Best Beach Towns in NC
#1 Atlantic Beach

• Population: 1,402

• Beach Length: 85 miles

• Median Home Price: $528,985

• Location: Atlantic Beach

Located on the southern Outer Banks, Atlantic Beach is a classic beach town with a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comforts. This Crystal Coast beach town is famous for its wide, sandy beaches and clear waters. And due to its lively and laid-back lifestyle, this town is a favorite among families and retirees.

The Fort Macon State Park, a historic Civil War fort, doesn’t only attract history lovers but also a hit picnic spot and hiking trail.

But the real fun lies in its strong community vibe with a calendar full of summer concerts, festivals, and celebration of beach culture and maritime heritage. In addition to that, a variety of seafood restaurants, evening walks, and water sports are just complimentary things from this top beach town of North Carolina.

#2 Emerald Isle

• Population: 3,939

• Beach Length: 12 miles

• Median Home Price: $716,143

• Location: Emerald Isle

A true emerald town from the name to its emerald-green waters and lush green landscape. This part of North Carolina is renowned for its relaxed pace of life and family friendly vibe.  This Crystal Coast hidden gem is perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle.

The Bogue Inlet Pier is a popular spot for fishing and sunset views, while the Emerald Isle Woods Park offers hiking trails and picnic areas.

The town’s beaches are some of the cleanest and least crowded in North Carolina, making it an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With a strong sense of community and excellent schools, Emerald Isle is a great place to raise a family.

#3 Wrightsville Beach

• Population: 2,444

• Beach Length: 4 miles

• Median Home Price: $1,527,838

• Location: Wrightsville Beach

Just a short drive from Wilmington, unlike Emerald Isle, Wrightsville Beach is home to crystal-clear blue water beaches.  This coastal town is known for its energetic vibe and water sports including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There’s more for outdoor lovers as Johnny Mercer’s Pier is offering fishing and panoramic ocean views.

Besides the water, Wrightsville Beach is also home to a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. One of the big pluses of this town is its proximity to Wilmington, which provides easy access to an urban center, while its small-town charm keeps life simple and relaxed.

#4 Bald Head Island

• Population: 276

• Beach Length: 14 miles

• Median Home Price: $1,322,395

• Location: Bald Head Island

For those seeking a unique coastal experience, Bald Head Island is a go-to place for you. What makes it unique is that it is accessible only by ferry and it is a completely car-free island. It is truly a haven of tranquility. With twisting nature trails, crystal-clear beaches, and wildlife, Bald Head Island is a dream spot for outdoor lovers and artists alike.

The island’s Old Baldy Lighthouse, built in 1817, is a historic landmark offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Bald Head Island is perfect for nature lovers, with pristine beaches, maritime forests, and tidal creeks to explore.

#5 Topsail Beach

• Population: 383

• Beach Length: 26 miles

• Median Home Price: $907,359

• Location: Topsail Beach

Topsail Beach is a charming town on Topsail Island, famous for its relaxed vibe and stunning natural beauty. The town’s name originates from pirate lore of hidden treasure, and its beaches are perfect for treasure hunting of a different kind—shells and sea glass.

This unspoiled 7-mile stretch of Topsail Beach is a favorite among families and retirees, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a strong sense of community.

The town also offers outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and if luck strikes you can witness sea turtles during nesting season, which runs from May to August.. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center is a local highlight, dedicated to protecting these endangered creatures.

#6 Beaufort

• Population: 4,690

• Beach Length: 56 miles

• Median Home Price: $391,434

• Location: Beaufort

Beaufort, North Carolina’s third-oldest town, is a historic gem on the Crystal Coast. Known for its charming waterfront, historic homes, and maritime heritage, Beaufort offers a unique blend of history and modernity. The North Carolina Maritime Museum showcases the town’s rich seafaring history, while the Beaufort Historic Site offers a glimpse into its past.

