Looking for a beach day not far from Charlotte? While it's inland, several beautiful beaches along the coast are perfect for a quick getaway and plenty of fun in the sun. In this post, I’ll share the best beaches I discovered near Charlotte—where soft sands, sea breezes, and coastal charm are just a road trip away.
Highlights:
Best Beaches Near Charlotte:
1. Bald Head Island - 3 hours and 30 minutes by car to the ferry terminal in Southport, NC, followed by a ferry ride
Rating: ★★★★★
© William Howard/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Bald Head Island, NCRecommended For:
Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a quiet, scenic island retreat.What I 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 284612. Carolina Beach - 3 hours by car from Charlotte
© James/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Carolina Beach, NCRecommended For:
Families, music lovers, beach bums, and anyone looking for a chill, nostalgic coastal escape.What I 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, NCRomantic Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:
3. Carova Beach - 4 hours by car to the 4WD-accessible road
© Oleksandr Shevchenko/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Carova Beach, NCRecommended For:
Nature lovers, families, solitude seekers, and those wanting a peaceful beach getaway with a unique twist.What I 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, NC4. Corolla - 4 hours by car from Charlotte
© Michael Geissinger/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Corolla, NCRecommended For:
Families, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a quieter, more natural Outer Banks experience.What I 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, NCFamily Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:
5. Emerald Isle - 3 hours by car from Charlotte
© David/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Emerald Isle, NCRecommended For:
Families, beachgoers, kayaking fans, and travelers who love a mix of nature and simple comforts.What I 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, NC6. Kure Beach - 3 hours by car from Charlotte
© Tim Markley/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Kure Beach, NCRecommended For:
Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a calm, beachside retreat.What I 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, NCUnique Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina:
7. Lake Norman State Park - 30 minutes north of Charlotte, NC
© skiserge1/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Lake Norman State Park, NCRecommended For:
Outdoor adventurers, campers, families, and anyone who loves lake life and mountain biking.What I 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, NC8. Masonboro Island - 3 hours by car to Wrightsville Beach, followed by a boat ride
© izuboky/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Masonboro Island, NCRecommended For:
Nature enthusiasts, primitive campers, boaters, and anyone looking for a peaceful, undeveloped beach adventure.What I 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, NCIf you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Myrtle Beach - 3 hours by car from Charlotte
© Photopa/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Myrtle Beach, SCRecommended For:
Families, groups, beach lovers, thrill seekers, and anyone looking for a vibrant, activity-filled getaway.What I 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, SC10. Nags Head - 5 hours by car from Charlotte
© claudia hake/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Nags Head, NCRecommended For:
Families, history lovers, dune trekkers, and travelers who enjoy quiet, nostalgic beach towns.What I 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, NCPhone: N/A
Plan Your Trip