Best and Fun Beaches in North Carolina

Looking for the best beaches in North Carolina?? Here is the list with all the travel information you need to plan a family tour.

This southeastern state is home to some of the country’s most beautiful oceanfront landscapes.

North Carolina borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Georgia and South Carolina to the south, and Tennessee to the west. There are also plenty of other attractions worth visiting in this state.

Whether you are interested in a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you will find a suitable beach in this Southern state. Especially, the North Carolina coastline offers more than 300 miles of barrier island beaches.

And every beach in this state is unique, with a different vibe and activities to explore. Coastal towns offer endless opportunities to explore the state’s unique culture.

Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon or an entire week at the beach, you’ll find something to keep you busy.

The most popular beaches in North Carolina are Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Wrightsville Beach, and beaches in Bald Head Island.

Let’s discover the complete list of the best and fun beaches in North Carolina. Just check and add them to your bucket list.

Beaches in North Carolina

1. Beaches in North Carolina: Cape Hatteras National Seashore

If you’re a beach lover, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore on Hatteras Island, NC is a beautiful place to visit.

This barrier island stretches for 70 miles (from Ocracoke Island to Bodie Island.), and it’s home to the first national seashore. And it has a variety of natural areas, scenic beaches, lighthouses, and historic attractions. So, visitors can enjoy tons of enjoyable things.

To see what the Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers, consider visiting during shoulder season or off-season. The cost is lower during that time.

You can also explore the islands on foot, rent a beach cruiser, or rent a golf cart.

Campers can have a great time as there are four excellent campgrounds along the seashore.

And there are three visitor centers to provide travel information. One of the visitor centers is close to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse that features the fascinating Museum of the Sea.

The museum offers information about the Outer Banks, maritime history, shipwrecks that lie off the coast, the lighthouse, and the keeper’s quarters.

So, plan a beach camping tour with your family.

Address: 46700 Old Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920, United States    Phone: (252) 473-2111  

Beaches in North Carolina

2. Beaches in North Carolina: Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is a town in Carteret County, North Carolina. It is one of five communities along the Bogue Banks.

If you’re looking to have a fun vacation, you’ll want to visit Atlantic Beach. There are plenty of things to do in Atlantic Beach, and you’re sure to find something you like.

Its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water are unbeatable. As part of the Crystal Coast, the town offers plenty of shopping and dining options too.

You’ll be able to load up on beach supplies at the many stores in Atlantic Beach. Also, there are plenty of places to stay and eat in this beach town.

For music lovers, Atlantic Beach features Beach Music Festivals too.

On the other hand, Oceanana Fishing Pier in Atlantic Beach is perfect for fishing and catching picturesque sunsets with your family.

You can even visit the North Carolina Aquarium, located at the island’s center. This is a great way to experience the local marine life while on vacation. So, your kids will like it.

There’s also a historic colonial town nearby for those who want to see something a little different. You can tour old homes and see wild horses while you’re here. If you’re looking to buy souvenirs to bring home with you, the area has a lot to offer.

Remember to bring your camera because this is one of the most beautiful areas in the state.

Address: 25 West Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States     Phone: (252) 726-2121

Beaches in North Carolina

Looking for the best and fun beaches in Oregon?? Here’s the list with all the travel information. 

3. Beaches in North Carolina: Emerald Isle

If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting the Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle is a great choice. This small town is also located on the island of Bogue Banks.

Especially, Emerald Isle is famous for fishing. The Atlantic Ocean is visible from the Bogue Inlet Pier, and the Western and Eastern Ocean Regional Accesses are public beach access points.

The beaches are beautiful, and it’s easy to spend your time exploring them. And the area has numerous attractions, including two museums and art galleries.

Aside from that, the first attraction is the historic downtown. Here, you can see how a Spanish colony influenced the town.

Then, head to Emerald Isle Point to explore the beachfront. From there, you can head to the nearby Bank Channel and take a stroll along the coastline.

