In the late 1500s, the first Europeans washed onto the shores of North Carolina.
Four centuries have passed since then and the interest in exploration has yet to die down.
North Carolina has well over 300 miles of shoreline that bring travelers face to face with the Atlantic Ocean.
More than two dozen beaches line the coast and attract various types of beachgoers.
To help distinguish which beach best suits your watery preferences, we’ve created a list of the top beaches in this southern state.
10 Best Beaches in North Carolina
1. Kitty Hawk Beach
If Kitty Hawk sounds familiar, it’s because you’ve likely heard the name before.
Over a century ago, the Wright Brothers were looking for the best place to start flying.
It was at the turn of the 20th century that they found Kitty Hawk and flew successfully in the area in 1903.
Not only was it a perfect place to fly, today it’s a great place to set sail.
In fact, if you love fishing, there is a private pier that can be accessed for a small fee.
If swimming is your game, Kitty Hawk Beach is one of the least visited in the Outer Banks.
2. Emerald Isle
Toward the southern tip of the Outer Banks island chain, Emerald Isle is renowned for having some of the best ocean views in North Carolina.
Back in the mid-50s, the island was bought by a group of investors looking to make a profit in North Carolina.
A successful developer from Florida was flown in to consult on the project.
While flying overhead, he was taken by the green land amongst the sparkling blue water.
It was at that moment the name Emerald Isle was born.
They were right to build here.
Emerald Isle is a hot spot for all types of water sports, fishing, and family fun.
3. Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is essentially the southernmost beach in North Carolina.
From the shore, you could walk right over the line into South Carolina in about half an hour.
That fact alone has given the town something to use in attracting visitors.
Luckily, getting to Sunset Beach is worth the drive.
There are plenty of local hotspots, restaurants, and events going on throughout the year to keep the masses entertained and eager to come back.
The beach itself is more relaxing than crowded.
4. Oak Island
Another beach on the south side, Oak Island is actually not connected to the mainland thanks to the Intracoastal Waterway.
The whole town is 20 square miles, half of which is part of the coast.
With over 100 access points, Oak Island is the most accessible beach in North Carolina.
When it’s time to get out of the water, there are still things to do nearby.
A top pick is to visit the Oak Island Lighthouse.
Don’t forget the nature center!
5. Wrightsville Beach
Voted not only as one of the most picturesque beaches in the state but Wrightsville is also noted for having the clearest water.
Perhaps that clarity is why many flocks to this beach for surfing lessons.
The soft waves and warm water make Wrightsville attractive to surfers at all experience levels.
Another activity taking the beach by storm is parasailing.
If you’re more curious about the sea creatures, take a tour to go watch for dolphins.
6. Carolina Beach
Unlike other beaches on this list, Carolina Beach is actually surrounded by two separate bodies of water.
Aside from the Atlantic Ocean, behind it is Cape Fear River.
The river is also home to Carolina Beach State Park, which is a whole new activity to enjoy while vacationing in town.
Not only is this a nice place to get some fishing in, the riverside is perfect for observing the local fauna and flora.
7. Atlantic Beach
Another disconnected beach about halfway down the coast is Atlantic Beach.
The boardwalk is one of the bigger draws of the beach, as it’s quite long and provides a spot to take photos.
It does cost to park at the beach, but that money is used to keep a lifeguard on staff.
For added convenience, if you want to do a quick rinse or use the restroom, there are public areas for just that.
Oh, don’t forget to bring lunch!
There are plenty of picnic tables to go around.
8. Bald Head Island
Once known as Smith Island, Bald Head Island is just off the coast and shares a space with Bald Head Island Natural Area.
To get there from the mainland, a ferry with a seasonal cafe can do the job.
In total, the island makes up 12,000 acres, 10,000 of which are beachfront.
To add to the laidback setting, there are no cares on the island.
Getting around requires trams, golf carts, or bicycles.
9. Cape Hatteras
Perhaps the furthest point away from the regular coast, Cape Hatteras is part of the slender strip of land called the Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras’ dark side is represented in the nickname Graveyard of the Atlantic.
Unfortunately, that is due to the number of shipwrecks nearby.
Despite the grim history, the whitest sand and mildest climate throughout the year can be found here.
10. Topsail Island
This barrier island is home to a forest and a sea turtle sanctuary.
Conservation efforts have meant a great deal to loggerhead sea turtles.
They use the 26-mile protected area to lay eggs throughout the summer.
If you’re here to get in the water, you’ll likely see many other guests paddle boarding and kayaking.
You’re unlikely to see cars.
The only vehicles are for fishing and have four-wheel drive.
North Carolina Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: North Carolina Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most expensive beach to visit in North Carolina?
Wrightsville Beach is ranked as one of the most expensive beaches to soak up some sun in the country.
That also means it tops the list of most expensive beaches in the state.
During peak season, March through October, it costs anywhere from $5 up to $25 a day to park.
That’s parking alone, much less anything else you do or rent while at the beach or walking around.
In general, the Wrightsville area is at a higher income level.
In fact, the cost of living is 45% higher here than the national average.
So, it’s probably not too surprising that these costs spill over to the beachgoers.
What's the least visited beach in North Carolina?
Generally speaking, most would point to Ocracoke Beach as having the least number of visitors annually.
Ocracoke is up toward the northeast corner of the state at the very tail end of an inlet that is known as the Outer Banks.
In total, the beach has 16 miles of front-row ocean viewing.
This beach is particularly popular for surfing and fishing, in addition to swimming.
Hanging out on a secluded beach means there is no need to fear the crowds.
There will be plenty of room for everyone with a blanket and chair to have a fun day at the beach.
What's the best party beach in North Carolina?
Whether you’re a college spring breaker or an adult looking to live a little, there are a few places that stand out for their nightlife and party scene.
To start with, Oak Island.
Just a short drive from South Carolina, Oak Island boasts a typical beach town vibe with the addition of things like a wine club and local bars.
It’s also easy to get onto the beach from pretty much anywhere in town, as there are 65 access points.
That makes Oak Island one of the most open beaches in the US.
Want to bring food to cook while on the sand?
Go for it!
Want to bring sports equipment and have a fun time with friends or family?
You’re more than welcome to.
This environment is attractive for many beachgoers and it turns out that the inviting atmosphere just makes you want to party.
What's the most affordable beach town to move to in North Carolina?
Known as the “Friendly City by the Sea,” Swansboro ranks high on the list as one of the most affordable beach towns in the nation.
Located in the southern half of the state, nearby beaches include Emerald Isle, Headys Beach, and Hammock Beach State Park.
The median price to buy a home in Swansboro is around $320,000.
Aside from beaches, the town is quite Hallmark-y with a Main Street that is full of boutique shops and cafes.
Swansboro is beloved by residents for not only having ocean views but also being an easy distance to several other getaways within driving distance.
With a small population of only 4,000 residents, it’s quiet enough to get involved in the community and still has the energy to be welcoming to visitors.
