1.Emerald Isle
Families return to Emerald Isle year after year for its 12 miles of clean beaches, relaxed atmosphere and popular fishing pier. There are plenty of reasons to choose this stretch of sand to settle on: Emerald Isle offers a wide shoreline and beach amenities galore, including grills, showers, picnic pavilions and parking. It’s also part of the Crystal Coast section of North Carolina, with Indian Beach and Pine Knoll Shores (which is home to an outpost of the North Carolina Aquarium) both nearby.
2.Bald Head Island
Devoid of cars (you’ll need a golf cart or bike to get around) and only accessible by ferry, Bald Head Island is ideal for travelers seeking some rest and relaxation. Aside from beachfront rental properties and the highly rated Bald Head Island Club golf course, most of the island’s 12,000 acres are undeveloped, so expect the 14 miles of shoreline here – including South Beach and North Beach – to be serene and pristine. It’s also a great place to see nature’s finest: The island is home to more than 260 bird species, as well as other wildlife like alligators and foxes.
