Best Beaches in North Carolina: Exploring the Top Beaches in North Carolina
Summertime is the perfect time to head to the beach. With the sun shining and the waves crashing, who wouldn’t want to spend a day (or three) at the shore? If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in North Carolina, look no further.
This list of the best beaches in North Carolina will highlight the top North Carolina beaches and will help you plan your NC vacation. Whether you are looking for a specific beach in North Carolina or just want to see which beaches made it, this list is for you.
After you finish with this list of the best beaches in North Carolina, our lists of the best beaches in the world, best beaches on the East Coast, and best beaches on the West Coast will also provide some more excellent beaches for you to check out.
Top 15 Beaches in North Carolina:
1. Bald Head Island
Highlights: Access by ferry only, has over 260 species of birds on the island, and excellent photo opportunities.
About Beach: Looking for the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Bald Head Island awaits you! Accessible only by ferry and devoid of cars, this 12,000 acre island paradise is an idyllic place to get away and relax. With miles of seclude beaches and plenty of wildlife, Bald Head Island is a great place to rejuvenate your spirit.
From South Beach to North Beach, Bald Head Island offers 14 miles of pristine shoreline with crystal clear water and breathtaking views of nature. Along with the estate rental properties available, there is also the highly rated Bald Head Island Club golf course for the true outdoorsman. Whether one desires to golf or simply explore nature’s beauty, there is something for everyone on Bald Head Island.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for local wildlife! Boasting more than 260 species of birds on the island, along with foxes and alligators. There are endless opportunities for amazing photography and exploration. Immerse yourself in Mother Nature’s glory that can only be seen on Bald Head Island.
2. Nags Head
Highlights: Plenty of activities, access to nearby Bodie Island Lighthouse, and picturesque views.
About Beach: Have you ever wanted to explore the beautiful coasts of North Carolina, but not sure where you should go? Look no further than Nags Head! This popular tourist destination along the Outer Banks is home to an abundance of activities perfect for all ages.
Spend your day walking or cycling through the dunes. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of our vast offerings in hang gliding, kite boarding and horseback riding! Fishing at one of multiple piers while taking in picturesque views is a great option as well- and don’t forget to visit the nearby Bodie Island Lighthouse, historic landmark since 1872.
3. Emerald Isle
Highlights: 12 miles of beachline, fully equipped grills and picnic pavilions, and fishing off of the pier.
About Beach: Located on North Carolina’s “Crystal Coast,” Emerald Isle is a prime spot for families looking to make new vacation memories. Here, you’ll find 12 awe-inspiring miles of pristine shoreline! With such an expansive stretch of sand, Emerald Isle allows plenty of room for everyone.
Take advantage of fully equipped grills and picnic pavilions, convenient showers and parking areas – everything you need for an enjoyable day at the beach. Spend time swimming in the tranquil waters or have some fun fishing off the popular pier. Plus, make sure to visit the nearby Indian Beach and Pine Knoll Shores (home to an outpost of the famed North Carolina Aquarium) while you’re here.
4. Topsail Island
Highlights: Sea turtle rescue, 26 miles of beach, and plenty of things to do.
About Beach: Welcome to Topsail Island, a 26-mile long, pirate-friendly island located in North Carolina! An incredibly popular destination for beachgoers, the island’s name comes from a centuries-old folktale about sailing ships that once hid behind its inlet. Today, Topsail plays host to three spectacular beach areas: Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach and Surf City.
When you visit the island, be sure to include a stop at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Here you’ll gain an appreciation for our ocean guest’s and all their hard work that is done to protect them. And don’t forget to soak in the mesmerizing sunsets from Serenity Point – southernmost part of the island. What better way to wrap up your day than this?
Topsail Island is home to some of North Carolina’s best beaches with plenty of things to do and see. Whether it’s getting your feet wet or simply taking in picturesque views – make sure you take full advantage of all that Topsail Island has to offer!
5. Cape Hatteras
Highlights: 70 miles of unspoiled coastline, wild horses roam the island, and access to a historic lighthouse.