This part of North Carolina is famous for its boating community and fishing scene. Beaufort’s waterfront is lined with antique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants, makes it a lively place to live. The town’s annual Beaufort Music Festival and Old Homes Tour are popular events that bring the community together.

#7 Cape Carteret

• Population: 2,270

• Beach Length: 56 miles

• Median Home Price: $439,431

• Location: Cape Carteret

The true picturesque beach town, Cape Carteret is a peaceful coastal escape with mesmerizing views.  Cape Carteret is best for people bored with the hustle and bustle of urban centers as it’s famous for its quiet, residential vibe and friendly people.

Cape Carteret, located between the Bogue Sound and the White Oak River, is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. It’s a great place for those who love fishing, boating, and kayaking.

The town’s Cape Carteret Aquatic and Wellness Center offers fitness classes, swimming pools, and community events, making it a hub for local activity. With excellent schools and friendly community, Cape Carteret can be a home for your family in future.

#8 Ocracoke Village

• Population: 948

• Beach Length: 16 miles

• Median Home Price: $542,499

• Location: Ocracoke

Located on Ocracoke Island, Ocracoke Village is a remote and beautiful town accessible only by ferry or boat. Known for its unspoiled beaches and adorable village, Ocracoke presents ample opportunity for peaceful retreat from the fuss of metro life.

The village’s Ocracoke Lighthouse, built in 1823, is one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the United States. The town’s narrow streets are lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants, offering a taste of island life.

#9 Duck

• Population: 748

• Beach Length: 7 miles

• Median Home Price: $944,000

• Location: Duck

Duck is an upscale yet welcoming beach town on the Outer Banks, known for its scenic boardwalk, artistic vibe and strong sense of community. The town’s Duck Boardwalk is perfect for a stroll, offering views of the Currituck Sound and access to boutique shops and seafood restaurants.

People here usually indulge in biking and kayaking for pastime. It has rightly ranked among the best small coastal towns in the U.S. for its quality. Probably that’s the reason why Duck is one of the retirees’ favorite places to live.

The town’s Duck Jazz Festival and Fourth of July Parade are popular moments here that bring the community together.

#10 Oak Island

• Population: 9,322

• Beach Length: 10 miles

• Median Home Price: $546,801

• Location: Oak Island

Oak Island is a friendly, family-oriented beach town comprising 10 miles of crystal clear beaches. Its long beaches, scenic coastal parks and slow pace of life makes it a nice coastal escape. The Oak Island Lighthouse and nature center are good spots for visitors to kill time. In addition to that, the town’s parks and nature trails provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Oak Island is a favorite among families and retirees, offering excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and a variety of recreational activities. The town’s Oak Island Farmers Market and Art Guild demonstrates local talent and adds to its culture and beauty.

#11 Nags Head

• Population: 3,163

• Beach Length: 11 miles

• Median Home Price: $690,575

• Location: Nags Head

Nags Head is the most popular beach town on the Outer Banks, known for its wide beaches and extensive outdoor adventure scene. The town’s Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest natural sand dune on the East Coast, not only a stunning view but also a place for hiking, sandboarding, and hang gliding.

Nags Head is a favorite among families and outdoor lovers, offering a variety of activities, from fishing and surfing to birdwatching. The town’s Nags Head Pier is a popular spot for fishing and sunset views.

#12 Southport

• Population: 4,260

• Beach Length: 28 miles

• Median Home Price: $399,466

• Location: Southport

Southport is a charming town with a rich history and a scenic beach. Famous for its old homes, streets shaded with oak-trees, and vibrant arts scene, Southport offers a unique blend of history and modern facilities.

The town’s Southport Waterfront Park is a hit spot for picnics and sunset views, while the North Carolina Fourth of July Festival gathers everyone here. Southport’s proximity to Bald Head Island and Oak Island makes it a good spot as people can quickly switch between other beach towns.

