14 Best North Carolina Beaches

North Carolina is a haven of beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique charm and allure. With miles of coastline stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, beach lovers can find everything from secluded shores for quiet relaxation to bustling boardwalks perfect for family fun.

For travelers seeking sun, sand, and surf, North Carolina’s beaches provide the perfect getaway. This article invites readers to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities that make these beaches standout destinations.

Atlantic Beach

Our Rating: 8.2/10

Atlantic Beach is a lively and bustling spot located just 12 miles east of Emerald Isle. This beach is perfect for families and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the golden sands or splash around in the clear waters. The area is well-developed, offering plenty of activities. Water sports enthusiasts can try surfing or paddleboarding.

For those who prefer staying on land, fishing is popular along the pier. Atlantic Beach also features a boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. After a fun day in the sun, visitors can explore local seafood eateries that serve fresh catches of the day. With its vibrant atmosphere, Atlantic Beach is a must-visit destination.

Bald Head Island

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Bald Head Island is a hidden gem along the North Carolina coast. This island is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape. With 14 miles of pristine beaches, there’s plenty of room to relax. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking through the island’s winding creeks. It’s a great way to immerse in nature.

Biking is another popular choice, offering scenic routes under lush canopies. For those fascinated in history, the island features Old Baldy, the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. It provides a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re adventuring or simply soaking in the sun, Bald Head Island offers a diverse range of experiences.

Cape Lookout

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Cape Lookout is a hidden gem. It offers stunning, uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil, sandy beaches, where the gentle waves offer a soothing soundtrack.

This area is also famous for its iconic lighthouse. Adventurers can climb to the top for a scenic view of the surrounding waters. Coastal hikes reveal diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Camping here immerses guests in nature, allowing for nights under the stars with the sound of ocean waves nearby.

Cape Hatteras

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Cape Hatteras offers miles of unspoiled beaches, perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing. Visitors can walk along the pristine shorelines, enjoying the sound of crashing waves and the salty ocean breeze. Known for its excellent fishing, Cape Hatteras draws anglers from far and wide. With the Gulf Stream nearby, fishing here is exceptional year-round. Catching a variety of fish adds an adventurous touch to any trip.

For those who love water sports, windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular here. The steady winds create the perfect conditions for exciting rides. There’s nothing like skimming across the sparkling water at high speed, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Carolina Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Carolina Beach is a vibrant spot blending relaxation and adventure. Visitors can surf the lively waves or chill on the sandy shores with a good book. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a must visit. It offers colorful shops and delicious eateries. Trying a famous Britts Donut is a local tradition that shouldn’t be missed.

For nature lovers, the nearby Carolina Beach State Park offers scenic trails. Hike through enchanting maritime forests and spot Venus flytraps in their natural habitat. The park provides a peaceful escape, just right for some tranquil moments.

Carova Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Carova Beach is accessible only by vehicles with 4-wheel drive. This provides a sense of adventure right from the start. Visitors can find themselves in a pristine environment that’s perfect for those seeking tranquility and beauty.

Wild horses roam freely on the sands, offering a unique sight that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike. The expansive beaches invite long walks and peaceful picnics, away from the crowds. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of spots to cast their lines, as the serene shoreline provides ideal conditions. Families can enjoy building sandcastles or taking refreshing swims in the ocean.

Corolla Beach

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Corolla Beach, located in the Outer Banks, is a true gem for beach enthusiasts. Known for its wide, sandy shores and gentle surf, it offers a perfect spot for families and solo travelers alike. The beach is famous for its wild horses, which roam freely and add a magical touch to your visit.

Visitors can enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The clear waters and calm waves provide an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Additionally, the area offers great opportunities for fishing and crabbing. For those who prefer land-based activities, biking along the scenic paths provides stunning views of the coastline and nearby dunes.

Duck

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Duck, located in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is a hidden gem for beach lovers. This charming town offers a peaceful escape with its pristine sandy beaches and gentle waves. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day on the shore, strolling along the beach or sunbathing.

