Historic beach town famous for the Wright Brothers’ first flight. Features wide beaches with public access points, vacation rentals, and proximity to the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Known for good surfing conditions.
Beaches for Swimming
Atlantic Beach
The oldest of the Crystal Coast beach towns, featuring the renovated Circle area with restaurants and activities. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, fishing opportunities from Oceanana Pier, and proximity to Fort Macon State Park.
Kill Devil Hills Beach
Central Outer Banks beach town home to the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Features family-friendly beaches with lifeguards, numerous restaurants, and entertainment options. Known for consistent waves for surfing and bodyboarding.
Ocracoke Beach
Named one of America’s best beaches, Ocracoke features 16 miles of pristine shoreline with soft sand and clear water. This remote beach offers a quieter experience and is accessible only by ferry. Famous for its historic lighthouse and wild ponies.
Wrightsville Beach
A vibrant beach town with crystal-clear waters and spacious shores. Popular with surfers, paddleboarders, and families. Features a scenic harbor, beach volleyball, and a lively downtown with restaurants and shops.
Nags Head Beach
One of the Outer Banks’ most popular destinations, featuring 11 miles of shoreline, the famous Jennette’s Pier, and nearby Jockey’s Ridge State Park with the East Coast’s largest sand dune. Dotted with beach cottages and family-friendly attractions.
Carolina Beach
A classic beach town with a vintage boardwalk featuring rides, games, and food. Known for its casual atmosphere, fishing opportunities at Carolina Beach State Park, and the nearby Freeman Park for 4×4 beach driving.
Westmoreland State Park Beach
Located on the Potomac River with a small sandy beach area below cliffs known for fossil hunting (especially prehistoric shark teeth). Features hiking trails, camping facilities, and scenic views. Entry fee required with cabin rentals available.
Kiptopeke State Park Beach
Eastern Shore park on Chesapeake Bay featuring a beach area, unique concrete ship breakwater, and excellent fishing opportunities. Offers camping, cabins, hiking trails, and boat ramp. Entry fee required with bird migration observatory.
Huntington Beach
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach features 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline with consistent waves that attract surfers worldwide. The beach is centered around its iconic 1,850-foot pier, one of the longest on the West Coast, offering fishing and panoramic views. The wide, flat beaches have fire pits for evening bonfires and host professional […]