20 Small Beach Towns in North Carolina (From an NC Native)

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As a native North Carolinian who has explored miles of our gorgeous barrier islands and eastern coast, we have some truly amazing beach towns to explore.

From Corolla down to Calabash, there are so many options in NC that offer breathtaking scenery, unique attractions, and plenty of activities for when you want to take a break from sunbathing.

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1. Corolla

Corolla is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of North Carolina’s coast with few crowds.

This small beach town offers plenty of fun activities, from taking an excursion to see the wild horses to exploring the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. You can climb the lighthouse but note it does close in the off season.

The Currituck Lighthouse is located in the historic Corolla Village where there are some cute little shops. My family loved the independent bookstore, The Island Bookstore.

Be sure to have a meal at Uncle Ike’s, Mama Easley’s, or North Banks. If you want to stay in Corolla, then take a look at Corolla Village Inn or Hampton Inn & Suites Outer Banks/Corolla.

2. Duck

This quiet beach town in North Carolina is best for those who just want to lounge on the beach for the majority of their vacation. The main activities in town include taking a walk along the Duck boardwalk – especially at sunset – and visiting the original Duck Donuts.

When it comes to food, be sure to try The Blue Point, The Paper Canoe, or Eventide. Each one sits on the water with beautiful views. The Blue Point and The Paper Canoe are more high-end while Eventide is laid-back with shareable boards and sandwiches.

The Sanderling is one of the best places to stay in North Carolina and you’ll feel like royalty while here! Duck is a very popular spot for vacation rentals as well.

3. Kitty Hawk/Kill Devil Hills

These two are so small that I thought I would combine them. You’ll find the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau in Kitty Hawk as well as the Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve where you can walk, bike, and kayak. Just beware of ticks here!

In Kill Devil Hills, the Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must – it’s one of my favorite East Coast National Parks! I spent at least an hour in the museum.

It’s fun to learn more about one of the main things North Carolina is known for.

We always go to Art’s Place for breakfast and Food Dudes is popular for seafood and burgers. The Kill Devil Grill is an absolute gem that serves American food with a good wine list and local beers.

We’ve stayed at Shutters on the Banks before and really liked it. The Sea Ranch Resort is also a good option.

4. Nags Head

Nags Head is one of the busier small coastal towns in North Carolina and a great place to stay when you want to be close to many attractions and restaurants.

There are plenty of things to do, like visiting Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Jennette’s Pier, or playing a round at the Nag’s Head Golf Links.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is one of my favorite places to watch a sunset on the coast and it’s just a fun state park to visit! North Carolina really is one of the most beautiful states in the southeast.

When it comes to food, Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant, Owen’s Restaurant and Blue Moon Beach Grill are all great options.

If you’re looking for accommodations, Surfside Hotel or Oasis Suites both offer comfortable lodging in the area. In the summer, this area is absolutely crazy so book early!

5. Manteo

While Manteo isn’t directly on the beach, it’s an absolutely adorable town with tons of local shops and it’s just over the bridge from Nags Head.

Make sure you explore downtown Manteo where there are many great restaurants and shops. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site where the Lost Colony is located is fascinating and you can also watch the play if you visit during peak season.

Be sure to walk around the Elizabethan Gardens while you are here. That’s one of my favorites – they are gorgeous!

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is also great for families. As is Island Farm – a living history museum.

We’ve been to Ortega’z Southwestern Grill in downtown Manteo and it was absolutely delicious. Poor Richards Sandwich Shop and the Hungry Pelican are also good places for a meal.

6. Ocracoke

Ocracoke is one of the most remote towns on this list and can only be reached by ferry. The laid-back atmosphere is what brings people back year after year.

Rent a golf cart for the week or bring a bike so you can ride around the island. Explore the Village where you’ll find many shops, restaurants, and galleries that offer handmade items from local artisans.

You have to stop by Ocracoke Lighthouse to admire the all-white structure. My mom and I stopped by on our way out to Springer’s Point one morning at sunrise and enjoyed the view to ourselves.

Pro tip: If you want to visit Springer’s Point, ideally you need to walk from where you are staying or have someone drop you off. There is NO PARKING for Springer’s Point.

As you make your way north along Highway 12, you can access some of the most beautiful stretches of beach along the NC coast.

While you’re here, eat at 1718 Brewing, Howard’s Pub, and Pony Island Restaurant. We’ve stayed at Ocracoke Harbor Inn which was great but Captain’s Harbor Waterfront Inn is also a nice option.

7. Beaufort

Beaufort is such a charming little town that’s perfect for a relaxing vacation and my favorite place for a weekend trip. Like Manteo, it has a walkable downtown are with great shops and fantastic restaurants.