Amenities on Emerald Isle beach include a disc golf course, dock, and shoreline trails. You can also explore the region’s diverse birdlife with the North Carolina Birding Trail.

Aside from these attractions, North Carolina Aquarium is just 15 min from the beach.

Visitors can also enjoy local shops and outdoor activities.

However, one of the biggest drawbacks of the Emerald Isle is the bridge. In addition to being a major inconvenience during the summer months, the bridge can get crowded quickly. So, you should plan your visit accordingly to avoid any hassles.

Address: 7500 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594, United States     Phone: (252) 354-3424

Beaches in North Carolina

4. Wrightsville Beach, NC

The town of Wrightsville Beach is located in New Hanover County, North Carolina.

It is one of the most popular beach towns in the United States and is home to various activities for visitors. The town has several golf courses and is known for its pristine beaches.

Especially, Wrightsville Beach is known for being one of the cleanest beaches in North Carolina. Also, it is an award-winning beach that features tons of fun outdoor activities.

For example, you can enjoy cruising, surfing, sunbathing, and viewing beautiful ocean views with your family.

On the other hand, there is a waterbird sanctuary and a historic square near Wrightsville Beach.

Wrightsville Beach offers a variety of restaurants and shops. For example, the East Oceanfront Dining is award-winning and can be enjoyed al fresco in warmer months. The menu features fresh local seafood and lobster. The restaurant also features wine tastings, comfort food, and Sunday Brunch. The hotel’s location on the beach makes it a popular choice for families.

Address: 321 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, United States     Phone: (910) 256-7900     

Beaches in North Carolina

5. Bald Head Island, North Carolina

If you have never visited this small island in the Atlantic, you’re missing out on a great vacation. This is one of the most beautiful places in the United States, so you’ll definitely want to check it out!

Bald Head Island is a small, secluded island with authentic natural beauty. Therefore, Bald Head Island attracts tourists from all over.

Spanish sailors visited the island during the early 1800s. In the late 1600s, the first settlement was established on the shore of the Bald Head Islands.

Many visitors come to this island to enjoy pristine water, panoramic views, and abundant creek estuaries. Native Americans used the island as a seasonal retreat for seasonal fishing.

There are several pretty beaches on Bald Head Island. You can reach them via a 20-minute passenger ferry that starts from the Deep Point Marina in Southport.

Since this island does not allow cars or other vehicles, you can experience authentic and undisturbed natural beauty. Once you get there, you can travel around the island via only trams and golf carts.

Or you can bring your bicycle to try the exciting 15 miles of biking trails that stretch throughout Bald Head Island.

However, its 14 miles of soft-sand beach offers plenty of fun activities for you. Ex: playing golf, hiking, biking, kayaking, and sunbathing.

So, the island has several activities for visitors to engage in for those looking for a more active vacation. You can also take guided nature outings with the Bald Head Island Conservancy.

Address: P.O. Box 3069, Bald Head Island, NC 28461, United States     Phone: (830) 549-6373    

Beaches in North Carolina

6. Beaches in North Carolina: Nags Head Beach

If you have never been to Nags Head Beach in North Carolina, you’re missing out on a real treat.

Nags Head Beach is situated on the Outer Banks, near Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Oregon Inlet. The water is clear, so you can swim in the ocean without the worry of getting tangled in coral.

There are many activities to keep you entertained while you’re on vacation in the town, so make sure you spend plenty of time on the beach. You can experience swimming in crystal-clear water, occasional dolphin watching, watching incredible sunsets, and walking along 12 miles of golden sandy beach.

Here’s the top attraction on Nags Head Beach.

You’ll want to visit 1000 foot long Jennette’s Pier while you’re in Nags Head Beach. The pier is one of the most popular attractions in Nags Head during the summer for fishing. And also, there’s an ocean aquarium on the pier to enjoy a wide array of marine life. (opened in 2011 as part of the North Carolina Aquariums division)

While you’re at Nags Head, check out the outlets and restaurants nearby. If you’re looking for something a little more laid back, try the Sandbar Restaurant. The classic seaside decor is sure to make you feel nostalgic. You’ll also be able to try sushi and conch fritters at the popular restaurant.