#13 Carolina Beach

• Population: 6,772

• Beach Length: 3 miles

• Median Home Price: $583,741

• Location: Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a lively spot with a classic boardwalk, arcade games, and summer fireworks. The town’s Carolina Beach State Park is perfect for hiking and spotting Venus flytraps, while the beach itself is great for sunbathing and surfing.

Carolina Beach is a favorite among families and youngsters, due to its lively nightlife and some fun activities. The town’s Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival is a popular event among foodies and music lovers.

#14 Morehead City

• Population: 9,857

• Beach Length: 85 miles

• Median Home Price: $390,837

• Location: Morehead City

Morehead City is a busy coastal town known for its vibrant seaside and welcoming community vibe. The town’s Morehead City Waterfront is lined with boutique shops, cafes and art galleries, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Morehead City is a favorite among families and retirees, due to quality education for kids, a variety of recreational activities, and a thriving local economy.  The town’s active boating community and frequent maritime festivals are keeping the town’s historical charm alive.

#15 Kitty Hawk

• Population: 3,734

• Beach Length: 10.7 miles

• Median Home Price: $626,633

• Location: Kitty Hawk

Kitty Hawk is a historic town on the Outer Banks, known for its role in the Wright Brothers’ first flight. The town’s Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the history of aviation.

Kitty Hawk is a favorite among families and outdoor lovers, offering a variety of activities, from surfing and kayaking to hiking and birdwatching. It’s a proud and friendly community that has spread an embracing vibe for visitors.

The town’s Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve is a popular spot for nature lovers, offering miles of hiking trails and scenic views.

Best Beach Towns in North Carolina: FAQs

What Is the Best Time to Visit Coastal Towns in North Carolina?

The best time to visit beach towns in NC is late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October). During these months when the weather is moderate, not too hot, and the beaches are less crowded compared to the busy summer season. Importantly, there’ll also be no risk of a hurricane, as hurricane season lasts from August to October.

What Is the Safest NC Coastal Town?

Oak Island is often considered one of the safest coastal towns in North Carolina. The violent crime rate here is 1.37 per 1,000 residents (NC average: 3.91) while the property crime rate is 11.18 per 1,000 residents (NC average: 20.65).

What Is the Prettiest Beach in North Carolina?

Emerald Isle with its stunning emerald-green waters and pristine sandy beaches is arguably the prettiest beach in North Carolina. In addition to natural beauty, its relaxed atmosphere makes it a top choice in the state.

What Is the Nicest Beach Town in North Carolina?

Beaufort is often hailed as the nicest beach town in North Carolina. With its historic charm, scenic waterfront, and vibrant arts scene, it offers a perfect blend of culture and coastal beauty.

What Are the Best Beach Towns in North Carolina for Families?

• Atlantic Beach: Family-friendly with a lively boardwalk and summer concerts.
• Emerald Isle: Quiet, clean beaches and excellent schools.
• Carolina Beach: Fun boardwalk, arcade games, and family-friendly events.

What Are the Most Affordable Beach Towns in North Carolina?

• Cape Carteret: Offers a mix of affordability and outdoor activities.
• Morehead City: A bustling town with a lower cost of living compared to other coastal areas.

What Are the Best Beach Towns in North Carolina to Retire?

• Duck: Peaceful, upscale, and perfect for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
• Southport: Historic charm, scenic waterfront, and a strong sense of community.
• Oak Island: Quiet, safe, and ideal for retirees looking for a slower pace.

What Are the Best Beach Towns in North Carolina for Couples?

• Bald Head Island: Romantic, secluded, and perfect for long walks as it’s a car-free island.
• Ocracoke Village: Remote, charming, and perfect for a quiet hideaway. No room for privacy complaints.
• Wrightsville Beach: Vibrant, with plenty of exquisite dining and outdoor activities for couples.

Which Is the Smallest Beach Town in North Carolina to Live?

Ocracoke Village is one of the smallest and most remote beach towns in North Carolina, with a population of less than a thousand and the village covering just 9.6 miles of the Island. And you can only reach there by private boat or ferry.

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