How do you decide on the best beach towns in North Carolina?
Of course, there’s so much to do in this region. Starting to plan your next adventure can overwhelm you. It may seem overwhelming to narrow down all your options.
Yet, one thing is for sure — your final decision will please you! Here is a quick guide to some of the best beach towns in North Carolina and South Carolina. Keep reading to learn more!
Wilmington
Wilmington is a lovely city that offers a variety of things to do. You can stay in cozy bed-and-breakfasts or visit art galleries. You can also enjoy outdoor activities and explore history museums. Wilmington is also home to some of the best beaches in the state, including the famous Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach.
The city also has a stunning tropical garden, a historic downtown area, and a boardwalk. Also, it is easy to access some of the most populated beach towns along the Cape Fear coastline, like Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Topsail Island. If you want a calm beach vacation, consider Wilmington your perfect spot on the North Carolina beaches.
Outer Banks
The long beach strip goes from Corolla to Hatteras Island. It has miles of uncrowded white sand beaches and wild ocean shoreline. Many people visit the Outer Banks for its beautiful beaches, wild horses, and water sports.
Nearby, Nags Head is an excellent spot for swimming and soaking up the sun. With many bed & breakfast options, various restaurants that cater to all types, and a wide range of shops to explore, the Outer Banks is the place to be.
Beaufort
Beaufort is by Broad Creek and has lovely beaches like Bogue and Kayak. They’re perfect for swimming and water fun. The nearby Shackleford Banks and Carrot Island are great spots for wildlife sightseeing and fishing trips.
Also, to the pretty ocean views, the town has great shopping, restaurants, and activities. This picturesque, quaint town is one of the most charming beach towns in North Carolina and is worth exploring.
Emerald Isle
With 12 miles of white sand beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular. There are plenty of activities to experience: crucial fishing, paddle boarding, wave-riding, wildlife watching, and much more.
Whether relaxing at the beach, going for a boat ride, playing a few rounds of golf, or taking a coastal drive, Emerald Isle is sure to please. The town is also great for families, who will love the free monthly outdoor concerts on the boardwalk, the many restaurants offering delicious seafood and old-fashioned Southern hospitality, and the wide selection of shops for souvenirs.
As many have said, life is more straightforward and slower in Emerald Isle; it’s the perfect place to get away, relax, and experience some of North Carolina’s best.
Hatteras Island
It has all the amenities of a classic seaside community but is also unique. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, surfing, and its pristine beaches along the shoreline.
Many vacationers flock to the Island for its world-class charter fishing with access to the Gulf Stream. At the same time, avid surfers experience the best waves and wind on the Eastern Seaboard. Hatteras Island has historic sites and museums offering educational experiences for tourists. It also serves the best seafood on the East Coast.
Charleston
You can have fun with your family at the beautiful Isle of Palms beach. Many entertainment options exist, like water sports and going out at night. Further south, Folly Beach has fishing, kayaking, waterfront activities, and many restaurants and bars.
Meanwhile, Kiawah Island stands out for its luxury beachfront accommodations, making it a favorite spot for athletes and nature lovers. You can have an unforgettable experience visiting these Charleston-area beaches, whether for a day trip or a more extended vacation.
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is a destination for anyone looking for a great beach town in South Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or a summertime family vacation, Hilton Head Island has something for everyone.
Many biking and running paths, fantastic golf courses, and water activities are nearby. During the summer months, the town welcomes many visitors with warm hospitality and small-town charm.
For a more fantastic biking experience, Pedals Bicycles can provide the best bikes and equipment for the whole family to enjoy.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. Myrtle Beach has a bustling boardwalk, many hotels and restaurants, and fun attractions like the Speedway, parks, and amusement centers. Additionally, people have rated the soft sand beaches among the best in the world.
Myrtle Beach is a famous town with many amenities, like great golf courses and shopping. With abundant fun activities for all ages, it’s easy to see why Myrtle Beach is the most popular beach town in South Carolina beaches.
Pawleys Island
If you want to escape busy city life, this place has sunny beaches, nice restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. The waves at Pawleys Island are some of the best in the Southeast and draw thousands of beach lovers each summer.
With a rich history that dates back centuries and picturesque scenery around every turn, it is easy to see why so many are drawn to vacation here. Pawleys Island is a beautiful place for a family vacation. You can enjoy many outdoor activities, such as water sports and horseback riding.
Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island is located off the coast of South Carolina, making it one of the best beach towns in the state. It offers residents and visitors a laid-back atmosphere and some of the most stunning beaches.
With its six miles of uncrowded, powdery white sands, the Island is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Sullivan’s Island has Fort Moultrie National Monument, an old fort by the shore.
It is also known for its delicious restaurants and unique shops. Its charming beauty and atmosphere set Sullivan’s Island apart from other beach towns.
Visit the Best Beach Towns in North Carolina Today
The best beach towns in North Carolina and South Carolina offer many stunning beach towns to explore. From historic cities to vacation spots, each beach town is unique and has something to offer.
These towns are perfect if you want a calm vacation or a lively beach trip. Check out one of these fantastic beach towns and discover why they’re so popular!
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