The North Carolina coast comprises 300 miles of barrier-island beaches, each with its own unique vibe and variety of things to do. Quaint coastal towns and endless activities guarantee there’s always something new to explore.

Exploring responsibly is a hallmark of North Carolina and ensures our beaches and coastal natural spaces stay pristine for generations to come.

Inner Coastal Plain

Pair Revolutionary and Civil War historic sites with local flavor ranging from fine dining and craft beer to muscadine wine and barbecue.

Explore Region

Known For

Skylight Inn & Barbecue Stops • Home of the “Birthplace of Independence” • Civil War Battlefields • Vivian Howard's Chef & the Farmer Restaurant • Duplin Winery

Crystal Coast

These south-facing beaches are home to cool small towns, Cape Lookout National Seashore and the nation’s best wreck diving.

Explore Region

Known For

85 Miles of Coastline • Cape Lookout Lighthouse • Home of “America’s Favorite Town” • Cape Lookout National Seashore • Wild Spanish Mustangs • Scuba Diving & Water Sports

Outer Banks & Currituck

Visit Cape Hatteras, stand where the Wright brothers took flight and watch wild horses run free along the shores of our northern coast.

Explore Region

Known For

100+ Miles of Beaches • Cape Hatteras National Seashore • The Lost Colony • Kiteboarding & Water Sports • 4 Coastal Lighthouses • Wild Spanish Mustangs

Wilmington Area

Tour the Historic River District, board Battleship North Carolina, and enjoy the surf and sand at Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville beaches.

Explore Region

Known For

3 Family-Friendly Island Beaches • “Hollywood East” TV & Movie Sights • Airlie Gardens • Wilmington Historic District • Surfing & Water Sports • Battleship North Carolina

Brunswick Islands

On our southernmost shores you can enjoy 35 golf courses, Calabash seafood and family-friendly beaches boasting sunrise and sunset views.

Explore Region

Known For

6 Beaches on 5 Barrier Islands • “North Carolina’s Golf Coast” • Safe Haven Movie Locations • “Old Baldy” and Oak Island Lighthouses • Home of Calabash-Style Seafood • Bald Head Island Conservancy

Topsail Area

This tranquil beach destination located on our southern coast is a haven for anglers, boaters, campers and visitors looking to unwind.

Explore Region

Known For

3 Quiet, Low-Key Beaches • Fishing • Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue • Boating & Water Sports • Lejeune Memorial Gardens

Albemarle & Pamlico Sounds

Visit our first state capitol at Tryon Palace, walk in Blackbeard’s footsteps in Bath, and enjoy year-round sailing, fishing and paddling.

Explore Region

Known For

Charming Small Towns & Colonial History • Birthplace of Pepsi • Nicholas Sparks Book & Film Sights • Tryon Palace • Blackbeard & Pirate History • River Fishing & Paddling