Located on the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina's coast is home to the pristine Outer Banks, a photographer or beach-lover dream. Full of beautiful spots one must see to believe and beaches that are well worth vacationing to, families, friends, and fun-lovers should not overlook this quintessential destination. Whether looking for resorts or impressive coastal campsites, North Carolina has the perfect vacation spots for this summer. That said, there's plenty to do in other seasons as well. Not to mention amazing North Carolina food to try after spending the day relaxing in the sun! So, here are the ten best beach towns in North Carolina.
10 Carolina Beach
From a state park to a vintage boardwalk, Carolina Beach is a quaint town on North Carolina's Pleasure Island. Start the morning with a donut from Britt's Donut Shop before spending the day near the boardwalk or beach pier. After fishing, tanning, or biking around the island, grab dinner from Salt Fish Restaurant and Tiki Bar or Good Hops Brewing. One of the best parts of this town is its nightlife excitement, so be sure to check out one of the multiple music venues or bars the island has to offer.
9 Beaufort
First dated around 1709, Beaufort is one of North Carolina's oldest beach towns. Called the "Best Small Town for Adventure" by USA Today, Beaufort is a great option for those visiting the Outer Banks. While there, be sure to check out tourist staples like the North Carolina Maritime Museum, Fishtowne Brew House, and Hammock House. And don't forget to visit Olde Beaufort Farmers Market on Saturday morning!
8 Duck
One of the smallest beach towns in the Outer Banks, Duck, NC, is eleven acres of fun. With plenty of playgrounds on the coast, many different rental and resort options, and a public beach, Duck is a classic option for vacationers. Some of the common activities in Duck include clothes shopping, water-sporting, and eating out. Some of the best food options? Get dinner at the Cookshack Fried Chicken before satisfying the sweet tooth at Donutz-On-A-Stick or Big Buck's Homemade Ice Cream.
7 Bald Head Island
This coastal island is one of the most relaxing destinations in North Carolina. Cars are prohibited on the entire island, so guests have no option but to surrender to the calm quiet of Bald Head Island. (Visitors get around via golf carts which can be rented by Cary Cart Company!) Start a day here with a sweet treat from Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream before reconnecting with some of the nature this island has to offer.
6 Atlantic Beach
Part of the Southern Outer Banks, Atlantic Beach is a small town that has been a common vacation destination since 1920. There are plenty of options for staying, shopping, and eating in Atlantic Beach, notably Atlantic Beach Seafood & Fresh Market. Sugar craving? AB Ice Cream is the go-to sweet stop in this town! A great tourist attraction is Atlantic Beach's annual music festival, which usually happens at the end of May.
5 Hatteras Island
A laid-back option, Hatteras Island is a great destination for the outdoorsy type of traveler. Charter a boat, participate in water sports or get a unique view of the coastline by taking advantage of their hang-gliding adventure options. While there are plenty of rental and resort choices, this island is also ideal for campers or RVs. Plus, there's an array of museums to check out in between sporting explorations, including the Frisco Native American Museum and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.
4 Sunset Beach
This beach is named one of the "Best 21 Beaches in the World" by National Geographic and lives up to the claim. Home to wonderful water views and a variety of wildlife, Sunset Beach has a lot of activities to offer. From the Ingram Planetarium to the secluded Kindred Spirit Mailbox, this town is a great destination for families. When visiting, don't miss one of the best attractions in this incredibly scenic town: The Swamp Park Eco Adventure Zip-Line Park.
3 Kitty Hawk
Located towards the north of the coast, Kitty Hawk, NC, has one of the most interesting histories in all the Outer Banks; the Wright Brothers figured out a flight in this coastal town! From bird-watching to lighthouse explorations, Kitty Hawk has plenty to offer tourists. For a unique afternoon, do some off-road driving on the beach before getting seafood and cocktails at Hurricane Mo's Beachside Bar and Grill.
2 Manteo
In between sporting explorations, Manteo's shops and restaurants are best to explore on foot. After checking out the beach and hitting the shops, there are plenty of dinner options in downtown Manteo. Head to the rum distillery or the brewery for great grub and beverages. Looking for more fun after dinner? Head towards The Pioneer Theatre for some nostalgic joy in this pleasantly charming town!
1 Ocracoke
Ocracoke, NC, is the southernmost town in the Outer Banks. The island can only be accessed through an airplane or ferry, and it stands out from other towns in North Carolina because of its specific national parks and beach views. Spend the day here taking a scenic boat ride, checking out the town lighthouse, or biking around the town. End the day with specialty cocktails and tropical drinks at one of the town's many bars!