Hundreds of sea turtles come ashore to nest on North Carolina’s beaches each summer. These loggerheads, leatherbacks, ridleys and green sea turtles lay eggs by the hundred, then return to the sea. Thousands of tiny hatchlings emerge and follow their instincts toward the ocean. Those that survive into adulthood might even eventually return to the same beach to lay eggs of their own.

Water parks are a hot place for families to cool off when summer sizzles in North Carolina. Find the slides and water rides that match your thrill level, or simply retreat to a poolside cabana. Here are some of North Carolina’s man-made watery destinations that are sure to be among the highlights of your vacation or day trip.

The gardens of Western North Carolina feature a lush variety of plant life thanks to significant differences in temperature and rainfall at different altitudes.

If playing golf is a top priority while you're on vacation, you’ll appreciate these destinations where it’s easy to enjoy both tee times and summertime.