The Most Beautiful North Carolina Beaches

Discover miles of beautiful shoreline, charming towns, and coastal fun.

Discover the Best North Carolina Beaches

With more than 300 miles of coastline, North Carolina is home to some of the most diverse beaches on the East Coast. From the wild horses roaming the Outer Banks to the family-friendly shores of the Crystal Coast and the charming beach towns near Wilmington, there's a stretch of sand for every kind of traveler.

Whether you're planning a relaxing beach vacation, searching for great surfing and fishing, or looking for a quiet coastal escape, North Carolina offers beautiful scenery, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and welcoming beach communities. This guide highlights some of the state's most beautiful beaches, along with everything you need to plan your next getaway.

Weather & Best Time to Visit North Carolina Beaches

North Carolina's beaches enjoy a mild coastal climate, making them a great destination throughout the year. Summers are warm and perfect for swimming, while spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, smaller crowds, and excellent weather for exploring the coast.

Spring (March to May)

Spring brings blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and fewer visitors. It's a wonderful time for sightseeing, beach walks, kayaking, and visiting the historic coastal towns before the busy summer season begins.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is peak beach season. Expect warm temperatures, sunny days, and ocean water that's perfect for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and family vacations. Popular beaches can become busy, so booking accommodations early is recommended.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is one of the best times to visit North Carolina's coast. The weather remains warm well into October, crowds begin to thin, and hotel prices often become more affordable. It's also an excellent season for fishing and outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is quiet and peaceful along the coast. While swimming is less common, it's a beautiful time for lighthouse visits, wildlife watching, beachcombing, and enjoying uncrowded coastal towns.

Best Time to Visit

Late April through June and September through October offer the ideal combination of warm weather, fewer crowds, and pleasant ocean temperatures. These shoulder seasons are perfect for enjoying North Carolina's beaches without the peak summer crowds.

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Why Visit North Carolina Beaches

North Carolina's coastline offers something for every type of beach lover. The state is home to more than 300 miles of shoreline, from the wild beauty of the Outer Banks to the laid-back charm of the Crystal Coast and the family-friendly beaches near Wilmington. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure, you'll find wide sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and welcoming coastal towns along the way.

Beyond the beaches themselves, North Carolina is known for excellent fishing, surfing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives through protected coastal landscapes. With charming waterfront communities, beautiful sunrises, and plenty of opportunities to relax, it's one of the East Coast's top beach destinations.

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Best Things to Do Along North Carolina's Coast

North Carolina's beaches offer far more than beautiful stretches of sand. From iconic lighthouses to wild horses and scenic waterways, there's plenty to discover during your coastal getaway.

Visit Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

One of North Carolina's most recognizable landmarks, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the Outer Banks and the Atlantic Ocean.

Watch the Wild Horses

The northern Outer Banks are home to the famous Corolla Wild Horses, descendants of Spanish mustangs that have roamed the beaches for centuries. Guided tours offer one of the best opportunities to see them in their natural habitat.

Explore the North Carolina Aquariums

Families will love visiting the aquariums at Pine Knoll Shores, Fort Fisher, and Roanoke Island, where you can discover sea turtles, sharks, otters, and a variety of native marine life.

Take a Ferry to Ocracoke Island

Accessible only by ferry, Ocracoke Island offers quiet beaches, historic charm, unique shops, and one of the most relaxing beach towns on the East Coast.

Go Fishing

Whether you're surf fishing from the beach, casting from one of the state's famous fishing piers, or heading offshore on a charter boat, North Carolina is one of the country's premier fishing destinations.

Try Water Sports

The North Carolina coast is perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, kiteboarding, and jet skiing. The Outer Banks, in particular, is considered one of the best kiteboarding destinations in the United States.

Visit Historic Coastal Towns

Take time to explore charming communities like Beaufort, Southport, Edenton, and Manteo. You'll find waterfront restaurants, local boutiques, maritime museums, and plenty of coastal history.