Address: 5401 S. Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States     Phone: (252) 441-5508    

Beaches in North Carolina

7. Ocracoke Island, Ocracoke

Visit the beautiful Ocracoke Island, which is located in North Carolina’s Outer Banks region.

While pristine beaches surround the island, Ocracoke Island has plenty of attractions for visitors. Also, the island has a natural beauty and is a perfect destination for outdoor activities.

Water sports are the main focus of the local economy. There are many outfitters that can get you on a surfboard, a kayak, SUP, or a 4WD. There is even flounder gigging. And while you’re on the water, don’t forget to get in some sun.

If you love hiking, you can explore plenty of nature trails around the island. You can also take a guided town tour.

And, of course, Ocracoke Island is just as beautiful during the day as it is at night.

The 1823 Ocracoke Lighthouse overlooks the beautiful island. And the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum is located in an early 1900s house and traces the island’s history.

You can also visit the British Cemetery, where WWII sailors are buried. Silver Lake is dotted with boats and is home to many shops.

Address: 1075 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States     Phone: (252) 928-6711    

Beaches in North Carolina

8. Beaches in North Carolina: Topsail Beach, Topsail Island

You might be surprised to know that there is one beach on the Crystal Coast located in the middle of the country – Topsail Beach in North Carolina.

Located between Camp Lejeune and Jacksonville, North Carolina, this barrier island is famous for beach vacations. If you are planning a vacation to the area, there are several places that you should consider visiting.

There is no shortage of things to do on Topsail Island. The beaches are beautiful, and you can watch dolphins splashing in the water.

You can visit the Turtle Hospital on Topsail Island, a nonprofit run by volunteers for an indoor activity. Also, the aquarium features turtles from around the world.

Also, do not miss Serenity Point on Topsail Beach to catch scenic sunset views.

During the 1940s, Topsail Island was almost as big as Cape Canaveral. It was the site of a top-secret rocket launch mission. You can learn more about this history at the Missiles and More Museum in Pender County.

If you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, you can dine at the On Shore Surf Shop located in Surf City near Topsail Beach.

Don’t forget to stop by Sugar Island Bakery and Snow Factory for some tasty treats. Salty Turtle Brewery is also worth a visit, and they feature specialty craft beer from around the world.

Address: 820 S. Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445, United States     Phone: (910) 328-5841     

Beaches in North Carolina

9. Carova Beach, Corolla

Do you have a 4WD vehicle? Here’s the best place to have a blast.

If you’re looking for an unincorporated community in the Northeast corner of North Carolina, look no further than Carova Beach.

Founded in the 1960s, this small unincorporated community is located on the Currituck Banks north of Bodie Island.

So, to get there, you’ll need a boat or four-wheel drive vehicle. It’s a popular getaway for people who enjoy the beach but don’t want to deal with getting to the ocean.

Carova Beach is famous for its wild horses. More than that, its soft sand beaches are unbeatable. You can go swimming during summer, walk, birdwatching, spot wildlife, and do shelling.

To drive on Carova beach, you’ll need to pass through the wider part, past milepost 14, about one mile from the entrance. This is to allow other vehicles to pass. Speed limits on the Carova beach are fifteen miles per hour, but they are much lower than those in Corolla and other southern beach towns.

But, do not expect to have any service on the secluded Carova beach. Bring everything from home.

Address: 1999 Sandpiper Road, Corolla, NC 27927, United States     Phone:(252) 435-3970    

Beaches in North Carolina

10. Beaches in North Carolina: Carolina Beach

Enjoy the Boardwalk at Carolina Beach in South Caroline.

Carolina Beach offers easy access from Wilmington. (near the mouth of the Cape Fear River)

Its historic wooden boardwalk is lined with plenty of delicious restaurants, beach shops, and entertainment opportunities.

