North Carolina is a state in the southeastern region of the United States. It is known for its beautiful coastline, scenic mountain ranges, and rich history. With its diverse geography and temperate climate, North Carolina offers a variety of vacation spots for all types of travelers.
From bustling cities to charming small towns, there are plenty of places to explore in North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventurous family vacation, this state has something for everyone.
Beach Vacations
North Carolina’s coastline is home to some of the most stunning beach destinations in the country. With miles of sandy shores, quaint seaside towns, and opportunities for water sports, a beach vacation here promises relaxation and fun for all ages.
1 | Outer Banks
Located off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination for beach lovers. Stretching over 100 miles, this barrier island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Visitors can relax on the soft sandy beaches or take part in various water activities such as surfing, fishing, and kayaking.
In addition to its stunning beaches, the Outer Banks also has a rich history and culture. The island is known for its iconic lighthouses, including Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. Visitors can also explore historic landmarks such as Roanoke Island where the first English settlement was established in 1587.
2 | Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island, on North Carolina’s southern coast, is a peaceful, car-free island getaway accessible only by ferry. Explore the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse, nature trails, and preserves.
Rent a golf cart to tour the island and enjoy charming shops and restaurants in the town center. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak in the island’s serene atmosphere.
3 | Brunswick Islands
Moving south, visitors will find the Brunswick Islands. This group of barrier islands offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches. The main towns in this area include Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Sunset Beach.
Each town has its own unique character and charm, making them perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. In addition to the beautiful beaches, the Brunswick Islands also offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water sports. One of the must-see attractions in this area is the Kindred Spirit Mailbox on Bird Island.
4 | Emerald Isle
Emerald Isle, in North Carolina’s southern Outer Banks, offers 12 miles of pristine beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Visitors can enjoy nature trails, biking, fishing, boating, or family fun at the Salty Pirate Water Park. The town also hosts summer concerts, outdoor movies, and features local shops for browsing.
5 | Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach, located on Bogue Banks in North Carolina, is a charming and relatively undiscovered destination on the East Coast. With its pristine beaches, quaint downtown area, and abundance of outdoor activities, Atlantic Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing beach vacation. Whether you’re into water sports, exploring nature trails, or simply enjoying fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone here.
Mountain Destinations
If you love serene coastal getaways, you’ll also appreciate a retreat to the mountains. Offering breathtaking landscapes, fresh air, and countless opportunities for adventure, mountain destinations provide a refreshing escape from the everyday bustle.
6 | Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, abundant wildlife, and diverse ecosystems, this park offers something for everyone.
Some must-see sights in the park include Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee at 6,643 feet, and Cades Cove, a historic settlement with an 11-mile loop road perfect for biking or driving.
7 | Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is known as “America’s Favorite Drive.” This scenic road winds through lush forests and stunning mountain views for 469 miles.
Along the way, visitors can stop at various overlooks, hiking trails, and historic sites. Some notable stops include Grandfather Mountain, Linville Falls, and the Folk Art Center in Asheville. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts alike.
8 | Chimney Rock State Park
Located in western North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is named after its main attraction, a 315-foot granite monolith that visitors can climb for panoramic views.
In addition to hiking trails and scenic overlooks, the park also offers guided rock climbing tours and a network of underground caves to explore.
9 | Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest, located just outside of Asheville, is a nature lover’s paradise. The forest boasts hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, spectacular waterfalls, and breathtaking views from its many lookout points. It’s also home to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic drive through the mountains that connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.
Lake Destinations
If you enjoy the tranquil beauty of lakes and the recreational activities, you’ll love exploring these stunning lake destinations. From peaceful fishing spots to thrilling water sports, these locations have something for everyone.
10 | Lake Lure
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports. The picturesque scenery of the lake and surrounding mountains has also made it a popular filming location for movies such as “Dirty Dancing.” Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake or relax on its sandy beach.