Watch the Sunrise

North Carolina's east-facing beaches are famous for spectacular sunrises. Grab a cup of coffee, walk onto the sand early, and enjoy one of the best ways to start the day.

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Outer Banks Beaches

The beaches in the Outer Banks stretch for more than 100 miles along barrier islands that frame the eastern coast of North Carolina. These sands are known for their cleanliness and their family friendliness. Each beach has something different to offer travelers, but take note that lifeguards are on duty on all beaches – except Duck – between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

The shores at Hatteras Island are known for their fishing and sailing (the lighthouse at Cape Hatteras is the tallest in the United States) as well as their campgrounds and 4×4 beach driving. The northern shores are ideal for water sports like surfing and skimboarding, as they see more waves than the southern beaches. Nags Head also completed a 12-mile beach nourishment program that widened the sands so visitors have more room to spread out. Travelers should be mindful that the public parking is limited in Southern Shores. Those bringing their four-legged friend can head to Duck where dogs are allowed to be off their leash as long as they're under control.

No matter which beach you choose, be mindful of the tides and currents. Travelers especially love the beaches because they're quiet and clean, so pick up any trash you may have to help keep the sands pristine. There are 17 beaches in all including the Northern Beaches, Roanoke Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island.  Head to our Outer Banks Travel Guide for everything you need to plan your Outer Banks vacation.  Here best beaches of The Outer Banks:

Kitty Hawk Beach

Outer Banks vacationers find that Kitty Hawk has a little something for everyone, including fantastic beaches, plenty of shops and restaurants, and even a large section of maritime forest where visitors can enjoy quiet nature trails, and spot all those geese that the original Native Americans were referring to.

In Kitty Hawk there are a lot of facilities right there at the parking lot including restrooms, showers and John’s Drive-in just down the road. Up the road near Ocean Boulevard Bistro, there’s ample parking, Art’s Place and Winks Market. The beach is a bit narrow, and the sand is not as soft as other areas, but it’s a great location for families.

Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills is the oldest official town on the Outer Banks, and arguably, one of its most popular destinations. Located in the middle of the central Outer Banks and bordered by miles of attractions, activities, shops, and restaurants, (and not to mention miles of ocean,) Kill Devil Hills offers vacationers a world of things to do and see. During the day, Kill Devil Hills really heats up with lots of fun both on and off the ocean, and plenty of entertainment for beach visitors. If there’s such a thing as the center of commerce on the Outer Banks, it’s probably Kill Devil Hills. The town may have the best parking available for beach goers and there are a lot of popular places for snacks and meals along the Beach Road. On the northern end of town, the beach tends to be a bit more narrow and steep, but widens toward the south end and into Nags Head. Essentially, for a packed-Outer Banks vacation that has plenty of amenities and action, Kill Devil Hills is a perfect vacation destination.

Nags Head

Nags Head is arguably one of the Outer Banks' most established tourism destinations, and the area remains popular with visitors today for its wealth of amenities, sprawling ocean and soundfront views, and classic Outer Banks style. The sand on the Nags Head beaches has always been some of the finest grain and softest sand around. After beach nourishment–which extends about a mile north of Jennette’s Pier to Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CHNS) on the south end–the beach is very wide with a gradual slope to the ocean.  In Nags Head, a beach-loving vacationer can find virtually anything to make a vacation perfect, including some of the area's favorite restaurants, natural and historical attractions, and miles of fun. Visitors come here year after year for the fantastic Outer Banks beaches and ample entertainment, and have been doing so for generations. An ideal mix of on-the-beach relaxation and off-the-beach amusements, Nags Head remains one of the Outer Banks' most loved vacation destinations.