About Beach: Come relax in the sunshine and saltwater of Cape Hatteras, one of North Carolina’s best beaches! Perfectly located on nearly 70 miles of unspoiled coastline, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you prefer sunbathing on secluded beaches or exploring the rare wildlife, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the ideal spot for a memorable vacation.
Go for a cruise around the stunning cape to see wild horses roaming free, or rent an off-road vehicle and have a beach adventure that you won’t soon forget! You won’t want to miss out on another unique opportunity and one of our biggest highlights – ascending to the top of the famous black-and-white striped lighthouse during a full moon.
Finally, if you’d like to stay awhile longer, check out one of our four campgrounds boasting unbeatable views – you won’t want your visit to end!
6. Atlantic Beach
Highlights: Bike and water spot rentals, Pine knoll Shores Aquarium, and brand new fishing pier.
About Beach: Welcome to Atlantic Beach, one of the most family-friendly beach getaways in North Carolina! Just 12 miles north of Emerald Isle, our white sand and crystal clear waters are the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled vacation. Enjoy amenities like a brand new fishing pier, bike and water sport rentals, and plenty of trails to explore on foot with the Walk Atlantic Beach initiative.
Plus, you’ll be located close to two major attractions: Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium and Fort Macon State Park which offer something special no matter what kind of historical interest or outdoor adventure you’re looking for. With so many options available here at Atlantic Beach, it’s no surprise that it quickly became one of North Carolina’s favorite beach destinations. So don’t put off your next big beach getaway any longer — come visit us at Atlantic Beach today!
7. Ocracoke Island
Highlights: Access by boat or air only, plenty of amenities, and comes with some historical intrigue.
About Beach: Ocracoke is only accessible by boat or air, which gives it a sense of exclusivity compared to other spots in the Outer Banks. Lifeguard Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Ocracoke and features restrooms, water fountains, and other amenities – perfect for an afternoon by the shore.
You can also learn about the history of Ocracoke when you visit: The island served as the former stomping ground of legendary pirate Blackbeard, and there’s even a British cemetery honoring World War II soldiers who lost their lives at sea. No matter what time of year you visit, there are always interesting sights to see and activities to participate in.
8. Carolina Beach
Highlights: Picturesque beach scene, lots of quaint shops and delicious restaurants, and access to a nature walk.
About Beach: Carolina Beach is a picturesque coastal paradise! Travelers have been flocking to its boardwalk since the late 1800s, and it’s clear why. Stretching out along the water, Carolina Beach’s boardwalk offers something for everyone: explore quaint shops and delicious restaurants, or have some fun at the amusement park.
You don’t even need to leave the beach – jump in the amazing surf and let your troubles drift away with the tide. Or, if you’re looking for a more diverse experience, take a nature walk through Carolina Beach State Park and keep an eye out for Venus’ flytraps! With so much to do at Carolina Beach year-round, it’s no wonder it’s been such a popular destination for travelers from all over.
9. Kure Beach
Highlights: Plenty of activities, disc golf at Joe Eakes Park, and fishing off of the pier.
About Beach: Have you been dreaming of the perfect beach escape? Look no further than Kure Beach — one of North Carolina’s most beautiful beaches, with plenty of activities for everyone! Immerse yourself in sand and sun at Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, go boogie boarding or build sandcastles for the whole family to enjoy.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, try your hand at disc golf at Joe Eakes Park or take a cast off of the fishing pier for a relaxed day outdoors. Or if you want to delve deeper into history, explore Fort Fisher State Historic Site and learn about North Carolina’s military heritage.
10. Kitty Hawk
Highlights: Golden sand, 2,000-acre Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve, and allows dogs.
About Beach: With its peaceful, golden sand, Kitty Hawk is one of the best beaches in North Carolina. Tourists come from far and wide to marvel at its beauty and take part in outdoor recreation. The town is also particularly special since it was home to Orville and Wilbur Wright who conducted their historic first flight in nearby Kill Devil Hills in 1903.
At Kitty Hawk, outdoor adventurers will love exploring the stunning 2,000 acres of land known as the Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve. Located just a few steps away from the beach, this pristine natural area is ideal for hikers, kayakers, anglers and more. What’s more? Dogs are also allowed on this breathtaking masterpiece of nature!
