Thinking about a getaway with a bit of everything? North Carolina vacations offer beaches, mountains, historic charm, and outdoor fun—making it easy to find your perfect escape.
Here are some of my favorite North Carolina vacations:
Luxury North Carolina Vacations:
1. Highland Lake Inn and Resort - 2 hours from Charlotte
© Highland Lake Inn and Resort
Location:
Flat Rock, NCHighlights:
If you're looking for a relaxing mountain retreat, Highland Lake Inn and Resort is a perfect choice. Situated on twenty-six acres of scenic countryside, this peaceful resort offers stunning views of Highland Lake and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.Recommended For:
Couples, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in nature while staying close to local attractions.What I Love: ♥
The stunning mountain views, cozy accommodations with fireplaces, and the relaxing activities like paddle boating and hiking.- Stay in one of the elegant, uniquely decorated rooms or rustic lodge quarters with en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies overlooking the mountains.
- Relax with a leisurely breakfast at the sunny dining room or brunch on Sundays, or enjoy a peaceful day of paddle boating, hiking, and billiards.
- Indulge in a range of spa services, including in-room massages and body treatments for the ultimate relaxation.
Address:
86 Lily Pad Lane, Flat Rock, NC 28731Phone: 828-693-6812
2. Sea Ranch Resort - 6 hours from Charlotte
© Sea Ranch Resort
Location:
Kill Devil Hills, NCHighlights:
If you're seeking a peaceful retreat with breathtaking ocean views, Sea Ranch Resort is the place to be. Located on the stunning Outer Banks, this resort offers everything from luxurious accommodations to fine dining and exciting activities.Recommended For:
Couples, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing beach getaway with plenty of outdoor fun.What I Love: ♥
The oceanfront suites with private balconies, the delicious American Coastal Cuisine at Beachside Bistro, and the peaceful atmosphere overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.- Stay in lovely rooms in the main building or choose from oceanfront or condo-style suites, all with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, climate control, and mini-fridges.
- Relax on your private balcony, taking in stunning ocean views while enjoying the comfort of your suite.
- Savor fresh American Coastal Cuisine at the Beachside Bistro, offering a creative menu with ocean vistas as your backdrop.
Address:
1731 N. Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948Phone: 252-441-7126
3. The Dunhill Hotel
© The Dunhill Hotel
Location:
Charlotte, NCHighlights:
If you’re looking for a stylish stay in the heart of Charlotte, The Dunhill Hotel is the perfect choice. Dating back to 1929, this boutique hotel offers a tranquil retreat with timeless elegance in the heart of the city’s uptown.Recommended For:
History buffs, couples, business travelers, and anyone looking for an upscale stay with a touch of classic charm.What I Love: ♥
The 1920s ambiance, sophisticated accommodations with modern amenities, and the Southern specialties served at The Asbury.- Stay in one of the hotel’s elegant rooms with marble bathrooms, armoires, writing desks, and modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs and Keurig coffeemakers.
- Relax with live music at the hotel’s lounge or enjoy a peaceful evening with freshly baked cookies.
- Dine at The Asbury, offering a menu full of delicious Southern specialties in a refined yet welcoming setting.
Address:
237 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202Phone: 704-332-4141
Romantic North Carolina Vacations:
4. Shell Island Resort - 4 hours from Charlotte
© Shell Island Resort
Location:
Wrightsville Beach, NCHighlights:
If you're looking for a serene beach getaway, Shell Island Resort is an ideal choice. Located on Wrightsville Beach, this seaside resort offers oceanfront accommodations and an array of family-friendly activities to create lasting memories.Recommended For:
Families, beach lovers, and anyone in search of a relaxing retreat with beautiful ocean views and fun activities for all ages.What I Love: ♥
The ocean-facing guest suites with private balconies, the tranquil private beach, and the wide variety of equipment rentals for outdoor adventure.- Stay in one of the 169 ocean-facing suites with private balconies, fully equipped kitchenettes, and spacious living areas, perfect for families.
- Relax on the private beach, by the large swimming pool with poolside cabanas, or in the hot tub while enjoying the ocean breeze.
- Play with a variety of activity options including surfboards, kayaks, boogie boards, and stand-up paddleboards, or have fun on the sand volleyball court.