This upscale area has plenty to offer visitors, from snack bars to concerts and fireworks. In the evening, you can take in a show at the Oceanfront Theater, ride the Ferris wheel, listen to live music, or catch any other entertaining show.

Aside from that, you can go biking, walking with your dog (from 9 am to 5 pm), stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and camping.

In the case of camping, Carolina Beach State Park offers space for tent and RV campers.

So, plan for a fun, family camping tour to Carolina Beach in South Caroline.

Address: Carolina Beach, NC 28428, United States

Beaches in North Carolina

11. Corolla Beach, Corolla

Are you visiting Corolla? Its beautiful beaches will likely enchant you.

Corolla Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in North Carolina. It features tons of outdoor activities, beach amenities, and many other attractions.

The town is a great place to spend an afternoon. The beaches are clean and wide. There are many ways to enjoy Corolla, including driving on the boardwalk, exploring the area, and enjoying the seafood restaurants.

Also, there are also plenty of activities for children on Corolla Beach, including fishing, swimming, and boating. In addition to the beach, there are several other attractions.

Wild horses live near the northern part of Corolla Beach after the road turns to sand. This area is fenced off to prevent the horses from getting into high-traffic areas and being hit by cars.

So, visitors can only see these animals by taking a tour with a local tour operator. To keep the animals safe, tourists cannot get closer than 50 feet from them.

If you are planning a family vacation to the area, you can make the trip even more memorable by exploring the nearby town of Rodanthe.

The town is a great place to bring children, as it is a favorite among children. There are many things to do while you are here, including fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

Address: 601 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC 27927, United States     Phone: (252) 232-2947      

Beaches in North Carolina

12. Beaches in North Carolina: Kure Beach

Kure Beach is a beach town located in New Hanover County, North Caroline.

The town is part of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area and has a thriving maritime industry. Today, the city is one of the most popular tourist destinations, especially among beach lovers.

Kure Beach was established in 1895 and had a long history. The town was originally the site of Fort Fisher State Historic Site, a confederate fort that stood on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.

This small seaside community has since become a vibrant and family-oriented destination. Visitors to this beach town should plan on spending a few days relaxing on the sandy shores.

On your tour to Kure Beach, you will find a lot of activities to enjoy.

The area is bordered by the state aquarium, the historic Fort Fisher, and Federal Point, which is just seven miles away.

So, there are plenty of things to do on the beach and nearby. Families can visit the North Carolina Aquarium, a seaside museum with a play area for children, and a fishing pier for the whole family.

During the summer months, the town also hosts various fun events and activities in the form of festivals and summer camps. Come along with your kids to have a fun vacation in Kure Beach, NC.

Address: 100 Atlantic Ave, Kure Beach, NC 28449, United States     Phone: +19104585524

Beaches in North Carolina

13. Kitty Hawk Beach, Kitty Hawk

If you are looking for a fun, relaxing place to spend your vacation, look no further than Kitty Hawk Beach.

This coastal town has two miles of white-sand beaches and is known for plenty of water sports. The waves here are perfect for surfing, but you can also try standup paddleboarding or take a surfing lesson.

There’s also plenty to do on the sound side in and around Kitty Hawk. If you like to walk, you’ll find many scenic trails along the beach too.

And also, if you’re looking for a place to shop, however, the area is also home to a variety of unique stores.

There are plenty of restaurants open late, as well as live music. You can enjoy some of the most delicious seafood dishes in the area and enjoy the view while you’re at it. To make your stay even more enjoyable, try sampling some local seafood while you’re at the beach.

For example, Bad Bean Baja Grill serves tacos and wood-fired pizza. Pony and the Boat Comfort Kitchen serves local seafood. TRiO Restaurant and Market offers salads, sandwiches, and sharable plates for more casual dining.

Are you a seafood lover? Then, do not miss Kitty Hawk Beach on your North Carolina tour.