Adventure awaits with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The scenic boardwalk provides a delightful place to wander and watch stunning sunsets over the sound. Duck is also known for its inviting shops and delicious local cuisine, making it a memorable destination for all who visit.

Emerald Isle

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Emerald Isle, located on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, is a gem for beach lovers seeking sun and sand. With its wide sandy beaches, it’s perfect for lounging and enjoying the ocean breeze. Visitors can swim, surf, or simply relax while watching the waves roll in. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Emerald Isle offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.

The tranquil waters are ideal for beginners and pros alike. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the area’s scenic bike paths and walking trails, providing a chance to explore coastal flora and fauna. In the evening, Emerald Isle transforms into a charming spot for dining by the sea. The local restaurants serve fresh seafood, allowing visitors to enjoy flavorful meals with the ocean as a backdrop.

Holden Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Holden Beach offers a serene and family-friendly atmosphere ideal for those looking to relax. The beach is known for its expansive shoreline, perfect for long walks or building sandcastles. It’s a haven for shell collectors and those who enjoy calming ocean sounds.

Visitors can also enjoy watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. For a bit of adventure, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck either onshore or via a charter boat. Holden Beach’s proximity to North Myrtle Beach means travelers can easily explore nearby attractions, offering a blend of tranquility and entertainment. The area promises memorable experiences for families and individuals alike.

Kill Devil Hills

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Kill Devil Hills, one of the gems of the Outer Banks, is a must-visit for beach lovers. The beaches here are perfect for surfing and skimboarding, with some of the best waves on the Northern Beaches. Adventurers and thrill-seekers gather to ride these energetic waters.

Visitors can explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the largest sand dune on the East Coast. It’s an ideal spot for hang gliding and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Those looking for a more peaceful experience can wander through the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve. This tranquil area offers walking paths surrounded by lush nature and diverse wildlife, providing a calming retreat from the bustling beach.

Nags Head

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nags Head, a gem on the Outer Banks, boasts wide sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing. Travelers can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore while their dogs frolic, as pets are welcome year-round on a leash. Adventure seekers will love the dramatic dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, ideal for hang gliding and kite flying. The sunsets from these towering dunes are truly breathtaking.

Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can explore the area’s rich past at Jennette’s Pier, where fishing and educational programs provide endless entertainment. For those looking to escape the crowds, the beaches in South Nags Head offer a tranquil retreat. Here, visitors can enjoy peaceful beach days surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Ocracoke Island

Our Rating: 9.6/10

Ocracoke Island is a hidden gem. It offers miles of pristine beaches that invite visitors to relax and recharge. The wide, sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking long walks. Visitors can explore the famous Lifeguard Beach, known for its safe and clean environment.

The island’s unique charm lies in its tranquil setting, away from crowded tourist spots. Adventurers will find 4WD access points to explore more remote stretches of the beach. Ocracoke’s waters are ideal for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The island is home to diverse marine life, making it a great spot for shelling and birdwatching. With such a rich array of activities, Ocracoke Island is a must-see for beach lovers.

Topsail Island

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Topsail Island offers a peaceful escape with its stunning beaches and serene atmosphere. The island’s uncrowded sands invite beachgoers to relax and enjoy the gentle waves. Bask in the sun or explore the tidal pools along the shore. Visitors can also try fishing at the popular piers or enjoy a bike ride through scenic routes.

Early risers are treated to breathtaking sunrises, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Kayaking and paddleboarding are fun ways to explore the island’s waters and spot local wildlife. Topsail Island is one of the few beaches in the area that allows women to be topless, making it unique in its own right. This adds to the laid-back vibe of this coastal gem.

North Carolina’s beaches offer a delightful escape for everyone, from the serene shores of the Outer Banks to the vibrant sands of Wrightsville Beach. Each visit promises a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views, making them perfect destinations for both peaceful retreats and family fun.