shoreline and a diverse array of native wildlife. While the community is home to its fair share of human residents, it's also popular thanks to its Banker horses that wander the area. Take note that this location is only accessible via unpaved beach and four-wheel drive vehicles.

Photo courtesy of Currituck Outer Banks

Corolla, North Carolina

The Outer Banks community of Corolla hosts just a few hundred residents during the off-season, with thousands of visitors convening along its shores during peak season. While cozy restaurants and secluded, windswept beaches are a major draw for tourists, the region also boasts its own herd of free-roaming Banker horses.

Photo courtesy of jfbenning / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Duck, North Carolina

Situated in Dare County is the scenic town of Duck, a relatively new addition to the Outer Banks that was incorporated in 2002. The community's sandy beaches are loaded with tourists during the summer months, who enjoy swimming in lifeguard-monitored waters, fishing, surfing, kayaking, and just lounging on the sand.

Photo courtesy of Jupiterimages / PHOTOS.com>> / Getty Images Plus

Holden Beach

Holden Beach, North Carolina

Imbued with a particularly idyllic atmosphere thanks to its low population, Holden Beach is perfect for a relaxed seaside getaway. Golfing is a popular hobby across the area, while visitors gather along the town's shores to scour the tide for shells and even watch hatching sea turtles during the summer months.

Photo courtesy of DenisTangneyJr / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Indian Beach

Indian Beach, North Carolina

The idyllic Crystal Coast getaway of Indian Beach is home to just over 200 residents, ensuring that there's plenty of room to unwind across its pristine shoreline. While guests are welcome to lounge by the water in a beach chair all day, those in search of some outdoor adventure opportunities can snag a rental bike and set off along the sand.

Photo courtesy of Lisa Crane, Coastland Photography

Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Best known as the location where the Wright Brothers made their revolutionary flights, Kill Devil Hills is a must-visit for any Tarheel State history buffs. After a visit to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, guests can head east for a relaxing afternoon spent lounging along the sandy shoreline.

Photo courtesy of Jason Riggler, DET

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

Native Tarheel State flora and fauna abound across Kitty Hawk, an Outer Banks town that's perched just beyond the mainland. Gorgeous beaches can be found lining the eastern edge of the community, while the west plays host to otters, raccoons, and a wealth of other local mammals within Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve.

Kure Beach, North Carolina

In spite of its small size, Kure Beach is bursting with picturesque landscapes carved into the eastern edge of Pleasure Island. Sunbathing and swimming are both top summer activities around here, while the town's long-standing fishing pier draws visitors in droves to catch local marine life.

Photo courtesy of Eric Peterson / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Nags Head, North Carolina

The Nags Head public beach has plenty to offer the sun-loving vacationer: three public fishing piers and more than 12 miles of well-maintained oceanfront. Beachgoers also enjoy swimming safely in lifeguard-monitored waters and being able to grab a quick bite to eat just off the sand after working up an appetite.

Photo courtesy of Licec / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Oak Island, North Carolina

Golfing, fishing, and kayaking are all popular activities across Oak Island, a vibrant community found on the southern shores of North Carolina. Wildlife lovers can set off along the Oak Island Nature Center to search for native birds and mammals, while the town's lengthy 10-mile shoreline is perfect for some afternoon relaxation on the sand and in the surf.

Photo courtesy of Town of Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Ocean Isle Beach offers soft, sandy shores and calm water that's perfect for swimming. Guests can spot dolphins and the occasional sea turtle from shore, while the Museum of Coastal Carolina offers ample insight into the biology of the region's native marine creatures.

Photo courtesy of Liz Albro Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Ocracoke Beach

Ocracoke, North Carolina

A prominent destination on North Carolina's Ocracoke Island, Ocracoke Beach is well worth the ferry ride needed to access the area. Upon arrival, beachgoers enjoy swimming, surfing, and body-boarding in the lifeguard-monitored waves, as well as lounging on the pristine sands.

Photo courtesy of iofoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Old Lighthouse Beach

Buxton, North Carolina

Once home to a towering lighthouse, the aptly-named Old Lighthouse Beach now serves as a top spot for outdoor recreation. Buxton residents and tourists both congregate along the shores to search for shells, soak in the sun, and catch a stellar sunrise.

Photo courtesy of Richard McGuirk / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Beachgoers won't find boardwalks or high rises at Sunset Beach, but what they will find is a seemingly endless stretch of sand. Since the beach is south-facing, it's possible to not only watch the sunset from the aptly named beach, but the sunrise as well.

Photo courtesy of Linda Wiles

Surf City, North Carolina

A prominent settlement on Topsail Island, Surf City showcases the picturesque beauty of the North Carolina coast at its best. In between trips to the beach, guests can take advantage of the many restaurants scattered along the shore, while the Topsail Touch Tank Aquarium is the perfect attraction for any marine biology aficionados.

Photo courtesy of Michael King / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Topsail Beach

Topsail Beach, North Carolina

While it's a tranquil destination today, legend states that Topsail Beach was once frequented by pirates, with the infamous Blackbeard once having prowled the surrounding area. In the modern era, visitors can relax along the water or enjoy surfing, swimming, or fishing.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach offers an idyllic escape on the eastern edge of New Hanover County. In addition to offering multiple fishing piers and a soft, sandy shoreline, the destination also doubles as a top spot for "Dawson's Creek" fans, thanks to its role as a prominent filming location during the series.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Annita thomas.

Annita is the on-air personality of Travel With...   Read More

Annita is the on-air personality of Travel With Annita radio show, the recipient of two Gold Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Awards. With 40 years of travel experience she has been to 119 countries and territories, and has worked in several areas of the travel industry. She started her travel career with Pan American World Airways and later worked for the Atlanta CVB during the 1996 Olympics. The multi-media journalist not only host a travel show on terrestrial radio, but also a Lowell Thomas Bronze Award winning podcast - Quarter Miles Travel featuring stories based on the U.S. Mint coins programs. She writes for Upscale Magazine and is an ambassador for Oprah Daily digital magazine. Annita's mission is to inspire Baby Boomers and Empty Nesters to go out and explore the world, creating memorable experiences. She values storytelling, cultural awareness, sharing human interest stories and highlighting sustainable travel brands. Her mission is to help shape the listeners and readers perspective of beautiful destinations around the world. She is the proud fur-baby mom of two fun loving Chocolate Labs, Boris and Natasha. Her favorite destination - the last place she visited. Her favorite travel quote - “Let’s Go!” 

