North carolina beach vacation spots
When you think of North Carolina beach vacations, you probably picture sunny skies and the beautiful waves of the Atlantic Ocean. But we’re here to tell you that there’s so much more than that.
North Carolina beaches are full of fun activities from which to choose—from fishing and kayaking to paddleboarding and surfing. And when it comes to lodging, our state has it all: luxury hotels, quaint bed-and-breakfasts, campgrounds, and everything in between.
You can also enjoy a wide range of water sports like parasailing and jet skiing. And if you’re looking for family fun on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options like mini golf courses or amusement parks that are perfect for kids of all ages.
North carolina beach vacation spots
1. Emerald Isle
7500 Emerald Drive
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
(252) 354-3424
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.
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.
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Expert Tip
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
2. Bald Head Island
P.O. Box 3069
Bald Head Island, NC 28461
(830) 549-6373
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.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Take your beach getaway to the next level by visiting Bald Head Island.
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Home to a grand ocean view and lavish accommodations, you will have the best island experience in this laid-back and relaxing beach setting.
Expert Tip
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
Are you looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of urban life?
Go to one of the best beach spots in North Carolina, the peaceful Cape Hatteras!
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
4. Ocracoke Island — Ocracoke
1075 Irvin Garrish Hwy
Ocracoke, NC 27960
(252) 928-6711
If you are looking for a unique laid-back beach experience, the top beach to go to is the lovely Ocracoke Island.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
Do you fancy an aesthetically pleasing yet historically rich beach site?
Explore the picturesque Topsail Beach to experience the best of both worlds.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
Are you looking for more nice beaches in North Carolina?
Check out Corolla Beach and its array of features that will exceed your expectations.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
7. Wrightsville Beach
321 Causeway Drive
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
(910) 256-7900
If you are looking to elevate your beach experience, consider dropping by at one of the clear water beaches in North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach.
Why We Recommend This 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.
Expert Tip
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
8. Oak Island
4601 E. Oak Island Dr.
Oak Island, NC 28465
(910) 278-5011
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.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
9. Duck
1200 Duck Road
Duck, NC 27949
(252) 255-1234
Are you looking for North Carolina beach places to visit?
Dive into the safe waters of Duck Beach and check this lovely destination out.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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
10. Nags Head
5401 S. Croatan Hwy.
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 441-5508
If you’re looking for popular beaches in North Carolina, make sure to visit the relaxing sandy shores of the Nags Head beaches.
Why We Recommend This Beach
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.
Expert Tip
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