’Tis the sea-son! A short drive is all that stands between you and that first breath of fresh ocean air as you crest Swain’s Bridge onto Oak Island. Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, the coastal retreat is the largest of five barrier islands that form the scenic Brunswick Islands.
Oozing nostalgia for halcyon days, the idyllic oasis is famed for its nearly 10 miles of sandy shoreline, beckoning you to build sandcastles or soak up the sunshine. Seaside adventures abound from boardwalks and nature walks to surfing, boating and beyond—plus, a bevy of beachy retreats to take in an ice-cold bev or savor some of the state’s supreme seafood.
And good news for Mutt Damon—canine companions are welcome on the beach (leashed up during peak season!), and many locales are pup-friendly. So, in short: the perf seaside reset.
DO
Courtesy of Mr. Beach Rentals
Mr. Beach Rentals Surf’s—er, paddles—up! Kayak or stand-up paddleboard near The Point on the westernmost side of the island, and while you’re at it, paddle over to Sheep Island to explore (sadly, no sheep, just shells and marsh). If you pref stretching your limbs over muscles, Mr. Beach Rentals will also set up and take down chairs and umbrellas for a lax day on the sand. mrbeachrentals.com
Summer Concert Series Summer soundtrack found. Oak Island’s popular Bands by the Beach series is back at Middleton Park Complex every Friday beginning late May, serving sweet tunes to groove the night away just steps from the shore from standouts like Jim Quick & Coastline, The Embers, and Chairmen of the Board. oakislandnc.gov
Courtesy of Oak Island Fishing Charters
Oak Island Fishing Charters Catch your own dinner aboard a fishing charter with Wally, the longest-running full-time captain on the island. And there are plenty of fish in the sea—quite literally—with options to go for a full offshore expedition or keep things closer to shore. Aspiring fishermen and women can even get in on the action with a kid-friendly charter op. oakislandfishingcharters.com
EAT
Kai Joe’s Aloha from Oak Island! Self-dubbed “nacho mamma’s tacos,” this seasonal hot spot serves up a mouthwatering mix of breakfast burritos, tacos, nachos and rice bowls with a bold Hawaiian twist. Swing by the walk-up window for a North Shore taco packed with grilled shrimp, then kick back at one of the cozy picnic tables nearby for primo island vibes. kaijoes.com
Courtesy of Swain Seafood Shack
Swain Seafood Shack A trip to the beach isn’t complete without saltwater specialties, and Swain’s is about as authentic as you can get. Blackened, grilled, steamed or fried—there’s no wrong answer. But, either way, leave room for a piece of the owner’s wife’s famous Key lime pie-stuffed coconut cake, which is exactly what it sounds like, and even more delicious. swainseafoodshack.com
OKI Scoop Shop & Donuts Hot, fresh, made-to-order doughnuts morning, noon and night and homemade ice cream? Say less. A kid-meets-adult paradise, the cult-fave sweets shop lets you craft your own doughnut masterpiece from 10,000+ possible combos. So, yeah, multiple visits are a must. okiscoopshop.com
DRINK
The Lazy Turtle You will def wanna come out of your shell and laze away with your feet in the sand at this laid-back bar and grill—signature green Turtle Juice in hand, naturally. Spoil Anderson Pooper with the pup menu as you house down daily specials and take in live entertainment on the (almost) daily. @thelazyturtleoki
Courtesy of Koko Cabana
Koko Cabana It’s always island time—and happy hour—at this beachfront mainstay. Spice things up with a strawberry jalapeno marg, split a daiquiri pitcher with your crew, or go loco for the KoKo LoKo made with not one but four different rums. A stone’s throw from Lazy Turtle, the pair makes for a great bar crawl while watching the tide roll in. kokocabana.com
Paul’s of Oak Island Boasting the “best burger in town” with over 20 beers on tap, ’tails, fun frozen tipples, wine and even THC seltzers to wash it down—and late-night snacks to boot—Paul’s is no doubt the man about town. paulsoki.com
STAY
Courtesy of Anchor Inn Motel
Anchor Inn Motel An island treasure that’s been making waves for years, this intimate motel offers a retro-meets-modern energy, complete with 18 fully renovated rooms balancing the classic salmon- and blue-colored exterior—all a short jaunt from the beach, shops and restaurants. Can’t wait to dive in? There’s also a large on-site pool. anchorinnmotelnc.com
The Beach House Drift off to sleep with the waves as your lullaby via cozy boutique ocean-view apartment-style vacation rentals perf for families or longer stays. Situated on scenic Ocean Drive, the beach will literally be your backdrop, leaving no excuse not to soak up some fun in the sun. beachhouseoki.com
Photo by Riley Jones Real Estate Media, courtesy of Oak Island Accommodations
Golden Hour It’s golden hour every hour at this sprawling sun-soaked Lockwood Folly Inlet-facing vacay rental decked out with a giant private pool, firepit and dreamy views—aka Oak Island living at its finest. Not a golden guy or girlie? Oak Island Accommodations boasts 450+ other unique rentals around the island. rentalsatthebeach.com
Two NC brothers and their best friend are about to upgrade your beach day—again.
