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North Carolina beaches are a dream location for all vacationers, with options ranging from family-friendly beaches to secluded spots inspired by Nicholas Sparks. These beaches are known for their broad sandy lengths, conserved dunes, and lovely beachfront cottages, all contributing to a relaxed coastal lifestyle. North Carolina’s beaches are among the greatest in the country, thanks to their stunning beauty, plentiful amenities, and positive feedback from professionals and visitors alike. From the pristine Outer Banks to the vibrant beaches of Wrightsville Beach, each location has distinct attractions for an enjoyable beach trip.
Top 10 Beaches Near North Carolina
Here are the 10 best beaches near North Carolina for a memorable seaside escape.
1. Emerald Isle
Photo: DiscoA340 / Wikimedia Commons
Emerald Island is located in North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, near Indian Beach, which has 12 miles of pristine beaches ideal for family vacations. The clean sandy beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Other attractions include the Boguе Inlеt Fishing Pier, which has excellent fishing opportunities and breathtaking ocean views. The Point is located on the island’s western end and is well-known for its beautiful sunsets and wide, sandy beaches. Emerald Isle has a large open shoreline and numerous beach amenities, including showers, picnic pavilions, and parking. The Western Regional Access Point also has volleyball courts.
Things To Do: Swim, sunbathe, fish at Bogue Inlet Pier, and watch sunsets at The Point
Location: Crystal Coast, North Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible via NC-58 by car
2. Cape Hatteras
Photo: Triplecaña / Wikimedia Commons
Cape Hatteras is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a famous place near North Carolina Beach for its pristine beauty and the iconic lighthouse. This coastline stretches nearly 70 miles and is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Among the various activities visitors can indulge in are fishing, bird-watching, and horseback riding on the beach. Strong waves of the location also make it ideal for surfing. Sea turtles might be seen in nesting time. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – inside its black-and-white stripes, the panoramic view of the surrounding seashore can be enjoyed, which is a major attraction.
Things To Do: Surf, fish, bird-watch, see sea turtles, and visit the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Location: Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Outer Banks, North Carolina
How To Reach: Drive via NC-12. Access from nearby airports, including Norfolk International Airport (ORF) and Dare County Regional Airport (MQI)
3. Bald Head Island
Photo: DiscoA340 / Wikimedia Commons
A vibrant beach experience is available on Bald Head Island, which can only be accessed by ferry. It’s nice to discover this island on a bike or golf cart to take in all the beaches, maritime forests, and marshes. The setting on the island is very calm, so it is perfect to escape all the commotion of life. Do not miss the Old Baldy Lighthouse, North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse, which boasts a panoramic view of the island and its waters. Bald Head Island is an absolute gem along the North Carolina coast.
Things To Do: Bike, explore maritime forests and marshes, relax on quiet beaches, and visit Old Baldy Lighthouse
Location: Off the coast of Southport, North Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible only by ferry from Southport
4. Carolina Beach
Photo: Annebethmi / Wikimedia Commons
Carolina Beach is a lively destination with a colourful boardwalk, rides, and summer concerts. This beach is perfect for families and those looking for some excitement with their beach time. The vast sandy shores are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Carolina Beach State Park has lovely hiking trails and a unique coastal ecosystem. It is also home to the rare Venus flytrap, making your visit all the more interesting. With fun activities and beautiful natural surroundings, Carolina Beach is one of the secluded beaches in North Carolina.
Things To Do: Enjoy the boardwalk, swim, sunbathe, hike in Carolina Beach State Park, and see Venus flytraps
Location: Near Wilmington, North Carolina
How To Reach: Easily reachable via US-421 by car
5. Ocracoke Island
Photo: bobistraveling / Wikimedia Commons
Ocracoke Island is one of the most charming places, and it can only be reached by ferry, private boat, or plane. As part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, it has beaches known for natural vision and calm environment. Its small village offers quaint shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making exploring after a day at the beach delightful. This is true of the unspoiled beaches of Ocracoke. There’s something incredibly exciting about vacationing on this island of the history of Blackbeard, the pirate.
