Enjoy an Island Life in Wilmington North Carolina
TOP PLACES TO LIVE IN NORTH CAROLINA
We've found Wilmington North Carolina to be the most popular coastal city in the south of the 40+ cities showcased on our website. The beaches of Wilmington top the list of healthy reasons why, so we thought we’d offer a quick overview about the area's barrier islands to help you. When it comes to beach communities, the charm of small beach towns in North Carolina are unequaled anywhere else we have traveled. The pet friendly beaches are a huge bonus and help make them a top destination for those who prefer not to leave Fido at home.
CAROLINA BEACH - Attractions, restaurants, and miles of uncrowded shorelines are making this beach one of the most popular barrier island vacation spots along the southern NC Coast. Here in the northernmost town of Pleasure Island you feel like you're miles away from the mainland, but this small barrier island separated from the mainland by the Cape Fear River is a mere ten-minute drive from downtown Wilmington. Restaurants here range from diners and oceanside grills to seafood shacks or waterfront bistros. You'll find no shortage of fresh seafood including fish tacos and fresh sushi at North Carolina beach communities.
HOLDEN BEACH – Situated ten miles southeast of the town of Shallotte, the island's boundaries are Shallotte Inlet on the west side, Lockwoods Folly Inlet to the east, the Intracoastal on the north side - and of course the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretches beyond the eastern shore. The island's northern coastline is largely given over to the fishing industry, especially clams, oysters and shrimp; which may be purchased dockside or at one of the area's fine restaurants. The family-oriented oceanfront offers numerous recreational opportunities. Miles of sandy beachfront stretch along the eastern and southern sides. Residents and visitors enjoy boating, fishing - especially for shellfish - and waterskiing on the Intracoastal and there are also plenty of land-based pursuits such as golf and tennis as well as shopping and a lively nightlife nearby.
KURE BEACH - If you crave peace and quiet, this unique example of small beach towns in North Carolina is tailor-made for you. From the pet friendly beaches along the oceanfront park to the nearby state aquarium and tranquil atmosphere, Kure Beach provides a natural playground for visitors of all ages. Stop by Ocean Front Park where kids enjoy a playground decked out with a pirate ship or try your luck at the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic coast. Shake your booty at the Boogie in the Park live music concert series, or chill out at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. There are also summer programs at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site as well as the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, which include behind-the-scenes tours.
OAK ISLAND - This 12-mile-long barrier island on the Atlantic coast holds the towns of Oak Island and Caswell Beach. There is also a United States Coast Guard station here, home of Oak Island's Lighthouse. Outdoor activities here range from boating or helicopter rides to beachcombing and hiking the many nature trails. Two wonderful piers offer wonderful fishing opportunities and there are a number of tours one can take advantage of. Shopping is sparse, but you can save that for a rainy day - along with the luxurious decadence of spa treatments available at two locations here. This is one of our favorite North Carolina beach communities.
OCEAN ISLE BEACH - Known as the "Gem of the Brunswick Islands", this seaside town and beach are connected to the mainland by a modern bridge which spans the marshy savannas. Running east to west, the beach has beach paths every 500 feet, direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, a public boat launch facility, and a fishing pier. Ingram Planetarium is here, with its domed 85-seat theater that offers learning experiences in astronomy and energy as well as navigation and space exploration. You'll also find the Museum of Coastal Carolina, which contains dioramas of coastal life and a hands-on touch tank, as well as a science hall. Due to its location at the southern end of North Carolina's Atlantic coast, and its access to the Intracoastal Waterway, Ocean Isle Beach has become a tourist attraction and offers an amazing number of rentals including beach houses and vacation homes.
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH - Visit the beach that National Geographic named one of the World's Best Surf Towns, North Carolina's most easily accessible beach from I-40. Here you can enjoy nature in a waterbird sanctuary or get active at a number of water sports and activities ranging from surfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding to scuba diving, fishing, and boating. You won’t want to miss the amazing views of either sunrise or sunset across the surrounding waters. Other fun things to do found here include the Loop fitness trail and a history museum as well as several cruises, tours, and adventures. There are also periodic events held here, inluding triathlons, competitions, and flotillas
If you have been dreaming of a healthy beach lifestyle - especially in an area with pet friendly beaches to enjoy the security and peacefulness of “small-town” attitude, Wilmington is the place to consider. We're certain you'll fall in love with these small beach towns in North Carolina like everyone else.
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