It’s time to swap your Shibumi for a shhhh-ibumi (!). The iconic blue-and-teal arched billowy canopy that has dotted our coastline—and beyond—since 2016 is getting a soundless improvement. Enter the Shibumi Shade with Quiet Canopy.
“With past Shibumi Shade versions, we understood the noise created by the canopy flapping in high wind could be a pain point for users, and so this is something we’ve been working on for a long time,” says Alex Slater, who originally launched the shady solution with NC brothers Scott and Dane Barnes after putting up with far too many less-than-ideal beach umbrellas during vacations in Emerald Isle.
Post extensive R&D to include tests in labs, on beaches and in the wind tunnel built into their Raleigh-based warehouse (!), the team engineered an optimal amount of stretch into the fabric to ensure some peace and quiet—in addition to shade, natch—for your next coastal escape.
It’s all part of the crafty trio’s value of creating an excellent commodity they’re proud to stand behind (and under). “We want to continue to make excellent products,” emphasizes Slater, “and to make sure the Shibumi brand is synonymous with quality and innovation.”
He adds that making connections has always been his favorite part of starting the biz, “so we always want to honor those relationships and our commitment to customer service. Along the way, if we can make going to the beach a more enjoyable experience for more people, that’s all we can ask for.” Now entering our quiet shade era… shibumishade.com
For most Raleighites, summer just wouldn’t be summer without a vacay out to the East Coast (best coast!). Lucky for us, the state has beaches in spades. North Carolina’s 322 miles of shoreline consist of more than 25 distinct beaches, each offering a unique experience, from the lively boardwalk at Carolina Beach to the secluded vacation homes of Bald Head Island. Get to know the coastal towns we’re fortunate to have just a short drive away by this summer. We explore 17 of our favorite North Carolina beach towns and what each has to offer—and we know one of them will have everything you want for the coastal getaway of your dreams.
Outer Banks
Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk’s rustic vibe, combining water activities and a marine forest reserve for kayaking and hiking, is perfect for those looking to spend the summer outdoors. The charming town boasts a friendly beach community of residents and returning vacationers who welcome first-time tourists with open arms.
Blackhorse Studio
Where to eat: John’s Drive In, Ocean Boulevard Bistro & Martini Bar, Art’s Place, High Cotton BBQ Attractions: Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve, Kitty Hawk Pier, Sea Scape Golf Links, Dare County Arboretum Parking: There is parallel parking and marked spaces lining streets, plus parking lots at beach access points.
Duck
You can’t make a trip to Duck without going to Duck Donuts! No matter how long the line may be, it’s worth waiting at the original location of the now nationally famous doughnut shop. Although small, the upscale beach town attracts visitors each year with its seven miles of white sandy beaches, lush maritime forests and swamps and exceptional dining and shopping options along the popular boardwalk.
C2 Photography
Where to eat: Duck Donuts, The Blue Point Restaurant, AQUA Restaurant, The Paper Canoe Attractions: Duck Town Park, Duck Boardwalk Parking: Parking is primarily available at Duck Town Park and Boardwalk.
Nags Head
One of the most popular beaches in the Outer Banks, Nags Head boasts endless opportunities for summer fun for the whole family. Try parasailing over the ocean or hang gliding across the dunes, play mini golf, cast a line from the shore or ride a horse in the sand.
Bodie Island Lighthouse | Bruce DeBoer
Where to eat: Blue Moon Beach Grill, Fish Heads Bar & Grill, Surfin’ Spoon Attractions: Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Jennette’s Pier, Nags Head Woods Preserve Parking: Parking is available at the majority of beach access points from 6am to midnight.
