Part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, featuring the remains of the Laura A. Barnes shipwreck. Known for wide, uncrowded beaches with bathhouse facilities, and excellent for shell collecting and ghost crab hunting at night.
Beaches for Swimming
Salter Path Beach
Historic fishing village on Bogue Banks with a more local, authentic feel. Features less development, uncrowded beaches, and access to both the ocean and Bogue Sound. Known for its maritime history and local seafood.
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.
Emerald Isle
A family-oriented beach town on the Crystal Coast with 12 miles of pristine shoreline. Known for its emerald-colored waters, uncrowded beaches, and vacation rentals. Features bike paths, golf courses, and water activities.
Topsail Beach
A quiet, family-friendly beach on Topsail Island, known for excellent shell collecting and sea turtle nesting. Features the historic Missiles and More Museum, the Jolly Roger Pier, and uncrowded beaches with vacation rentals.
Duck Beach
An upscale beach community with a charming village atmosphere. Features a mile-long soundside boardwalk with shops and restaurants, pristine beaches, and the Duck Town Park with events and concerts.
Kitty Hawk Beach
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.
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.