Duck

The little town of Duck has garnered quite a reputation as one of the best vacation spots on the Outer Banks. Regularly appearing on a number of national Best Beaches' lists, (including the Travel Channel's best beach directory), Duck features all the elements of a fantastic Outer Banks vacation destination. Enjoy waterfront access on the ocean and sound side, sublime shopping and dining, and plenty of hiking, surfing, kayaking, kite boarding, and beach space to go around. Despite bordering the larger Outer Banks towns of Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, and even Corolla, Duck retains its small town quirky character and distinctive draw to vacationers from all around the country.

Southern Shores

The town of Southern Shores has all the secluded charm of the neighboring Northern Outer Banks villages of Duck and Corolla, but with easy (and even walking-distance) access to the busy central Outer Banks' treasure trove of restaurants, shops and attractions. A combination of rich maritime forests, quiet residential beaches, and a handful of restaurants and shops, Southern Shores is an ideal vacation locale for families who want to be away from it all, but still remain close to the big Outer Banks attractions.

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Corolla

Corolla, in Currituck County, may have the best beaches on the Outer Banks. Wide beaches and soft sand with a gradual slope to the ocean–what more could you want? A personal favorite for access sites is the southernmost beach access in Corolla. There’s a shopping center directly across the street, with restrooms and showers available. It’s a bit of trek to the beach, along a boardwalk, but the trip is well worth it. There are additional public access spots farther north–for the most part located along Lighthouse Drive. There’s adequate parking at all these sites, but no facilities.

Corolla adds a touch of modern class to the classic Outer Banks vacation. Prized for both its seclusion and its abundance of upscale but funky shops and dining options, Corolla is the ideal vacation destination for families who are just as happy lounging on the beach in flip flops as they are indulging in an afternoon at the spa.

The small-town beach community combines all the best elements of a five star resort vacation, while still encompassing that laid-back Outer Banks style that embraces the beach life. With minimal development but lots of amenities, Corolla is perfect for those who want to get away from it all, but still enjoy all the best dining, shopping, water sports, and amenities that the Outer Banks has to offer.

Carova

Arguably the Outer Banks' last frontier, Carova is renowned for its miles of privacy, including clean white beaches, a scattering of rental homes, and wild mustangs that roam freely from the ocean to Carova's small residential neighborhoods. Carova's seclusion is easy to explain, as there are no paved roads leading to this vacation spot, just miles of sand tracks that border the Atlantic Ocean. Vacationers who love the beach and don't need all the extra fuss flock to the area in small crowds, soaking up private stretches of beaches, and enjoying the peace and quiet.

Buxton

Most every visitor who comes to Hatteras Island will make a stop in Buxton, either for the exceptional fishing off of Cape Point, the amazing kiteboarding and windsurfing at the Canadian Hole, or for the incredible views from the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Buxton arguably has the lion's share of attractions on Hatteras Island, and over a million visitors a year make a trek to see the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton alone.

Buxton is a quiet small town, and a mixture of rental communities, charming and decades-old motels, and welcoming oceanfront and sound front vacation rental homes. If your family wants to be close to the big name attractions on the island, as well as some of the best fishing, kite boarding, windsurfing, and hiking the Outer Banks has to offer, then join the countless vacationers who have fallen in love with Buxton.

Waves

While driving along NC Highway, it may be difficult to identify the little town of Waves. The village is sandwiched in between Salvo and Rodanthe, and the area in its entirety is known to locals as the “Tri-Villages,” with no undeveloped gaps or markers to distinguish one small vacation town from the other.

That's not to say, however, that Waves is lost in the shuffle. The town is home to two of the Outer Banks, and arguably the East Coast's, biggest water sports companies, features a small number of charming restaurants and cafes, and offers superb access to gorgeous oceanfront and sound front beaches. Waves may be a small town, but it's big on coastal appeal, and vacationers will surely love the quiet beaches, charming shops, and miles of water to play in and explore.

Rodanthe

Rodanthe has always been the setting for incredible stories, including daring oceanfront rescues, tumultuous hurricanes, and today, fantastic beach vacations. Visitors to Rodanthe can expect all the romance of wind-swept beaches and secluded coastal cottages, as well as modern Outer Banks amenities such as exceptional kite boarding schools and launching points, and local gift shops and locally run restaurants. For a romantic vacation that's miles away from the real world, with some of the best water sports access on the East Coast, Rodanthe is definitely worth a visit.