Kill Devil Hills
Kill Devil Hills got its claim to fame after the Wright brothers successfully launched the world’s first motor-operated airplane there in 1903. The memorial commemorating the event is a short bike ride from the delightful beach. Consider renting a bike to get around to the town’s restaurants and shops during your stay.
Wright Brothers National Memorial | C2 Photography
Where to eat: Jolly Roger, Stack’em High Pancakes & So Forth, Pigman’s Bar-B-Que, The Kill Devil Grill, Food Dudes Kitchen Attractions: Wright Brothers National Memorial, Run Hill State Natural Area, Avalon Pier Parking: Public beach access points offer plenty of parking.
Crystal Coast
Indian Beach
In between Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle lies Indian Beach—known as one of North Carolina’s coastal hidden gems, an upscale beach town home to lush maritime forests, luxurious oceanfront homes, soft, white dunes and captivating emerald-hued waters. Its name comes from the discovery of Indian burial mounds before the town was incorporated in 1973.
Chelsea Zipperer
Where to eat: Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ, The Crab Shack, Anchor Drafthouse & Pizzeria Attractions: North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, Bogue Banks, Beach Wheels Bike Rentals Parking: Indian Beach Regional Public Access offers 36 spots plus an access ramp.
Emerald Isle
Voted North Carolina’s best beach by U.S. News, Emerald Isle is a no-frills destination beloved for its 12 miles of family friendly beaches, popular fishing piers, oceanside amenities including grills, showers and picnic shelters, and delicious restaurants to fuel you before or after a long day on the water. Dolphin and wild horse sightings make a trip here all the more enticing.
Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier | Jared Kay
Where to eat: Caribsea, Kathryn’s Bistro & Martini Bar, The Trading Post, Flipperz Family Bar & Grill Attractions: Emerald Fest, Emerald Isle Woods Park, Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier Parking: The Eastern Ocean Regional Access and Western Ocean Regional Access parking lots charge parking is $4/hour, with a max of $16/day.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a family favorite destination for its fun activities including swimming, fishing, biking, water sports rentals and other attractions. There’s plenty to do, eat and drink in this lovely town, famous for its beautiful, translucent waters and easily accessible walking trails that help you explore everything the area has to offer.
Chelsea Zipperer
Where to eat: Shark Shack, Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar, AB Ice Cream & Candy Shoppe, On The Rocks Attractions: Fort Macon State Park, Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail, Shackleford Banks Parking: Parking is $5/hour every day at most beach access points.
Topsail Area
North Topsail Beach
Topsail Island’s northernmost beach is a favorite for quiet family vacations. Boaters and anglers also flock to North Topsail for peaceful excursions. No high-rise hotels mean gorgeous ocean views no matter where you opt to stay or eat at one of the area’s beloved oceanside restaurants.
Steve Yocom
Where to eat: Splash By the Sea, Seaview Pier Restaurant Attractions: Permuda Island Reserve Parking: Public parking lots available at most beach access points.
Surf City
The main entertainment spot on Topsail Island, Surf City is where vacationers go to enjoy clean beaches, shopping and other activities by day, and socializing and dining at indoor and outdoor restaurants by night.
Surf City BBQ | Steve Yocom
Where to eat: Shaka Taco, Sugar Island Bakery, SurfDog Bites & Brews, Surf City BBQ Attractions: The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, Soundside Park, Kenneth D. Batts Family Park Parking: Beach access point hourly rates range from $3–$5/hour depending on location.
Topsail Beach
A haven for tranquil beach getaways, Topsail Beach is beloved for its small, quiet beach community on the southernmost end of Topsail Island. The town is also known for its focus on the natural environment and conservation efforts. Seclude yourself in a vacation rental with only the ocean and a handful of neighborly restaurants to keep you entertained.
Steve Yocom
Where to eat: Beach Shop & Grill, Cora’s Isle-End Deli, Breezeway Restaurant Attractions: Jolly Roger Pier, Missiles and More Museum, Topsail Beach Skating Rink Parking: Public parking lots available at most beach access points for $5/hour or $25/day.
A fun-filled vacation awaits at Carolina Beach. Enjoy summer concerts, amusement rides on the boardwalk, oceanfront dining and colorful tiki bars. Freeman Park, the northernmost region of Carolina Beach, is also one of the only beaches in North Carolina where driving onto the sand is allowed. Let the fun begin!
