Part of America’s first national seashore, Cape Hatteras features magnificent beaches, cultural resources, and the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. Known for its excellent surfing conditions and some of the best sportfishing on the East Coast.
North Carolina Beaches
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.
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.
Corolla Beach
Famous for its wild Spanish mustang horses that roam freely along the shoreline. Features wide, uncrowded beaches, the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and upscale vacation rentals. Many areas require 4×4 vehicles for access.
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.
Holden Beach
A family-oriented beach with a small-town feel, known for being one of North Carolina’s least-developed barrier islands. Features 8 miles of south-facing beaches, fishing pier, boat ramp access, and turtle watching.
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.
Sunset Beach
North Carolina’s southernmost beach town, featuring a wide, flat beach with abundant seashells. Known for beautiful sunsets, Bird Island Reserve, the Kindred Spirit Mailbox, and several nearby golf courses.