You are in luck if the sea’s allure draws you from any place around Fayetteville. Nearby are some of the most stunning beaches in North Carolina, each providing a distinct little piece of heaven along the coast. Whether looking for a fun-filled beach experience for the whole family, a peaceful day spent listening to the waves, or something in between, a sandy beachfront awaits you.
FAYETTEVILLE, NC’S NEAREST BEACH
You may be sure that your next beach holiday will be nothing short of amazing since our guide will show you the most intriguing and nearby beach resorts in the Fayetteville area.
BEACH ON OCEAN ISLE
Time: 1 hour 54 minutes | Distance: 101 miles
Experience the charm of Ocean Isle Beach, a seaside community well-known for its breathtaking white sand beaches and a wide variety of attractions. At the Museum of Coastal Carolina, you may discover local history while unwinding by the river, and at River Country Mini Golf, the whole family can enjoy some fun. With thrillingATVsV and zip line rides, the Swamp Park entices visitors. The Carolina School of Surf can help if you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf. Remember to enjoy the breathtaking ocean views while strolling around the Ocean Isle Beach Pier.
THE HOLDEN BEACH
99 miles | 1 hour and 55 minutes
Holden Beach is well known for its serene atmosphere, which makes it the perfect destination for a restful holiday. One of the greatest family beaches, according to National Geographic Traveller, it offers a chance to relax on its quiet beaches, which are great for building sandcastles, flying kites or just relaxing in a beach chair. With fewer visitors, it offers a more personal beach experience.
The Intracoastal Waterway is a short distance away if you wish to enjoy some fun. Take pleasure in kayaking or paddleboarding while taking in the view of passing shrimp boats or dolphins. Moreover, pets are welcome at Holden Beach from September 11 to May 19. Your pets could appreciate the beach before you do during the busiest time of year.
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THE SUNSET BEACH
99 miles | 1 hour and 55 minutes
This is your chance to see one of the World’s 21 Greatest Beaches, as rated by National Geographic. Considering it faces east, you might wonder why it’s named Sunset Beach. The island’s peculiar location allows you to witness both sunrise and sunset over the ocean, which is a beautiful sight, from late autumn to early spring.
Take a stroll down the beach to Sunset Shore Pier to see the native fish. Think of going on a trip to Bird Island. With 1,200 acres, it’s a nature lover’s paradise and a great place for peaceful exploration.
Do the wonders of the cosmos fascinate you? Then you have to view the planetarium at Ingram. Take a seat beneath the SciDome Sky Theatre’s dome and take in the sights of the heavens. Sunset Beach is an experience for beachgoers, anglers, wildlife aficionados, and astronomers alike—it’s not simply a stunning spot. Every time I go there, I’m reminded of good times.
THE ISLAND OF OAK
Time: 1 hour 55 minutes | Distance: 103 miles
Are you trying to find a well-liked beach spot for families? Imagine spending a day in the sun enjoying delectable ice cream delights and mini-golf. More than 60 public access spots are available at this beach reserve, allowing everyone to take in the beautiful coastline environment.
You may get a sense of local life and culture by meandering around the charming local stores and delicious cafés that you’ll find scattered across Oak Island. Oak Island’s shoreline is covered in a variety of fascinating marine shells, perfect for shell collectors.
Oak Island welcomes pets all year round, so pet owners should rejoice. Take your dog with you to the beach. The last lighthouse in North Carolina, Oak Island Lighthouse, was constructed in 1958. Don’t miss it. Nine years old and up can participate in historical guided tours of the island.
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
Distance: 100 miles | Time: 1 hr 55 mins
Only nine miles from Wilmington, North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach is a breathtaking coastal gem renowned for its alluring blue waves. Not surprisingly, Southern Living named it one of the “Top 10 South’s Best Beach Towns.”
This beach is a favorite since it’s not only gorgeous but also among the easiest to get to in North Carolina. World-class waves call you to ride them and experience the excitement of the water; it’s a surfer’s paradise.
Wrightsville Beach has a lively mix of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife in addition to the beach. Would you want to get pampering? The nearby baths offer a tranquil haven. Water sports aficionados will have no shortage of things to do in this area. From jet skiing to paddleboarding, there are plenty of new ways to enjoy the water.