Address: 101 Veterans Memorial Drive, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, United States     Phone: (252) 261-3552     

Beaches in North Carolina

14. Oak Island, North Carolina

The Curse of Oak Island is the story of two brothers who purchased a small island in the mid-sixties.

Together with their brother, David Tobias, they decided to make it a tourist destination. While the area is very close to Wilmington, North Carolina, and Myrtle Beach, SC. So, visitors from the Charlotte/Raleigh/Durham areas can arrive in four hours.

Oak Islands’ quaint atmosphere and easy access are a unique combination for any traveler. The island is a water lover’s dream with miles of flat, tree-lined roads and two fishing piers.

You can rent a paddleboard, kayak, or even go on guided tours. The only real surf shop on Oak Island, Local Call Surf Shop, is located on the island’s western tip. You can buy a board, buy a boogie board, or just buy a swimsuit and sunglass rental too.

Getting to the island is easy. There are over 60 public beach access points and 115 free parking spaces.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Oak Island is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.

The 63-year-old Oak Island Lighthouse is an excellent reminder of the history and charm of the town. There’s no reason to leave Oak-Island!

Address: 4601 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, NC 28465, United States     Phone: (910) 278-5011   

Beaches in North Carolina

15. Beaches in North Carolina: Currituck Beach

If you’re looking for an easy, scenic way to spend a day on the beach, consider visiting Currituck Beach in North Carolina.

The curving coastal terrain offers a variety of activities that everyone can enjoy, from surfing to soaking up the summer sun.

Currituck Beach is home to numerous resorts, quaint B&Bs, and vacation rentals. If you’re traveling with a large group, a rental property can provide you with the privacy you’re looking for.

The southern portion of Currituck Outer Banks is almost entirely residential. The beachfront is lined with huge houses and a golf course community called the Currituck Club.

This clean and quiet beach offers plenty of fun things to do. For example, you can ride horses and see wild Spanish mustangs.

On the other hand, Currituck Banks Reserve, located near Currituck Beach, is perfect for hiking, fishing, hunting, and other fun outdoor activities.

And the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, a Gothic Revival lighthouse, is one of the most popular attractions. This 1875 structure is the southernmost lighthouse on the Outer Banks. Its unpainted brick exterior sets it apart from the other Outer Banks lighthouses.

The Outer-Banks Conservationists have renovated the lighthouse and restored the original brick exterior. There is a small admission fee to climb to the top of the lighthouse, but the view is well worth the visit.

Address: Currituck Beach, Corolla, NC 27927, United States   

Beaches in North Carolina

16. Rodanthe, Waves and Salvo

The small town of Rodanthe in North Carolina features uncrowded beaches and beautiful homes.

You’ll find surfers, sunbathers, and people watching the sunset in the tranquility. The area is perfect for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and simply enjoy being on the beach.

And also, the picturesque seaside village of Rodanthe, North Carolina, is a romantic getaway for couples or families seeking a quiet beach vacation.

Thousands of sea-worthy tales were inspired by this coastal town, and it has plenty of history to match.

The town’s beaches are peaceful and have a lot of history to tell. This is one of the few places where you can visit a historic site while relaxing on the beach.

On the other hand, the towns of Waves and Salvo are famous for kiteboarding. So, you will find all the facilities for kiteboarding on the beaches in these towns.

Aside from that, Rodanthe, Waves, and Salvo are some of the best places for tent and RV camping on the Outer Banks.

So, plan a tour with your family.

Address: Rodanthe Beach Access, 23713 Midgett Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

Beaches in North Carolina

17. Duck Beach, Duck

If you’re searching for a family-friendly vacation spot, Duck Beach in North Carolina is an ideal choice.

The town is small and quiet, with only a few small commercial strips. It has a low population and is excellent for family tours. Also, it has safe and clean waters with a beautiful environment. So, you can swim safely with your kids.

But, still, you should ask a lifeguard before swimming.

The only downside is that there are no hotels and only one B&B, so you’ll have to look for nearby towns to stay in. Fortunately, there are plenty of local restaurants and other attractions.

