If you’re in the mood for a blissful beach holiday, a daring adventure along the rugged mountains or exploring art and museums, North Carolina has it all for you! The ‘Tar Heel’ state in the southeastern USA boasts glorious beaches along the Atlantic coastline, the enthralling beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and historic landmarks around Wilmington. You can spend lazy beach days and dine in chic restaurants if you’re travelling with your family. Friend groups can go hiking and biking amidst the majestic mountains, deep gorges and spectacular waterfalls. The state’s attractive resort towns have abundant activities and wonderful accommodations. Scroll down and take a look at the top resort towns in North Carolina, USA, to plan an exciting itinerary.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. Asheville
Often called ‘Paris of the South,’ Asheville in western North Carolina is a hub of cultural and historic displays. This vibrant city has the River Arts District, a thriving centre exhibiting artworks in numerous galleries. You should definitely stop by the Asheville Museum of History. The tour is incomplete without visiting the iconic Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America, and the magnificent Basilica of St. Lawrence. Take a walk around the Art Deco buildings of the downtown area.
Asheville is located among the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit destination where you can stop and capture the surrounding scenic beauty. Visit Pisgah National Forest and experience nature and wildlife.
For accommodations in the most convenient locations, check out The Omni Grove Park Inn, GLo Best Western Asheville Tunnel Road or a charming cottage near the downtown area.
Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
Address: 290 Macon Avenue, Albemarle Park, Asheville (NC), United States, 28804
449.9 km (279.6 mi) from Oak Island Pier
GLo Hotel Asheville-Blue Ridge Parkway
Address: 509 Tunnel Rd
446.11 km (277.2 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the heating and a/c work greatthe cottage is cozy and charming and the bed very comfortablethe king-size bed is warm & comfortable sheets very softCleanliness:
very clean and many extrasthe cabin was super clean and nicely decoratedthe cottage was clean and comfortablecottage was clean and we enjoyed the fire place immensely and pet friendlythe property is so cute very clean and quietHost:
owners are very nicethe hosts were very welcoming and provided anything we neededmike and tom are amazing hostsvery nice host will definitely returnproperty owners are very accommodating and friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was perfect for visiting downtownlocation was nice easy to get to downtown and blue ridge parkwayeverything you need for 2 people great location close to everythinglocation was great - walked downtown every day and eveningit is very close to i-26 and i-240 and navigating around asheville was very easy from this location
2. Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is located in New Hanover County and is just a few miles from Wilmington. Recognised as one of the top surfing spots in the world, its sandy beach is perfect for riding the waves and stand-up paddleboarding. You can enjoy fishing on Johnnie Mercers Pier, or just book a fishing charter and head out into the Atlantic. Surf shops, spas, boutiques and excellent restaurants surround the beach.
The historic square is home to the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and old cottage homes. If you want to explore further, book a cruise to the nearby Masonboro Island, known for its diverse wildlife.
While vacationing in this beach town, you can opt for accommodations such as Sandpeddler Inn and Suites, Holiday Inn Resort Lumina or beautiful private homes.
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach, an IHG Hotel
Address: 1706 North Lumina Avenue
44.55 km (27.7 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Sandpeddler Inn and Suites
Address: 15 Nathan Street
41.13 km (25.6 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean porch was a highlighteverything was clean and communication with the host was greatthis is a lovely updated clean home with everything needed (except the beach towels ) for a great beach escapenicely equipped clean updated and the location/neighborhood was greatRead more reviewsHost:
the hosts were amazing -- top-notch communication accessibility and care for making the treehouse a great stay
3. Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a popular family destination on the eastern side of Bogue Banks, along Crystal Coast’s long shoreline. The white sandy beach calls for plenty of water adventures, surfing, boating and kayaking on Bogue Sound. You can fish off the Oceanana Pier or book charters and venture out into the sea.
To learn about history, especially of the Civil War era, visit the nearby Fort Macon State Park, which also has a bathhouse and picnic areas.
For comfortable stays, you may look into Palm Suites, A Place at the Beach III, a VRI resort, and comfortable rentals near the major attractions.
A Place at the Beach III, a VRI resort
Address: 1904 East Fort Macon Rd
154.29 km (95.9 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Palm Suites
Address: 602 W Fort Macon Rd
151.36 km (94.1 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
fully stocked kitchen allowed us to enjoy home-cooked mealscomfy beds pillows and furniture kitchen with all we needed great beach towels etcCleanliness:
beautifully decorated and very cleanHost:
the owners are super responsive and check-in was a breezethe property is well maintained and the owner is very proactive and easy to work withRead more reviewsLocation:
the property is in a perfect location very close to private beach accessand just a short little walk to the beautiful beacha short easy walk from the beach
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Sapphire
Affordable pricing for spacious townhouses with lake views and modern amenities.
Access to club amenities, tennis facility, indoor/outdoor pool, and recreational activities.
Convenient location near golf courses, local towns, waterfalls, and mountain activities.
Multiple dining options, nearby restaurants, and fully equipped kitchens in townhouses.