Johnnie Mercers Pier is a 1,200-foot-long monument that should not be missed. Stroll down the pier, take in the breathtaking vistas, enjoy the wind from the water, and maybe even give fishing a try. The pier adds to the character of the beach and is more than simply a structure with facilities and a grill for quick bites like hot dogs and hamburgers.
Leashed dogs are only allowed on the beach from October 1 to March 31. Dogs are allowed on the beach from April 1 through September 30 before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
BEACHES OF CASWELL
Time: 2 hours | Distance: 109 kilometers
Located on the eastern tip of Oak Island, Caswell Beach is a serene haven renowned for its three-mile shoreline facing south and the historic Oak Island Lighthouse. Tucked away between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, this little community provides serene, less crowded beach conditions along with breathtaking views of the marsh.
The Oak Island Lighthouse, which provides a sweeping perspective of this fantastic family beach holiday, has been a recognized monument since 1958. Caswell Beach’s dune conservation and re-nourishment programs, especially for sea turtle nesting, are examples of its commitment to maintaining the area’s natural beauty.
BEACHES IN CAROLINA
Time: 2 hours | Distance: 103 miles
Situated only 15 miles from Wilmington, this beach provides more than just sun and sand—it serves as a focal point for year-round interesting activities. The only music festival in North Carolina that is held right on the beach is the Carolina Beach Music Festival, for instance.
Wander down their famously retro boardwalk, which blends excitement from the present world with nostalgia. Food & Wine magazine ranks it among the best 10 boardwalks in the nation.
In addition to fantastic dining options, this area has a thriving nightlife that keeps the beach lively after dusk. Next to the boardwalk is the 100-foot-tall Carolina Beach Giant Ferris Wheel.
THE BEACH OF KURE
Distance: 106 miles | Time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
The oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic Coast is located at Kure Beach. It is a 700-foot-long structure that dates back to 1923 and is where generations of fishermen have thrown their hooks into the deep blue waters.
Do you have any interest in the past? See the former greatest earthen fort in the South, Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Even though just 10% of the original building still stands, its significance and tales are still relevant today. At Fort Fisher, there is also the North Carolina Aquarium.
There are approximately 200 shipwrecks in the seas of Kure Beach, including The Condor, a Civil War-era blockade runner, which is a treasure trove for SCUBA divers. Explore the past.
CITY OF SURF
Distance: 117 miles | Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
One of the three distinct settlements on Topsail Island is Surf City. During your visit, you should visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Centre, which combines marine conservation with the splendor of nature. In addition to being stunning, these beaches are excellent for surfing.
The local surf school can teach you to surf, whether you’re a beginner or want to advance your abilities. Discover a fascinating aspect of Surf City’s past by visiting the Missiles and More Museum. Originally utilized by the US Navy for testing missiles following World War II, this facility currently provides information.
BEACHES OF ONSLOW
Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes | Distance: 115 miles
The Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is located on the 7.5-mile undeveloped Onslow shoreline in Onslow County, North Carolina. The US Navy has long utilized this beach, which is a recreational area for residents of Camp Lejeune, for amphibious landing drills.
These days, it provides a serene haven with gorgeous sandy beaches perfect for a variety of pursuits including swimming, fishing, sunbathing, and eco-tours. For those with valid base entry and an authorized DoD ID card, Onslow Beach offers an even more private beach experience. This beach is situated in Onslow County, which is well-known for its stunning 100-mile stretch of North Carolina coastline.
BEACHES ON TOPSAIL
Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes | Distance: 124 miles
The smallest of the three settlements on Topsail Island (pronounced “Tops’l”), Topsail Beach is rife with tales of pirates and lost riches. The island got its name, so the story goes, from pirates who stowed their ships in the canal that connected the mainland with the island, revealing only their topsails.
This ancient island is all the more charming because of rumors of Blackbeard’s wealth, which could or might not be buried here. Reaching this stunning island is a journey unto itself. On the north side of the iconic swing bridge, there’s a high-rise bridge that leads to Surf City. Every route leads to stunning views and a sense of anticipation as you get closer to the island.
PARK AT HAMMOCKS BEACH
Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes | Distance: 118 miles
Undiscovered paradise Hammocks Beach State Park is only reachable by boat or ferry. The boat service is not available from November through the end of March, however, this has no bearing on your itinerary. Take a kayak rental and take your time discovering the park’s natural beauties.