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Brunswick Islands

Start with a sunrise and end with a sunset. It’s one of the unique features of the Brunswick Islands and the 45 miles of south-facing beaches that allow you to see both here. In between, fill your day with an endless array of activities such as boating, fishing, shopping and dining. Sharpen your swing at 35 courses that earn the area its nickname, North Carolina’s Golf Coast. Plan a romantic getaway or even a wedding on vehicle-free Bald Head Island. Or just spend a day with the kids at Holden Beach, named best for families.  You can also find all the information you need to plan your Brunswick Islands vacation at our Brunswick Islands NC guide.

Caswell Beach

This section of Oak Island is a place you can truly unwind in classic beach-vacationing style. Spend a day visiting the lighthouse—one of the brightest in the United States with a beacon that reaches about 16 nautical miles offshore. Do some surf-casting and reel in a fresh catch for dinner, or simply relax on the beach and stroll at low tide to search out fine shell specimens. You and your family may find yourselves with the beach all your own as Caswell is the least populated of all the Island beaches. In fact, the only commercial establishment here is the Oak Island Golf Country Club. But as remote as Caswell may sound, it’s really only a mile or so from all the shops and restaurants of Oak Island. So, if your perfect vacation is a quiet, secluded beach that’s only a minute or two from all the conveniences, Caswell Beach is calling your name.

Holden Beach

Named best family beach in the United States by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as “Dr. Beach,” Holden Beach offers small-town charm and unspoiled beauty. Navigate a kayak or canoe along the picturesque Intra-coastal Waterway, and keep watch, for you may glimpse endangered loggerhead sea turtles as they surface for air. In this naturalist’s—and wildlife—haven, you’re sure to find something to delight your whole family—from spotting dolphins in the surf to playfully chasing ghost crabs with flashlights during an evening stroll. Have lunch on-the-deck at one of several restaurants that sit beside the Intra-coastal Waterway. You can watch shrimp boats cruise by as they make their way to and from the ocean. And, don’t miss the North Carolina Festival by the Sea, a celebration with arts, crafts and seafood that draws people from all over.

Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle combines low-key relaxation and family adventures at every turn. Venture along the shore, and scan for signs of sea turtles and hatchlings journeying to the ocean. Or catch a wave at one of Brunswick surfers' favorite spots. Visit The Museum of Coastal Carolina to experience more sea life, with a life-size diorama and touch tanks. Around town, you’ll find lots of things that make a beach vacation great, such as restaurants and hangouts with outdoor decks. If you time your visit right, take part in the North Carolina Oyster Festival, where you can shuck a bucket or two and take part in judging the Oyster Stew Cook-Off. Enjoy the award-winning Silver Coast winery, specialty shops, and more. Or if you're feeling adventurous, try zip lining through the trees or a swamp boat eco-tour at the Shallotte River Swamp Park.  Bring your family for a refreshing vacation, and discover what awaits on Ocean Isle Beach.

Sunset Beach

At the tail end of the Brunswick Island chain, Sunset Beach has the distinction of being the Southern-most surf in North Carolina. But while it may be last in geography, many find it a the top-of-the-list for a quiet, old-fashioned, retro, beach vacation. A walk to Bird Island is always a family favorite. For almost a mile, the beach houses give way to one of the most untouched shorelines in Brunswick where all that separates you from the surf and marsh is a wide stretch of beach and dunes. Discover sun, moon and stars at the Ingram Planetarium, or by simply taking in the sunrise or sunset, both of which can be seen over the water several months of the year due to the island’s unique positioning. Go to Sunset Beach to reconnect with nature—and with your family as well.

