North Carolina has some of the most beautiful beach destinations in the US. Think of white sandy beaches, cozy towns, and lots to do for families. This guide will show you the best beaches for families in North Carolina like the exciting Outer Banks and peaceful Topsail Island. These places have calm waters, things for kids, and many beach activities. They are great for a family trip, a couple’s retreat, or a thrilling adventure. The coast of North Carolina is perfect for all.
Key Takeaways
- North Carolina offers an array of family-friendly beach destinations along its stunning coastline.
- The Outer Banks and Topsail Island are among the top best beaches in north carolina for families.
- These beach towns provide a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and kid-friendly amenities.
- North carolina coastal destinations cater to a variety of travelers, from those seeking a romantic getaway to adventure-seeking families.
- The top beach towns in north carolina offer a diverse range of activities and attractions for all ages.
- There are plenty of choices when it comes to accommodation. You know me, I always recommend finding a good hotel at a good price rather than chancing it with an Air BnB or hostel.
Outer Banks: Adventure Awaits
The Outer Banks stretches over 100 miles, making it perfect for beach lovers and those seeking adventure. This iconic coastal spot in North Carolina is famous for its wide, sandy beaches and rich history. It offers endless fun with its outdoor activities. You can check out the towering sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park or see the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
The latter lets you dive into the Wright Brothers’ story and their groundbreaking achievements in flight. And don’t miss a scenic drive along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This area ensures your visit is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
At Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the largest sand dune system in the eastern U.S. awaits. Here, visitors can climb the dunes or even try hang gliding. It’s a chance to be in awe of the Outer Banks’ natural beauty up close.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial marks the spot where the first powered flight happened in 1903. It’s a place to discover the brothers’ journey and see where history was made. Visit to see how aviation started.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore also offers a lot for outdoor lovers. You can enjoy a scenic drive or visit the famous Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. For the adventurous, activities like kiteboarding and surfing are a must.
Also, don’t miss Duck and Corolla. These charming towns are perfect for relaxing and enjoying fresh seafood. It’s all against the backdrop of stunning ocean views.
Wrightsville Beach: Surf and Sand Perfection
Just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is full of life. It’s a great mix of calm times and fun adventures. The beach is famous for its clear water and sandy shores. People love to surf, paddleboard, or just soak up the sun here.
Johnnie Mercer’s Pier
Johnnie Mercer’s Pier is an iconic spot in Wrightsville Beach. It stretches over 1,200 feet into the water. Walking on the pier gives you amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast. You can fish off the pier or just enjoy the peace and incredible ocean views.
Intracoastal Waterway
There’s more than just the beach at Wrightsville Beach. You can check out the Intracoastal Waterway nearby. It’s a peaceful place with calm waters, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. You’ll see marshes and wildlife up close. It’s a great way to enjoy nature besides the beach.
Wrightsville Beach is not just a beautiful spot. It also has great places to eat, shop, and have fun at night. It’s perfect for families, couples, and people traveling alone. You can surf, walk the pier, or explore the Intracoastal Waterway. This beach town in wrightsville beach nc has something for everyone.
Emerald Isle: Family-Friendly Fun
Emerald Isle is located on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. It’s perfect for families wanting a quiet beach vacation. The town is known for its beautiful emerald-green waters and friendly vibe, making it ideal for both fun and relaxation.
In Emerald Isle, enjoy classic beach activities. Build sandcastles, swim, or fish from the Bogue Inlet Pier. A quick trip away is the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. There, you can see marine life and take part in fun experiences. Whether you explore the sea’s beauty or relax on the beach, this place is for making great family memories.
Emerald Isle’s community and scenery make it a standout on the Crystal Coast. It provides a peaceful, beautiful beach trip for families. No matter if you’re looking for peace or excitement, this family-friendly place has something special for everyone.
Carolina Beach: Vibrant and Lively
If you’re after a fun beach trip, Carolina Beach is perfect. Found just south of Wilmington, it’s brimming with life. You’ll find a lively boardwalk, restaurants that are always buzzing, and plenty of fun things to do.
On the boardwalk, enjoy everything from classic carnival rides to winning at arcade games. You can also catch live music playing. It’s the heart of the beach’s fun.
Boardwalk Attractions
At the Carolina Beach boardwalk, there’s something for everyone. Thrilling carnival rides and classic arcade games are everywhere. Plus, you can treat yourself to traditional boardwalk food and enjoy live music. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
Carolina Beach State Park
The fun doesn’t stop at the boardwalk. Nature lovers will adore the Carolina Beach State Park. It’s a beautiful place with hiking trails and a chance to see Venus flytraps. These plants only grow in a few places. Explore the park and enjoy the peaceful coastal scenery.
Carolina Beach also has a lot of cool surf shops, great places to eat, and fun nightlife. It’s a top pick for anyone wanting an exciting and memorable beach vacation.
Topsail Island: Tranquil Retreat
Visit Topsail Island to escape the busy city life. It’s a calm beach spot loved for its natural beauty and peace. You’ll find three cozy areas: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. Walk the silent shores, collect seashells, or fish. Don’t miss the chance to see sea turtles at the Karen Beasley center. It’s a perfect place for a laid-back family trip.
