North Carolina’s stunning coastline, stretching over 300 miles, offers a diverse range of beach experiences perfect for family vacations. From the wild beauty of the Outer Banks, where wild horses roam free, to the tranquil south-facing shores of the Brunswick Islands, there’s a beach for every family. With historic boardwalks, captivating pirate tales, iconic lighthouses, and towering sand dunes, the North Carolina coast is an enchanting destination. If you’re planning your first family beach trip to North Carolina, let’s explore seven of the Best Beaches In North Carolina For Families to help you get started.
wild-bankers-pony-corolla-beach-north-carolinaAlt text: Wild Bankers horses roam freely on the sandy shores of Corolla Beach, a top attraction for families visiting North Carolina.
1. Corolla Beach: Witness the Majesty of Wild Banker Horses
Nestled in the northern part of the Outer Banks, Corolla Beach boasts miles of pristine white sand. This expansive beach, where one section seamlessly merges into another, is remarkably uncrowded, offering families ample space to relax and play. Corolla Beach is famed as the habitat of the wild Banker horses, descendants of Spanish Mustangs from the 16th century. Easily accessible from Corolla village, this beach is a must-visit for families hoping to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
Family Highlights of Corolla Beach:
- Wild Banker Horses: Embark on a Wild Horse Adventure Tour in the Currituck Banks Reserve to witness these incredible animals.
- Educational Fun: Visit the Wild Horse Museum to learn about the history and preservation of the Banker horses.
- Surfing Adventures: Take surfing lessons at the Corolla Surf Shop, perfect for families looking to catch some waves.
- Lighthouse Views: Climb to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse for panoramic coastal vistas.
- Watersports Galore: Enjoy parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), tubing, or kayaking for thrilling family fun.
- Historic Corolla Village: Explore the charming historic Corolla village on a family bike ride.
Getting to Corolla Beach: Corolla Beach is approximately a four-hour drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it easily accessible for families arriving by air.
Find Family-Friendly Stays in Corolla Beach
hang-gliding-over-dunes-kill-devil-hills-north-carolinaAlt text: Family fun hang gliding over the towering sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.
2. Kill Devil Hills Beach: Step into Aviation History
Kill Devil Hills is not only home to a fantastic family beach but also the site where the Wright Brothers achieved the first successful manned flight in 1903. Beyond its historical significance, Kill Devil Hills Beach offers a quintessential family beach experience. Picture colorful beachfront houses, colossal sand dunes, vast stretches of smooth sand, exciting watersports, and a plethora of kid-friendly activities both on and off the beach.
Family Adventures in Kill Devil Hills:
- Wright Brothers National Memorial: Stand at the exact spot where aviation history was made at the Wright Brothers National Monument Memorial.
- Hang Gliding School: Learn to soar at Kitty Hawk Kites, the world’s largest hang-gliding school, offering lessons for various skill levels.
- Jockey’s Ridge State Park: Explore the towering sand dunes at Jockey Ridge State Park, the tallest dune system in the Eastern US, perfect for sandboarding and kite flying.
- Watersports Activities: Enjoy sea kayaking, boogie boarding, surfing, and SUP in the Atlantic waters.
- Explore Coastal Villages: Cycle through charming local villages like Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills, discovering unique shops and eateries.
Getting to Kill Devil Hills: Kill Devil Hills is conveniently located just over three hours’ drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it an accessible beach destination for families.
Discover Family Accommodations in Kill Devil Hills
people-on-cape-hatteras-national-seashore-ocracoke-islandAlt text: Families enjoying the expansive and unspoiled beauty of Ocracoke Island beach within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
3. Ocracoke Island: Embrace Pirate History and Natural Beauty
Ocracoke Island, nestled within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, exudes a welcoming atmosphere that makes families feel instantly at ease. From its charming historic village and picturesque harbor to 16 miles of uninterrupted, pristine ocean beach, this unique island at the southern end of the Outer Banks is undeniably captivating. Historically, Ocracoke was a notorious haven for pirates, most famously Blackbeard, who met his end here in 1718.
Family Fun on Ocracoke Island:
- Ferry Dolphin Watching: Enjoy dolphin spotting during the scenic ferry crossing from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke.
- Ocracoke Beach: Relax and play on the stunning Ocracoke Beach, part of the protected Cape Hatteras National Seashore, known for its natural beauty and tranquility.
- Pirate Adventures: Walk in the footsteps of the legendary pirate Blackbeard and explore the island’s rich pirate history.
- Island Exploration: Adventure around Ocracoke Island on family-friendly golf carts or bicycles, perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace.
Getting to Ocracoke Island: Hatteras Island is approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU). A free ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke takes about 1 hour, adding to the adventure.
Find Family-Friendly Hotels on Ocracoke Island
atlantic-beach-fishing-pier-north-carolinaAlt text: The iconic Oceanana Fishing Pier at Atlantic Beach, a favorite spot for families enjoying coastal activities in North Carolina.
4. Atlantic Beach: A Crystal Coast Gem for Beach Lovers
Atlantic Beach, situated on the Crystal Coast, is a highly sought-after resort destination. Its expansive ocean beach consistently ranks among the top 20 beaches in the US, making it a prime choice for families. Teenagers will especially appreciate the classic wooden boardwalk and the impressive 1000ft-long fishing pier. The ocean here is ideal for watersports and generally calm enough for safe paddling, perfect for younger children. Fort Macon State Park, North Carolina’s most visited state park, is conveniently located at the eastern end of Atlantic Beach, adding historical and natural attractions to your beach day.