Address:
2700 N. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, NCPhone: 800-689-6765
5. The Graylyn Estate - 1 hour 15 minutes from Charlotte
© The Graylyn Estate
Location:
Winston-Salem, NCHighlights:
If you're seeking a peaceful escape with a touch of history, The Graylyn Estate is the perfect choice. Set on 55 acres of scenic property just minutes from downtown, it offers a charming mix of old-world elegance and modern amenities.Recommended For:
Couples, history lovers, business travelers, and anyone looking for a tranquil retreat with luxurious accommodations.What I Love: ♥
The historic atmosphere of the estate, the serene surroundings, and the spacious accommodations, from cozy cottages to private bungalows.- Stay in one of the estate’s elegant Manor House rooms, suites in the Mews, cozy guest cottages, or private bungalows, each offering charming sitting areas and ornate fireplaces.
- Relax in your spacious room, enjoying stunning views of the estate and luxurious en-suite marble bathrooms with baths and showers.
- Savor a complimentary gourmet breakfast buffet each morning, or dine at one of the on-site restaurants serving delicious cuisine, or enjoy home-cooked fare in your room.
Address:
1900 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106Phone: 800-472-9596
6. Ocracoke Harbor Inn
© Ocracoke Harbor Inn
Location:
Ocracoke Island, NCHighlights:
If you're looking for a peaceful, family-friendly retreat, Dad's Retreat offers just that. This three-bedroom island home, located at Ocracoke Harbor Inn, provides stunning lighthouse views and is just a short walk from the island’s shops and restaurants.Recommended For:
Families, small groups, or anyone seeking a private, home-away-from-home experience with close proximity to the beach and local amenities.What I Love: ♥
The spacious layout, including three comfortable bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, and cozy living areas, along with the added bonus of front and back porches to relax and enjoy the fresh air.- Stay in a fully furnished house with three bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and spacious living areas, perfect for a family or small group getaway.
- Relax on the front or back covered porches, or enjoy the outdoor shower after a day exploring the island.
- Dine al fresco with the gas grill, or cook a delicious meal in the fully equipped kitchen.
- Enjoy modern amenities like central air-conditioning, two televisions, laundry facilities, and more.
Address:
144 Silver Lake Road, Ocracoke Island, NC 27960Phone: 252-928-5731
Family-friendly North Carolina Vacations:
7. Tapoco Lodge
© Tapoco Lodge
Location:
Robbinsville, NCHighlights:
For a peaceful mountain escape, Tapoco Lodge offers the perfect getaway. Located on the banks of the Cheoah River in the Nantahala National Forest, this historic lodge provides breathtaking views and a tranquil setting for guests.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, couples, and anyone looking to unwind in a picturesque mountain setting with opportunities for adventure.What I Love: ♥
The spacious cabin-style accommodations with whirlpool tubs, the upscale dining at The SlickRock Grille, and the variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking.- Stay in spacious cabin-style accommodations with private bathrooms, whirlpool tubs, and sitting areas that offer beautiful views of the Cheoah River and Yellow Hammer Creek.
- Relax by the river or enjoy the scenic views while dining at The SlickRock Grille, offering upscale riverside patio dining.
- Explore the great outdoors with hiking, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, and exploring the scenic back roads around the lodge.
Address:
14981 Tapoco Rd, Robbinsville, NC 28771Phone: 828-498-2800
8. Haywood Park Hotel
© Haywood Park Hotel
Location:
Asheville, NCHighlights:
If you're looking for a stylish stay in the heart of Asheville, Haywood Park Hotel offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and historic charm. Housed in a former 1923 department store, this all-suite boutique hotel provides easy access to Asheville’s vibrant social and cultural scene.Recommended For:
Couples, business travelers, and anyone looking to experience Asheville's rich history with the comfort of modern amenities.What I Love: ♥
The spacious suites with whirlpool tubs, the breathtaking views from the Grand Suites, and the delicious regional cuisine served at the on-site café.- Stay in one of the 30 elegant suites, each featuring sitting areas with pull-out sofas, kitchenettes with mini fridges, and en-suite bathrooms with whirlpool tubs.
- Relax with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and free wireless Internet.
- Dine at the casual café and bistro, offering delicious regional cuisine for lunch and dinner every day of the week.
Address:
One Battery Park Avenue, Asheville, North Carolina 28801Phone: 828-252-2522
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