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Kristen Lummis

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in...   Read More

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Maggie Tuten Tyner

Maggie wasn't born in Greenville, S.C., but she...   Read More

Maggie wasn't born in Greenville, S.C., but she was certainly raised here, having called this her home for the last 20+ years.  She even graduated from local Furman University and went to work as an editor for 10Best shortly thereafter. Her daydreams come mainly in the form of screenplays and novels, and her free time is spent watching movies, enjoying the gorgeous surrounding foothills or exploring the Greenville food scene — almost always alongside her husband.

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

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• North Carolina

The Best Beach Towns In North Carolina

Because North Carolina has 3,000 miles of coastline (including more than 300 miles of barrier beaches alone), there are many wonderful beach towns and harbors that are just a short boat ride away from the sand. Some of these towns are quiet getaways focused on surf and sand, while others offer shopping and strolling along old-timey boardwalks and adventures on the water. They have plenty of sites to explore, whether you're a pirate fanatic, intrigued by early colonial history, excited by sea turtles , or anxious to see herds of wild horses.

Visit from Memorial Day to Labor Day for prime beach weather, or make a trip in winter, spring, or fall for lighter crowds. No matter which of our favorites you choose, you'll feel restored by an escape to small-town life at the beach in North Carolina.

Emerald Isle

This westernmost community on Bogue Banks is a treasured vacation getaway for families, with its 12 miles of clean shores, clear waters, and old-fashioned neighborhoods. Driving on the beach is allowed here (with a permit), and there is plenty of public water access and parks. You'll find both hotels and vacation rentals where you can enjoy a classic beach vacation.

There's a reason this tiny harbor town at the outlet of the Cape Fear River was voted America's Happiest Seaside Town in 2015. Bright white cottages with red roofs, stately sea captains' homes, two lighthouses, local shops, and water in seemingly every direction (thanks to the confluence of the river and the Intracoastal Waterway) create vistas at every bend in the road. Southport has three museums, but the town itself is a vintage postcard sent from a halcyon past. Ferry service to Fort Fisher provides a fun all-in-one outing to the Fort Fisher historic site, aquarium, and beach.

Not to be confused with the South Carolina town of the same name (and pronounced differently), this small and charming harbor town at the southern end of the Outer Banks has a lively downtown marina and is dotted with historic buildings dating back to the 1700s. Beaufort is home to the wonderful North Carolina Maritime Museum and is a stone's throw from the natural riches of the Rachel Carson Reserve . Look for wild horses and dolphins across the water while you stroll on boardwalks downtown. Rent kayaks to explore the islands or take a ferry for prime shelling on Shackleford Banks.

Bald Head Island

Despite lying only 2 miles off the North Carolina coast, just due south of Wilmington, this 3-by-1-mile barrier island feels like a secret hideout from a Robert Louis Stevenson story. Nearly 85% of Bald Head's total area is a preserved landscape of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and scrubby, subtropical forest. The rest features 14 miles of pale sands, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina , locally owned shops, and a community of beautiful beach houses. Only electric carts and bicycles can travel the island's roads, which gives you the best advantage to slow down and catch everything while you're in paradise.

This family-friendly island near Wilmington has 10 miles of south-facing beaches, not to mention a fishing pier and nostalgic pleasures that include ice cream and miniature golf. There's plenty to do, with a lighthouse and nature center to visit and prime paddling on the Intracoastal side of the island. Oak Island is also a dog lover's dream: Four legged friends are allowed on the beaches year-round, and they can be off their leash from October 15-March 15.

A cult favorite, this Outer Banks island is accessible only by boat or ferry from Hatteras and Cedar Islands and has a relaxed romance imbued with salt air. This is an escape complete with pirate lore; long stretches of pristine sands protected by the National Park Service; a fishing village with summer pleasures like ice cream, seafood, and boat charters; and its own bright white, picturesque lighthouse . Most families rent a vacation home for a week or more, then spend their time meandering through town, fishing, swimming, and relaxing around the bonfire.

Atlantic Beach

With history running through its veins (including pre-Civil War Fort Macon ), the oldest town on Bogue Banks—with its back to Bogue Sound and facing the Atlantic Ocean to the south—is also home to the nostalgic (and 1,000-foot-long) Oceanana Fishing Pier, plus a steady swell for surfing. This barrier island town has amenities to please the entire family, like a town park with a splash pad, skatepark, and mini-golf, and the nearby North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores.

Wrightsville Beach

At the southern end of the coast and a quick hop from buzzy Wilmington, this laid-back beach town on a 4-mile-long barrier island has charm in spades, from a bird nesting sanctuary at the south end to its iconic Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier . Mix in a surf vibe on the Atlantic, a boating and SUP-centric world on Banks Channel, miles of broad beaches, and a deep bench of old-fashioned Carolina beach cottages for sale and rent, and you've got a sense of the magic that makes Wrightsville Beach all-out fun.

Yes, named (with a smile) for the abundance of waterfowl that traditionally lured hunters to this northern end of the Outer Banks, this resort town has low-key sophistication that's an absolute winning combo. In Duck, you'll find a vibrant small community of independent shops and restaurants (and a respected jazz festival ). Duck has devoted extensive energy and funds to the nourishment of its beaches (named among the Best Restored Beaches for 2018 ), but it's important to note that access is for residents and vacation property renters only.

The first stop on the Outer Banks for many, Nags Head has beautiful beaches with free parking, an iconic fishing pier with a conservation focus, and a funky arts and culture scene. It's also home to the Jockey's Ridge State Park, which is the East Coast's tallest natural dune system and an incredible place to try hang gliding . Whatever you're seeking, this lively beach community has plenty of watersports, family activities, and beachside events in the summer.

Carolina Beach

It's not just all about the fun to be had driving on the broad sands of this southern coast getaway at the northern end of Pleasure Island; or hitting its vintage boardwalk (which features old-school amusement rides in summer), lively beach bars , and superb seafood spots. This classic summer vacation spot is also home to natural gifts, including Carolina Beach State Park . The state park offers the area's finest fishing and several great trails including the Flytrap Trail, where you can see a rare species of carnivorous plant known as the Venus Flytrap Trail sprinkled along its path.

