With more than 520 miles of coastline along the East Coast, North Carolina has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. From the Outer Banks to Brunswick County, there’s no shortage of quaint beach towns to explore.
10 Best Beaches to Visit in North Carolina
North Carolina’s beaches boast some of the best fishing, boating and breathtaking sunrises on the East Coast. The laid-back atmosphere permeates the North Carolina coast, making it the perfect destination for your next trip. family vacation Or a quiet island retreat.
1. Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is a short drive from Wilmington, North Carolina and is one of the most popular beaches in the state. Visitors can enjoy the famous promenade lined with shops, restaurants and amusement parks. Carolina Beach has plenty to do, including kayaking, hiking in Carolina Beach State Park, and fishing on offshore fishing charters.
2. Corolla
Corolla is a quiet, secluded beach on the north shore of the Outer Banks.known for wild horse Corolla is inhabited by the descendants of Spanish mustangs brought by explorers about 500 years ago, according to the tour. The spacious beach is ideal for 4×4 driving. While in Corolla, visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and stop by the Historic Corolla Village.
3. Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a family-friendly destination on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. Spend the day fishing one of the many piers, paddleboarding in Bogue Bay or visiting Fort Macon. Atlantic Beach is a popular nesting spot for sea turtles. Learn more about the local wildlife at the North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores, just steps from Atlantic Beach.
4. Emerald Island
Named for its lush landscape and crystal clear waters, the Emerald Isle has 19 miles of beautiful coastline. Small-town charm and an abundance of activities make Emerald Isle one of the best beaches in the state. The Emerald Isle offers many boat charters for fishing. You can also cast a fishing line from the pier in Borg Cove. Taking the kids to the Salty Pirates Waterpark is the best way to spend her family day on the Emerald Isle.
5. Topsail Island
Legend has it that pirates hid behind Topsail Island with only Topsail visible, hence the name. Topsail Island is a 42-mile-long barrier island off the coast of North Carolina and home to three charming seaside towns. North Topsail Beach, Surf City, Topsail Beach. Serenity Point, the southernmost tip of the island, offers spectacular sunset views. Topsails are also known for protecting sea turtles. While in town, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Conservation and Rehabilitation Center to learn more about sea turtles.
6. Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach has it all if you want nightlife, fine dining, and beach time. Watersports activities such as surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding abound to satisfy even the most discerning water junkie. Wrightsville Beach is known as the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina. If you want to enjoy fishing, visit Johnny Mercer’s his pier or take a fishing charter from the beach.
7. Oak Island
Located on the southernmost tip of North Carolina, Oak Island has been attracting visitors since the early 19th century. Oak Island is a south-facing island with spectacular sunrises from the Atlantic Ocean and sunsets from the Intercoastal Waterway. When you’re not relaxing on the beach, visit Oak Island Lighthouse and Fort Caswell. Take a short drive to the charming town of Southport and visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum. Oak Island Beach allows dogs on leashes all year round.
8. Sunset Beach
Panoramic views of Sunset Beach provide a tranquil setting to reconnect with nature. Families will enjoy a walk to Bird Island Reserve, with 1,200 acres of beautiful salt marshes and tidal creeks. While on Bird Island, visit the Kindred Spirit Mailbox where visitors can share their wishes, thoughts, prayers and dreams. Soak up some sun at Coastal Carolina Museum and Ingram Planetarium.
9. Duck
Despite its small size, the town of Duck has great charm. The name Duck comes from the popularity of waterfowl hunting in Currituck and Albemarle Bays since the late 1800s. Today, thousands of tourists come to Duck each year to enjoy its water sports, fine dining and shopping. A must-visit during your stay at Duck is to visit his made-to-order cake donuts with custom toppings and original Duck his donuts.
10. Nags Head
Since the mid-1800s, Nags Head Beach has been one of the Outer Banks’ most popular destinations. At historic Cottage Row, rent an oceanfront cottage for a classic Nags Head experience. Jockey’s Ridge State Park has the largest sand dunes on the Atlantic coast. Climb the 200 steps to the top of Bodie Island Lighthouse for spectacular views of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
