Between the mainland shore and a series of narrow barrier islands known as the Outer Banks, North Carolina’s coast stretches over 300 miles. Enjoyed by over 11 million out-of-town visitors per year, this part of the East Coast is known for its natural beauty and diversity of beaches. Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach with a party atmosphere or a nearly private secluded spot to enjoy some waves, the state has it all. Both the mainland beaches and barrier islands feel untamed, with protected dunes, sleepy towns, and plenty of ghost stories.

North Carolina’s coastal history goes back thousands of years. One of the most interesting facts about the history is its connection to famous pirates. In the early 1700s, decades before North Carolina even became part of the United States, the infamous pirate Blackbeard used its coast as a hideout after terrorizing ships in the Atlantic Ocean. In fact, it’s said that his final battle happened near Ocracoke, now an island town popular with visitors and history lovers. The lore of these pirate ships visiting the coast remains part of the coast’s history.

Another interesting part of the coast’s history is its reputation as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic”. A place where shipwrecked boats are now anthropological sites, there’s plenty of wild history to explore here.

Today’s coast sees less pirate activity and more pirate bars. Visitors to the coast have their choice of plenty of outdoor activities, water sports, fishing, and dining. Here are a few of the most popular and famous spots to visit on the North Carolina coast.

Wilmington

The largest city on the North Carolina coast, Wilmington is a fun place to explore on bike or on foot. The city’s proximity to popular beach towns like Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach makes it a great central location to explore daytrips as far north as the Outer Banks and as far south as Charleston, South Carolina.

Sprawling Southern inns and homes with columns, streets lined with Crepe myrtle trees, and plenty of boutiques and shops to browse prove this part of the low country has high style. Popular hotels include The Blockade Runner or The Beaufort Hotel, both offering a relaxing stay not too far from the big city life.

Although staying in Wilmington features some of the cultural tropes of a Southern beach vacation, like fried seafood and rowdy bars, the town also features fun for everyone, with drag brunches and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and surfing. Coastal cuisine (think hush puppies, crab soup, and fresh oysters) can be found at any of the restaurants in Wilmington, from hole-in-the-wall roadside joints to upscale restaurants. This city has everything for a memorable vacation.

Emerald Isle

Considered by many visitors as the most picturesque beach on the NC coast, because of its bright-blue waters and 12 miles of white sand beaches, driving into Emerald Isle feels like being transported to a magical place. Unlike Wilmington, Emerald Isle has a small-town appeal. While you won’t find big chains or nightlife hubs, the island makes up for it with walkable clusters of ice cream stands, beachside taco shacks, and family-run cafes. For a more elevated experience, locals swear by Kathryn's Bistro & Martini Bar, where seafood and steak are served with a fine dining bent. Emerald Isle is also known for its stunning sunsets over the sound, offering some of the most breathtaking views on the coast.

Topsail Island

A somewhat sleepy barrier island spanning only 500 to 1,500 feet wide but spreading out 26 miles long, Topsail Island (pronounced locally as Top-sul), is a white-sand getaway for those who are seeking a quiet and serene beach experience. With a mix of quiet neighborhoods, bikeable residential streets, a low-key atmosphere, and uncrowded beaches and swimming areas, it’s a great place to bring the entire family. It’s also a great place for those looking to unwind. The beaches are made for suntanning, spotting wildlife, or shell hunting. The island’s central street, located in Surf City, features a few great cafés, plenty of surf shops, and famous desserts.

Shackleford Banks

A best-kept secret among North Carolinians and best known for being the home of wild-running horses, the natural beauty of Shackleford Banks is unparalleled. Accessible only by boat or ferry, the untouched stretch of serene paradise is remote enough to make you feel like you’ve been transported to a desert island. Shackleford is a barrier island and features herds of Spanish mustangs that roam freely. With not a lot of human activity on the island, the beaches have stayed pristine for generations. There aren’t any restaurants or even roads in Shackleford, but it’s a great place for adventure seekers who want to bask in the natural Carolina wildlife.

Cape Lookout

Remote and rugged, Cape Lookout is also only accessible by boat. Home to the iconic black-and-white lighthouse, built in the 1850s, this part of the Outer Banks has helped guide sailors for over 150 years. A great place to fish or camp overnight (and a great place to see the stars), this cape is great for those who want to adventure away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Carolina beaches.

From bustling beaches filled with college kids to hidden islands occupied by wild horses, this Southern state’s coastline has it all.