Topsail Beach

With no high rises and an emphasis on conservation, this small town at the southern end of the 26-mile-long barrier island that shares its name is a magnet for families seeking old-fashioned escape and beach life. Topsail Island was not even accessible by car until WWII; the Missiles and More Museum shares the island's history as the former home of a secret missile operation. Now this "Mayberry by the Sea" is an idyllic spot to meander, eat at area restaurants, and soak up the sun. Everyone's welcome to enjoy beaches on both the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway sides, including dogs, who can hit the beach with their owners year-round (but must stay on a leash from May 15-September 30).

What's not to love about Oriental , a town with more than three times as many boats as year-round inhabitants? That connection to water—via fishing, pleasure boating, paddling, and sailing (Oriental is known as the sailing capital of North Carolina)—defines the maritime charm of this community on the broad Neuse River as it opens into Pamlico Sound. Those who need a beach in their daily plans will find tiny Town Beach a quick fix, and the broad strands of Atlantic Beach aren't far away either.

Holden Beach

Katie Cawood/Getty Images

This little, 8-mile-long barrier island on North Carolina's southernmost stretch of coast is a laid-back escape that families love, and a $15 million beach replenishment project in 2017 doubled down on its sandy gifts. Largely a residential isle, Holden Beach is all about simple pleasures, from biking and kayaking to playing on the beach to ghost crabbing at night.

This fishing town off the Intracoastal Waterway and Little River Inlet at the South Carolina border is dubbed the "Seafood Capital of the World" for a reason. Calabash-style seafood is lightly breaded right off the boat, and there are plenty of restaurants featuring the local fare. Stroll along the picturesque docks on the Calabash River or join a deep-sea fishing tour to catch your own dinner.

Harkers Island

Jupiterimages/Getty Images

Just south of Beaufort, this quiet fishing community known for retaining the Down East dialect has also become a popular spot for retirees. Harkers Island is served by a post office, a few restaurants, and a grocery store, and is primarily appreciated for its small-town feel and slowing life down to a pace that's nice and easy. Stay in a home on the sound side for a great view of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse .

Kyle Foreman / 500px / Getty Images

This quaint, historic town is full of local shops and restaurants where you can happily while away the day. The Olde Town Square is the social center of downtown, drawing crowds for festivals and other family-friendly events. Initially named for a politician by the name of Swann, the town has since enthusiastically adopted the swan as its mascot, and you'll see the graceful bird displayed on signs and in private gardens. Swansboro sits at the confluence of the Water Oak River and Intracoastal Waterway, just minutes away from Hammocks Beach State Park and Emerald Isle.

Hatteras Village

Hatteras is the ferry's jumping off point for Ocracoke, but there's more to this small fishing village. Charter fishing trips, kiteboarding, and surfing are popular activities here, as well as exploring the sand dunes of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Hatteras is also home to the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum , with exhibits covering five centuries of maritime history and piracy. Just a short drive away, you can visit the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse .

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The 14 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast

By Alex Erdekian and Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

From Maine to Florida , the East Coast is home to some beautiful stretches of coastline, amazing views, and of course, remarkable beach towns. Whether you're looking for a summer hotspot full of excitement and entertainment and brimming with crowds, or want to escape to a quieter small town this season, the shores on the East Coast have a little something for everyone. From charming, historic New England towns to tropical Southern getaways, there is so much to explore this summer.

There are 14 states that make up this stretch of the US, and each one has its own atmosphere, climate, and culture. From Cape Cod to the Florida Keys , the Atlantic Seaboard is home to a wide variety of vacation destinations. Here are 14 of the best East Coast beach towns in the US.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, Maine

Much of Maine's Mt. Desert Island is covered by Acadia National Park —home to climbs like Cadillac Mountain and a sophisticated system of carriage roads financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. But on the island's northeast corner, charming Bar Harbor is a destination in its own right. Skirting Frenchmen Bay, Bar Harbor began drawing visitors as far back as the mid-19th century when some of the Hudson River School, a group of artists that included the likes of Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, were taken with Maine's Down East landscapes. Still picturesque, Bar Harbor is now a full-fledged tourist town with a bustling main street, whale-watching tours, and of course, easy access to Acadia.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor:

• For a quirky stay: Queen Anne's Revenge Inn and Suites
• For romance: West Street Hotel
• For a private cottage: Beachy three-bedroom rental

Rockport, MA

Rockport, Massachusetts

The North Shore, a group of towns in Greater Boston, is a culturally important swath of Massachusetts. The coastal region is known for its excellent seafood, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Many a good film has been filmed here as well, such as Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester-by-the-Sea . There are many towns worth visiting, but Rockport is a favorite among travelers. Forty miles north of Boston, the town has a can't-miss natural gem in Halibut Point State Park, from which visitors can spot Maine in the distance 80 miles away. Rockport is also beloved by art history buffs: it is home to Motif Number 1, a fishing shack with the superlative “the most-often painted building in America.” It was built in 1840, and was a popular subject because it represented New England’s nautical character. (And it didn’t hurt that the light hit it just so.) A replica was built promptly following the historic Blizzard of 1978, which destroyed the original. Gray Malin photographed it for his recent project on Boston .

Where to stay in Rockport:

• For cozy vibes: Coastal studio loft
• For a seaside view: Waterfront apartment overlooking a private beach

Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts

Ferries deliver day trippers to this little Martha’s Vineyard town daily and the colorful gingerbread houses for which Oak Bluffs is known are straight out of a storybook. Visitors walk straight off their boats into Ocean Park, a circular green overlooking the sea, encircled by said houses, with a frothy, delicate gazebo sitting in the center. Oak Bluffs has a long history of welcoming Black visitors, and today it is home to the annual African-American Film Festival .

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Where to stay in Oak Bluffs and Martha's Vineyard:

• For a historic stay: Faraway Martha's Vineyard
• For an eclectic experience: Four-bedroom Victorian beach house
• For a camp-inspired spot: Summercamp

Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

This popular peninsula in Massachusetts is a vacation hotspot for good reason. While it really heats up during the summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round, and is brimming with history (head to nearby Plymouth to see where the Mayflower docked). Not only does it offer the best New England summer atmosphere, it's also home to exciting activities and small town summer charm. Here, you can spot wildlife, like whales ( Cape Cod is near their migration path) and seals, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy miles upon miles of sandy coastline. The Upper Cape is best for families, the Mid-Cape is perfect for escaping the crowds, and the Lower Cape is home to great luxury hotels .