Tucked away amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, this picturesque community is a spectacle of nature and boasts grand waterfalls and wooded forests, offering many exciting opportunities. Hiking in Gorges State Park or excursions to the majestic Whitewater Falls are bound to be the perfect adventures. Kids will enjoy skiing at Ski Sapphire Valley resort, and if you’re looking for a family day out, head to Whitewater Equestrian Center and enjoy horseriding. Don’t forget to taste the delicacies at Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company!
The area boasts lovely accommodations offering gorgeous views of the mountains and lakes. Consider staying at Hampton Inn & Suites Cashiers, Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley or the elegant rental home Dream Catcher.
Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley by Capital Vacations
Address: 127 Cherokee Trail
475.06 km (295.2 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Hampton Inn & Suites Cashiers - Sapphire Valley
Address: 3245 US Highway 64 East
475.2 km (295.3 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsCleanliness:
it's very clean and offers everything you would need during your stayit's very clean and offers everything you would need during your stay
5. New Bern
New Bern, the seat of Craven County, was a state capital during the colonial era. The legacy of the town is a delight to all history buffs. Explore the historic district replete with Victorian and colonial architecture and rediscover the Civil War period in New Bern Battlefield Park. The town is also the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, so you should drop by The Pepsi Store sometime.
Other attractions include New Bern Firemen’s Museum and Tryon Palace. If you prefer outdoor activities instead, plan a camping stay at the nearby Croatan National Forest on the Atlantic coast.
Recommended accommodations include coastal bungalows and luxurious hotels such as DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern and Clarion Pointe New Bern.
DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern - Riverfront
Address: 100 Middle Street
164.1 km (102.0 mi) from Oak Island Pier
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Clarion Pointe New Bern
Address: 3455 Doctor MLK Jr. Blvd.
160.59 km (99.8 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable & all the amenities you needcharming decor very cozy and comfortableCleanliness:
beds are comfortable and everything is clean and welcomingthe home is spotlessly clean and beautifully decoratedthe cottage was very inviting clean and comfortableHost:
the front porch is a great place to be with mild weather fine host no problems at allboth were quite nice and informativeRead more reviewsLocation:
very cute bungalow/ cottage on quiet street
6. Oak Island
Oak Island, the popular barrier island in southeastern North Carolina, offers the epitome of a relaxing beach getaway with your family and fur babies. The pristine beaches of the island offer opportunities for exciting watersports, be it kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
You may also cast a line from the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier and try out golfing at the nearby Oak Island Golf Country Club. Visit Oak Island Nature Centre to learn about the fossils and animal exhibits and then take a guided trip to the top of the magnificent Oak Island Lighthouse.
For accommodations near beaches, you may fancy a room at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport or the wonderful beach houses in the area.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport - Oak Island Area, an IHG Hotel
Address: 3400 Southport Supply Road
8.51 km (5.3 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi was easy to connect to and worked perfectlyRead more reviewsLocation:
overall this house is located in a wonderful location with a great view of the beach
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
however it is a great setup for 2 families with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on each floorthe common areas were well furnished for family gatherings as well as a well supplied kitchenHost:
communications with the owner was beyond awesomeand the people of oak island were friendly and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location with great beach accesssuper easy access to the "new bridge " and of course the oceanfront location was amazinggreat location beautiful viewthe pink pelican was a perfect location
7. Carolina Beach
Reasonable pricing for an oceanfront location with easy access to boardwalk and restaurants.
Clean and spacious rooms, beach access, parking deck, and friendly staff. Some room maintenance issues.
Perfect location next to the boardwalk, walking distance to dining and attractions, central to everything.
Delicious and varied breakfast options, tiki bar with great food, but some room for improvement.
Across the Cape Fear River and south of Wilmington, Carolina Beach is a lively town in New Hanover County known for its vintage boardwalk and adventurous watersports opportunities. Stroll around Carolina Beach Boardwalk and try out the delicious snacks. Do visit Carolina Beach State Park for an exciting hike along the white sand trails and to admire the stunning views of Cape Fear River.
The vibrant nightlife is another attraction of the town; and with the crowded bars and glittering music festivals on the beach, you can easily get into the vibe and enjoy yourselves.
Not far away from this exciting beach life, there are comfortable rental homes and Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton and Courtyard Carolina Beach where you can have a relaxed stay.
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Carolina Beach Oceanfront
Address: 1 Harper Avenue
22.79 km (14.2 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach
Address: 100 Charlotte Ave
22.52 km (14.0 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
house was spotless well appointed with comfortable furnishings quality linens kitchen wareCleanliness:
clean and spacious housewe loved the entire house beautiful clean and had everything we neededthis place is top notch everything was beautiful and very cleanhouse is gorgeous and clean highly reccomendHost:
both owners were very approachable and caringRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfect if you're not looking to be right on the beachgreat location to everything excellent communication between owners
8. Sugar Mountain
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this village is located in the heart of Pisgah National Forest. If you love mountains and wild outdoor adventures, this is the place for you. While hiking through the forests and riding the scenic lifts high above, you end up witnessing the most breathtaking landscapes and majestic waterfalls.
