Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina

Location:

Bald Head Island, NC

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a quiet, scenic island retreat.

What we Love:

The unspoiled beauty of the island, the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse, and the chance to truly unplug and immerse in nature—no cars, no stress.

• Explore Bald Head Island, a peaceful, car-free paradise with stunning beaches and abundant wildlife.
• Discover the Old Baldy Lighthouse, the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina, offering sweeping views and rich maritime history.
• Relax with a scenic ferry ride across the Cape Fear River, leaving your car behind to embrace the island's gentle pace of life.

Cost:

Free access to the island; ferry tickets required for transportation to the island. Additional costs for lighthouse tours and other activities.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for the most pleasant weather and wildlife sightings.

Local tips:

Be prepared to explore on foot or by bike, as the island is car-free. Bring sunscreen and water, as amenities are limited.

Distance:

A 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland; the ferry departs regularly from the mainland docks.

How to Get to Bald Head Island:

Take the ferry from the mainland at the Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal. Location: 1 Ferry Landing Dr, Southport, NC 28461

Location:

Carolina Beach, NC

Recommended For:

Families, music lovers, beach bums, and anyone looking for a chill, nostalgic coastal escape.

What we Love:

The old-school boardwalk atmosphere, the live music and annual festivals, and the warm, welcoming beach town energy that makes everyone feel at home.

• Stroll the vintage-style boardwalk, lined with classic eats, souvenir shops, arcades, and ocean views that bring back all the best beach memories.
• Experience the Carolina Beach Music Festival—one of the longest-running beach music festivals in the U.S.—along with year-round concerts and local events.
• Unwind on the relaxed, uncrowded shoreline—ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the salty breeze with a cold drink in hand.

Cost:

Free access to the beach and boardwalk. Some events and activities may have an entry fee.

Best time to visit:

Spring and summer for festivals and warm beach days, with the Carolina Beach Music Festival in June being a highlight.

Local tips:

Visit early in the morning for a quiet beach experience or in the evening for live music and a fun boardwalk atmosphere. Bring sunscreen, as the sun can be intense on the open beach.

Distance:

About a 30-minute drive from Wilmington, NC.

How to Get to Carolina Beach:

From Wilmington, drive south on US-421 to Carolina Beach. Location: Carolina Beach, NC

Romantic Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:

Location:

Carova Beach, NC

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, families, solitude seekers, and those wanting a peaceful beach getaway with a unique twist.

What we Love:

The pristine, quiet beaches, the chance to spot wild mustangs, and the relaxing vibe that’s perfect for unwinding.

• Discover the wild mustangs roaming freely along the beach and through Carova’s peaceful neighborhoods.
• Unwind on the clean, white sandy beaches—ideal for lounging under an umbrella and enjoying quality time with loved ones.
• Relax in the warm waters during summer and early fall, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
• Escape to the ultimate peaceful retreat, surrounded by natural beauty and seclusion in the Outer Banks.

Cost:

Free access to the beach. No formal amenities, so pack in and pack out.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for the best weather and an opportunity to spot wild mustangs.

Local tips:

Carova Beach is only accessible by four-wheel drive vehicle, so plan accordingly if you’re driving. Bring all necessary supplies, as there are no stores or services on the beach.

Distance:

Located at the northern end of the Outer Banks, Carova Beach is accessible by car via a 4WD-accessible road from Corolla, NC.

How to Get to Carova Beach:

From Corolla, take the 4WD-accessible road north to Carova Beach. Location: Carova Beach, NC

Location:

Corolla, NC

Recommended For:

Families, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a quieter, more natural Outer Banks experience.

What we Love:

Unspoiled beaches without boardwalks or commercial distractions, easy access to quiet spots, and a relaxing, family-friendly vibe.

• Play on long, clean stretches of sand ideal for beach games, picnics, and relaxing in the sun.
• Escape the crowds thanks to Corolla’s smaller size and low-key atmosphere—perfect for peaceful days on the shore.
• Enjoy a natural, development-free beach setting without 4WD traffic or boardwalk hustle.

Cost:

Free access to the beach; no formal amenities—pack in and pack out.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Corolla’s beaches are perfect for quiet beach days, so plan to bring all supplies with you. There are few services along the beach, so pack snacks and drinks.

Distance:

Corolla is located at the northern end of the Outer Banks, accessible by car.

How to Get to Corolla:

From the southern Outer Banks, drive north along NC-12 to Corolla. Location: Corolla, NC

Family Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:

Location:

Emerald Isle, NC

Recommended For:

Families, beachgoers, kayaking fans, and travelers who love a mix of nature and simple comforts.

What we Love:

The scenic coastline, family-friendly amenities, and that easygoing atmosphere that makes it so easy to relax.

• Relax on soft sandy beaches with calm, blue waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Play at public parks offering picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, and playgrounds for a fun-filled day.
• Launch a kayak or paddleboard from one of the accessible public beach spots and explore the coastline.
• Enjoy the charm of a beach once planned as a major resort but now loved for its natural beauty and local feel.

Cost:

Free beach access; some parks and activities may charge for entry or rental equipment.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for ideal beach weather and water activities.

Local tips:

The area is quieter during the offseason, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude. Bring your own beach gear as rentals are limited.

Distance:

Emerald Isle is about a 2-hour drive from Raleigh, NC.