For those who love nature, this park is a sanctuary. Swamp trees and salt marshes open up all around you as you float down the river, offering a tranquil setting for birding. Look out for sea turtles swimming in the area when kayaking, especially around their emergence to lay eggs.
For those who love nature, this park is a sanctuary. Swamp trees and salt marshes open up all around you as you float down the river, offering a tranquil setting for birding. Look out for sea turtles swimming in the area when kayaking, especially around their emergence to lay eggs.
For those who love the outdoors, Hammocks Beach State Park provides rustic camping choices. Think of sleeping outside beneath the sky while listening to the peaceful sounds of the park’s fauna. The park does not charge admission, although there are fees associated with the boat launch and ferry service.
EMERALD ISLAND
Distance: 129 miles | Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Enjoy Emerald Isle’s beautiful sand beaches and pristine Atlantic Ocean seas. Emerald Isle is situated on the charming Bogue Banks. Despite its modest size, this little seaside town comes alive in the summer, drawing over 50,000 tourists each week during prime time.
The water is for more than simply gazing at Emerald Isle; it’s for taking risks and going on adventures. How about taking a surfing course and riding the waves? Not only are these beaches great for tanning, but they’re also a great place for shell collectors to locate an array of beautiful seashells. History aficionados may take a trip through America’s past at Fort Macon State Park, which emphasizes the fort’s significant historical importance.
One of Emerald Isle’s must-see attractions is the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier. Built in the 1950s and rebuilt many times due to storm damage, this historic building juts 1,000 feet into the ocean. Among the longest piers in North Carolina, it offers breathtaking views of the wide ocean. The pier at Emerald Isle is proof of the island’s power and beauty, whether you’re fishing or just taking in the scenery.
ISLAND OF BALDHEAD
Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes | Distance: 113 kilometers
Explore Bald Head Island, a stunning sanctuary where tranquility reigns supreme. The uniqueness and allure of this island refuge are increased by the fact that it can only be reached by private boat or ferry. Once there, transport yourself to a tranquil and eco-friendly world where golf carts and bikes have taken the place of automobiles.
Bald Head Island is not merely a secure haven for wildlife. The island is home to one of the main sea turtle breeding locations in North Carolina, providing tourists with a unique chance to see these amazing animals. The oldest existing lighthouse in North Carolina, Old Baldy, is awaiting examination by history buffs. Constructed in 1817.
THE ATLANTIC BEACH
Time: 3 hours | Distance: 165 kilometers
Bogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean encircle the stunning barrier island where Atlantic Beach is situated. Recognized as a gem of the Crystal Coast, Atlantic Beach offers a wealth of public beaches, a welcoming attitude, and a balance between visitor requirements and environmental care.
Notable features of this seaside community include convenient access to one of Coastal Living Magazine’s “Best Beaches,” and a lovely array of lodging and dining options. Guests can choose to fish, swim, or sunbathe at one of the well-liked local piers. In addition, the neighboring historic Fort Macon State Park offers a stunning natural landscape in addition to an intriguing historical experience.
HEAD OF NAGS
Time: 3 hours 45 minutes | Distance: 235 miles
Nags Head, a well-liked vacation spot on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is well-known for both its gorgeous coastline and extensive history. It is well-known for Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which offers sandboarding and hang gliding in addition to having the biggest dune on the East Coast.
The town is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with three fishing piers, including the historic Jennette’s Pier, and several public beach access points. There are several eating options available to visitors, with a focus on locally farmed fresh seafood. There are plenty of hotel and vacation rental options, as well as a bustling business district. Nags Head is the perfect place for a thorough beach experience because of its natural beauty, historical sites, and contemporary conveniences.
NATIONAL SEASHORE OF CAPE HATTERAS
239 miles | 3 hours and 50 minutes
Stretching over 70 miles along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is home to stunning beaches, world-class surf fishing, and an array of water sports activities. Astronomy aficionados frequently choose the beach because of its fantastic stargazing prospects and reputation for having less light pollution.
In select locations, beach exploration is permitted by National Park Service permits for visitors using four-wheel drive vehicles. The beach is especially well-known for its efforts to save shorebirds and sea turtles. Public parking and facilities on NC Highway 12 make beach access convenient for lodging on Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands.