Duck Beach is pet-friendly, and there are many dog-friendly restaurants available. Dogs are welcome to roam the sand and water free of the leash, but you must remain within sight of your pet at all times.

The town is known for its countless festivals and events throughout the year. While you’re enjoying your vacation, make sure to enjoy the local shops, which offer a wide variety of items for the whole family.

Address: 1200 Duck Road, Duck, NC 27949, United States    Phone: (252) 255-1234     

Beaches in North Carolina

18. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

Here’s the best place for bird watching.

Located on the Outer Banks, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is part of the coastal barrier islands of North Carolina.

This beautiful and small place is adjacent to the Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout National Seashores. And it is ten miles south of Nags Head on NC Highway 12.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to explore wildlife and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Here are some of the highlights of the refuge.

The location of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge makes it easy to access for visitors of all types. This beautiful nature preserve is located on a barrier island in the Outer Banks.

The place’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination for many people. The view from the sound side is spectacular, and you can see a variety of birds and other wildlife from any direction. Especially, it attracts a lot of migratory birds.

So, if you’re a bird watcher, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit place. With more than 265 species of birds, it’s impossible to identify every single one. For example, you can spot Canada goose, snow geese, wading birds, tundra swan, waterfowl, shorebirds, and more than 25 species of duck.

Besides birds, you can spot endangered marine species like loggerhead sea turtles.

You can try plenty of hiking trails around Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching, fishing, wildlife photography, and hiking.

The views are absolutely stunning, and if you’re lucky enough to catch the right time, you can see all of them.

Address: 14500 NC-12, Rodanthe, NC 27968, United States     Phone: +1 252-473-1131

Beaches in North Carolina

19. Beaches in North Carolina: Holden Beach

Holden Beach is a seaside city located in Brunswick County, North Carolina. It is part of the Myrtle Beach metropolitan area.

The town is known for its golf courses and beautiful beaches. The city has a long, sandy coastline for beach lovers.

There are several family-friendly activities available to visitors. Here are some ideas on how to spend a day on Holden Beach.

The most popular reason for a trip to Holden Beach is the low-key atmosphere and lack of development. Since the area has remained undeveloped, there is little commercial impact.

You will find fewer tourists here. So, you can see more privacy for yourself and your family. Most of the town’s lodging is in small apartment buildings, making it easy to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Another reason to go to Holden Beach is to see the local wildlife. The town has a sea turtle sanctuary. It is a major nesting ground for Green and Loggerhead turtles.

The area has generous setbacks for homes. Houses are limited to 35 feet high to ensure that the nesting grounds are protected from excessive building height.

Address: Ocean View Blvd, Holden Beach, NC 28462, United States     Phone: (910) 755-5517   

Beaches in North Carolina

20. Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro

Here’s one of the best kid-friendly beaches in South Carolina, Hammocks Beach State Park. It features gentle waves, clear waters, and an unspoiled surrounding.

There’s a small scenic hike to access this beach. But, it is totally worth the hike.

With 1,611 acres of protected land and beaches, this state park is a great place to spend a day in the sun.

Hammocks Beach is a popular destination for families with children of all ages. Families can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including kayaking and fishing, or they can simply relax on the beach.

You are always welcome to explore the island’s three-mile barrier beach, including Bear Island. A park ferry or a private boat will transport you to this remote area.

You can also rent paddleboards and canoes to explore the islands. Huggins Island has an exciting history and once was home to a Confederate six-cannon battery in 1861.

Its unspoiled maritime forest is a stark contrast to the beach and dunes on Bear Island.

At Hammocks Beach, you’ll find plenty of wildlife too. You’ll also find white-tail deer, gray foxes, and raccoons in the inland areas.

Also, shorebirds feed in the tidal marshes in the spring and fall and rest on the beach during the summer and fall. For example, you’ll find herons and bottlenose dolphins swimming offshore.

If you are looking for camping, Hammocks Beach State Park features primitive campsites too.