This village is home to Sugar Mountain Resort, an extensive ski area which provides the best opportunities for skiing and ice skating. In summer, golf and tennis, along with live music events, are extremely popular.
To find the perfect accommodation in this beautiful village, look into Skyleaf Retreat or the vacation rentals in the area.
Skyleaf Retreat
423.69 km (263.3 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is beautiful the beds were comfortable and the view was breathtakingbeds were all super comfortable and kitchen fully stockedCleanliness:
very clean and comfortableit was clean and the beds were good bedsit was so clean enormous space with 4 levelsthe house was well equipped spacious and the beds were comfortableHost:
very easy to communicate with host and all our expectations were exceededkathy was very kind and responsivethe owner kathy was easy to access if neededRead more reviewsLocation:
great location to sugar mountaingreat location near linville winery boone and banner elkgreat location for groceries coffee restaurants and just exploringgreat view of grandfather mountain and nice location to grocery and restaurants
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
she also has a great patio that is large with table chairs and a great viewnice touches in bathroom - soap shampoo toothpaste and brushes in case you forgotthe sofabed has a mattress topper that makes it very comfortablethe kitchen had necessary materials and the place was cute and cleanexpected better bed linens and blankets though so recommend bringing those if those are important to youCleanliness:
very clean and well equippedthe condo was clean and comfortableamanda is super responsive and keeps the area clean and homeynice clean and cozy place to visit10 of out 10 so clean and homeyHost:
the host was helpful and responsiveamanda was a great hostthe host was quick to respond and made sure we had all we neededdirections from host as to directions and check-in were perfectgreat host fast responses and everything was as seen/said it would beRead more reviewsLocation:
very cute space and a great locationunbeatable location and lovely placevery peaceful location on the mtthis location is perfect it’s just a short walk away from sugar mountain lodgeplace is perfectly located and the locker at the lodge was wonderful
Superhost
9. Bryson City
Bryson City is a small town at the southern end of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and lakes, this place is a haven for nature lovers.
Outdoor activities range from hiking in Nantahala National Forest to fishing in the renowned Fontana Lake. You can also explore the waterfalls while whitewater rafting in Deep Creek. For a day excursion in the mountains, take a train ride via the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.
There are some great accommodations near the mountains, including Stonebrook Lodge, Sleep Inn Bryson City, and vacation rentals.
Stonebrook Lodge Bryson City
Address: 270 Main Street
518.73 km (322.4 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Sleep Inn Bryson City Cherokee
Address: 500 Veterans Boulevard
518.53 km (322.2 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
house is very nice and cleanit was stocked with all the essentials and very cleaneverything felt very fresh and clean and kitchen well supplied for cooking on one's ownthe place was conveniently located clean and had everything you needHost:
very relaxing quiet owner very quick responses to all questionsthe host was welcoming and even left a little birthday surprise for meRead more reviewsLocation:
while the cabin is close to town you feel like you are in a remote spotthe cabin is very close to town - you can easily pop over if you need anythingnew extremely clean and beautifully decorated cabin thats close to everythingperfect super clean cabin in the perfect location
10. Edenton
The historic town of Edenton, the first colonial capital of the state, is situated in Chowan County in northeastern North Carolina. A paradise for enthusiasts of history and culture, this charming town houses some of the oldest and most notable heritage structures of the state. Visit the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, James Iredell House and Cupola House and its beautiful gardens. The Roanoke River Lighthouse stands in all its glory on the waterfront.
As for outdoor activities, you can enjoy fishing off the Chowan River Fishing Pier and paddling around Edenton Bay. When it comes to accommodations, you can choose from Hampton Inn Edenton, The Creek House or similar modern houses near the historic attractions.
Hampton Inn Edenton
Address: 115 Hampton Drive
276.22 km (171.7 mi) from Oak Island Pier
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfy beds and beautiful furnishingsthe master suite is huge and we rate the comfort of the king sized bed a “10”beautiful home amazing master bedroom and cool kitchen islandCleanliness:
very clean and tidythis comfortable home is well stocked spotless and decorated with beautiful antiquesupon our arrival the house was very cleanHost:
the hosts were kind and communicativethe hosts were excellent at responding and would communicate quickly after a message was sentthe owners were great to work withfabulous house for a family holiday owners were very generous and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location easy walk to down townloved being close to townhouse location was excellent for going into townthe house is within walking distance of the riverfront and historical district and we enjoyed walking everywherealways a great place to stay
Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely accommodations very hospitable hoststhe host went above and beyond in being helpfulbuddy and judy were amazing hosts and answered any questions we had very promptlythe property owners are gracious and quick to respond to questionsalso the house was immaculate the hosts judy and buddy are the nicest peopleRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location the house is phenomenalgreat location friendly town and judy & company were wonderfulwell maintained comfortable plenty of space and perfect location
Make the best out of your vacation in North Carolina
Each of the above resort towns offers something exciting for everyone, from lazy beach hangouts to adrenaline-infused nature adventures. Historic sightseeing is another option. So work out your itinerary by going through the above top resort towns of North Carolina, USA.
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