Where to stay in Cape Cod:

• For New England luxury: Chatham Bars Inn
• For a historic stay: The Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
• For seaside access: Cozy one-bedroom cottage

Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Oak Bluffs, Newport is a beach town known for its houses, though a very different sort. Ten enormous, historic mansions—once the summer homes of the Vanderbilts, Nevada silver heiresses, and other Westerners of unimaginable wealth—remain standing along the famous cliff walk. Today however, they are museums. The most famous two are The Breakers and Rosecliff. The Newport mansions famously earned the ire of writer Joan Didion, who wrote in her essay The Seacoast of Despair, “To stand in the dining room of ‘The Breakers’ is to imagine fleeing it, pleading migraine.” Today, in lieu of the Great Gatsby -esque lawn parties of yore where swans roamed the grounds, Newport attracts visitors of all stripes for events such as the Newport Folk Festival.

Where to stay in Newport:

• For Gilded Age fans: Gardiner House Newport
• For grandeur: The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Montauk, NY

Montauk, New York

The final stop on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is appropriately known as the End. Due to strong winds, rough surf, and ample preserved land, it really does feel like the edge of the world, here. (Although some residents of Long Island’s furthest out town argue that if you really think about it, it’s actually the Beginning.) Montauk feels more remote and low-key than its luxurious, sceney Hamptons counterparts. Every visit to Montauk should include a stop at the Montauk Point Light House, which was commissioned by President George Washington in 1796. It is still operating, and the panoramic views from the top are out of this world.

Where to stay in Montauk:

• For barefoot luxury: Marram Montauk
• For a private beach: Gurney's Montauk
• For St. Tropez vibes: Solé East Resort

Cape May, NJ

Cape May, New Jersey

The site of pink triple-decker Victorian homes and a lively, festive promenade that exists as a beach town ideal in America's collective imagination, Cape May is the sort of dreamy summer destination one associates with trails of melted ice cream dotting the hot pavement and Fourth of July picnics. National Geographic also labeled Cape May as the World's Best Destination for Birding , writing, “The narrow peninsula at Cape May acts as a bird funnel, bringing in songbirds during their spring and fall migrations. At dawn on a good day, legendary Higbee Beach offers front-row seats to a feathered fashion show… With a little luck, you can see 20 species of warblers, each in its own colorful costume.” Sign us up.

Where to stay in Cape May:

• For picturesque looks: One-bedroom cottage with a hot tub
• For classic luxury: The Virginia Hotel

Chincoteague, VA

Chincoteague, Virginia

You won't find bustling boardwalks, sleek hotels, or grids of cars with clunky bike racks trapped in traffic in Chincoteague. This coastal town is all about the wildlife—specifically its wild horses . Visitors flock to the island annually for the Pony Penning that has been held since 1925. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department holds the event, and it consists of a pony swim—in which the animals cross the Assateague Channel—and a pony auction. No one really knows how this population of horses came to be, though there are competing theories. Some say they are descendants of Spanish horses shipwrecked en route to Peru in the 17th century. Others claim they were left long ago by pirates. Still others say they are runaways from mainland farmers. The quaint beauty of Chincoteague includes trails for hiking, beaches, and a red and white lighthouse. For the best pony views, cross over on a bike to the Maryland side of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Where to stay in Chincoteague:

• For beachy decor: Three-bedroom with a balcony
• For sunset views: Bay-facing cottage on the water

Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland

There is no place quite like the Chesapeake Bay . Step foot here and breathe in the saltwater air, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. The seaside resort town of Ocean City offers fun for the whole family—stroll down the boardwalk and taste the saltwater taffy to start, then take your pick of activities for all ages: surfing, fishing, and kayaking included. If you're looking for something a little less busy, the nearby small town of Berlin (just a 15-minute drive away) is great for a quick trip or overnight stay to avoid the crowds, but will take you away from the gorgeous shoreline. A little farther away is the historic small town of St. Michaels , worth a visit just to explore the history and see the picturesque neighborhood on the water.

Where to stay in Ocean City:

• For a view: Condo with bayside access
• For a midtown stay: Condo near restaurants, bars, and entertainment

Nags Head, NC

Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head is a beach town on the Outer Banks , a group of barrier islands and spits sandwiched between mainland North Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for its sand dunes in Jockey Ridge State Park, which comprise the tallest true sand dune system on the East Coast. Hundreds of shipwrecks nearby—caused by the region's shifting sands and heavily trafficked waters—have given the surrounding waters the moniker “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” and the nearby USS Huron is a popular scuba dive site.

Where to stay in Nags Head and the Outer Banks:

• For a beachfront retreat: Sanderling Resort
• For a five-minute walk to the water: Coastal boho home
• For panoramic ocean views: Triple-tiered vacation home

Pawley's Island, SC

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is so small that its year-round population hovers around 100 people. It was first settled in the 1500s, making it one of the oldest beach towns in the US. With that amount of history, there is, of course, a ghost story to go with it: There have been sightings of the Gray Man, a ghost whose appearance is said to warn of hurricanes as he paces up and down the beach, dating to a 19th-century storm. Summer options on Pawleys Island that are not at all spooky—besides flopping around on the beach—include golf, fishing, walking sculpture-filled gardens, and feasting on Lowcountry cuisine like She Crab soup.

Where to stay in Pawleys Island:

• For a beachy condo: Two-bedroom townhouse
• For a breathtaking view: Marshfront property near the beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

While it's not too far from the aforementioned Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach will feel worlds away from the slow, small-town atmosphere of the other quaint town. This popular summer destination boasts bigger crowds than its neighbor, and has a wide assortment of entertainment, dining, nightlife, and activities available. Aside from the deliciously warm weather and miles of beaches to traverse, Myrtle Beach is also home to a great many golf courses, amusement parks, water parks, and an iconic boardwalk with a massive 187-foot-tall Ferris Wheel.

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
• For seclusion: Island Vista Resort

Tybee Island, GA

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a short drive from Savannah , Georgia, this coastal community is in the perfect spot for a day trip . Even during the summer, some parts of it manage to maintain that small-town vibe and don't get unbearably crowded, boasting an assortment of adorable ice cream and coffee shops, long stretches of sandy beaches, and great waterfront access. There's a little something for everyone from families to couples— South Beach is better for those who want a little excitement in their atmosphere, whereas North Beach is a bit more quiet and contained. I've found it particularly great for families (having traveled here with a multigenerational group ages 1-68), and recommend the kitschy Original Crab Shack for a memorable meal.