Address: 1572 Hammock Beach Road, Swansboro, NC 28584, United States     Phone: (910) 326-4881     

Beaches in North Carolina

21. Frisco Beach, Hatteras Island

The town of Frisco on Hatteras Island has a very small-town feel. The beach itself is clean and safe, and you can even swim there in the Atlantic Ocean.

Since there’s a slowly sloping ocean floor and no drop-offs, it is perfect for swimming, even with kids.

Frisco Beach features bathrooms, showers, a go-cart track, a mini-golf course, and lifeguards on duty. So, it’s an excellent place for families. And there are several accommodations available.

It’s important to remember that there are only 48 parking spaces at the beach, and the parking lot is quite long.

If you are driving your car onto the beach, make sure to get a beach driving permit and park offsite. You can drive onto the beach for free, but you should remember that driving on the sand can be dangerous. The sand is dry, and your car tires can easily get stuck in the sand.

If you’re bringing your children to Frisco Beach, make sure they wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

For an aerial view of the area, try taking an aerial tour. You can reserve one in advance or find a stand next to Frisco Rod and Gun. The aerial tour will give you a unique view of the landscape.

The trip is worth it if you’re a big beach lover! If you’re not a beach bum, don’t worry. There are plenty of things to do on Hatteras Island!

There are excellent campgrounds on Frisco Beach, named Frisco Woods Campground, and National Park Service campground. So, you can even plan for a fun camping tour too.

Address: Frisco Beach, Frisco, NC 27936, United States   

Beaches in North Carolina

22. Canadian Hole, Hatteras Island

Visitors to Hatteras Island can enjoy the surf and sand in Canadian Hole, a popular Pamlico Sound side beach ideal for families and stand-up paddleboarders. Actually, it is more famous among water sports lovers.

Its small-town atmosphere and incredible vistas make it a perfect place to spend a day with the family. There are many things to do in the Canadian Hole, from paddleboarding and kayaking to swimming and hiking. I

The wind and weather conditions in the Hatteras Islands are a vital part of enjoying these activities.

Visiting the area during spring and summer is a must, so plan your trip accordingly. Canadian Hole Beach offers plenty of parking and access to sound side beaches.

In addition, the local tourism board hosts numerous events and activities, including the annual “Canadian Hole Sunset Celebration.” This event is popular with families and couples and is sure to be a hit.

The water depth is consistent for miles along the beach, but it depends on the wind direction. A prevailing easterly wind will push the water out of the Canadian Hole, exposing sandbars.

The water texture changes with the direction of the wind, so keep this in mind before heading to this beach.

Beaches in North Carolina

23. Avon Beach, Avon

Avon Beach in Avon, NC, is located on the southwest corner of Hatteras Island.

Avon is about 20 miles north of Salvo, NC, and south of Buxton, NC. The water quality and air quality of Avon are generally considered to be excellent, with an average of 210 sunny days. The town is a dog-friendly destination with many beaches, lifeguards, and shops.

Visitors should check the area map for the various points of interest and restaurants. Avon also features live webcams, which will give you a real-time view of Avon’s sandy beach.

There is also a live surf video from the sound side. Using a live webcam will let you see the current weather and surf conditions. In addition, you can view the picturesque views of the town’s beaches.

Avon offers a variety of accommodations for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the ocean. The town is home to many rental houses and a campground.

Whether you’re staying in a cozy vacation home, an RV, or a motorhome, you’ll have a great time with your family. And Avon Beach allows 4×4 driving and beach fires too.

Address: 39311 Wahoo Cir, Avon, NC 27915, United States    Phone: (877) 629-4386      

Beaches in North Carolina

24. Beaches in North Carolina: Cape Lookout National Seashore

If you’re planning a family vacation, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a great place to start.

Ferries are the most popular way to visit the Cape Lookout National Seashore. The park has several authorized ferry services, and vehicle ferries are also available.

