If you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway, consider visiting some of North Carolina’s top-rated beach towns. Southern Living recently released its annual South’s Best Awards, highlighting the 50 best beach towns across the South based on reader surveys.
North Carolina’s 320-mile coastline is home to several of these top-ranked beach destinations. Here’s a look at the North Carolina beach towns that made the list:
Oak Island (No. 50)
Oak Island offers a relaxed vibe with golf cart rentals making it easy to explore. Its south-facing beaches provide stunning sunrise and sunset views.
The island features two fishing piers, North Carolina’s newest active lighthouse, and some of the best shelling spots in the state.
Hatteras Island (No. 48)
Home to the country’s tallest brick lighthouse, Hatteras Island sits between Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
Located in the Outer Banks, known as “The Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to its shipwreck history, the island is rich in history and wildlife. It’s a great spot for fishing, windsurfing, and horseback riding.
Topsail Beach (No. 46)
Topsail Beach, part of the 26-mile-long Topsail Island, is known for its peaceful atmosphere.
With about 500 full-time residents, it offers quiet, unspoiled beaches with no high-rises. Summer is especially magical when loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to nest.
Ocracoke (No. 43)
Accessible only by boat or private plane, Ocracoke is a secluded 16-mile-long town. Ocracoke Village is full of charming galleries, restaurants, and shops, while the rest of the island features protected beaches and marshlands ideal for outdoor adventures.
Duck (No. 39)
Duck is a small town with fewer than 1,000 residents, known for its charming atmosphere and abundant wildlife.
Its one-mile-long boardwalk is lined with stores and restaurants like The Blue Point, and it offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound.
Beaufort (No. 38)
Beaufort is a fishing village with historic homes, scenic marinas, and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the area’s maritime history with a kayak trip across Taylor Creek or a ferry ride to Shackleford Banks, where wild horses roam.
Emerald Isle (No. 35)
Emerald Isle, part of the 85-mile-long Crystal Coast, is known for its white sand beaches and blue-green waters.
It’s a laid-back spot perfect for sunbathing and water sports like paddleboarding, thanks to its mild weather year-round.
Nags Head (No. 32)
North Carolina’s first tourist colony, established in the 1830s, remains a popular vacation spot.
Oceanfront cottages, paddleboard tours, and fresh seafood from long-standing spots like Sam & Omie’s make Nags Head a classic beach destination.
Wrightsville Beach (No. 28)
Wrightsville Beach features upscale shops and restaurants, historic homes, and a beautiful coastline.
With over 40 public beach access points and the 2.5-mile John T. Nesbitt Loop walking trail, it’s perfect for exploring. After a day at the beach, head to Kohl’s Frozen Custard for a sweet treat.
Top Reader Recommendations
Readers also shared some favorite restaurants and activities in these beach towns:
- Oak Island: Kai Joe’s, Fishy Fishy Cafe, Mr. P’s Bistro, Oak Island Sub Shop, Provision Company, Salt 64, Shagger Jacks
- Topsail Beach: Surf City Ocean Pier, Jolly Roger Inn, and Pier, The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
- Ocracoke: Back Porch, Howard’s Pub & Raw Bar
- Duck: Blue Point, Duck Donuts, Paper Canoe
- Nags Head: Tail of the Whale
- Wrightsville Beach: Cape Fear Seafood Company, King Neptune Restaurant, Oceanic Restaurant, Sundays, South Beach Grill
Other Award-Winning Destinations in North Carolina
North Carolina also earned recognition in other South’s Best categories:
- Best Classic Hotels: Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands
- Best Resorts: The Inn on Biltmore Estate and The Omni Grove Park Inn and Spa in Asheville
- Best New Hotels: The Cozy Mountain Retreat in Highlands
- Best Cities: Asheville and Wilmington
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, these North Carolina destinations offer a mix of charm, history, and natural beauty.
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