Where to stay in Tybee Island:

• For a private pool and hot tub: Three-bedroom bungalow
• For couples: Historic cottage with complimentary golf cart, bikes, and kayaks

Siesta Key, FL

Siesta Key, Florida

While we love the beach towns listed above, the only part of the East Coast that has a true tropical climate is the lower half of Florida. Naturally, the beaches in this area are very beautiful. We want to laud Siesta Key in particular for its fine sand, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains and is made up almost entirely of cool and reflective quartz, its waterfront dining and drinking, and its excellence for water sports like parasailing. The three beaches to visit on Siesta Key are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Where to stay in Siesta Key:

• For a lush condo: Beachfront stay on Siesta Beach
• For a private pool: Tropical three-bedroom home

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11 Best Beaches in NORTH CAROLINA to Visit in Spring 2023

The United States has 50 states. North Carolina is the 28th biggest of them with a shoreline of 322 miles and more than 25 distinctive beaches . Each beach offers a unique experience that makes North Carolina exclusive for vacation homes.

Clear waters and sparkling sands in Carolina fascinate millions of locals and tourists alike each year. So when you think of summer in North Carolina, you should not forget to include its beaches in your travel list as well.

Here we go, 11 top beaches in North Carolina

Atlantic beach, bald head island, corolla beach, carolina beach, emerald isle, ocracoke island, topsail island, wrightsville beach, hammocks beach state park, cape lookout national seashore.

Check out also: Best beaches in Virginia to Visit in 2022

North Carolina Weather in Spring

Best Beaches in North Carolina MAP

Atlantic Beach is located on the state’s famed Crystal Coast, making it a preferred destination . Its position facing the south protects it from winds and waves from the Atlantic Ocean.

Of all the beaches, Atlantic Beach tops the list on the entire coastline. It prides itself in having beautiful and sparkling waters, and its magnificent Boardwalk is a great place to take a walk any time of the day or to relax while taking amazing ocean views.

Atlantic Beach has also got a rich history and values. It’s home to Fort Macon, a prevalent state park and civil war fort, making it draw thousands of guests every year.

On the beach, guests can tour the old fort, take hikes, go swimming, or even lounge on the nearby beaches. From the beach, it’s also possible to enjoy fresh seafood while at the same time engaging in fun activities like boating and scuba diving with a guide.

Visitors at Atlantic Beach can enjoy panoramic ocean views from the Oceanana Fishing Pier. The pier is also a good fishing spot. Moreover, the entire coastal region boasts a wide selection of vacation rentals.

Cape Lookout National Seashore has a lot to offer visitors, including 56 miles of beach spread across multiple barrier islands.

Shackleford Banks is a great beach for relaxing and swimming, and there are around 100 wild horses living there.

Visitors can climb the diamond-painted Cape Lookout Lighthouse in the summer.

Learn more about Cape Lookout and its wildlife by going on a ranger-led tour, paddling a canoe or kayak around the islands, or going birdwatching.

Bald Head Island is a small township located on the eastern side of the Cape Fear River in North Carolina. It’s somehow considered small and remote, but it’s truly unique.

Getting there and around requires a little planning since cars aren’t allowed on the island. This makes it a peaceful and quiet island. Luckily, the beach has affordable accommodations facilitated by local companies.

It’s noteworthy to say that one of the best things to do on Bald Head Island is to visit its conservancy. You will fall in love with Bald Head Island from educational tours and talks of all ages. You get connected to the ecology and learn why it’s always important to preserve natural treasures like these.

Bald Head also offers turtle walks, kayaking tours, fishing tutorials, night surf fishing, and kid camps, making it a great recreation place for families.

Corolla Beach prides itself in offering a plethora of sporting activities and great places to eat after spending your day on the beach. It provides a good opportunity for visitors to train in golfing; this is done on the outer banks of the beach.

Animal lovers will appreciate this quintessential trip to view beautiful wild horses roaming freely on the beach. You only need to take your 4-wheel drive vehicle to the beach in search of the horses or you can even take a tour guide.

Corolla is also a great spot for swimming and surfing when the weather allows. Are you traveling with your dog? Don’t worry. Pets are welcome at Corolla Beach but remember they must be on a leash.

Think about a safe kid-friendly beach? You don’t have to look further than Carolina Beach. It has a shallow coastline as well as ocean floors. The waves are usually calm and lifeguards are always present.

All this makes it safe for visitors of all ages like children and the elderly to engage in recreation activities like swimming, playing in the sand, or just strolling around.

The beach also has an Aquarium at Fort Fisher . The presence of the towering two-story open ocean tank with giant sharks, rays, and eels gliding through the waters also attracts visitors of all ages.

Visitors can also make memories by taking photographs while laying their hands on the rare albino alligators.

Plenty of activities like daily diver feeds, educational programs, and annual events like Valentine’s Day and Halloween makes this beach a blast.

Emerald Isle Beach is known for its remarkably clear waters. It offers visitors a paradise-like feel, which is exactly what Crystal Coast is. It’s, therefore, a fantastic place for visitors to spend their day relaxing.

Visitors can also spend their time boating by renting a pontoon from Emerald Isle adventure shop. They can spend their time cruising the intercostal waterway in the thrilling water sound while at the same time watching birds, swimming, and beachcombing.

From Emerald Isle, you can connect to Atlantic Beach and stop in several towns in between. Staying in Emerald Isle offers visitors a great opportunity to travel and socialize with other communities, too.

At Emerald, you can also enjoy a variety of fishing opportunities, like casting from the piers, surf, kayak, or even out of the deep blue sea. Great time and maybe a fish for dinner are guaranteed.

Ocracoke is a secluded and tranquil island offering a calm escape to untouched shores and a charming town worth exploring.

It offers a conducive environment for visitors seeking to take a break from the current tussles of the world. It’s the southernmost island s of the Outer Banks, and it’s separated from the rest of the world more than 20-mile-wide Pamlico Sound, making it only accessible via a personal vessel or a plane.

The island is a perfect beach for fishing, beachcombing, swimming, surfing, and exploration. It’s also a great destination to enjoy your day in the ocean.

The island has some amazing local seafood restaurants and boutique shops where visitors can pick unique souvenirs. Many visitors also love the historic seven lighthouses as it gives them an awesome picturesque view.

