Whether you’re local to the area or visiting from out of town. North Carolina is known for its large white sand beaches spreading across its more than 320 miles of shoreline that runs along the Atlantic Ocean. The coast offers everything from secluded beach fronts to bustling seaside towns with entertainment beyond the beach. Load up the car with all your favorite beach accessories because you can enjoy the best family beaches in North Carolina.

What are the three best family beaches in North Carolina-

Wrightsville Beach, NC–

Located in the more southern region of the state is Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Situated very close to Willmington, North Carolina, this is also a destination by airplane because the airport is situated within a fifteen-mile drive. 

With the island shoreline measuring at 4 miles, Wrightsville Beach offers many public access points. In fact, the general public can enter the beach in forty different places. 

While you’re at the beach, enjoy its blue waters and spacious white soft sand. Because of its numerous access points, some areas will be more crowded than others, particularly around the island’s town centers.   

When you’re here, don’t assume you need to set up a lounge chair and sit back all day, although you can if you want. The area is also great for kite surfing, paddle boarding, and surfing. 

Not everyone is a beachgoer. When you step away from the beach, meander through the shops and indulge in local seafood. 

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is an excellent destination for families because it offers something for everyone. 

Cape Hatteras National Seashore–

Found on the opposite side of the state or near the northern border is a natural setting unlike none else. This spit of land is nearly 30 miles offshore of the mainland. 

When you’re in search of a mix of beach, dining, and shopping, this is not the place for you. Cape Hatteras is the place to enjoy a natural setting. 

The parks department protects the barrier island to ensure it maintains its natural state. Here you can climb the lighthouse, collect the shells that accumulate on the beach, enjoy the water swimming, surfing, or kiteboarding, go fishing while adequately licensed, or sit back and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. 

If you’re looking for a destination that is a getaway from the everyday hustle, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the place to visit.

Pleasure Island, North Carolina–

Situated on the southern end of North Carolina coastline is Pleasure Island, NC. This island has a quaint town located at the northern end. This island is an excellent mix between Wrightsville and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. 

The area offers seventeen miles of shoreline to enjoy the typical and beautiful spacious white sand beaches. Here the adults and children can enjoy every water sport they can imagine, such as surfing to paddleboarding, and kayaking. Also, bring along the best beach games like corn hole.

If you’re not the water type, check out the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, which is rated as one of the nation’s best boardwalks. For the fisherman, experience the Kure Beach Pier. This pier is one of the oldest on the Atlantic ocean.  

This destination offers a laid back atmosphere. Don’t expect a raging party but rather more of living on island time when you’re on the getaway. 

The next time you plan your family getaway in North Carolina, consider these three great locations. No matter what you choose, you will be sure to have a great time. The North Carolina coast maintains a very natural setting compared to many other southern states lining the Atlantic ocean. Enjoy the tranquility in addition to the sights and sounds of the entertainment that surrounds you.