The 300 miles of stunning and diverse coastline that make up North Carolina’s border span from Virginia to South Carolina. The coast of North Carolina has everything you might want for a vacation: historical and cultural experiences, family-friendly adventures, or a tranquil get-away. These are a few of the top beach locations to check out on your next vacation.

Edenton

Edenton, a quaint village on the Albemarle Sound, served as North Carolina’s first colonial capital. With numerous 18th-century residences and structures that are open for tours, it is rich in both history and architecture. A boat ride on the sound, a visit to the 2,000-year-old bald cypress trees, or a leisurely stroll through the waterfront park are further options. Edenton is the ideal location for a serene getaway or romantic getaway.

Nags Head

The largest and most well-known town in the Outer Banks, a group of barrier islands with breathtaking beaches and unspoiled scenery, is Nags Head. From dining and shopping to surfing and fishing, Nags Head offers something for everyone. The tallest sand dunes on the East Coast can be seen at the neighboring Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the historic Jennette’s Pier, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Duck

At the northernmost point of the Outer Banks, Duck is a charming, sleepy hamlet renowned for its sophisticated, kid-friendly vibe. Duck features a large, spotless beach that is perfect for playing, swimming, and tanning. Along with enjoying the scenery, guests may shop, eat, and watch wildlife on the beautiful boardwalk that stretches along Currituck Sound. Duck is a wonderful spot to unwind in a classy yet comfortable atmosphere.

Kitty Hawk

On the Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk is a vibrant and historic town where the Wright brothers accomplished their first successful flight in 1903. You may see a memorial, a museum, and a replica of their aircraft at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. You can also enjoy the beach, which is a well-known spot for fishing, surfing, and kiteboarding. For history lovers and adventure seekers, Kitty Hawk is an entertaining and instructive place to visit.

Carolina Beach

Situated close to Wilmington on North Carolina’s southern coast, Carolina Beach is a lively and colorful community. With a boardwalk, an arcade, an amusement park, and live music, it exudes a typical beach vibe. In addition, you can hike, camp, or kayak in the Carolina Beach State Park. Carolina Beach is a vibrant and engaging place to go with friends and family.

Wrightsville Beach

In close proximity to Wilmington, on North Carolina’s southern coast, sits the elegant and refined hamlet of Wrightsville Beach. Its expansive, immaculate beach is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and surfing. You can also go to the Airlie Gardens, which has lovely flowers and wildlife, or the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, which teaches you about the history of the area. For those who enjoy the outdoors and the beach, Wrightsville Beach is a chic and tranquil location.

Beaufort

Known for its serene and crystal-clear waters, Beaufort is a quaint and ancient town situated on the Crystal Coast. The Old Burying Ground, the North Carolina Maritime Museum, and the Beaufort Historic Site are just a few of the town’s many historical attractions. Beaufort is the third-oldest municipality in North Carolina. In addition, you may ride a ferry to the adjacent Cape Lookout National Seashore, which is home to immaculate beaches, wild horses, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Morehead City

Located next to Beaufort on the Crystal Coast, Morehead City is a lively and welcoming community. It’s a big fishing town and harbor with lots of options for having fun in the sea, like diving, charter boats, and cruises. Additionally, you can go to the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores to witness otters, sharks, and sea turtles. For those who enjoy the sea and seafood, Morehead City is a vibrant and daring destination.

Southport

Southport is a small, charming hamlet close to the mouth of the Cape Fear River in the southernmost point of North Carolina. Numerous TV series and films, including Safe Haven, Dawson’s Creek, and The Secret Life of Bees, have been filmed or set in this well-liked locale. The Old Baldy Lighthouse, the oldest in North Carolina, is visible from the waterfront park, historic area, and neighboring Bald Head Island.

Calabash

On North Carolina’s southernmost coast, close to the border with South Carolina, sits the sleepy and picturesque town of Calabash. It is well-known for its seafood, particularly for its fried shrimp, oysters, and flounder—all prepared in the distinctive Calabash-style. In addition, there are golf courses, a fishing pier, and Sunset Beach—one of the Brunswick Islands’ most tranquil and picturesque beaches.

Avon

Secluded and modest, Avon is located on Hatteras Island’s Outer Banks. This location is well-liked for fishing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding because it offers access to both the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, there’s the broad, uncrowded beach and the Avon Fishing Pier, where you may catch a range of fish. Water sports and fishing fans will find Avon to be a peaceful and soothing place.

Buxton and Frisco

Two neighboring communities on Hatteras Island’s Outer Banks are called Buxton and Frisco. The tallest lighthouse in North America, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a protected area with breathtaking views and abundant wildlife, are located there. You may also take advantage of the Frisco Native American Museum, which teaches visitors about the history and culture of the surrounding tribes, or the beach, which is great for swimming, surfing, and shelling.

These are just a few of the great beach locations on the North Carolina coast that you should definitely check out. You may choose the ideal location for your tastes and price range among them all because they each have a distinct atmosphere and a range of activities. The coast of North Carolina offers something for everyone, whether you’re searching for a historical and cultural experience, a romantic retreat, or an activity suitable for the whole family. Make travel plans now and explore this state’s charm and beauty.