Top 10 Stunning North Carolina Coastlines to Adore
Unleashing the Magic of North Carolina's Coastal Gem: A Playground for Adventure Enthusiasts
Whether you're seeking tranquility or thrills, North Carolina has got you covered! From charming mountain towns to bustling cities and serene sandy beaches, this stunning state has it all, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Despite the scorching summer heat, fall provides a refreshing respite, making it the perfect time to visit these fabulous North Carolina beaches, handpicked just for you! Sit back, relax, and embrace the sun-kissed sandy spots that promise to captivate your senses all year long.
Nags Head, North Carolina: Bask in the Outer Banks Charm
Experience a delightful blend of beach leisure and off-beach entertainment in Nags Head. With pet-friendly relaxation, go-kart tracks, mini-golf courses, ice cream shops, and mouth-watering eateries, it's the ideal spot for beach enthusiasts seeking enjoyment in abundance. If you fancy galloping along the shore, horseback riding excursions bring you closer to nature's beauty. Spend some quality time at Jennette's Pier, Jockey's Ridge State Park, or the Bodie Island Lighthouse for breathtaking views and fascinating exhibits. For accommodations, Twiddy & Company offers a wide range of rental properties that cater to your comfort.
Plan Your Trip: Discover the magic of Nags Head by visiting these must-see attractions! Jennette's Pier, Jockey's Ridge State Park, and Bodie Island Lighthouse.
Wrightsville, North Carolina: Watersports Paradise
Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a hidden gem that boasts exceptional watersports opportunities. From kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing to fishing at Johnnie Mercer's Pier, the options are endless. Accommodations include vacation rentals and the Shell Island Resort, providing an unparalleled beach experience with chairs and umbrellas for rent. Savor delectable Carolina seafood at Dockside Restaurant while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Plan Your Trip: Have a blast at Wrightsville Beach by participating in watersports or visiting local attractions, like Johnnie Mercer's Pier and Dockside Restaurant.
Topsail Island, North Carolina: A Haven for Marine Life Enthusiasts
Brace yourself for a journey back in time on this untouched 26-mile barrier island. With only 500 full-time residents and a strict no-development policy, Topsail Island's pristine beaches and enchanting attractions remain untouched. loggerhead sea turtles visit the island every year from mid-May to August, making it a haven for marine life enthusiasts. Don't forget to stop by the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center to learn about the island's marine conservation efforts. For a touch of history and intrigue, embark on a treasure hunt for Blackbeard's legendary loot!
Plan Your Trip: Immerse yourself in Topsail Island's maritime history and marvel at its stunning beauty by visiting Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center and exploring the various beaches and attractions.
Oak Island, North Carolina: A Classic Beach Retreat
If you yearn for a traditional beach vacation with a family-friendly atmosphere and a small-town vibe, Oak Island is the perfect choice. Rebuilt after a hurricane in the 1950s, Oak Island has since become a beloved spot for sun-drenched escapes. You will find miles of sandy beaches, fishing piers, and water activities galore, as well as charming restaurants and shops.
Plan Your Trip: Spend a holiday-filled vacation in Oak Island by exploring its picturesque beaches and attractions, such as the Ghost Crab Museum & Nature Trail and the beautiful Oak Island Lighthouse.
Emerald Isle, North Carolina: The Ideal Beach for Families
Situated on Bogue Banks' western end, Emerald Isle features 12 miles of shoreline, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. When you're not lounging on the beach or casting a line off the pier, delight your taste buds at Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-B-Q or embark on an adventure at the nearby antique shops.
Plan Your Trip: Create unforgettable memories in Emerald Isle by exploring its iconic beaches, Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-B-Q, and antique shops.
Bald Head Island, North Carolina: Pristine Beaches and Natural Wonders
Escape the world and unplug on this idyllic, car-free island accessible only by ferry from nearby Southport. Over 12,000 acres of the island remain undeveloped, ensuring a peaceful, tranquil retreat. With 14 miles of secluded shoreline, indulge in a serene escape. Marvel at the diverse wildlife, including 260 bird species, alligators, and foxes. Additionally, beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts will delight in searching for unique treasures washed ashore.
Plan Your Trip: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life by visiting Bald Head Island's picturesque attractions, such as South Beach and North Beach and exploring its natural wonders.
Cape Hatteras, North Carolina: Pristine Beaches and Lighthouse Marvels
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, stretching over 70 miles, is adorned with pristine beaches and the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. While the lighthouse is under renovation and expected to reopen to visitors in 2026, you can still marvel at its striking black-and-white stripes. Catch a glimpse of sea turtles during their nesting season or explore the seashore's splendor.
Corolla/Currituck Beach, North Carolina: Wild Horses and Historic Wonders
Situated along the Outer Banks' northern coast, Corolla/Currituck Beach offers tranquility and opportunities to explore the fascinating Currituck Beach Lighthouse and historic district. The island's main attraction, however, are the wild Spanish Mustang horses, freely roaming the island. Be sure to sign up for guided tours to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
Carolina Beach, North Carolina: Timeless Amusement and Natural Beauty
Take a stroll down the classic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, boasting more than a century of history and featuring shops, bars, restaurants, arcades, quirky attractions, and a carousel. Don't miss out on Britts Donut Shop, offering mouth-watering donuts since 1939. For more adventures, visit the Carolina Beach State Park and embark on the Flytrap Trail to see the native Venus flytrap plants.
Kure Beach, North Carolina: Fun in the Sun for the Whole Family
Savor the sun, surf, and sand at Kure Beach followed by a visit to the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, offering music concerts, open-air markets, and family-friendly entertainment. Kids will enjoy the pavilion's playground, while the rest of the family can cast a line off the fishing pier, play disc golf, or explore nearby attractions like the Fort Fisher State Historic Site.
[1] Jennette's Pier (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2023, from https://www.ncdcr.gov/about/news/story/jennettes-pier-kickoff-new-year-annual-bash
[2] Jockey's Ridge State Park. (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2023, from https://www.ncparks.gov/jockeys-ridge-state-park
[3] Bodie Island Lighthouse. (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2023, from https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/bodieislandlighthouse.htm
[4] North Carolina Sea Turtle, Inc. (2019, September 10). Topsail Island. Retrieved April 05, 2023, from https://www.northcarolinawildlife.org/topsail-island
- Nags Head, a charming town in North Carolina's Outer Banks, offers an exciting blend of beach leisure and entertainment, making it the perfect spot for families seeking enjoyment in abundance.
- Wrightsville Beach, located just east of Wilmington, is a hidden gem that boasts exceptional watersports opportunities and delectable Carolina seafood at Dockside Restaurant.
- Topsail Island, with its pristine beaches and enchanting attractions, remains untouched, attracting marine life enthusiasts and those seeking a journey back in time.
- Oak Island, a beloved small-town beach destination, offers a family-friendly atmosphere, miles of sandy beaches, and a rich sense of history.
- Emerald Isle, situated on Bogue Banks' western end, features 12 miles of shoreline and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, alongside charming restaurants and shops.