Take the ferry over to the Rachel Carson Reserve to do some hiking, see the wild ponies, or just lounge on the untouched beaches. If you’re adventurous you can even kayak over there. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum or stop in the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center.

There are so many great restaurants in Beaufort but make sure you eat at Beaufort Grocery, Aqua, and Turner Street Market.

Stay at either the Pecan Tree Inn or the Inn on Turner, especially if you’re visiting for a romantic getaway. Either of them will feel like a home away from home.

8. Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is the perfect spot for anyone who loves relaxing on the beach but also wants to be active for a few days. Explore Fort Macon State Park and walk the fort as well as the 3.2-mile Elliott Coues Nature Trail. The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a fun and educational stop too.

Amos Mosquitos is probably the most well-known restaurant and The Island Grille serves amazing seafood dishes. Sub Tropics is the place to go for a quick lunch of sandwiches or a smoothie.

Accommodations in Atlantic Beach include Palm Suites and Caribbe Inn, both offering comfortable stays close to the beach.

9. Emerald Isle

As part of the Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle also has some stunning beaches. That’s what most people come for but you can also take a relaxing walk at Emerald Isle Woods Park.

After basking in the sun, try some of their restaurants such as Fish Hut Grill, Kathryn’s Bistro, or Surf’s Up to enjoy some famous NC seafood.

While many people prefer to stay in vacation rentals at Emerald Isle, you can also stay at Lighthouse Suites if you prefer a hotel.

10. Surf City

Surf City is another one of the quiet beach towns in North Carolina. Check out Soundside Park for a great place to fish or have a picnic. Rent a jet ski or visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

Margaritas, 10th Street Bar & Grill, or Low Tide Steakhouse are all popular choices for restaurants in the area.

If you’re looking for a place to stay then Island Inn or Saltwater Suites at Topsail Island are both wonderful choices.

11. Topsail Beach

With its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, Topsail Beach is perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Visit Serenity Point to lounge on the undeveloped coastline or take a boat tour if you want to spend a day out on the water. If it’s a rainy day then visit the Missiles and More Museum.

Topsail is right next to Surf City so you can easily get to attractions and restaurants there as well. Restaurants to visit in Topsail include the Beach Shop & Grill and Coras Isle-End Deli.

One of the best places to stay on Topsail Island is Main Street Inn but the Sea Vista Hotel is also a great option.

12. Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville is one of the most high-energy North Carolina beaches on this list because it’s so close to Wilmington and the university – UNC Wilmington.

Spend your days exploring Johnnie Mercers Pier, going kayaking in the salt marsh, or learning how to surf. This is a great place to swim too.

Johnnie Mercers Pier is the only concrete pier in North Carolina and you can try surfing through Sean’s Private Surf Instruction or Sweetwater Surf School.

Take a tour through the salt marshes with Wrightsville SUP and enjoy the gorgeous views and wildlife.

When hunger strikes, take your pick from Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill, Flying Machine at Wrightsville Beach, or Oceanic.

Stay at Blockade Runner Beach Resort and wake up to sunrise views, enjoy the gorgeous pool, and take advantage of being just steps from the beach.

Fun fact – multiple famous North Carolinians are from the Wilmington area!

13. Carolina Beach

If you’re hoping to hike and enjoy the beach then Carolina Beach is a great option.

From hiking in Carolina Beach State Park to strolling along the Boardwalk, there are plenty of ways to get out and experience the beauty of nature. Carolina Beach State Park has some of the best hiking near Wilmington!

If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to check out Britt’s Donuts or Squigley’s Ice Cream for some treats – both are famous here in NC and beyond. For dinner, try COAST Craft Cocktails & Calabash or Salt Fish Restaurant and Tiki Bar.

When it comes time to rest, you can take your pick from Hampton Inn & Suites or Beacon House Inn Bed & Breakfast for comfortable accommodations near the beach.

14. Kure Beach

Located just south of Carolina Beach, Kure is one of the very quiet beach town. Many people vacation here to drive out on the beach at Fort Fisher and surf fish or enjoy a sunset from Fort Fisher Recreation Area.

A branch of the North Carolina Aquarium is also located out at Fort Fisher and you can take a ferry across the Cape Fear River over to Southport.

If you’re looking for some good food, try Beach House Burgers, Freddie’s Restaurant, and Ocean View Restaurant are a few places to try.

Many visitors choose to stay in a vacation rental or The Lighthouse at Kure Beach is a popular choice as well.

15. Bald Head Island

Are you really looking to escape it all? Head to Bald Head Island. The ferry leaves out of Southport and is a quick 20-minute ride.