On Ocracoke Island, bikes and golf carts are available for rent. This makes the island an incredible bicycle-friendly and golf-cart-accessible community. Visitors can also drive to see the Ocracoke Pony Pen.

On top of everything, watching the sunset over the harbor in the Ocracoke village or on the beach is stunning.

Oak Island is a stunning and easily accessible island on the southern end of the North Carolina coast.

If you are looking for a natural vacation spot, you are undoubtedly looking for Oak Island. This beach offers one of the most pristine regions in North Carolina and there are miles of those here. 

The rivers and creeks are beautiful, with sweeping estuaries.

Since you can find friendly sea turtles on this magnificent beach, you should not miss the opportunity to visit Oak Island!

Topsail derived its name from folklore stories that pirate ships used to hide behind inlets making their topsails visible. However, Topsail Beach is a serene, perfect place for a family’s vacation.

The place is not overcrowded as it’s not a big city. Things are just easy in this city, with no big-city horns honking on traffic and tall massive buildings making the skyline busy. This makes it a perfect place for relaxing and enjoying life.

It’s also a good place for visitors to have their pets since pups are allowed; however, visitors must read and follow the town’s doggie beach rules.

Topsail also offers a scenic experience from its beauty. The locals have vowed to keep topsail as beautiful as possible by protecting and educating each other on the need to preserve their environment for future generations.

Local wildlife is also present, and it’s almost impossible not to see dolphins splashing in the ocean. Visitors are advised not to get too close to the wildlife and take personal responsibility.

Looking for an unconventional spot to watch the sunset? Check out at the southernmost of the island known as the Serenity Point for amazing sunset views.

As we have mentioned already above, Wrightsville Beach is one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina. It offers various sports activities like scuba diving, kayaking, jogging trails, surfing, and golf courses. Don’t worry, it has more than 40 access points offering showers and restrooms.

After your workout, you can stop by in one of the many recreational areas for live music, a meal, or a drink.

Wrightsville Beach has also been voted the best family beach. Kid’s programs keep young visitors busy and learn new crafts and games. The beach trains kids on environmental education, guidance from experienced counselors, and field trips. All this is meant to make the kids have an all-around holistic vacation. All the activities revolve around a daily theme that ends with a dinner and a movie. At different times kids are also trained in martial arts.

Adults and children are fascinated by this beach for the exotic feel to visitors. Don’t miss this amazing experience if you plan to have a vacation with your children.

Visit Bear Island and you will be rewarded with unforgettable memories of one of the most pristine beaches on the Atlantic coast. Hammocks Beach can only be reached by passenger ferry or private boat. Hammocks Beach is busy in one way: the list of things to do!

The beach is a pristine gem on the North Carolina coast. Taking the ferry to the beach is especially popular with families with children. Young couples and families with teens will appreciate renting kayaks from Walter Mayo (Paddle NC) and paddling across the Intercoastal Waterway to the beach.

The wide beach is interrupted only by basic campsites and a small concession/picnic area. There is a full-service visitor center at the mainland entrance to the park. 

You will not find rows of restaurants or beach bars on this relatively undeveloped beach, and that’s exactly why people love it. You can also spend some time learning about the park’s wildlife.

In North Carolina, beaches are warm in summer, while in winter, they are offensive. The temperatures typically vary from 40° F to 87° F and rarely go below 27° F or above 91° F.

The best times of the year to visit Carolina beaches for warm-weather activities are from mid-April to early June and mid-September to late October. That’s when the beaches are less crowded. From May to mid-October, the water stays warm, and most people enjoy swimming .

Wrightsville Beach is the most popular and best-known beach in North Carolina, treasured by both locals and tourists.

North Carolina Weather In Fall

Beaches in North Carolina are important to the local communities and the ecosystem. The beaches help sustain the coastal communities in the states and enable them to thrive.

When the communities along those beaches protect and preserve them, it results in a healthier, natural, well-balanced ecosystem. We encourage conservative measures to be put in place to ensure damages from soil erosion from the shoreline don’t occur.

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“As we have mentioned already above, Wrightsville Beach is one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina.”

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The 10 best beaches in the US to visit right now

L aguna, La Jolla, Clearwater , Miami – there’s no doubt that the US does a sterling job in stellar beaches . But sometimes such over-subscribed destinations can make carving out your own slice of paradise without the crowds something of a challenge.

Thankfully, the US is home to over 95,000 miles of shoreline, with 30 states boasting a coast, meaning there are plenty of secret surf and sand spots, whether you’re looking for family beaches , supreme sunset viewing points , dramatic cliffs, or simply a place to connect with nature.

There are plenty of options to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best secluded, underrated beach locations in the United States .

From isolated sandy stretches in North Carolina to hidden spots on California ’s rugged coastline and the breathtaking sunsets across Hawaii ’s Polihale Beach sand dunes, each of these would make an unforgettable holiday that’s far from the madding crowd.

Read more on US travel :

• The ultimate USA travel guide
• Best USA holidays for the ultimate American experiences
• Why Wynwood is the best day out in Miami

Cannon Beach, Oregon

While some beaches trade off their sunshine quota, Cannon Beach in the Pacific Northwest is unique by virtue of being a marvel to visit whatever the weather. This long sandy stretch of coastline is home to the dramatic Haystock Rock, a giant towering rock formation that’s accessible on-foot at low tide. Adjacent stone “needles”, tidalpools and flocks of seabirds combine to make this an atmospheric spot. While a summer stroll is always pleasant, visiting in winter, with crashing waves and brooding skies is an unforgettable experience. Don’t leave without checking out the many art galleries and specialist shops that populate the town.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a 100-mile plus stretch of barrier islands separating the mainland through a series of sounds and inlets. Home to wild horses, lighthouses and blissfully isolated expanses of sand, it’s the ideal place to seek out a spot away from the crowds. Hit the surf at Cape Hatteras, go fishing at Rodanthe Pier, or scramble up Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living sandy dune system on the east coast.

Avalon Beach, New Jersey

Don’t be put off by its association with reality TV show Jersey Shore : this Atlantic region is home to 127 miles of sublime coastline, with plenty to interest and inspire. Head to Avalon on the Seven Mile Beach for white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, boating or kayaking, while North Wildwood is home to gentler waters and completely free to visit. Commercial boardwalks with amusements, water parks, shops and restaurants make this an ideal destination for a family break.

Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Hawaii ’s beaches are renowned the world over for their soft, white sands and tropical waters, but KauaÊ»i is best known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons and lush rainforests. Known as the “Garden Isle” for its verdant interior, it’s an ideal destination for trekking and kayaking, as well as being home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches.

PoÊ»ipÅ« Beach Park is one of KauaÊ»i’s most popular beaches, with a wading pool for younger swimmers and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearance, but travellers who really want to escape the crowds should head to the remote Polihale Beach. Located at the end of a dirty road, it’s a whopping 17 miles long, making it the longest stretch of beach in the entire state of Hawaii. Expect giant sand dunes, desert cacti and jaw-dropping sunsets. Polihale is notorious for being a very dangerous beach for swimming, however, so swap the dip for a steady stroll along the sands.

Cape Charles, Virginia

On the National Register of Historic Places, Cape Charles has one of the largest concentrations of turn-of-the-century buildings on the east coast. This quaint Victorian-era town is home to award-winning golf courses, two nature preserves ripe for exploration, and watersports galore, including kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Plus, Cape Charles’ soft, sand beach is free to access, with calm and shallow waters making it suitable for waterbabies.

Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

A 15-minute drive from downtown Corpus Christi is Padre Island, the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island. This conservation area, stretching around 66 miles, is a major migratory bird route and home to 350 different species, with nearly half of all north American migratory bird species passing through here at different times of the year. Explore this charming stretch of coastline by kayak or canoe, watch sea turtles being released, or simply walk along this untouched stretch of coastline. And if the prospect of returning to four walls doesn’t appeal, you can also camp here.

Seal Beach, California

California ’s not short of excellent beaches, but Seal Beach is an underrated gem. This laid-back town south of Los Angeles ’ Long Beach has soft white sand, incredible views from the second longest wooden pier in the state, and a 965-acre wildlife refuge you can visit. It’s also the start (or end) point of the San Gabriel River Trail, a 36-mile long cycle route that’s one of the best traffic-free spots in the valley for biking.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Skip the crowds at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and take the 40-minute ferry ride to the more secluded Dauphin Island. Known as the “sunset capital of Alabama”, this island is home to seven miles of white-sand beaches, great weather and crystal clear waters. Hike through the ancient maritime forest of Goat Tree Reserve, where you can spot birds including vireos, flycatchers and owls and sign up for a chartered fishing expedition, before feasting on crab and lobster at the acclaimed Skinner’s Seafood.

Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has long been a major draw for visitors on the east coast, but it’s also prone to overcrowding. Wellfleet, meanwhile, is a pretty, small and peaceful town surrounded by coast on both sides and centrally located, meaning it’s easy to travel around if you start to yearn for more action. It’s also famed for its excellent oysters, making it an dream destination for foodies. Head to Mac’s on the Pier for some of the best. And don’t leave without visiting the Wellfleet flea market, the biggest on Cape Cod.

Wildcat Beach, California

Fancy a challenge? Rewards don’t come easy at Wildcat, with visitors required to hike five miles to reach this remote California beach, but it’s more than worth the trek. Short on time? Mountain bike on the Stewart Trail, before cooling off in the Pacific. This peaceful spot is home to seals, striking cliff views and some incredible sunsets. And if you’d prefer to spread the hike over a few days, you can rest your bones at Wildcat Campground. For a more active trip, pack up and hike north up the coastline to discover more secret beaches.

Torn between skiing and surfing? Here’s how to hit both slopes and the waves on a California weekend

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10 Best Mountain Towns to Visit in North Carolina, According to Local Experts

From Highlands to Boone, these are the best mountain towns in North Carolina.

It only takes one trip to Western North Carolina to grasp the magnitude of its appeal. Home to several subranges of the Appalachian Mountains, most notably the Smokies, this region of the Tar Heel State brims with natural beauty all year round. A combination of spectacular peaks, bubbling creeks, vividly colored wildflowers, and acres of towering pine, oak, poplar, and maple trees, the mountainous landscape has an almost spiritual quality, one that people have been drawn to for thousands of years. This powerful allure eventually led to the creation of various mountain towns — from Highlands in the south up to Brevard, Waynesville, and Banner Elk.

“North Carolina’s westernmost mountain towns are where mountains and Main Streets meet,” Steven Reinhold, the adventure team leader at Cataloochee Ranch , tells Travel + Leisure . “[They] embody an environment where folks can escape their day, even for just a moment, to watch the trees sway in the breeze all within view of the Great Smokies .” For Paige Tillung, hotel manager at Half-Mile Farm , there’s also “the beauty of four very distinct seasons,” as well as the convenience of location. Most of the state’s mountain towns are within driving distance of a major airport — either Asheville Regional Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, or Piedmont Triad International Airport outside Greensboro.

If the only thing stopping you from planning a trip is deciding where to go, this expert-curated list should help. Read on to discover the best mountain towns in North Carolina.

“Brevard is located in the heart of the ‘land of waterfalls’ and [it’s] mountain biking’s East Coast mecca,” says Reinhold. “Trailheads are interwoven around town, giving visitors quick access to the Pisgah National Forest, Dupont State Forest, and Gorges State Park.” While your trip should have plenty of outdoor adventure, make sure to leave time to explore Brevard’s art scene. If you’re in town in the summer, try to time your visit with an open-air show at Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium at Brevard Music Center ; otherwise, a stroll through the downtown art galleries and artisan boutiques is a must in any season.

Named T+L’s Best Small Mountain Town in 2023 , Highlands has all of the necessary characteristics and features for a picture-perfect getaway. It has “the charm of a small mountain town with all the luxury needed for a great vacation,” says Tillung; plus, she adds, there are “some of the best trails in the world,” and “the food and culture are the best you can find in the South.” Start your trip by checking into any one of the top-rated hotels in town: Old Edwards Inn & Spa , Half-Mile Farm, Highlander Mountain House , Skyline Lodge , or the recently opened Outpost Inn . Then, spend a couple of hours along Main Street, making sure to stop in Mountain Fresh Grocery for a quick breakfast or lunch. Other can’t-miss points of interest include the area’s many waterfalls and The Bascom , which hosts art exhibitions, lectures, and various classes and workshops.

