• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
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2. Wrightsville Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Beaches
Wrightsville Beach
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3. Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head, North Carolina
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4. Topsail Beach

Category: Beaches
Topsail Beach
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5. Kure Beach

Category: Beaches
Kure Beach
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6. Currituck Beach, NC

Category: Beaches
Currituck Beach, NC
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7. Carova Beach

Category: Beaches
Carova Beach
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8. Ocracoke Beach

Category: Beaches
Ocracoke Beach
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9. Oak Island Beach (Long Beach)

Category: Beaches
Oak Island Beach (Long Beach)
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10. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

Category: Activities
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
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11. Hammocks Beach State Park

Category: Activities
Hammocks Beach State Park
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12. Holden Beach

Category: Beaches
Holden Beach
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13. Frisco Beach, North Carolina

Category: Beaches
Frisco Beach, North Carolina
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14. Canadian Hole

Canadian Hole
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15. Salvo Beach

Category: Beaches
Salvo Beach
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16. Coquina Beach

Category: Beaches
Coquina Beach
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17. Bald Head Island Beach, North Carolina

Category: Beaches
Bald Head Island Beach, North Carolina
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18. Carolina Beach, NC Coast

Category: Beaches
Carolina Beach, NC Coast
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19. Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle
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20. Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Coast

Category: Beaches
Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Coast
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21. Cape Lookout National Seashore

Cape Lookout National Seashore
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22. Brunswick Islands

Romantic Islands
Brunswick Islands
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23. Lake Lure Beach

Category: Activities
Lake Lure Beach
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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Stretches of remote, rarely crowded beaches and a string of beautiful barrier islands characterize North Carolina's coast.
  • However, those looking for busier beaches will enjoy the several beaches near the more developed areas such as Kitty Hawk and Nags Head.
  • The lighthouses along the coast are some of the most beautiful and romantic in the country, and many can be toured.

Map:


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