Places to go on vacation in north carolina
North Carolina is a beautiful state, and it’s the perfect place to get away and recharge.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active experience that will get your blood pumping, North Carolina has something for you. If you’re thinking of heading to the coast, there are plenty of options for you—from sunbathing on pristine white sand beaches to hiking through dense forests. Inland, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nature—take a bike ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains, or go kayaking down one of the many rivers that wind through the area.
If you want something more exciting than just relaxation, there’s also plenty of opportunity for adventure in North Carolina—check out the list below for some ideas:
Places to go on vacation in north carolina
1CHEERS TO THE COAST: NEW BERN
Albemarle & Pamlico Sounds
You’ll discover that our coastal cities and towns such as New Bern are filled with acclaimed restaurants and wineries. Dine al fresco at Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant, overlooking the Neuse River. Fill your days with visits to Tryon Palace and the North Carolina History Center, wander through the spectacular gardens, historic homes and quaint shops of downtown, and stop by the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola.
2LAND ON THE RIVER: WILMINGTON
Southern Coast
Indulge all your senses in Wilmington and its island beaches. Downtown is an experience all its own, from the streets lined with restaurants, bars and shops, to the scenic Riverwalk where you can catch boat tours along the Cape Fear River. Among the many places you’ll want to eat are The George on the Riverwalk, for incomparable views; Fork N Cork, a small dining spot that’s big on taste; and Caprice Bistro, a perfect date night choice. Plus, at any moment, you can take a 20- to 30-minute drive to one of the three nearby beaches: Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach – or stay at the beach and make the reverse trip to the city.
3LEAVE YOUR WORRIES BEHIND: BALD HEAD ISLAND
Brunswick Islands
Bald Head Island is only a 20-minute ferry ride from Southport and the modern-day mainland, but it feels a world away. While lush nature preserves cover more than 80 percent of the island, there’s still room for the lodging, activities and amenities to make your vacation memorable. The island has its own transportation system, and cars are prohibited. So park yours in secure lots at the mainland terminal, board the ferry and prepare for an incredible retreat. Enjoy tours of nature with Bald Head Island Conservancy, including the Turtle Walks you can only experience in summer. Climb to the top of Old Baldy Lighthouse, and make it part of a larger experience by going on the Bald Head Island Historic Tour. The island features 14 miles of pristine beaches, where you can watch both a sunrise and sunset.
4BEACH RETREAT: NAGS HEAD
Outer Bank
Nags Head is the quintessential Outer Banks town – a symbiotic mix of land and sea with plenty of natural and cultural attractions. Treasures around Nags Head include Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which boasts one of the loftiest active sand dune systems in the eastern United States. It’s also one of the planet’s premier locations for learning to hang glide. Kitty Hawk Kites, just across from the dunes, offers hang-gliding lessons as well as kayak tours, dolphin tours, and guides for wakeboarding and stand-up paddleboarding. But it doesn’t have to all be adventurous, especially when a great variety of vacation rentals puts you steps away from beach relaxation.
5PRETTY SMALL TOWN: EDENTON
Albemarle & Pamlico Sounds
Make this summer historic in more ways than one by heading to Edenton, which earns the distinction of being one of “America’s Prettiest Small Towns.” Beautifully preserved historical homes tell the story of 300 years of history, while a vibrant downtown district offers modern shops and restaurants to visitors and locals alike. Visit the Chowan County Courthouse, built in 1767, or the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse that overlooks Edenton Bay. When hunger strikes, make sure to stop by the Chicken Kitchen, where you can enjoy Southern cooking for any meal of the day. Or go for upscale classic American fare at 309 Bistro.