Just 10 minutes down the road from Highlands sits Cashiers, a mountain town best known for stunning scenery; golfing, fly fishing, hiking, and antique shopping opportunities; and High Hampton , a much-loved luxury resort that underwent a modern redesign in 2021. Those staying at the resort may be tempted to stay on property the entire time — the Adirondack chairs and lawn beds are rather comfortable — but they’d be remiss to not explore other aspects of the tiny town. Family-owned and operated Cashiers Farmers Market , for instance, is an excellent choice for a barbecue lunch, and you’re bound to purchase something special at Vivianne Metzger Antiques , The Village Hound , or Zoller Hardware Gift & Gadget Mercantile .

Waynesville

According to Reinhold, Waynesville is the “crown jewel of mountain towns,” thanks, in part, to the destination’s prime location by Great Smoky Mountains National Park . To get your heart racing, he recommends “an unforgettable adventure” (think forest bathing or overnight backpacking) with The Appalachian Adventure Company . If you prefer to stay closer to town, browse the art galleries and antique stores along Main Street, and follow that up with a beer at Boojum Brewing Company or a coffee from Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters . Come nightfall, there’s nowhere more luxurious to get some shuteye than The Swag , one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the South .

There’s a lot more to Boone than Appalachian State University, although cheering on the Mountaineers at Kidd Brewer Stadium is certainly a must-do activity in this college town. Families with younger travelers will embark on hours of entertainment at the famous Tweetsie Railroad , with its themed train rides and live shows, and Daniel Boone Park , where the Hickory Ridge History Museum showcases what mountain life was like in the late 1700s and early 1800s. In the summer months, cool off by floating down the New River with Wahoo’s Adventures , or find a swimming hole along Crab Orchard Falls Trail. For accommodations in Boone, you have a few choices — ranging from hotels to vacation rentals — but you can’t go wrong with Rhode’s Motor Lodge , a boutique property that opened in the fall of 2023.

Like many North Carolina mountain towns, Sylva (population: 2,623) is known for its breweries, art galleries, culinary hotspots, and proximity to hiking trails. “My favorite hike in the area is Pinnacle Park , which is home to North Carolina’s only certified forest therapy trail,” says Reinhold. Here, you’ll grab a brochure at the trailhead, then enjoy a relaxing, self-guided walk in nature. With a newfound appreciation of your surroundings, make your way to Main Street, which he says “has a seemingly infinite selection of dining options, notably Ilda , Meatballs Pizzeria , and recent James Beard [nominee] Dalaya Thai .”

Hot Springs

George Rose/Getty Images

“I believe Hot Springs might just be the hippest town in Appalachia,” says Reinhold. “The Appalachian Trail passes right through the town — utilizing one of the sidewalks on Main Street — and its throngs of thru-hikers have left their mark on this tiny town.” To prepare for hiking, mountain biking, rafting, or llama trekking in the area, or to pick up any gear you may have forgotten, pop into Bluff Mountain Outfitters . After a long day outside, refuel with pizza at Vinyl Pies , baked goods from Artisun , or a taco and beer from Grey Eagle Taqueria and Big Pillow Brewery . As the name suggests, Hot Springs is also known for its geothermal waters; visitors can head to either Broadwing Farm or Hot Springs Resort & Spa for a rejuvenating soak during their travels.

Bryson City

The title of “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains” goes to Bryson City, North Carolina. While small — only about 1,500 residents call it home — this is a town that goes above and beyond when it comes to mountain charm. To start planning your trip to Bryson City, book a room at the Fryemont Inn or The Everett Hotel , then begin to plot out your ideal itinerary. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll want to hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and then spend a day on the water, whether you’re white-water rafting on the Nantahala River or taking a paddleboard out on Fontana Lake.

When visiting Banner Elk, Tillung says you’ll find “small mountain town life [paired] with big luxury dreams and ideas,” as well as a “growing food scene, great golf courses,” and several places to “reconnect with nature.” In the winter, Banner Elk is particularly popular, as it’s located between two large ski resorts: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. Year round, travelers can ride the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster , cozy up at The Lodge at River Run , or walk along the town’s Greenway Trail System. Dining options include Artisanal , Stonewalls Restaurant , and the Banner Elk Cafe & Lodge — although be sure to check each restaurant’s website for seasonal closures.

Little Switzerland

There are few North Carolina mountain towns as unique as Little Switzerland, a seasonally open, Swiss-inspired destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway . You’ll need to plan your trip in the warmer months, anytime from mid-April through early October, to get the full Little Switzerland experience, which includes a stay at the historic Switzerland Inn , a visit to the North Carolina Mining Museum , a stop into Little Switzerland Books and Beans , and a night of live music and dancing at Geneva Hall . Just be sure to leave a moment, whether it’s closer to sunrise or sunset, to take in the spectacular views granted by the town’s elevation of nearly 3,500 feet.

Where are the cicadas? Use this interactive map to find Brood XIX, Brood XIII in 2024

In a few weeks, over a dozen states will be abuzz as trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from their yearslong underground stay.

Broods XIX and XIII will emerge in a combined 17 states, mostly in the Midwest and Southeast, in a rare, double brood event . These two broods last emerged together 221 years ago, and after this year are not predicted to do so again until 2245.

Once conditions are right, the two broods will emerge in massive numbers to feed, make noise, mate and die. Here's what to know about where to find the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII.

2024 double cicada broods: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX will emerge

The two cicada broods will emerge in a combined 17 states across the Southeast and Midwest, with an overlap in parts of Illinois and Iowa. They will emerge once soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in mid-May and lasting through late June.

The two broods last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a periodical cicada?

Both the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII are periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years across North America. They differ from annual cicadas, which emerge every year.

You may remember the last periodical brood to emerge in huge numbers: the 17-year Brood X that was found in 2021 throughout the Midwest and Eastern Seaboard.

Annual cicadas, which are dark green to black with green wing veins, are  typically larger than periodical cicadas , which are recognizable for their red eyes, red legs and red wing veins, according to North Carolina State University Extension.

Periodical cicadas emerge earlier, usually in mid-to-late May as opposed to annual cicadas in July and August. According to North Carolina State University Extension, annual cicadas begin mating, " singing conspicuously " and lying eggs about two weeks after they emerge. Their first nymphs will fall to the ground and begin feeding on roots under the soil, and fully-developed nymphs will emerge two years later and molt into adults.

Above ground, periodical cicadas have a similar life cycle, appear in much larger numbers and are much louder. At the end of their season, the next generation of nymphs move underground and remain for either 13 or 17 years.