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Crystal Coast

Along the rare, south-facing beaches of the Crystal Coast, you can see relics from Blackbeard’s infamous ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge at the North Carolina Maritime Museum. Meet playful otters and an albino sea turtle at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. Experience history by exploring, running and climbing through it at the Fort Macon State Park. Watch wild horses racing the shores of Shackleford Banks or climb nearby Cape Lookout Lighthouse. And discover why Beaufort was voted America’s Coolest Small Town by Budget Travel  readers in 2012.  Head to our Crystal Coast NC guide to start planning your Crystal Coast vacation.

Atlantic Beach

Surf, sand and fun are just the beginning at the Crystal Coast’s Atlantic Beach. With easy beach access to one of Coastal Living Magazine’s “Best Beaches” and a range of accommodations and dining options to enjoy, this town is a wonderful place to call home during your seaside stay. Take advantage of one of the area’s popular fishing piers, where you can throw a line in or catch a wave off the break. Plus, rest easy that everything from the beach sand to the historic Fort Macon State Park are just a casual walk or bike ride away.

Indian Beach

Indian Beach is located in the middle of Bogue Banks, in between Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle. Public beach access is available to this pristine sand at designated locations, as well as easy access to the waters of Bogue Sound. Plus, enjoy restaurants and seafood markets with the freshest catch for dinner in your beach cottage or rental.

Topsail Area

The greater Topsail area is one of three quieter beach destinations on the southeast coast of North Carolina. Local legend claims the name originated from shipping merchants in the 1700s. Pirates would hide in the channel between the mainland and the barrier island and seize merchant ships when they got close. Hidden by the island, the top sails of the pirate ships were the only clue of impending danger. Today this tranquil area includes North Topsail Beach, active Surf City and Topsail Beach, along with the mainland towns of Holly Ridge, Jacksonville and Sneads Ferry.  If you are vacationing to Topsail Island, head to our Topsail Island North Carolina guide to plan your vacation.

Topsail Beach

Incorporated in 1963, Topsail Beach reaches from Surf City’s town limits to the southernmost tip of the Island. Not only is it home to beautiful beaches, but it is also home to several restaurants, a general store, unique shops, and a fishing pier. Locally owned and operated motels offer views of the ocean or the sound. The town also has it’s own marina and boat ramp where visitors can participate in all sorts of water activities.

Topsail Beach is home to the famous Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center where staff and volunteers care for sick and injured sea turtles. Once the turtles are well, they are released back into the ocean. A short walk for the Sea Turtle Hospital is the Missiles and More Museum where visitors can learn about the unique history of the island. During the third week of October, the town hosts “Autumn with Topsail,” a festival that features juried artists who are displaying and selling their work.

Surf City

Surf City has been the commercial heart of Topsail Island for over 60 years. The town has grown from a small fishing village that was home to a handful of families to a year-round community of around 1,900. Visitors enjoy Surf City as “the way the beach used to be,” quiet and serene. Surf City’s clean and uncrowded beaches have become the town’s main attraction where visitors can enjoy the sand on their feet and the peaceful rhythms of the ocean under a deep blue sky.

Surf City is home to a variety of indoor and outdoor dining facilities that feature coastal Carolina cuisine. The central business district offers a surprising choice of shopping opportunities from gift boutiques outdoor equipment suppliers. West of Surf City, Topsail Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway separate the island from the mainland. This narrow body of water provides the perfect setting for canoeing, kayaking, water skiing and fishing.

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Wilmington Area

With both village charm and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, the Wilmington Historic River District and Island Beaches offers great dining, unique shops and vibrant nightlife. Downtown, stop at a quaint café, take a garden stroll, tour local film sites or board Battleship North Carolina. Visit in April to see incredible color fill the streets during the North Carolina Azalea Festival. Cast a line off the Atlantic’s oldest fishing pier at Kure Beach, learn to surf at Wrightsville Beach, or explore one of Food & Wine magazine’s top 10 boardwalks at Carolina Beach.  Head to our Wilmington North Carolina Hotels guide to plan your vacation to the Wilmington area.

Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach offers an original kind of beach experience from the past combined with a fun, family-friendly spin for today. Visitors can experience a vintage, nationally-recognized seaside boardwalk, live music, miles of beautiful beach, world-class fishing, one-of-a kind festivals and events, and all kinds of people united by good times that are unmistakably Carolina Beach.  Trade your ordinary summer beach vacation for an extraordinary one. Enjoy classic seaside fun at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy a hot donut from the famous Britt’s Donut Shop, or one-of-a-kind family fun at the boardwalk’s seaside amusement rides, weekly Boardwalk Blast series featuring fireworks and the Free Movies at the Lake. Beach nightlife heats up when the sun goes down with live music at local tiki bars. Our Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels guide will provide all you need to plan your vacation to Carolina Beach.

Kure Beach

Let the peaceful small town atmosphere of Kure Beach transform you. Home to the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic coast, an oceanfront park, a nearby state aquarium and beautiful natural surroundings, Kure Beach provides the perfect setting and relaxed pace for you and your family to reconnect in this pure and natural playground.  This small town gem is big on things to do this summer. Dance seaside at the Boogie in the Park concert series. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher for their special Dinosaurs! and Butterfly Bungalow exhibits. Kids will love participating in summer programs at the aquarium or at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Fish off the Kure Beach Fishing Pier or just hunt for seashells.  Visit our Kure Beach Hotels guide for additional information to plan your Kure Beach vacation.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is North Carolina’s most accessible beach and known for its clear blue waters and spacious, clean beach. With an abundance of water sports and outdoor activities and a vibrant social scene, there’s never a shortage of something happening year-round. Kayak or paddle board, tame the area’s world-class surf, reel in a prize-worthy fish, or just enjoy the spectacular views during an evening harbor cruise. This walkable, village-like town is known for its welcoming, social community.  The island heats up with signature summer concerts, surfing competitions and more. Ride the waves with a surf lesson or stand up paddle board excursion and explore farther out on a fishing charter or a scenic cruise. Kids of all ages will love activities like pirate-led treasure hunts and coastal science camps. Or just relax on the beach and do nothing at all!  For more travel planning information on Wrightsville beach, visit our Wrightsville Beach Oceanfront Hotels guide here.

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Best Beachfront Hotels in North Carolina

Whether you're planning a luxury getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing weekend by the ocean, North Carolina offers outstanding beachfront accommodations from the Outer Banks to the Crystal Coast and Wilmington's island beaches. These highly rated hotels provide comfortable stays with easy beach access and excellent coastal views.

Sanderling Resort ★★★★★ | 8.8/10

The Sanderling Resort is an elegant, 4-star coastal oasis nestled between the tranquil Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean in Duck, North Carolina. As the Outer Banks' only full-service resort, it pairs a laid-back maritime spirit with refined luxury. The scenic property features a mix of redesigned guest rooms, suites, and multi-bedroom vacation residences. Guests can spend their days unwinding at the award-winning Sanderling Spa, relaxing by three unique swimming pools, or enjoying coastal cuisine at Theodosia by celebrity chef Vivian Howard.

Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes ★★★★ | 9.2/10

The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is an upscale, 4-star beachfront resort overlooking the white sands of the Grand Strand. Unlike the inland Marina Inn, this property offers direct ocean access and private balconies with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The experience centers around a sprawling beachfront pool deck featuring a waterslide, outdoor lounge chairs, and poolside cocktail service. Guests can also enjoy the full-service Hibiscus Spa, preferred championship golf course access, and fine oceanfront dining at Ocean's on 82nd.

Marina Inn Grande Dunes Condos & Suites ★★★★★ | 9.4/10

The Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is a luxury, AAA Four-Diamond resort elegantly positioned along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. Unlike the beachfront Marriott property, this resort embraces a quieter marina atmosphere, offering golf-course views and spacious multi-bedroom suites with full kitchens. Though located 1.5 miles inland, the property features a seasonal shuttle that brings guests directly to its private oceanfront beach access point. On-site, visitors can enjoy upscale dining at WaterScapes, patio drinks at the Anchor Café, and both indoor and outdoor pools.

