Welcome to Eastern North Carolina!

One of the main features that drew me to move to North Carolina back in 1998 was the coast!

Although I was moving to the Raleigh area, the thought of being able to hop in a car and be at the beach in about two hours made this Midwestern girl’s heart skip a beat!

Eastern North Carolina, a charming and diverse region that calls out to travelers with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, this area boasts pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

A picture of My 3 kids at Cape Lookout in Eastern North Carolina
Photo by Christy Evers — My kids at Cape Lookout in Eastern North Carolina Photo by Christy Evers

Lighthouses dot the shoreline, guiding ships and adding a touch of maritime heritage to the landscape.

Not to mention, they make great day trips or vacation getaways!

As you explore, you’ll discover an array of activities, from exploring charming coastal cities and experiencing lively festivals to indulging in mouthwatering seafood.

I’ll help you uncover the best things to do, find the perfect places to stay, and provide you with insights into the major airports and cities that make this corner of North Carolina a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, adventure in historic towns, or a blend of both, Eastern North Carolina offers a little something for every North Carolina traveler.

popular posts and videos about Eastern North Carolina — Popular Posts & Videos About Eastern North Carolina

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things to Do in North Carolina — Things to Do in Eastern North Carolina

Places to See in Eastern North Carolina

Major Eastern NC Cities:

Fayetteville: the 5th largest city in the state and the largest in the coastal plains
Greenville: Founded as an antebellum cotton-loading town on a steamboat stop, its main point of interest today revolves around University life and a quaint downtown area.
Jacksonville: the 14th-most populous city in North Carolina.^[1] and most populous community of Onslow County, and is the home of the United States Marine Corps‘ Camp Lejeune and New River Air Station. Jacksonville is located adjacent to North Carolina’s Crystal Coast area.
Rocky Mount: first settled by traders in the mid-1700s, today is a regional shopping destination with many big-box retailers and specialty shops located in the city.
Wilmington: offers the best coastal tourism with notable beaches, and historical attractions and is home to the coastal plains only small hub airport, Wilmington International Airport (ILM)

Transportation & Lodging:

Getting Around:

Major Eastern NC Airports:

Primary Smallhub:

Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is the only small hub airport in the coastal plains.

Primary Nonhub:

Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY)
Pitt-Greenville Airport (PGV)
Jacksonville Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ)
New Bern Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (was Craven County Regional) (EWN)

*Click here for a complete list of all airports in NC.

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