North Carolina Beach Towns Map
If you’re planning a trip to North Carolina, you’re in for a treat! This beautiful state is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the country, each with its own unique character and charm. From the bustling boardwalks of Wilmington to the quiet shores of Ocracoke Island, there’s something for everyone here. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-see spots in North Carolina’s beach towns. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore!
Top Attractions
When it comes to attractions, North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty to offer. In Wilmington, be sure to visit the Battleship North Carolina, a World War II battleship that’s now a floating museum. In Nags Head, head to Jockey’s Ridge State Park to see the tallest sand dune on the east coast. And in Beaufort, don’t miss the North Carolina Maritime Museum, which tells the story of the state’s seafaring history.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty of hidden gems to discover. In Kill Devil Hills, check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the famous brothers made their first flight. In Surf City, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center to learn about these amazing creatures. And in Duck, take a sunset kayak tour through the tranquil waters of the Currituck Sound.
Food Scene
North Carolina is known for its delicious southern cuisine, and the beach towns are no exception. In Wilmington, be sure to try the seafood at Dockside Restaurant or the famous chicken and waffles at Sweet n Savory Cafe. In Emerald Isle, head to RuckerJohns for some of the best burgers in town. And in Nags Head, don’t miss the fresh oysters at Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem! North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty of free and low-cost activities to enjoy. In Carolina Beach, take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the live music and street performers. In Atlantic Beach, head to Fort Macon State Park for a day of hiking, swimming, and picnicking. And in Topsail Beach, rent a bike and explore the town on two wheels.
Outdoor Adventures
With miles of pristine coastline, North Carolina’s beach towns are the perfect place for outdoor adventures. In Wrightsville Beach, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or take a surfing lesson. In Ocracoke Island, rent a kayak and explore the island’s tranquil marshes and waterways. And in Kill Devil Hills, take a hang gliding lesson and soar above the sand dunes.
Historical Landmarks
North Carolina has a rich history, and the beach towns are home to some incredible landmarks that tell the story of the state’s past. In Beaufort, visit the Old Burying Ground, where some of the state’s earliest settlers are buried. In Southport, take a tour of the Old Brunswick County Jail, which served as a prison during the Civil War. And in Kitty Hawk, visit the site of the Wright Brothers’ first flight.
Family-Friendly Activities
North Carolina’s beach towns are the perfect place for a family vacation, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. In Carolina Beach, take the kids to the North Carolina Aquarium or the Carolina Beach State Park. In Duck, rent a paddleboat and explore the town’s scenic canals. And in Emerald Isle, head to the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier for a day of fishing and crabbing.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. In Holden Beach, rent a pontoon boat and explore the Intracoastal Waterway. In Topsail Beach, take a ghost tour and learn about the town’s haunted history. And in Wrightsville Beach, try a stand-up paddleboard yoga class for a unique way to relax and unwind.
Natural Wonders
From stunning beaches to tranquil waterways, North Carolina’s beach towns are home to some incredible natural wonders. In Nags Head, visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park to see the tallest sand dune on the east coast. In Emerald Isle, head to the Point, where the ocean meets the Bogue Sound, for a breathtaking view. And in Ocracoke Island, take a ferry to the nearby Portsmouth Island for a day of hiking and exploring.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, North Carolina’s beach towns come alive with vibrant nightlife. In Wilmington, head to Front Street Brewery for some local craft beer and live music. In Carolina Beach, check out the Fat Pelican, a quirky dive bar with a huge outdoor patio. And in Nags Head, head to the Outer Banks Brewing Station for some of the best beer in town.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for some local flavor, North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty of markets to explore. In Wilmington, check out the Riverfront Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. In Beaufort, head to the Beaufort Farmers’ Market for some of the best seafood in town. And in Topsail Beach, visit the Topsail Island Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, honey, and handmade soaps.
Beaches and Mountains
North Carolina is home to both stunning beaches and majestic mountains, and the beach towns are the perfect place to explore both. In Wilmington, head to nearby Wrightsville Beach for a day of sun and surf. In Asheville, take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views of the mountains. And in Emerald Isle, visit nearby Fort Macon State Park for a day of hiking and exploring.
Cultural Immersion
North Carolina’s beach towns are home to a rich culture that’s just waiting to be explored. In Beaufort, take a walking tour of the town’s historic district, which is filled with beautiful 18th and 19th-century homes. In Wilmington, visit the Cameron Art Museum, which showcases works by local and regional artists. And in Southport, attend the annual North Carolina Fourth of July Festival, which celebrates the state’s history and culture.
Art and Music Scene
North Carolina’s beach towns are home to a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and live music venues to explore. In Wilmington, visit the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts for a night of theater or music. In Beaufort, check out the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, which showcases works by local artists. And in Nags Head, attend the Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival for some of the best bluegrass music in the country.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore North Carolina’s beach towns is on foot. In Wilmington, take a historic downtown walking tour to learn about the town’s rich history. In Southport, take a walking tour of the town’s beautiful Victorian homes. And in Ocracoke Island, take a walking tour of the town’s historic district, which is filled with beautiful 19th-century homes and buildings.
Architectural Marvels
North Carolina’s beach towns are home to some incredible architectural marvels that are sure to impress. In Wilmington, visit the Bellamy Mansion Museum, a stunning example of antebellum architecture. In Southport, check out the Old Smithville Burying Ground, which features beautiful marble tombstones and monuments. And in Beaufort, visit the Hammock House, a unique octagonal house that was built in the 1700s.
Historical Sites
North Carolina’s beach towns are steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. In Wilmington, visit the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, which tells the story of the region’s rich history. In Beaufort, head to the Rachel Carson Reserve, which was once home to the famous marine biologist. And in Kitty Hawk, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which celebrates the famous brothers’ first flight.
Biking Routes
North Carolina’s beach towns are a great place to explore on two wheels. In Wilmington, take a leisurely ride on the River to Sea Bikeway, which runs from the historic downtown to nearby Wrightsville Beach. In Emerald Isle, explore the town’s scenic bike paths and trails. And in Nags Head, take a ride on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, which offers breathtaking views of the coast.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and recharge, North Carolina’s beach towns have plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. In Wilmington, visit the Mind Body & Soul Surf School for a day of yoga and surfing. In Atlantic Beach, check out the Crystal Coast Yoga & Wellness Retreat Center for a weekend of meditation and relaxation. And in Ocracoke Island, visit the Day Spa at Silver Lake for a luxurious spa day