What are the best beaches in NC, according to Southern Living? Six of the top 10 are within a short drive from Wilmington.
Summer is out and cooler temperatures are in. This may mean the tourist season is slowing down, but for some locals, it’s the best time of year to visit the beach.
Southern Living recently compiled a list of North Carolina’s 10 most beautiful beaches. The list is specifically geared toward the fall, which Southern Living said “provides a welcome respite from the sweltering heat at our very favorite North Carolina beaches.”
Out of the 10 beaches included on the list, six are located in the Wilmington area. Check out which beaches made Southern Living’s cut.
Topsail Island
Topsail Beach and Surf City are a good bit farther of a drive from Wilmington,
which is one reason these beaches offer a more lowkey experience. The ban on any high-rise development also helps the beach feel calm and quaint. The southernmost tip of the island, known as The Point, is a pristine beach now under state protection.
Wrightsville Beach
The closest beach to Wilmington, it’s a popular spot for tourists and college students alike. Southern Living noted that Wrightsville Beach is known for watersports like surfing, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding in the Intracoastal Waterway.
Oak Island
Oak Island is one of six beach towns in Brunswick County -- two of which made the Southern Living list.
The magazine said that Oak Island is perfect for those looking for a family-friendly beach with a small-town feel. Oak Island’s nearly 10 miles of beach front offers plenty of uncrowded space. The town also has a public, par-3 golf course, skate park, nature center and a pier.
Carolina Beach
It’s not just the beach itself, but what’s around it, that helped Carolina Beach score a place on the list.
Southern Living called the Carolina Beach Boardwalk “a classic American promenade,” highlighting the restaurants, shops and attractions that line the way. Wilmington-area residents may not be surprised to hear that Britt’s Donuts also got a shout out.
Bald Head Island
If you’re looking for a remote destination, then Bald Head Island is for you. Reaching the island requires a ferry ride, and the majority of Bald Head is undeveloped. Visitors will find it especially uncrowded in the fall, which makes it a great time to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Kure Beach
New Hanover County beaches went three-for-three on making the list. Kure Beach, which neighbors Carolina Beach, is the farthest from Wilmington itself. Southern Living highlighted activities such as the concerts and markets hosted at the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, as well as the nearby Fort Fisher historical attractions.
Charlie Kingree is the Pender County and trending topics reporter for the StarNews. He can be reached at ckingree@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Six Wilmington-area beaches make Southern Living’s top 10 in NC
