Jace Lamonica
Planning a summer escape can feel like scrolling through the same beach photo on repeat. But the Carolina coast? It’s got layers, as you’ll find places where the Wi-Fi forgets to exist, but the sunsets make up for it. So, here are the 20 seaside gems that’ll have you plotting your next visit before you’ve even unpacked.
Emerald Isle
Emerald Isle, situated on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, features pristine beaches and clear, turquoise waters. This family-friendly destination offers activities like shelling, fishing, and sunset watching. The town’s laid-back atmosphere also makes it ideal for those seeking natural beauty.
Duck
Perched on the northern Outer Banks, Duck is a town known for its walkable village and soundside boardwalk. The 11-acre Town Park provides opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. Duck also hosts annual events like the Duck Jazz Festival, attracting enthusiasts from all over.
Nags Head
Established in the 1830s, Nags Head is one of North Carolina’s oldest tourist destinations. Visitors can explore the towering dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park or stroll along historic Cottage Row. The town’s rich heritage and diverse recreational activities make it a favorite among beachgoers.
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach combines classic beach town charm with modern attractions. Its Carolina Beach Boardwalk features amusement rides, live music, and local eateries, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors. Moreover, nature enthusiasts can explore Carolina Beach State Park, known for its Venus flytrap plants.
Wrightsville Beach
Just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The town’s clear waters and consistent waves make it ideal for surfing and sailing. Individuals can stroll along the scenic Harbor Island or enjoy the nightlife and dining options, all in one dynamic coastal experience.
Oak Island
Oak Island provides over 10 miles of sandy beaches. It is home to the historic Oak Island Lighthouse, which stands at 169 feet and offers panoramic views of the coastline. Lastly, Oak Island’s serene environment and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for beach vacations.
Atlantic Beach
Situated on Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach is prominent for its rich history and recreational opportunities. This town is also home to Fort Macon State Park, featuring a restored Civil War-era fort and scenic nature trails. Here, one can enjoy fishing, boating, and relaxing on the beach.
Beaufort
Established in 1713, Beaufort is North Carolina’s fourth-oldest town. Located on Beaufort Inlet, the town offers a rich maritime history, evident in its preserved colonial architecture and the North Carolina Maritime Museum. It also provides ferry rides to nearby islands.
Southport
Situated at the start of the Cape Fear River, Southport exudes Southern charm with its tree-lined streets and historic homes. The town has been a filming location for various movies and shows, adding to its beauty. Ferry rides to nearby islands provide additional exploration opportunities.
Ocracoke
Accessible only by ferry, Ocracoke Island features a secluded retreat with unspoiled beaches and a rich history. The village is known for its unique dialect and the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse. Furthermore, its remote location makes it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Folly Beach
On Folly Beach, flip-flops are practically mandatory, and so is a laid-back mindset. This spirited beach town sits just outside Charleston and has a surfer-friendly coastline. Paddle out into the waves or wander down Center Street, where every corner hides a taco shack or colorful mural.
Isle Of Palms
This elegant barrier island combines family-friendly charm with upscale amenities. The beach here feels endless, with soft sand perfect for castle-building or barefoot strolls under golden skies. You’ll find a marina humming with activity and even loggerhead sea turtles nesting in the summer months.
Myrtle Beach
Known for its 60-mile sweep of sand called the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach pulses with boardwalk arcades, Ferris wheels, and beachside concerts. Got kids? Send them off to mini-golf or water parks. Want solitude? Slip away to the north or south ends, where the crowds thin.
Pawleys Island
This strip of coast proudly describes itself as “arrogantly shabby,” where hammocks swing on front porches, and families return year after year to the same creaky beach cottages. There are no stoplights, no hotels, and definitely no fuss. Just dunes and an ocean that’s always worth watching.
Hilton Head Island
If South Carolina’s beaches were a family, Hilton Head would be the well-traveled cousin with a knack for planning unforgettable adventures. Here, nature lovers will love spotting dolphins, alligators, and great blue herons, especially around the Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge.
Surfside Beach
They don’t call it “The Family Beach” for nothing. Surfside Beach dishes out warm waves and hometown warmth in equal measure. With lifeguarded beaches and weekly outdoor movie nights during summer, this place feels like one big front yard by the sea. Plus, surfside makes you feel like a local, even if it’s your first visit.
Kiawah Island
This gated island, about 25 miles from Charleston, is home to one of the country’s top beaches and golf courses that flirt with the edge of the Atlantic. But kayaking through tidal creeks at sunrise might be the most peaceful thing you do all year.
Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island mixes history with hammock vibes. It’s a short hop from Charleston and has a literary past (Edgar Allan Poe was stationed here). Most importantly, its beach isn’t overrun with tourists or tacky shops—just clean sand, calm surf, and locals walking their dogs at golden hour.
Kure Beach
Known for its wide shores and family-friendly atmosphere, this beach town is perfect for peaceful getaways. Visitors can even explore the historic Civil War site at Fort Fisher, stroll along the scenic boardwalk, or enjoy fishing off the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic Coast.
Edisto Beach
Unlike more commercialized beach destinations, Edisto maintains a laid-back, unspoiled charm with no high-rises or chain restaurants. The town borders the Edisto Island State Park, which features scenic hiking and biking trails, marshland boardwalks, and campsites.
