Living in or vacationing in Charlotte, North Carolina is fantastic. But sometimes, you crave a break for some sand and sun fun. Luckily, there’s an array of lovely seashores just a couple of hours away. Come, discover the top beaches near Charlotte, NC for your day-out or weekend retreat.
Wrightsville Beach
One of Charlotte’s favorites is Wrightsville Beach. About 200 miles east of Charlotte, it’s an ideal weekend getaway location. The beach offers clear blue waters and gentle sandy coasts. It’s perfect for swimming, sun soaking, and searching for seashells. Think about hiring paddleboards or kayaks to discover the sea or try a surfing class if you’re into adventures.
There are also some very nice shops and restaurants in the surrounding beach town, so you can easily spend an entire day in this area.
Other notable spots would be Wrightsville Beach Park, playgrounds, and picnic areas—very nice for families. The best seasons to visit would be from late spring to early fall when it’s warm outside and the ocean will invite you in.
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Carolina Beach
Another excellent option, located about 200 miles from Charlotte, would be Carolina Beach. It is a center of all fun with an excellent relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by a boardwalk topped up with eateries, arcades, and amusement rides. This is an excellent spot to bring kids into your life while you spend some quality time with them; there is always something to keep the kids busy at this place.
This is also a great area for fishing, whether from the beach or on a booked charter boat. For nature lovers, Carolina Beach State Park will supply some nice hiking trails and photo opportunities for spotting the local wildlife. Considering it combines all the fun of beach activities with the natural beauties, Carolina Beach is perfect for a holiday destination, not only for families but solo travelers alike.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach in South Carolina may be about 175 miles from Charlotte, but trust me, it’s worth the trip. Why, you ask? Well, this bustling beach town offers more than just sand and surf. Picture a lively boardwalk brimming with attractions – it’s the go-to spot for those seeking thrills and laughter. Stunning with vast space, Myrtle Beach invites for sun-catching and relaxation. Don’t think twice, plan your trip!
Myrtle Beach isn’t just about its sandy shores. You’ve got theme parks, golf links, and shopping hubs sprinkled throughout the area. Some top crowd-pullers remain the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and Ripley’s Aquarium. Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone, whether your thing is chilling in the sun or seeking out thrill and excitement as you explore beaches near Charlotte, NC.
Sunset Beach
For a calmer experience, Sunset Beach is an excellent choice. Being only about 200 miles from Charlotte, this beach can provide both a peaceful experience and some beautiful sunsets. It is less crowded compared to most of the more popular beaches and ideal for people who want just to unwind and have a relaxing day at the beach.
Aside from that, Sunset Beach is a host to the Bird Island Reserve, home to many bird and general wildlife species. The beach itself is clean, with fine sand and gentle waves. It’s a great place to take a peaceful walk along the beach or just to spend a quiet day sunbathing.
Kure Beach
Situated approximately 200 miles from Charlotte, Kure Beach merges history with natural beauty. Located here is the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, telling the history of the area from the Civil War time period. Another attraction nearby is the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, suitable for those who have children.
Perfectly located for snorkeling, surfing, and fishing, the beach also hosts some beautiful parks and picnic areas from which one can just relax and enjoy the scenery along the coast. With activities and attractions blending into one, Kure Beach becomes an all-rounder destination for visitors of all ages.
Oak Island
Love the great outdoors? Try Oak Island, a short 180-mile trip from Charlotte. Plenty of beach space awaits! You can swim, collect shells, and unwind. Fishing is a hit on Oak Island too. Tons of locations to reel in a big one, including the well-known Oak Island Pier.
Other activities include boating and kayaking, where the island’s waterways offer a few lovely routes. Oak Island is quite family-friendly, while most of its beaches also allow pets, so you are permitted to take your furry friends with you for added fun.
Tips for Planning Your Beach Trip
It won’t be too much of a headache to get from Charlotte to any of these beaches with just a modicum of planning. Just remember that the best times of the year to go out are late spring to early fall. Sunscreen, beach towels, and plenty of water are necessary inclusions in your packing list. If you intend to stay over, book your reservations well in advance since beach towns can get busy, especially during the weekends.
Consider renting a beach house or staying in a local hotel to really make the most of your visit. A good many resort towns provide a wide spread of accommodations—from inexpensive motels to expensive right-on-the-sand resort Lodges. Look out for any fun local events and festivals that are going on around that time too.
Conclusion
Although Charlotte, NC isn’t on the coast, some of the best regional beaches can easily be visited from here. From the party atmosphere that abounds at Myrtle Beach to the serene shores of Sunset Beach, there’s a coastal destination to suit every taste.
From adventure and relaxation to family fun, these beaches near Charlotte, NC deliver the ultimate break. So, pack up your car, hit the open road, and enjoy a memorable beach trip!