Things To Do: Explore historic sites, shop, dine, and enjoy the secluded beaches
Location: Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Outer Banks, North Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible by ferry, private boat, or small plane
6. Wrightsville Beach
Photo: FOCIIS Photography / Wikimedia Commons
Wrightsville Beach is a bustling coastal destination noted for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. This beach, located just a short drive from Wilmington, has crystal-clear seas and broad sandy shores, making it a famous place in North Carolina beach for water sports aficionados. The excellent conditions and calm waves allow visitors to enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The Wrightsville Shore Museum of History provides insight into the area’s rich cultural legacy. With its fantastic food options, busy nightlife, and breathtaking landscape, Wrightsville Beach offers the perfect blend of leisure and action for people of all ages.
Things To Do: Surf, paddleboard, explore the Wrightsville Beach Museum, dine on local seafood, and shop at beachside boutiques
Location: Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, near Wilmington
How To Reach: By Car: Accessible via US-74 E from Wilmington (about 15 minutes), By Air: Fly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM), then drive 20 minutes to reach the beach
7. Wrightsville Beach
Photo: FOCIIS Photography / Wikimedia Commons
Wrightsville Beach is a paradise for water-sport enthusiasts, featuring crystal clear waters and expansive sandy beaches ideal for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The beach is also home to the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich past. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant nightlife, with excellent restaurants and stunning scenery enhancing the experience. The combination of thrilling water activities, historical exploration, and lively social scenes makes Wrightsville Beach a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, catering to adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
Things To Do: Surf, paddleboard, kayak, visit the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, and enjoy nightlife
Location: Near Wilmington, North Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible via I-40 and US-74
8. Topsail Island
Photo: Topsail1995 / Wikimedia Commons
Topsail Island is a relaxing, location with 26 miles of uncrowded beaches. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, known for its sea turtle conservation activities, welcomes visitors to learn more about these amazing creatures. The island’s beaches are ideal for swimming, shelling, and fishing, providing various activities for all ages. Topsail Island’s laid-back environment and gorgeous scenery make it a great place to relax and enjoy the simple joys of beach life. Its distinct appeal and dedication to wildlife conservation make it an ideal destination for a relaxed weekend.
Things To Do: Visit Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, swim, shell, and fish
Location: Off the coast of Surf City, North Carolina
How To Reach: Reachable via NC-50 and NC-210 by car
9. Nags Head
Photo: PhC. 184 Massengill Postcards / Wikimedia Commons
Nags Head, a typical Outer Banks location, is known for its huge beaches and towering dunes. Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a must-see, as it contains the tallest natural dune system in the eastern United States. Visitors can participate in sports such as hang gliding, kite flying, and hiking, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. The region also has various restaurants and businesses catering to various tastes and interests. Geared sights add to Nags Head’s appeal, making it a tourist attraction near North Carolina Beach that offers both adventure and relaxation along the North Carolina coast.
Things To Do: Hang glide, hike, kite-fly at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, dine, and shop
Location: Outer Banks, North Carolina
How To Reach: Drive via US-158
10. Kure Beach
Photo: Jeremy Markovich / Wikimedia Commons
Kure Beach is a modest and charming village noted for its rich history and scenic beauty. It is ideal for relaxation, with outstanding seaside views and a relaxing environment. Visitors can learn about the area’s Civil War history at the neighbouring Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which offers some insights into the past. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher provides teaching opportunities regarding local marine life. Kure Beach is ideal for individuals looking for a relaxing break with an opportunity to learn and appreciate the coastal environment.
Things To Do: Relax on the beach, visit the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, and explore the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Location: Near Wilmington, North Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible via US-421 by car
North Carolina’s beaches are distinctive and beautiful, bringing a different feel and activity. Whether you would like to relax, explore the area, or have some fun in the sun, you will surely find the perfect beach along the coast of North Carolina. Pack those bags and get ready. Don’t forget to check out TripXL for exclusive travel deals and curated itineraries that cater to your beach getaway needs.
Cover Photo: DiscoA340/ Wikimedia Commons
