Believe it or not, it’s usually cooler at the beach than in our concrete jungle of a city. With the ocean breeze constantly flowing, the North Carolina beaches can be an excellent escape for a weekend or more. Here are our top picks for a beach getaway:
Wilmington
At just about three and a half hours away, Wilmington is an easy ride for a weekend getaway. This is a destination with plenty to do other than just relax. Make your home base Wrightsville Beach for days in the sand, and make sure to take some time downtown. Wilmington has a thriving craft beer scene, plus some top notch eateries to explore. Or if you rent a house, why not try to catch your dinner?
What to Do:
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Stroll through Airlie Gardens
Brewery hop with Port City Brew Bus
Grab donuts at Britt’s in Carolina Beach
Go fishing on Johnnie Mercer’s Pier
Emerald Isle
Take a drive down to Bogue Banks to visit Emerald Isle, a relaxing community great for families or friend trips. For the ultimate stay, rent out a Sand Castle — large beachfront homes that can easily sleep 10 people. These homes are a great base for a weekend (or week) with beachfront access, most include pools or hot tubs, and media rooms in the event of inclement weather. Food options range from drive-in burgers at El’s or a special occasion dinner with a rooftop patio at Caribsea.
What to Do:
Rent paddleboards or kayaks from Hot Wax Surf and Paddle Sports
Pick up a kite from Kites Unlimited and take it for a spin on the beach
NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Grab the ferry to Shackleford Banks for the day
Catch the sunset with a cold beer at Idle Hour Biergarten
Nags Head
If you’re wanting to explore the Outer Banks, consider Nags Head as your location. Cross the Melvin R. Daniels Bridge to access the barrier islands, and you’ll have easy access to Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Kitty Hawk.
What to Do:
Explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse
Pack a picnic and head to the public beach
Head to Kitty Hawk to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial
Charter a boat for deep sea fishing