Family-Friendly Activities at Atlantic Beach:
- Oceanana Fishing Pier & Fort Macon: Explore the iconic Oceanana fishing pier and take a tour of the historic Fort Macon State Park.
- Boardwalk Fun: Cycle or stroll along the classic seaside boardwalk, enjoying the ocean breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
- North Carolina Aquarium: Discover marine life at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, just a short drive from Atlantic Beach.
- Maritime History: Explore the North Carolina Maritime Museum in nearby Beaufort to delve into the region’s seafaring past.
- Cape Lookout National Seashore: Embark on a sailing trip from Beaufort to the stunning Cape Lookout National Seashore for a memorable day excursion.
Getting to Atlantic Beach: Atlantic Beach is about two hours and 40 minutes drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it a convenient beach escape for families.
Book Your Family Getaway in Atlantic Beach
vacation-rentals-topsail-beachAlt text: Beachfront vacation rentals line the shore of Topsail Beach, offering families direct access to the sandy expanse.
5. Topsail Beach: Witness Sea Turtle Nesting Wonders
While teenagers might find Topsail Beach a bit tranquil, the proximity to lively Wilmington (less than an hour’s drive) offers options for more energetic entertainment. However, younger children will revel in the sheer freedom of expansive Topsail Beach, which stretches almost the entire length of the island. One of the unique and magical experiences for families is spotting nesting sea turtles during the nesting season. Visits to the local sea turtle sanctuary enhance this enchanting experience.
Family Experiences at Topsail Beach:
- Sea Turtle Rescue Center: Take a guided tour of the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre to learn about sea turtle conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
- Intracoastal Waterway Adventures: Enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the calm Intracoastal Waterway, perfect for family paddling adventures.
- Fresh Seafood Delights: Savor freshly caught seafood at the numerous restaurants along Topsail Beach, offering a taste of local flavors.
- Local Festivals: Experience the friendly atmosphere of local festivals held throughout the summer months, offering family-friendly entertainment.
- Sunrises and Sunsets: Enjoy both sunrise and sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean from south-facing Topsail Beach, a unique geographical feature.
Getting to Topsail Beach: Topsail Beach is just over a two-hour drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it an easily accessible coastal destination for families.
Find Family-Friendly Vacation Homes in Topsail Beach
sun-loungers-blue-parasols-carolina-beachAlt text: Colorful beach chairs and umbrellas dot the uncrowded sands of Carolina Beach, inviting families to relax and enjoy the seaside.
6. Carolina Beach: Stroll North Carolina’s Oldest Boardwalk
Nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Carolina Beach boasts North Carolina’s oldest and most vibrant boardwalk. Coupled with classic amusement park rides and wide sunny sands, Carolina Beach has been a beloved vacation spot for generations of North Carolina families. The enduring appeal lies in its charming traditions, such as indulging in Britt’s Donuts, cycling along the boardwalk, enjoying live music, savoring fresh seafood, and experiencing its classic seaside character.
Family Fun Highlights at Carolina Beach:
- Historic Boardwalk: Explore Carolina Beach boardwalk, recognized by Food & Wine Magazine as one of the top ten boardwalks in the US, offering games, rides, and treats.
- Watersport Activities: Learn to surf, SUP, kayak, sail, or try surf fishing off the expansive beach, catering to all skill levels.
- Carolina Beach Lake Park: Spend days adventuring around the 11-acre Carolina Beach Lake Park, offering paddle boats, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- Wildlife Encounters: Visit the Cape Fear Serpentarium and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher for fascinating wildlife experiences.
- Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park: Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, perfect for an action-packed day.
- Battleship North Carolina: Tour the Battleship North Carolina, a historic landmark offering an immersive glimpse into naval history.
Getting to Carolina Beach: Carolina Beach is just over a two-hour drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it an easily reachable beach destination for a family day trip or vacation.
Book Your Family Stay at Carolina Beach
sunset-beach-path-to-the-atlantic-north-carolinaAlt text: A scenic path leads to the serene Sunset Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets and family-friendly atmosphere in North Carolina.
7. Sunset Beach: Discover the Kindred Spirit Mailbox
Sunset Beach is a haven of white sands and azure waters, uniquely south-facing for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Its serene atmosphere makes it a favored nesting spot for Loggerhead sea turtles, yet it remains exciting and engaging for families.
Family-Friendly Attractions at Sunset Beach:
- Kindred Spirit Mailbox: Walk over to Bird Island and leave messages in the legendary Kindred Spirit Mailbox, a unique and heartwarming activity.
- Sunset Beach Pier: Enjoy fishing on Sunset Beach Pier, the southernmost pier in North Carolina, offering stunning views and angling opportunities.
- The Swamp Park: Experience ziplining and eco-cruising at The Swamp Park on the Shallotte River, offering thrilling outdoor adventures.
- Coastal Education: Visit the Museum of Coastal Carolina & Ingram Planetarium for educational and interactive exhibits about the coastal environment and space.
- Kayaking at Sunset Beach Town Park: Kayak the Intracoastal Waterway at Sunset Beach Town Park, enjoying the peaceful waters and natural beauty.
Getting to Sunset Beach: Sunset Beach is approximately two hours and 40 minutes’ drive east of Raleigh Airport (RDU), making it a convenient drive for families.
Find Family-Friendly Accommodation at Sunset Beach
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