A Look at Some of North Carolina’s Premier Summer Getaway Destinations

July 14, 20234 min read

Wilmington | Wentao Liu

Whether you prefer to relax by the water, indulge in an acclaimed food scene, or explore the mountains through hiking, North Carolina has cities and towns that cater to your interests. Let’s explore some of the best destinations in North Carolina for a summer retreat.

Lively Communities

Charlotte: If you love exploring big cities, Charlotte is the place for you. As North Carolina’s largest city, this is a cultural center known for its thriving economy, busy downtown, and top-notch food scene. Charlotte boasts notable museums, such as the Levine Museum of the New South, distinct neighborhoods for shopping and dining, and lovely public parks.

Chapel Hill: Chapel Hill is a pleasant city with around 60,000 residents. Best identified as the home of the renowned University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill’s collegiate atmosphere is present year-round. It has many fantastic museums and gardens, a lively nightlife, and outstanding local craft breweries. Outdoor enthusiasts have much to enjoy in this area, including mountain biking and hiking trails along the Bolin Creek Trail.

Charlotte | Carissa Rogers

Mountain Towns

Asheville: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the scenic city of Asheville is one of North Carolina’s most sought-after summer getaway spots. There is much to love about Asheville, from its thriving arts scene to its gorgeous natural scenery. Asheville is home to the iconic Biltmore, the famed estate that is one of the country’s best-known homes. And outdoor enthusiasts will find unmatched hiking and biking trails in the surrounding Pisgah National Forest.

Boone: Boone is a bustling little mountain town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The natural beauty enveloping Boone is a big draw, as the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain offer excellent hiking opportunities and splendid views of the surrounding area. Boone’s endless outdoor summer activity options consist of canoeing, fly fishing, hiking, and more.

Biltmore Estate, Asheville | Cody Dueitt

Beach Towns

Emerald Isle: The Crystal Coast, a sandy stretch famed for its gorgeous beaches and marine scenery, is one of the premier regions in North Carolina for a summer escape. Emerald Isle, one of the jewels of the Crystal Coast, has world-class beaches, a massive fishing pier, and incredible ocean views. Summer brings many visitors to Emerald Isle seeking to explore its 12 miles of coastline.

Southport: Southport is a popular vacation destination along the Cape Fear River with pristine beaches, charming cottage homes, and pleasant waterfront parks. The North Carolina Fourth of July Festival in Southport is the highlight of the summer, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to this charming town.

Calabash: Calabash is a small community along the Calabash River near the border with South Carolina. Esteemed as one of the top seafood destinations in the country, Calabash boasts many fisheries and more seafood restaurants than any other comparably sized place in the U.S. Visitors also enjoy going to the city’s excellent beaches, including Sunset and Holden Beach, along with first-rate local golf courses.

Wilmington: Wilmington is a long-running port hub with a significant maritime culture. It has ideal proximity to coastal paradises, including Wrightsville Beach, and has become a top summer retreat location.

Oak Island: Oak Island is a renowned coastal community situated along the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. It is famous for its beaches and nearby golf courses, including the Carolina National Golf Club. During the summer, Oak Island attracts visitors drawn to its vast coastline and delicious seafood.

Holly Ridge: Holly Ridge, a small town northeast of Wilmington, is a tranquil escape that draws many with its abundant wildlife. It has a charming main town area and is just a short trip from Topsail Island, a gem of the North Carolina coast.

Corolla: Corolla is a stunning village on the Outer Banks noted for its sandy beaches and wildlife preserves. Visitors can spot wild horses roaming the landscape of the renowned Corolla Beach. The picturesque town also houses quaint shops and restaurants as well as unique historical attractions.