You won’t have to pay for entry into the park, but you will have to purchase a ferry ticket to get on the island.

The park is 56 miles long, running from Ocracoke Inlet in the northeast to Beaufort Inlet in the southeast. There are plenty of attractions here, so it is worth finding time for a few days of beach-combing.

You can explore the wildlife and nature along the shores of the seashore and even enjoy a fishing trip.

The peninsula’s barrier islands make this a challenging stretch of shoreline, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the state.

There are several ways to explore this part of the coastline, and many of them will leave you speechless. Here are a few ways to make your trip to Cape Lookout a memorable one.

If you’re planning to camp here, you can choose from different types of campsites, ranging from primitive cabins to luxurious luxury lodges.

Also, you can visit and learn more about the Cape Lookout Light Station.

If you are into swimming, Shackleford Banks is perfect for that. And you may spot some wild horses too.

Address: Cape Lookout Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531, United States     Phone: +12527282250

Beaches in North Carolina

25. Beaches on Brunswick Islands, North Carolina

When you travel to the coast of North Carolina, it is inevitable that you will include a beach on your list.

Fortunately, you can visit the undiscovered Brunswick Islands (five barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina) to experience its 45 miles of pristine beaches and enjoy activities that are free of charge.

You can even go ziplining over a 1.25-mile cable. And there are so many things to do in the Brunswick Islands that you can spend the entire day playing, learning, or just relaxing.

There are many reasons to visit the islands, but one of the best is the fact that they are entirely undeveloped. Beaches on Brunswick Islands are tranquil and free from commercialism, and you will find it refreshingly peaceful and serene.

Although the area is located between two major resort areas (Wilmington and Myrtle-Beach), the beaches are not overdeveloped.

While there are some hotels and restaurants on the island, they don’t have a lot of amenities. The area is still home to some great small towns, and you will be able to enjoy a variety of activities while on vacation.

You can enjoy blue waters, white-sand beaches, and breathtaking sunsets on beaches on Brunswick Islands. These are just some of the reasons to visit the beaches in the area.

So, just visit these islands to discover more.

Address: 705 Ocean Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465, United States     Phone: +19109336161

Beaches in North Carolina

26. Beaches in North Carolina: Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

Lake Lure, NC, offers visitors a relaxing getaway from the stresses of life. From hiking and biking to swimming and water skiing, the area offers something for everyone.

But, during the warmer months, Lake Lure town especially gets crowded. Especially, the beach area is a popular destination for families with young children.

However, even if the weather isn’t ideal, you can always enjoy a day on Lake Lure beach regardless.

Lake Lure Beach is a beautiful getaway surrounding the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. There are plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied and entertained.

The water park and beach house make this ideal for families and couples to spend an afternoon together.

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with a bit of adventure, try renting a boat on Lake Lure. Paddleboats and kayaks are available for rent at the marina, and there are also powered boats that you can rent for an hour or more.

The marina is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The area is filled with fun outdoor activities and festivals during the warmer months, such as the annual Carolina Music Festival.

Admission is reasonably priced, and children under four must accompany an adult.

Address: 2724 Memorial Hwy, Lake Lure, NC 28746, United States     Phone: +1 828-625-0077

Beaches in North Carolina

• Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Atlantic Beach
• Emerald Isle
• Wrightsville Beach
• Bald Head Island
• Nags Head Beach
• Ocracoke Island, Ocracoke
• Topsail Beach, Topsail Island
• Carova Beach, Corolla
• Carolina Beach
• Corolla Beach, Corolla
• Kure Beach
• Kitty Hawk Beach, Kitty Hawk
• Oak Island
• Currituck Beach
• Rodanthe, Waves & Salvo
• Duck Beach, Duck
• Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Holden Beach
• Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro
• Frisco Beach, Hatteras Island
• Canadian Hole, Hatteras Island
• Avon Beach, Avon
• Sunset Beach
• Cape Lookout National Seashore
• Beaches on Brunswick Islands
• Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

Beaches in North Carolina