Why waste the winter months hibernating indoors? Snow, ice and frosty temperatures provide plenty of fodder for outdoor adventure. When winter weather rolls into the Southeast, North Carolina’s wild spaces are briefly and beautifully transformed — with much more to offer beyond black diamond downhill runs.

Whether you’re visiting our coast, urban areas or the mountains, local specialty stores offer lasting mementos from your trip.

North Carolina’s coast is still prime for paddling and loaded with land-based adventures and cultural attractions during cooler winter months. You’ll find everything from traffic-free maritime trails to timeless historical sites and adrenaline-inducing sports. These five beach towns make for an excellent getaway any time of the year.