Carolina Beach Boardwalk | Joseph Diepenbrock
Where to eat: Britt’s Donut Shop, Nauti Dog, Kate’s Pancake House Attractions: Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Carolina Beach State Park, Freeman Park Beach, Riverfront Park Amphitheater Parking: Parking is available at the majority of beach access points in addition to limited street parking.
Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is a favorite among people of all ages. On any given weekend during the summertime, you’ll find the beach filled with families on vacation, groups of friends on day trips and college students from the nearby University of North Carolina Wilmington. Commonly called the birthplace of surfing on the East Coast, Wrightsville Beach is also a popular spot to catch some waves.
Ryan Donnell
Where to eat: Tower 7, Oceanic, South Beach Grill, ARtisano Pizza and Gelato Attractions: Johnnie Mercer’s Pier, Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, Harbor Way Gardens Parking: Public access points offer parking for $6/hour or $35/day.
Kure Beach
Kure Beach’s small-town vibe makes all who visit feel welcome. The beach is ideal for family vacations, as the whole gang can enjoy learning about North Carolina’s ocean life at the aquarium, dining at family friendly restaurants, fishing on one of the oldest piers on the Atlantic Coast and enjoying water activities like swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Bill Russ
Where to eat: Beach House Burgers, Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill Attractions: Kure Beach Fishing Pier, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Parking: Kure Beach has metered sports as well as public lots for $5/hour or $20/day.
Brunswick Islands
Bald Head Island
Leave your car behind for a relaxing getaway to Bald Head Island; this beach is only accessible by ferry and a golf cart or bike is recommended for getting around once you’re on the island. The pristine, 12,000-acre island is undeveloped aside from vacation rental properties and the exceptional Bald Head Island Club golf course, offering a serene feel for a handful of residents and vacationers. When you’re really looking to get away from it all, Bald Head Island is where you’ll want to be.
Bald Head Island Club | C2 Photography
Where to eat: Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub, Maritime Market Café Attractions: Bald Head Island Golf Club, Old Baldy Lighthouse Parking: Since no cars are allowed on the island, parking is never an issue! But you’ll have to leave your car at the Deep Point ferry terminal; parking costs $13/day.
Ocean Isle
Across the Intracoastal Waterway you’ll find Ocean Isle Beach, a time-honored summer vacation destination for many North Carolinians. Opt for a lazy getaway spent lounging on the beach and dining at some of the area’s excellent restaurants, or spend your time swimming, boating and fishing.
Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille | Jared Kay
Where to eat: Causeway Gourmet, The Dawg House Grill Too, Ocean Isle Fish Company Restaurant, Drift Coffee and Kitchen, Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille Attractions: Museum of Coastal Carolina, Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Pier, Ferry Landing Park, Ocean Isle Beach Free Summer Concert Series Parking: Parking is available at almost all beach access points up and down the island for $5/hour or $20/day.
Holden Beach
Folks come to Holden Beach as much for the ocean as for the fresh North Carolina-caught seafood. The area is home to several seafood restaurants that keep regulars coming back summer after summer for catch-of-the-day specials and timeless favorites. In between meals, vacationers pass the time on the delightful beach enjoying the sun, sand, water and each other’s company.
Bill Russ
Where to eat: Provision Company, Beaches N Cream, Dock House Seafood & More Attractions: Holden Beach Watersports, Catch 22 Charters Parking: There are parking lots near the bridge and at beach access points for $5/hour or $20/day from 9:00am–5:00pm.
Sunset Beach
It’s said that life moves slower at Sunset Beach. The beach town’s laid-back vibe is ideal for filling your days with suntanning in the sand, kayaking in the salt marshes, hitting golf balls on the green and enjoying seafood on an outdoor patio. Its name doesn’t come from nothing—view both the sunrise and sunset over the water, a beautiful way to start and end each day.
Ryan Donnell
Where to eat: House’s Place at the Beach, La Cucina, Sarah’s Kitchen Attractions: Ingram Planetarium, Silver Coast Winery, Bird Island Reserve, Oyster Bay Golf Links Parking: Sunset Beach Pier offers the largest parking lot at a cost of $10 per day. Side street parking is limited.
Seas the day at Wilmington Beaches—Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville.
One of the best things about Raleigh is its proximity to the beach—just zip down I-40, and in a few short hours, you’ll be sitting with your toes in the sand, the sound of waves lapping in your ears and not a single worry in mind. Ahh… we can picture it now.
