8 Underrated Coastal Hamlets In North Carolina
North Carolina is a topographically diverse state, from the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal Outer Banks on the Atlantic Ocean. It is also a popular travel destination for those seeking a beach vacation and smaller crowds. Here are eight underrated coastal hamlets to consider for a relaxing beach vacation along North Carolina's coast.
These towns not only have scenic beaches but are also filled with historic sites, galleries, and other venues. Their histories range from the Lost Colony to run-ins with Blackbeard, the notorious pirate, and touching on this history adds to your local experience. If top culinary destinations, history, and sea breezes top your travel calendar, North Carolina has you covered.
Beaufort
Beaufort is a deeply historical and beautiful coastal hamlet, known for its connection to Blackbeard, who ran his ship, Queen Anne's Revenge, aground in the inlet. A scenic walk around town is the best way to soak in the history and architecture, especially along the Beaufort Boardwalk. The walkway, on Front Street, is similar to a main drag for locals and visitors alike, featuring cute shops and docked boats for scenery.
Every traveler should see the Beaufort Historic Site for an immersive and historical glimpse of this town. The grounds are in the center of a 12-block nationally-recognized historical area and consist of several buildings depicting life in the 17th and 18th centuries. An example is the Leffers Cottage, built in 1778, that includes gardens and period pieces so visitors can see what life was like during that period.
Ocracoke
The small village of Ocracoke Island is in the Outer Banks region, a scenic stretch of islands along the eastern side of North Carolina. Accessible only by boat, this hamlet captures the true spirit of a laidback coastal destination surrounded by 15 miles of undeveloped beaches, ideal for long walks in salty breezes. Catch the Hatteras/Ocracoke Ferry to experience what the locals already know on this definitive island.
The notorious pirate Blackbeard spent much of his time here when he wasn't busy plundering the North Carolina coast, and you can explore this history by walking Springer's Point, a notorious pirate party spot, to catch a view of Teach's Hole, where Blackbeard (born Edward Teach) met his watery demise. Continue the nautical theme by visiting the Ocracoke Lighthouse at the southern end of Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Ocracoke Preservation Museum to learn more detailed history of pirate encounters. If a relaxing day at a beach filled with unique history is on your itinerary, look no further than this coastal village.
Duck
Duck is a quaint town on the Outer Banks and earned its claim to fame by selling duck feathers for ladies' hats at the turn of the 20th century. The Sanderling Resort is the premier oceanfront hotel for those visiting for the incredible ocean views. The luxury property includes fine dining, waterfront views, and generous lounge spaces.
After checking in, take a leisurely walk along the one-mile Duck Soundside Boardwalk to take in the natural scenery. If your walk has burned up an appetite, dine in one of the many restaurants, a rarity for such a small hamlet. For casual dining, it is hard to beat Cookshack Fried Chicken for an authentic southern meal while you soak in the sights of the town.
Emerald Isle
Emerald Isle is just as picturesque as its name implies and is located on the Diamond Coast region of North Carolina. It is a classic beach setting, with 12 miles of white sand and clear water, making it one of the best underrated coastal destinations in the state, on the western end of Bogue Banks. Emerald Drive is the main drag and includes notable shops such as Bert's Surf Shop and the Briggs General Store & Bar for beach vacation necessities.
Booking a room at the Emerald Isle Inn Bed and Breakfast by the Sea on Ocean Drive will keep you in the center of the beach for your stay. The quaint rooms with beach decor enhance any ocean vacation, and the inn is close to many attractions in town. One of the best things about this small village is its combination of small-town charm and laid-back atmosphere, which makes it the ultimate destination for those seeking a quiet retreat from bigger cities.
Topsail Beach
Topsail Beach is a small community with a population of less than 500, but big on outdoor fun. Bush Marina and the Jolly Roger Pier are the places to be for boating and watersports, both conveniently located in the downtown district. Stroll the main strip for unique finds and restaurants to enjoy a quiet night on the town. The mix of restaurants and outdoor activities is a significant benefit of visiting Topsail Beach, and there are several options for something different each day. Get a morning coffee and beach read at White Crab Coffee and Books, or cool off with award-winning flavors at Scoops Microcreamery.
For dinner and a stay, The Breezeway is an excellent choice for a motel and restaurant. The landmark has been open since 1949 and offers a complimentary pier and boat slips to keep the adventure going. Topsail Beach is a prime destination for sunbathing, swimming, and, of course, boating. It is on the southern tip of Topsail Island, which is also fun to explore on foot, adding more appeal to this fun and classic beach hamlet.
Holden Beach
Holden Beach, on the Brunswick Islands, is the perfect spot for relaxing and family-friendly fun. Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway are popular pastimes, as is grabbing a bite to eat in one of the area restaurants. Numerous waterfront restaurants with outside dining, like Castaways Raw Bar and Grill and Mermaids Island Grill, serve coastal fare that complements the beach vibe.
A great time to visit is during the annual NC Festival by the Sea in October. The event celebrates coastal arts and crafts and offers an opportunity to spend time with residents and artisans. There are also other fun towns to explore on this charming string of islands, adding to Holden Beach's allure. This hamlet embodies the best characteristics of coastal North Carolina, from small town charm to a friendly atmosphere, and is one of the best beaches to visit.
Corolla
Corolla is an Outer Banks luxury vacation destination famous for its wild Spanish Mustangs and relaxing atmosphere. The wild herd of Colonial Spanish Mustangs is just as popular as the region's lighthouses, and many visitors rent local homes to watch them roam on the northern beaches of Corolla and neighboring Carova. To catch a glimpse up close, book a tour with Back Beach Horse Tours.
Another landmark is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse near the historic Whalehead. The lighthouse stands 162 feet tall and has a First Order Fresnel Lens that can be seen up to 18 miles offshore. The Whalehead is a beautiful yellow home in Corolla Park and one of the biggest attractions in the Outer Banks. History meets coastal charm in Corolla, and they combine to make the hamlet one of the prettiest areas on the coast.
Buxton
The small hamlet of Buxton near Hatteras Island, known for its multiple landmarks and popular watersports, is perhaps most famous for the famed Cape Hatteras Lighthouse with its signature black and white stripes atop a red base. Guests are invited to climb to the top for a bird's eye view of the Atlantic Ocean. Just down the road from the lighthouse is a path for Four Wheel Drive access to Cape Point and the most popular boat ramp in the area.
Another unique element of the coastal hamlet is the Buxton Woods Nature Trail. The short trail leads to a maritime forest, and it highlights this singular environment. The trail opens up to views of sand dunes and towering pine trees along salt and freshwater ponds for a fascinating glimpse into Hatteras Island. To complete your stay, book a room at one of the island's acclaimed inns, like Lighthouse View. The rental agency offers several beachfront cottages that showcase the best of this beachtown.
These eight underrated North Carolina coastal towns are excellent destinations for those looking for smaller crowds, pleasant beaches, and historical sites. From the architecture in Beaufort to the scenic views of Topsail Beach, these hamlets deserve another look when planning a beach vacation. Ocracoke, often considered the gem of the Outer Banks, offers the ultimate laid-back coastal atmosphere for an authentic beach getaway.
North Carolina, especially the Outer Banks, is filled with iconic beachfronts with minimal crowds. Each has distinctive characteristics that make it so special. These beach towns also have charming shops and excellent restaurants, making them even more appealing. So book a trip, find the local bookstore, and hit the beach in one of these underrated hamlets.