11 | Fontana Lake
Fontana Lake, located in western North Carolina, is a perfect escape for those seeking solitude and serenity. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic drives along its shoreline. It’s also home to the famous Fontana Dam, one of the tallest dams in the eastern United States.
12 | Jordan Lake State Park
Located in central North Carolina, Jordan Lake State Park is a popular destination for camping, hiking, and water activities. As one of the most visited state parks in North Carolina, it competes with the most visited national parks in terms of attracting nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts from all over. The lake is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it a prime spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also offers educational programs and events throughout the year.
13 | Falls Lake State Recreation Area
Falls Lake State Recreation Area, located just outside of Raleigh, NC, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 26,000 acres of woodlands and a 12,000-acre lake to explore, visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day of adventure in nature.
14 | Cape Fear River
For a unique and scenic outdoor experience, check out Cape Fear River Adventures in Lillington, North Carolina. Take a guided kayak or canoe tour down the beautiful Cape Fear River and explore its calm waters and surrounding nature. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding or fishing for catfish, bass, and more.
Historic Destinations
If you love exploring historic landmarks and immersing yourself in the stories of the past, North Carolina offers an abundance of destinations to discover. From carefully preserved colonial sites to charming historic districts, there’s something to captivate every history enthusiast.
15 | North Carolina Maritime Museum
For those interested in learning about the history and culture of North Carolina’s coastal communities, the North Carolina Maritime Museum is a must-visit. Located in Beaufort, NC, this museum showcases exhibits on maritime history, wildlife conservation, and boatbuilding.
Visitors can also participate in educational programs and events such as sailing trips and workshops. The museum, part of the North Carolina Museum system, also offers access to the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, where visitors can watch skilled artisans building and maintaining traditional boats.
16 | Battleship North Carolina
The Battleship North Carolina is a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction in Wilmington, NC. This World War II battleship was commissioned in 1941 and served in the Pacific theater during the war. After being decommissioned in 1947, it was saved from scrap by citizens of North Carolina and opened to the public as a museum in 1961.
Visitors can explore the ship’s interior and learn about its history through interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts. The self-guided tour takes visitors through various areas such as the bridge, gun turrets, mess deck, engine room, and more.
17 | Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Located on Roanoke Island, the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site preserves the location of the “Lost Colony,” where English settlers mysteriously vanished in the late 16th century. Visitors can explore reconstructed earthworks and learn about the area’s history through exhibits and outdoor interpretive trails. The site is also home to the Waterside Theatre, where the outdoor drama “The Lost Colony” is performed annually.
18 | Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills commemorates the first successful powered flight by Orville and Wilbur Wright on December 17, 1903. Visitors can view a replica of their flyer, learn about their groundbreaking experiments, and walk the flight path where history was made. The towering granite monument on the site offers magnificent views and celebrates the ingenuity and determination of the Wright brothers.
Frequently Asked North Carolina Vacation Spots Questions
1. What are the best hiking spots in North Carolina?
North Carolina boasts incredible hiking destinations such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Gorge, Grandfather Mountain, and Chimney Rock. These trails range from beginner-friendly routes to challenging treks with rewarding vistas.
2. Are there family-friendly attractions in North Carolina?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy attractions like the North Carolina Zoo, the Biltmore Estate, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and the North Carolina Aquarium. There are plenty of activities suitable for all ages.
3. When is the best time to visit North Carolina for a vacation?
Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to visit due to the mild weather and vibrant natural scenery.
However, summer is ideal for beachgoers, and winter offers opportunities for skiing in the mountains.
4. What historic sites can I visit in North Carolina?
North Carolina is full of history, from the Wright Brothers Memorial and Fort Raleigh to Tryon Palace and Old Salem. Don’t miss the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S., showcasing the Vanderbilt family’s opulent lifestyle.
Conclusion
From its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities to its rich history and culture, North Carolina has something for everyone on the East Coast. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, this state has it all.
Don’t miss the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway or the charming coastal towns. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider visiting North Carolina and discover all that this beautiful East Coast state has to offer.