COROLLA
267 miles | 4 hours and 40 minutes
One of our favorite areas to visit on the Outer Banks is the Corolla region (pronounced “Cor-RAH-lah” instead of “Cor-OLL-lah”), which is renowned for its 24-mile stretch of immaculate coastline and laid-back coastal charm. It is a peaceful retreat since it is less commercialized than many other beach resorts.
One of the main draws for tourists is the untamed Spanish mustangs that wander the beaches. Corolla offers a variety of retail and dining opportunities in addition to historic monuments including the Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse.
Corolla offers great beach vacations with its wide beaches and sophisticated but natural aesthetic.
BEACHES OF MYRTLE BEACH
Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes | Distance: 111 kilometers
A well-known beach resort and popular tourist destination is Myrtle Beach. There are 50 miles of gorgeous beaches here, but this town is bustling with bustle as well. Take a stroll down the promenade beside the shore to feel the lively spirit of the city.
There are discoveries around every corner, from the SkyWheel to the multitude of eateries. A thrilling and stunning bird’s-eye perspective of the expansive coastline, as it spins, is available to you. Are you hoping for a laid-back beach getaway? The off-season at Myrtle Beach might be a real find. But if you’re looking for a vibrant blend of sun and pleasure, you’ve found the right person.
THE FOLLY BEACH
229 miles | 3 hours and 35 minutes
Discover the hidden coastal treasure that is Folly Beach, situated on the stunning Folly Island. This beach, which is only fifteen minutes from Charleston’s downtown, provides six miles of gorgeous coastline for a tranquil escape. There, the sound of the waves creates the perfect atmosphere for a restful and enjoyable day.
It’s easy to understand why the neighborhood’s residents refer to it as the “Edge of America.” Folly Beach is a unique combination of unhurried charm and unspoiled beauty, not just a long strip of sand. Here, you may relax, enjoy the sun, and let the sea breeze uplift your mood.
PALMS ISLAND
231 miles | 3 hours and 40 minutes
The City of Isle of Palms is a beach lover’s dream come true with its six miles of gorgeous beaches. These beaches provide a range of seaside activities and are ideal for swimming, lounging, and fishing. This barrier island offers the convenience of city activities combined with the peace of a beach vacation, all less than 20 minutes from Charleston, South Carolina.
Savour the flavors of fine dining establishments, test your skills on golf courses, relax in luxurious spas, and experience the elegance of world-class resorts. Not surprisingly, Isle of Palms ranked sixth out of the top ten North American islands in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
THE ISLAND OF HILTON HEAD
Time: 4 hours | Distance: 257 miles
Hilton Head Island is more than simply a place to visit; it’s a highly recommended paradise for travelers, having been named the top island in the continental US by readers of Travel+Leisure Magazine, among other honors. This island offers a mosaic of experiences that combine the stunning natural surroundings with an extensive range of activities.
From May through October, Hilton Head Island serves as a sea turtle nesting site each year. You may contribute to the conservation of these very endangered loggerhead turtles while you’re there. Here alone, turtles built 423 nests in 2022. One interesting part of their voyage was that they had to rely on moonlight to navigate their way to the ocean. You might be able to help them survive as a tourist, but always remember to turn around.
GA TYBEE ISLAND
279 miles | 4 hours and 20 minutes
This little barrier island close to Savannah may contain a jewel from Georgia. There are several coastline experiences to be had on the island’s three miles of wide, sandy beaches, which include South, Mid, North, Back River, and Little Tybee Beach. The Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion, shops, restaurants, and other attractions abound on South Beach, the island’s downtown area, and they all beckon you to explore and take in the atmosphere.
For those who are interested in history, North Beach should not be missed. You may find stories from the 1800s here that are carved in time. The island is home to many forts that were formerly essential coastal defenses, a museum, and Georgia’s highest and oldest lighthouse.
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Conclusion
Discovering the beaches of Fayetteville, North Carolina reveals an interesting and varied shoreline. Every place, from the lively Wrightsville Beach to the serene Bald Head Island, has its special charm and experience. Whether you like the colorful energy of well-known sites like Wrightsville Beach or the quiet tranquility of lesser-known areas like Bald Head Island, North Carolina’s coastline has something to offer everyone. So pack your beachwear and sunscreen and get ready for a memorable trip by the water. All the beach has to offer is a short drive away!
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