Avista Resort ★★★★ | 9.0/10

The Avista Resort is a high-rise oceanfront condominium resort located in the heart of North Myrtle Beach. Unlike the more secluded Grande Dunes resorts, this property offers a lively boardwalk-style atmosphere and walking-distance access to the shops and shag-dancing clubs of Main Street. The resort features spacious one- to three-bedroom condos equipped with full kitchens, spacious living areas, and private balconies facing the Atlantic Ocean. On-site highlights include a large oceanfront pool deck with dual pools, a lazy river, an indoor pool, and casual dining at the Just Off Main restaurant.

Island Vista Resort ★★★★ | 9.0/10

The Island Vista Resort is a boutique-style, oceanfront condominium property tucked away in an exclusive, residential section of Myrtle Beach. Unlike the larger commercial high-rises, this resort offers a quieter getaway with one- to four-bedroom suites featuring full kitchens, granite countertops, and private oceanview balconies. The property leans heavily into its tropical theme, highlighting ancient-ruins-styled indoor/outdoor pools, a lazy river, and a splash pad for kids. Guests can also enjoy oceanfront massage cabanas and award-winning casual dining at the on-site The Cypress Room.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave ★★★★ | 9.6/10

The Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave is a sleek, modern high-rise resort prominently situated along the oceanfront boardwalk in downtown Myrtle Beach. This property offers immediate walking-distance access to major tourist attractions like the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and the surrounding dining and shopping districts. The upscale accommodations consist of spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites complete with full kitchens, large living rooms, and private balconies overlooking the beach. On-site, guests can relax by two heated outdoor pools with a dynamic sun deck, utilize a state-of-the-art fitness center, or grab a cocktail at the Blue Lounge.

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Local Foods to Try

North Carolina's coast is known for fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and recipes that have been passed down for generations. No matter which beach town you visit, you'll find delicious local specialties that showcase the state's coastal heritage.

Calabash Seafood
Originating in the small fishing village of Calabash, this lightly breaded and fried seafood is one of North Carolina's signature dishes. Shrimp, oysters, scallops, and flounder are all commonly prepared this way.

Shrimp and Grits
A Southern favorite featuring fresh coastal shrimp served over creamy stone-ground grits. Many restaurants add bacon, sausage, or a rich gravy for extra flavor.

Fresh North Carolina Oysters
Available seasonally, local oysters are served raw, steamed, grilled, or roasted. They're a favorite at waterfront seafood restaurants throughout the coast.

Soft-Shell Crab
A seasonal delicacy, soft-shell blue crabs are lightly fried or grilled and served whole. They're especially popular during the late spring and early summer months.

Eastern North Carolina Barbecue
Although seafood takes center stage along the coast, don't miss the region's famous whole-hog barbecue served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

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Local Drinks to Try

Whether you're relaxing after a day on the beach or enjoying dinner with an ocean view, these local favorites are worth trying during your North Carolina coastal getaway.

Sweet Tea
A Southern staple that's served almost everywhere and pairs perfectly with fresh seafood.

North Carolina Craft Beer
The state is home to one of the nation's best craft beer scenes, with many coastal restaurants serving locally brewed lagers, IPAs, and seasonal ales.

Cheerwine
This iconic cherry-flavored soft drink has been a North Carolina favorite for more than 100 years and is found in restaurants throughout the state.

Muscadine Wine
Made from native muscadine grapes, this sweet Southern wine is produced throughout North Carolina and offers a unique local flavor.

Beach Cocktails
From frozen margaritas and rum punch to refreshing mojitos, waterfront restaurants and beach bars serve plenty of tropical favorites perfect for watching the sunset.

