Top North Carolina Beaches

North Carolina has many beaches, resort areas and historical landmarks to please any visitor. Select the beach that fulfills your vacation dreams--a quiet, relaxed stretch of sand or an exciting, adventurous opportunity to participate in sea, land and air sports. Beaches are easily accessible from North Carolina highways, and each offers many different lodging opportunities, from hotels to bed and breakfasts to vacation home rentals. Each beach offers the opportunity to hike, swim and explore your chosen spot.

Carolina Beach

Birding enthusiasts (and hikers) won't want to miss the birding trail in Carolina Beach. Fish free from the piers (beach access is free, too) or join a fishing expedition. Hike or camp through one of the beautiful parks on Carolina Beach for a memorable experience.
1121 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
(910) 458-8434
pleasureislandnc.org/carolinabeach.asp

Cape Fear

Adventure enthusiasts shouldn't be afraid of the name of this beach town. Check out the birds at the sanctuaries, enjoy canoe/kayaking, join one of the many daily fishing charters, and participate in water sports such as jet skiing and water skiing.
24 North Third St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(877) 406-2356
cape-fear.nc.us/

Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle is as jewel-like as its name. Located on the Crystal Coast of the Outer Banks, Emerald Isle offers a relaxing and tranquil place for adventure enthusiasts to visit. Rent bicycles to cruise the beach, ride horses, play golf or enjoy hiking tours of the gorgeous scenery.
7500 Emerald Dr.
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
(252) 354-3424
emeraldisle-nc.org/

Sunset Beach

The name Sunset Beach may conjure up relaxation and lolling in the sun. For travelers who enjoy that, Sunset Beach will provide a rejuvenating experience. For those seeking more adventure, try the Bird Island state preserve, hike the beach to find loggerhead turtles or play golf at the convention center trail.
700 Sunset Blvd. N.
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
(910) 579-6297
sunsetbeachnc.gov/

Oak Island

Fishing fans will rejoice when staying on Oak Island. Fishing is allowed from the piers, or try the deep-sea-and-surf fishing expeditions. Biking, kayaking and boating are popular throughout the island, as is a one-mile self-guided hiking trail in the historic part of the town. Skydiving and scuba diving tours are available.
4601 E. Oak Island Dr.
Oak Island, NC 28465
(910) 278-5011
oak-island.com/

Article Written By Filonia LeChat

Fionia LeChat is a technical writer whose major skill sets include the MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher), Photoshop, Paint, desktop publishing, design and graphics. LeChat has a Master of Science in technical writing, a Master of Arts in public relations and communications and a Bachelor of Arts in writing/English.

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