North Carolina is renowned for its breathtaking natural beaches that offer an idyllic escape for beach lovers. With a large portion of the state’s coast still undeveloped, there are numerous hidden treasures and small coastal towns scattered along the coastline waiting to be explored. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top ten North Carolina beach towns that are definitely worth a visit.
10 Best Beach Towns in North Carolina
1. Edenton
Edenton, located on the Albemarle Sound, has been named as the best beach town in North Carolina. Despite being a small town with a population of only 4,391 people, Edenton boasts a rich history spanning over 300 years as it was the first Colonial Capital of North Carolina. The town is dotted with many historic homes and buildings that have been converted into shops, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants. One of the most notable landmarks in the town is the Chowan County Courthouse, which was built in 1767. Visitors to Edenton are also awed by the cypress trees that grow in the water, some of which are between 500 and 2,000 years old.
2. Nags Head
Nags Head, located along the Outer Banks, is a stunning beach town that attracts visitors from all over. With a population of 3,182, it is an excellent destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. The town offers a plethora of activities, including mini-golf, delicious restaurants, and some of the most tranquil beaches in North Carolina. Nags Head boasts many outlet malls and beach shops, such as Gallery Row and the Historic District, where visitors can shop for souvenirs and unique items. Additionally, the town has several fishing piers, with Janette’s Pier being the most popular. This impressive pier extends 1,000 feet into the Atlantic ocean and provides ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to catch Spanish mackerel, bluefish, triggerfish, sea mullet, croakers, pigfish, and various species of shark.
3. Southport
Nestled in Brunswick County and sitting near the opening of Cape Fear River, Southport stands out as one of the most beautiful coastal towns in North Carolina. With a population of 8,396 as per the 2020 census, the town attracts a high number of tourists during the summer season, with the population swelling to up to 30,000 to 50,000 people. What’s more, Southport is renowned for its picturesque scenery, which has made it a popular filming location for many local movies produced by Wilmington-based production companies. As a coastal town, Southport boasts several waterfront restaurants that offer boat access, making it a perfect spot for those who love scenic views while enjoying a delicious meal.
4. Duck
Located along the coast, the small town of Duck boasts a population of just 758 people, giving it a unique and eccentric vibe. Unlike other towns, Duck has steered clear of big box stores, maintaining a local and laid-back atmosphere. One of the town’s most popular attractions is its one-mile-long elevated boardwalk that stretches over the water, linking a variety of charming local boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the boardwalk while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
In addition to its beach offerings, Duck, NC provides a variety of other activities for visitors to enjoy. Stroll along the boardwalk and cast a line for some fishing or try your hand at crabbing in the sounds. For those who prefer to stay on land, the six-mile Duck Trail offers a scenic route for cycling. And if you happen to be in town in October, be sure to check out the annual Duck Jazz Festival, which takes place during the second week of the month.
5. Kitty Hawk
Located just north of Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk is a charming coastal town that offers some of the best beaches in North Carolina. With its golden sands, the beaches are perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the stunning views. The town’s attractions, including family restaurants, mini-golf courses, museums, and beach shops, are all located along the highway, making it easy to explore and enjoy all that Kitty Hawk has to offer. It’s no wonder that it’s considered one of the best coastal towns in North Carolina.
Kitty Hawk holds a special place in history for being the birthplace of flight, where the Wright Brothers invented the airplane. To the south of the town lies the Wright Brothers National Memorial, a testament to their incredible achievement.
6. Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach, situated close to Wilmington, is renowned for its picturesque beaches and stunning beachfront patios. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a popular attraction, exuding a vintage vibe and offering a plethora of exciting activities, including carnival rides, an arcade, a carousel, and ice cream shops. In the summer season, the boardwalk comes alive with colorful fireworks displays every Thursday night and hosts live music concerts featuring an eclectic mix of musicians.
Carolina Beach is renowned for its vast and smooth sandy beaches, making it one of the top surfing destinations in North Carolina.
Carolina Beach is the ultimate destination whether you’re a surfer or simply looking for a relaxing day at the beach.
7. Wrightsville Beach
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure by the sea, Wrightsville Beach is definitely worth checking out. With its crashing waves, it’s the perfect spot for surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you can visit the History Museum or the Coastal Education Center, both of which offer educational and insightful exhibits. Don’t forget to stop by the local farmers market, which runs from May to September and is a great way to sample the area’s freshest produce. And the best part? Wrightsville Beach is just a short drive away from Wilmington, so you can get here in no time. Make sure to catch the sunset at Crystal Pier, one of the most popular gathering spots in the area.
8. Calabash
Calabash is a charming town that is renowned for its delicious food. It is often referred to as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” and rightfully so, given the range of restaurants that offer delectable seafood dishes. Apart from being a food lover’s paradise, Calabash is also a great destination for shopping enthusiasts. The town boasts a wide range of retail stores, providing visitors with an array of shopping options to choose from.
Every Tuesday during summer, the town park transforms into a vibrant hub of activity with a free concert that showcases a diverse range of musical genres. As you soak in the tunes, you can also indulge in delicious treats sold by nearby vendors. From heavenly handcrafted ice cream to scrumptious dishes, there’s something for everyone.
9. Oak Island
Nestled between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington in North Carolina is the charming Oak Island. This pristine island is part of the Brunswick Island chain and boasts stunning white sandy beaches with a natural appeal. With a quick 45-minute drive from Wilmington or a short boat trip away from Southport, Oak Island’s pier offers excellent fishing opportunities. Moreover, you can enjoy deep-sea fishing through a charter boat. However, the most significant highlight of Oak Island is its laid-back and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
10. Avon
Avon, situated on the Outer Banks in North Carolina, is a charming beach town that is easy on the wallet. The town’s prime location offers easy access to some of the most popular coastal attractions. Although the town’s main thoroughfare is primarily lined with shops and dining options, its gorgeous beach and nearby attractions make it a go-to destination for many.
Avon Pier is a well-known attraction in the area, drawing in visitors from all over. For a small fee of just one dollar, you can walk along the pier’s distinctive zigzag pathway and take in the stunning views of the coastline. On days when the waves are high, you might even spot surfers riding the waves alongside the pier. Additionally, Avon Pier is a favored spot for fishing enthusiasts, with the chance to catch large drum fish.
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