The Wilmington Beaches—Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach—are the shortest drive from the City of Oaks, and offer the perfect summer daytrip or weekend getaway when you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s all about the good times and tan lines at the Wilmington Beaches, and there’s shorely plenty of that to be had.
Besides the beach—obviously—these coastal NC hot spots boast fun activities for the whole family. Take a surf lesson or stand-up paddleboard on the Intracoastal Waterway; visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher; nosh on fresh seafood with the ocean as your backdrop; or sip a local brew in the sunshine. There’s so much to do and so much to “sea,” you’ll need more than a couple of days to do it all. So book a week—and consider your plans covered.
DO
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Hop from the beach to the salt marsh trails along the 6 miles of wildlife at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The protected shoreline is home to shells, starfish, sea urchins, loggerhead sea turtles and other species. Bonus: Four-wheel-drive vehicles are allowed seasonally with permits. ncparks.gov
35th Annual Carolina Beach Music Festival
Dance barefoot in the sand to live music from local bands, including Jim Quick & Coastline, Band of Oz and Blackwater Band, at the biggest beach music festival actually held on the beach. Coolers, beverages and food are allowed, so you can fuel the fun all day long. Aug. 14, wilmingtonandbeaches.com
Blockade Runner Surf to Sound Adventures
Outdoor lovers, this one’s for you. Spend the whole day out on the water with a plethora of water activities, including a sunset harbor cruise, Masonboro Island hopper cruise, seaside yoga and kayak rentals, in which you’ll paddle your way through the salt marshes, tidal creeks and protected waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. blockade-runner.com
EAT
Britts Donut Shop
You can’t go to Carolina Beach without standing in line on the Boardwalk for these famous homemade glazed doughnuts. Having amassed a cult following, Britts frequents top 10 “best doughnut shops in the country” lists (also crowned best doughnuts in NC, natch). So, a true hole in one. brittsdonutshop.com
Ceviche’s
This colorful beach shack just over the bridge from Wrightsville Beach serves up a delicious Panamanian menu inspired by owner Hunter Tiblier’s upbringing in Panama. Nourish your body with tapas, empanadas, seafood dishes and, of course, ceviches, all made with only the freshest of ingredients. wbceviche.com
Ida Thai Cuisine
This hidden gem at Carolina Beach serves up some of the best Thai food in the area—think chicken satay, spicy basil noodles, som tom (papaya salad) and a multitude of curries. The crowd-favorite coconut cake is heavenly—and a must-have dessert after any meal.idathairestaurant.com
DRINK
SUNdays
No Sunday scaries here. By day, this South End WB cafe serves coffee, lattes, milkshakes, smoothies and acai bowls in rotating flavors. By night, come out for wine and local beer, plus grub from area food trucks. facebook.com/sundayswb
Waterman’s Brewing Company
Well-known NC brewmaster Bob High concocts a variety of easy-sipping beers that go down effortlessly after a day on the water. Choose from the Sea Love Sour made with locally harvested sea salt; Stoker’s Select, a passion fruit summer blonde ale; and more. Plus, enjoy daily specials like 75 cent wings on Wednesdays and half-price wine bottles on Thursdays.watermansbrewing.com
The Fat Pelican
Beach shack meets dive bar at Carolina Beach’s The Fat Pelican, a legendary locale where locals and visitors alike gather for beer, wine and live music out on the sandy picnic area. Grab a few beers for the beach from the walk-in cooler (350-plus on offer!). “I’ve got my toes in the water… cold beer in my hand.” thefatpelican.com
STAY
Blockade Runner Beach Resort
Eat, stay and play at this good vibes-only beachfront boutique resort in Wrightsville—the place to stay when visiting the coast. Enjoy Sunday jazz brunch at the go-to hotel’s uberpopular EAST Oceanfront Dining resto, poolside drinks, surf lessons and more all in a day’s work—er, vacay. blockade-runner.com
Carolina Beach Realty
Since 1963, Carolina Beach Realty has been pairing tourists with their dream vacation homes in Carolina and Kure Beach, whether that means a small oceanfront condo for a couples’ getaway or a large beachfront home for the whole fam. carolinabeachrealty.net
The Lighthouse Inn
The newly renovated The Lighthouse Kure Beach is “a little place for big moments”… what with its nine luxury apartment suites just steps away from the beach. The rooms are the perfect homebase for your next seaside vacay—each with a private balcony with ocean views, functional kitchenettes, and modern decor and amenities. kurelighthouseinn.com