The island has its own transportation system so you’ll find no cars here. Your ferry ticket includes tram service to your accommodations or you can rent a golf cart for your stay. Bikes are also a popular way to get around.

Once you’re there, enjoy secluded beaches, hiking or kayaking through marshland, or shopping in the village. Eat at Jailhouse Provisions or Delphina and have Italian Ice at Mike’s Bites.

In addition to vacation rentals, you can stay at The Inn at Bald Head Island or The Marsh Harbour Inn.

16. Southport

Southport is straight out of a Nicholas Sparks movie. Literally. “Safe Haven” was filmed in Southport and many people visit for this reason.

This small coastal town in North Carolina sits right on the Cape Fear River and is known for its quaint downtown area, local art scene, and laid-back vibes.

Eat right on the water at Fishy Fishy Cafe or Provision Company for a casual meal or Oliver’s on the Cape Fear and Frying Pan Seafood for a more upscale option.

River Hotel of Southport and LaPolena Bed & Breakfast are great options for places to stay near downtown Southport.

17. Oak Island

This is another quiet spot on the coast. The major things to do are climb the Oak Island Lighthouse and walk along the Oak Island Pier. Otherwise, people spend their days lounging on the beach.

When it comes time for a bite to eat, there are plenty of options like Swain’s Seafood and Cut, Koko Cabana, and Little Bit’s Grill.

Other than vacation rentals, there are a couple of places to stay in this quiet beach town in NC. Ocean Crest Motel and Oak Island Inn are both good options.

18. Holden Beach

Located right beside Oak Island, this barrier island might be even quieter than its neighbor. Boating, surf fishing, and spending time on the beach are the most popular things to do here.

Dock House is probably the most well-known restaurant in the area but try Provision Co and The Hot Buffalo too. For ice cream, head to The Scoop or Beaches N Cream.

Most people who visit opt for a vacation rental here but Gray Gull Motel is a no-frills lodging option. If you can camp, they also have a great campground – Ocean Breeze Family Campground.

19. Ocean Isle Beach

From the NC/SC line, up to Bald Head Island, this is probably the most happening spot with the most to do.

From The Swamp Park where you can zip line and ride ATVs to kayaking or SUPing through the marshland, there are plenty of outdoor activities to explore. You can also visit the Museum of Coastal Carolina – great activity for a rainy day.

As for restaurants, you can choose from Jinks Creek Waterfront Grill, FEAST OIB, or Seabreeze Bar & Restaurant. There are lots of other great restaurants here too.

Stay at either The Winds Resort Beach Club or Ocean Isle Inn for the best experience.

FYI this is also one of the closest beaches to Asheville (at least in NC) in case you live in the mountains and need a beach escape.

20. Calabash/Sunset Beach

You may have heard of Calabash when talking about “Calabash Seafood” because this is where this style of food originated!

Calabash is located just inland of Sunset Beach and Bird Island Reserve. Bird Island is incredibly serene and peaceful and the location of the Kindred Spirit Mailbox where you can write a note in the permanent journal there.

If you walk far enough along the beach on Bird Island, you can cross over into South Carolina. Sunset Beach and Calabash are two very small towns and the best things to do are outdoors.

Eat at the Waterfront Seafood Shack and Calabash Garden Tea Room in Calabash and La Cucina in Sunset Beach.

Stay at The Sunset Inn or Sea Trail Resort Villas for a relaxing vacation.

FAQs on Coastal Towns in NC

What is the prettiest beach in North Carolina?

It’s hard to choose the prettiest beach as they all offer stunning scenery but some of the most untouched beaches on the North Carolina coast are both Cape Lookout and Cape Hatteras National Seashores, Ocracoke, and Bald Head Island. Corolla is also gorgeous.

What is the most affordable beach in NC?

The beaches in North Carolina are actually very affordable compared to beaches in the rest of the US. Out of the NC beaches, Hatteras Beach (Rodanthe/Avon), Carolina Beach, and Ocean Isle consistently rank in national publications as the most affordable.

Which NC beach has the bluest water?

You’ll find the bluest water in North Carolina along what’s known as the Crystal Coast, so Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Cape Lookout, and Shackleford Banks. Don’t expect the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean though!

Wrap Up: Small Beach Towns in North Carolina

It’s easy to see why these places are known as amazing vacation destinations. Whether you are looking for a bustling beach like Wrightsville or Nags Head or you’re searching for solitude on Ocracoke or Corolla, you can find it here.

Each coastal town in North Carolina has so much history as well as natural beauty so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

I hope you find a new favorite vacation spot on our beautiful Carolina coast!