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Hidden Gems Along North Carolina's Coast

While North Carolina's beaches are the main attraction, the coast is also home to hidden islands, historic sites, scenic parks, and unique experiences that are well worth adding to your itinerary.

Shackleford Banks
Take a ferry to this undeveloped barrier island, where wild horses roam freely across the dunes. It's also a wonderful spot for shelling, wildlife photography, and peaceful beach walks.

Cape Lookout National Seashore
Accessible only by boat, Cape Lookout offers pristine beaches, a historic lighthouse, excellent shelling, and some of the quietest shoreline on the East Coast.

Jockey's Ridge State Park
Home to the tallest living sand dunes on the Atlantic Coast, this unique park is perfect for hiking, hang gliding, flying kites, and watching spectacular sunsets over the sound.

Bald Head Island
With no private cars allowed, this peaceful island is explored by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot. Visitors enjoy uncrowded beaches, maritime forests, and the iconic Old Baldy Lighthouse.

Rachel Carson Reserve
Located near historic Beaufort, this protected coastal reserve is known for its wild horses, scenic walking trails, salt marshes, and outstanding birdwatching opportunities.

The Kindred Spirit Mailbox
Hidden at the end of Bird Island Reserve near Sunset Beach, this simple mailbox invites visitors to leave letters, memories, and reflections. It's become one of North Carolina's most cherished coastal traditions.

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Essential Information for Visiting North Carolina Beaches

Getting Around
A car is the easiest way to explore North Carolina's coastline. Many of the state's beach communities are spread across barrier islands and coastal towns connected by scenic highways, bridges, and ferries.

Beach Safety
Pay attention to local beach flags and warning signs before entering the water. Rip currents can occur along the coast, so always swim near lifeguards when possible and follow local safety advice.

Parking
Many popular beaches offer public parking, although spaces can fill quickly during the summer months. Arriving early helps you secure a spot, especially in destinations like the Outer Banks, Wrightsville Beach, and Carolina Beach.

Ferries
Several coastal destinations, including Ocracoke Island and Bald Head Island, are accessible by ferry. Check schedules in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Wildlife
Sea turtles, dolphins, wild horses, and countless shorebirds call North Carolina's coast home. Observe wildlife from a distance and respect protected nesting areas, especially during sea turtle nesting season.

What to Pack
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable sandals, insect repellent, and a light jacket for cooler evenings by the water.

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Experience the Best of North Carolina's Beaches

From the wild beauty of the Outer Banks to the family-friendly shores of the Crystal Coast and the lively beach towns near Wilmington, North Carolina offers one of the most diverse coastlines in the United States. Whether you're surfing the waves, climbing historic lighthouses, spotting wild horses, or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand, there's a beach here for every kind of traveler. No matter which stretch of shoreline you choose, you'll discover unforgettable scenery, welcoming coastal communities, and plenty of reasons to return year after year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best beaches in North Carolina?

Some of North Carolina's most popular beaches include the Outer Banks, Wrightsville Beach, Emerald Isle, Carolina Beach, Holden Beach, Nags Head, Duck, Ocracoke Island, and Sunset Beach. Each offers its own unique scenery and activities.

When is the best time to visit North Carolina's beaches?

Late spring through early fall offers the best beach weather. Many travelers prefer May, June, September, and October for warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and pleasant ocean conditions.

Are North Carolina beaches good for families?

Yes. Many beaches, including Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Emerald Isle, and Carolina Beach, are known for calm waters, family-friendly attractions, and welcoming beach communities.

Can you see wild horses on North Carolina's beaches?

Yes. The famous Corolla Wild Horses roam the northern Outer Banks, while another herd can be found on Shackleford Banks along the Crystal Coast. Guided tours are one of the best ways to see them safely.

What is North Carolina known for besides its beaches?

In addition to beautiful beaches, North Carolina's coast is famous for historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, scenic ferry rides, wild horses, fishing, surfing, maritime history, and charming coastal towns like Beaufort, Southport, and Ocracoke.Save

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