The Best Beaches in North Carolina

With its classic Outer Banks feel, Nags Head is a great destination for any beach-lover. There’s a mix of on-the-beach relaxation (pet-friendly!) and off-the-beach amusements, such as go-kart tracks, a handful of mini-golf courses, a number of ice cream shops, and good restaurants. Horseback riding on the beach is a popular attraction in the area for visitors, with different excursions and locations to explore! While you’re there, visit Jeannette’s Pier, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Most people prefer to book one of the many rental properties in the area; so take a look at Twiddy & Company to start your search. nagsheadguide.com

Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is made up of two small islands connected by Shell Road. The small coastal town is home to the second oldest Yacht Club in America, built in 1884. The beach is known as a great destination for watersports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing, and Johnnie Mercer’s Pier that extends 1,200 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean for great fishing. Vacation rentals are popular here, but you can book a room at the Shell Island Resort for oceanfront views and beach access with umbrellas and chairs for rent. Head to Dockside Restaurant for a relaxed Carolina seafood spot perched right on the water’s edge. visitwrightsvillebeachnc.com

Kitty Hawk is a unique historical coastal town that’s made up of a quaint village, beachfront community, and a large maritime forest reserve known as Kitty Hawk Woods. The town maintains its character, charm, and rustic nature-loving touch with traditional coastal low-rise buildings in the village and on the beach; while the origin of the town’s quirky name is still debated among residents today. (Most say it’s tied to the Native American "Chickeawk" or "Chickahawk" roots of the area.) Check out the many vacation rental companies for a charming coastal getaway spot that makes you feel like you’re a million miles away from your busy life. You can find fresh seafood dives, mouthwatering barbecue joints, and a homemade ice cream haven (called Big Buck’s) to keep you full and happy. Kitty Hawk is also the site of the Wrights Brothers first flight, with a memorial about four miles down the beach from Kitty Hawk to commemorate the national historic event. outerbanks.com

Topsail Island is a 26-mile long barrier island off the coast of North Carolina made up of the communities of Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach. Its small population (only around 500 full-time residents) and no high-rise development rule helps maintain its natural beauty. In fact, up until World War II, the island was accessible only by boat. Now, two bridges bring visitors to its relaxing beaches and charming attractions. Additionally, Topsail used to be rumored as the location of Blackbeard’s treasure, reeling in treasure hunters for years searching for the prize in the maritime forests. This island is so full of history and intrigue that it’s hard to pass up a trip to one of its small seaside towns as a quiet weekend getaway or exciting family trip! topsailbeach.org

This bustling seaside town is a major summer spot in the southern tip of North Carolina, about 60 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach. In the 1950s, a hurricane wiped out the area, leaving only five buildings in its wake; but Oak Island has now become a popular getaway destination for those desiring a family-friendly beach with a small-town feel. The town has miles of sandy beaches with piers for fishing, ramps for boating, plenty of water activities, and charming restaurants and shops. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing, old-fashioned beach trip that’s no-fuss and fancy-free. ncbrunswick.com

Located at the western end of Bogue Banks, a barrier island, Emerald Isle gives visitors 12 miles of shoreline and views of the Atlantic Ocean as part of the Crystal Coast. The town’s only oceanfront hotel, the Islander Hotel & Resort, is a great place to consider for a weekend getaway; but there are plenty of quaint rentals and condos that are just perfect for a family vacation. Make sure to stop by Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-B-Q for its amazing shrimp burger and old-fashioned style. Whether you want to fish from the pier, relax on the sand, or explore the antique shops, there’s something for every member of the family. crystalcoastnc.org

Jacksonville is located right by the Southern Outer Banks and is home to the largest Marine Corps base on the eastern seaboard, making it a truly patriotic coastal town. From its Winterfest in December to its Jazz Festival in February, this beach town gives you plenty of excitement and fun for the whole family. It’s also a laidback getaway for those who want to kayak (which is enjoyed on the New River) or tour the historic memorials and memorial gardens. visitjacksonvillenc.com