11. Oak Island
Highlights: Two fishing piers, family friendly atmosphere, and only 12 miles to Southport.
About Beach: Welcome to Oak Island, one of the best beaches in North Carolina. With 65 public beach access points and two fishing piers, you don’t need to go far for a perfect day of fun on the sand. Of these access points, ten are handicapped-accessible, allowing everyone in your party to enjoy the beauty of Oak Island’s beaches.
Long Beach and Caswell Beach are some of our travelers’ favorite spots, with their expansive sands and family-friendly atmospheres; they’re sure to be highlights of your vacation! If you’re looking for something more than what you find on the beach, take a quick 12-mile drive to Southport. There you can explore quaint shops and eateries while also taking advantage of Southport’s movie fame – many movies were filmed here!
12. Cape Lookout National Seashore
Highlights: Bird watching, iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse, and over 100 wild horses roam the island.
About Beach: Ready to experience the beauty of the North Carolina coastline? Escape to Cape Lookout National Seashore, where 56 miles of stunning beaches await. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day in the sun or an outdoor adventure, you’ll find it here. Enjoy an invigorating swim or sunbathe on Shackleford Banks Island. Keep your eyes peeled for over 100 wild horses!
If visitors are feeling brave, ascend the historic and iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse located on one of the many barrier islands; its signature diamond-painted pattern will make for a heartfelt moment to look back on. Immerse yourself in nature further with a guided ranger tour, kayak up close to view wildlife from the water, or go birdwatching to learn more about this beautiful seashore’s local wildlife. Even better – spend a night (or two!) at one of the park’s beachfront cabins or campgrounds for an even more meaningful experience.
13. Hammocks Beach State Park
Highlights: Access by boat or ferry only, views from the marshes to Huggins Island, and canoeing or kayaking.
About Beach: Are you looking for a beach retreat to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Then expose yourself to the peacefulness of Hammocks Beach State Park. Known as one of North Carolina’s best beaches, with Bear Island only accessible by ferry or boat, it provides its visitors with an undisturbed and privately isolated atmosphere unlike any other.
With scenic views from the marshes to Huggins Island, there is no shortage of water activities for you to enjoy—from kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding to learning about the diverse wildlife in the park. As if it could not get any better, setting up camp on Bear Island complete with on-site campsites, makes it easy for you to extend your stay and make the most out of your trip.
14. Wrightsville Beach
Highlights: Over 40 access points to the beach, plenty of local bars and live music, and crystal clear water.
About Beach: Wrightsville Beach is one of the best beaches in North Carolina! With its crystal clear waters, visitors can experience anything from kayaking and surfing to jogging and golfing. Along the coast, there are over 40 access points with facilities like showers and restrooms for all your beach-day needs.
For those looking for a relaxing day on the sand, there’s plenty of space to soak in some sun. After a day spent outdoors, head over to one of Wrightsville’s local bars or restaurants for some delicious eats, refreshing drinks, and live music. Don’t miss out on some fun in the sun at Wrightsville Beach this summer!
15. Duck Beach
Highlights: Plenty of activities like golf and water sports, geared towards nature lovers, and clear water.
About Beach: Duck is the perfect beach getaway spot, offering something for everyone and boasting some of the best beaches in North Carolina! With access to all sorts of family-oriented activities and activities geared towards nature lovers – like golf courses, water sports, and horseback riding, you can experience a one-of-a-kind vacation in Duck.
For those that are looking for an indulgent experience, there’s the Sanderling Resort located right on beautiful local beaches. Enjoy multiple glistening pools, delightful spas, and all the comforts you need for an unforgettable stay.
Best Beaches in North Carolina Conclusion
After reading about all the amazing beaches North Carolina has to offer, it may be hard to decide which one to visit first! The good thing is though that you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
So find the beach that stands out to you from this list, and then start planning your trip. And as many of these beaches are relitively close to each other, you could even plan on visiting several of these beaches in the same trip.
This will allow you to experience even more of what the great state of North Carolina has to offer.
If you have tried any of these Nort Carolina beaches before, we would love to hear your feedback below in the comments.