How to Get to Emerald Isle:

From Raleigh, take US-70 East to NC-58 South to Emerald Isle. Location: Emerald Isle, NC

Location:

Kure Beach, NC

Recommended For:

Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a calm, beachside retreat.

What we Love:

The charming small-town beach vibe, family-friendly attractions, and the historic fishing pier that makes it unique.

• Relax at the oldest fishing pier on the East Coast, a landmark perfect for a quiet day by the water.
• Explore the oceanfront park, with seaside swings, a playground, and scenic views of the coastline.
• Visit the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, a fascinating glimpse into the area's past, or stop by the state aquarium to learn more about local marine life.
• Unwind in a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families or anyone looking for a natural beach retreat.

Cost:

Free access to the beach; some activities and attractions may have an entry fee.

Best time to visit:

Spring and summer for great weather and active events, or fall for a quieter beach experience.

Local tips:

The beach and attractions are much less crowded during the offseason. Consider visiting in early fall for a peaceful experience.

Distance:

About a 30-minute drive from Wilmington, NC.

How to Get to Kure Beach:

From Wilmington, take US-421 South to Kure Beach. Location: Kure Beach, NC

Unique Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:

Location:

Lake Norman State Park, NC

Recommended For:

Outdoor adventurers, campers, families, and anyone who loves lake life and mountain biking.

What we Love:

The extensive bike trails, the peaceful swim beach, and the well-equipped campground perfect for warm-weather overnights.

• Bike over 30 miles of single-track mountain biking trails, ideal for all skill levels.
• Swim at the 125-yard beach with a full bathhouse nearby for convenience.
• Fish & Paddle from the shore or launch a boat using the park’s designated ramp.
• Camp in one of 32 sites or reserve the group camping area, complete with a rentable community building.

Cost:

Free park entrance; camping fees apply for overnight stays.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for water activities but can get busy.

Local tips:

Bring your own boat or kayak, as rentals may be limited. If you're camping, book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Distance:

About 30 minutes north of Charlotte, NC.

How to Get to Lake Norman State Park:

From Charlotte, take I-77 North to Exit 33 and follow signs to the park. Location: Lake Norman State Park, NC

Location:

Masonboro Island, NC

Recommended For:

Nature enthusiasts, primitive campers, boaters, and anyone looking for a peaceful, undeveloped beach adventure.

What we Love:

The sense of total escape, access to wide beaches via scenic trails, and the rare opportunity to pitch a tent on a pristine barrier island.

• Arrive by ferry or private boat from Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, or Trails End Park boat ramps.
• Explore trails that connect landing areas to untouched beaches—ideal for a day trip or quiet picnic.
• Camp primitively with your tent in designated, previously-used sites and enjoy the stars without a crowd.
• Disconnect in a truly undeveloped setting, with landings typically at the north or south ends of the island.

Cost:

Free access to the island; fees apply for camping permits and ferry rides.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for ideal weather, though summer offers the warmest beach conditions.

Local tips:

Bring everything you need, as there are no services on the island. Pack out all trash and use sunscreen as the island has limited shade.

Distance:

A short ferry or private boat ride from Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach.

How to Get to Masonboro Island:

Take a ferry from Wrightsville Beach or use a private boat from nearby ramps. Location: Masonboro Island, NC

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Myrtle Beach, SC

Recommended For:

Families, groups, beach lovers, thrill seekers, and anyone looking for a vibrant, activity-filled getaway.

What we Love:

The iconic SkyWheel, the endless boardwalk fun, and the wide stretch of sandy shoreline known as the Grand Strand.

• Stroll along the bustling boardwalk lined with arcades, shops, and casual-to-upscale restaurants.
• Ride the SkyWheel—one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the U.S.—for unbeatable ocean views.
• Relax on the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beach with plenty of room for sunbathing or sandcastle building.
• Explore Myrtle Beach’s many hotels, attractions, and dining options, making it a perfect home base for coastal adventures.

Cost:

Free beach access; some attractions and activities, like the SkyWheel, require tickets or admission fees.

Best time to visit:

Spring and summer for beach fun and festivals, though fall offers milder weather and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Visit early or later in the day to avoid the hottest sun and busiest crowds. Consider visiting the less crowded areas of the beach for a quieter experience.

Distance:

Myrtle Beach is about a 2-hour drive from Charleston, SC.

How to Get to Myrtle Beach:

From Charleston, take US-17 North to Myrtle Beach. Location: Myrtle Beach, SC

Location:

Nags Head, NC

Recommended For:

Families, history lovers, dune trekkers, and travelers who enjoy quiet, nostalgic beach towns.

What we Love:

The preserved historic cottages, the dramatic sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge, and the welcoming, relaxed vibe that defines the town.

• Explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast and unforgettable sunset views.
• Discover historic 1800s-era cottages still standing proudly near the dunes, echoing Nags Head’s vintage charm.
• Enjoy convenient public beach access and ample parking for an easygoing day by the sea.
• Unplug in a town full of local businesses and a slow pace that’s perfect for unwinding.

Cost:

Free access to the beach and Jockey’s Ridge; some activities may require fees, such as dune hang-gliding or parking.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for mild weather, though summer is perfect for enjoying the beach and local attractions.

Local tips:

Bring water and sunscreen when hiking the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge, as it can get hot. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-season.

Address:

Nags Head, NC
Phone: N/A