Topsail Island is surrounded by the Atlantic, bringing a peaceful vibe. Here, you can relax by the sea, see local animals, or visit cute coastal towns. Search for pretty shells, fish in quiet waters, or take a walk in the woods. This island is untouched and great for families looking to relax in North Carolina.
This island is heaven for nature lovers. Walk on the clean beaches, watch birds, or kayak in calm waters. At the Karen Beasley center, learn about protecting sea turtles. Topsail Island is perfect for adventures or if you just need a break. It offers a peaceful retreat on the North Carolina shore.
| Topsail Island Activities | Topsail Island Attractions |
|---|---|
| Beachcombing | Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center |
| Fishing | Surf City Pier |
| Kayaking | Missiles and More Museum |
| Hiking | North Topsail Beach |
| Birdwatching | Topsail Beach |
Bald Head Island: Unplug and Unwind
Looking for a different kind of beach adventure? Visit Bald Head Island. Here, you’ll find golf carts and bikes instead of cars. You can only get here by ferry. Once you arrive, you’ll discover 14 miles of clean beaches, green forests, and cute cottages.
Old Baldy Lighthouse
North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse, Old Baldy, offers amazing views from the top.
Do you dream of unwinding somewhere peaceful? Bald Head Island is your spot. You can do things like
kayaking and bird watching
in quiet waters and nature-filled landscapes. This island is perfect for anyone who wants both adventure and calm. It’s truly a place to recharge.
| Activities on Bald Head Island | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Lighthouse Climbing | Climb to the top of the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse for stunning views of the island |
| Kayaking | Explore the serene waterways and spot diverse wildlife in the island’s lush maritime forests |
| Bird Watching | Observe a variety of coastal birds, including herons, egrets, and ospreys, in their natural habitats |
| Beach Combing | Stroll along the 14 miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches and discover unique shells and sand dollars |
| Fishing | Cast a line from the shore or charter a boat to enjoy the island’s excellent fishing opportunities |
Oak Island: Coastal Charm
Nestled along the southern coast, Oak Island mixes natural beauty with charm. It has vast oak island nc beaches, scenic piers, and a welcoming community. This makes Oak Island perfect for those who love the sea. Discover the iconic
Oak Island Lighthouse
, go
Kayaking in the Marshes
, or enjoy a slow bike ride through the town. Oak Island’s chill atmosphere and stunning sunsets make it a great spot for a break.
The oak island north carolina shore features quaint piers and docks. They are great for fishing, strolls, and enjoying the view. Oak Island is full of oak island attractions perfect for relaxing or exploring.
best beaches for families in north carolina
North Carolina’s best family beaches offer adventure, relaxation, and fun. From the Outer Banks to Carolina Beach, these spots have something for everyone. Enjoy the wide, sandy shores and historic landmarks or explore the barrier islands. Kids will love playing in the shallow waters and enjoying family-friendly amenities. North Carolina’s coast is a perfect spot for an unforgettable beach trip.
Looking for the best kid-friendly beaches in north carolina? You’ll find shallow waters, fun amenities, and a lot of things to do. Visit historic sites, go kayaking, or just relax on the beach. North Carolina’s shores are waiting for you and your family. It’s time to start planning your great beach vacation in the Tar Heel State.
Kure Beach: Calm Waters and Sandy Shores
Kure Beach is perfect for families because it has calm waters and a sandy shoreline. It offers five miles of clean coastline. Here, you can sunbathe, have a picnic, or play with your kids.
Surf-fishing and Beachcombing
Try surf-fishing in Kure Beach. You can catch many types of fish in the saltwater. And if you enjoy something more relaxed, take a walk and look for seashells or unique pieces of driftwood on the shore.
Picnic Areas and Grills
At the town of Kure Beach, find shaded places to picnic and grills for cooking. It offers a stunning view of kure beach nc. They also have changing rooms and showers for your comfort.
Ocracoke Island: Undeveloped Beauty
Ocracoke Island is perfect for families who love beach camping, kayaking, and swimming. It’s an undeveloped barrier island with miles of uncrowded ocracoke island beaches. At Ocracoke Island State Park, you can camp right on the beach. This lets you get close and personal with the area’s natural splendor.
Beach Camping
At Ocracoke Island State Park, families can enjoy beach camping. You can pitch your tent a stone’s throw from the shore. Drift off to sleep to the calming sounds of the ocean. Then, wake up to a view of beautiful ocracoke island nc. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor family experience.
Kayaking and Swimming
There’s more to do than just relax on the beach at ocracoke island north carolina. Families can kayak in the calm waters. This is a great way to see wildlife and enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere. And for swimmers, the things to do on ocracoke island are a dream. Spend your time exploring the island’s quaint village. You’ll find plenty of natural beauty at this secret coastal gem.
Conclusion
North Carolina’s coastline is full of family-friendly beach spots. Each spot has its own special beauty and things to do. You can visit the lively Outer Banks or the peaceful Topsail Island.
These beach towns are perfect for families. They have calm waters, things for kids to do, and lots of fun by the sea. You can visit historic places, kayak in marshes, or just enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Now is the perfect time to plan your amazing beach trip. North Carolina’s coast is filled with surprises. You’ll find lively boardwalks and peaceful islands. It’s the ultimate beach destination for families.
