The Ultimate Carolina Beach Guide for Every Type of Traveler

Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a nature lover, or an adventurer at heart, the Carolinas have a beach for you. From peaceful, solitary getaways to bustling family-friendly destinations, there’s a perfect spot to soak up the sand and surf. Not only do these beaches offer some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes, but they also cater to specific activities and experiences. Whether you’re chasing the best waves, looking for shells, or planning the perfect wedding, we’ve rounded up the best beaches in the Carolinas for every kind of vacationer. Pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore some of the region’s most iconic spots!

Best Beach for Kids

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina: A Classic Coastal Getaway

Atlantic Beach is the ultimate family-friendly destination, offering a wide, gentle shoreline perfect for kids to splash around safely. Located on the Crystal Coast, this beach town has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere with scenic ocean views and plenty of outdoor activities. The nearby Fort Macon State Park adds to the adventure with historic fort tours, nature trails, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. With a charming mix of seaside restaurants, fishing piers, and water sports, Atlantic Beach is the perfect place for making lasting family memories.

Atlantic Beach has a wide sandy beach and calm water that’s perfect for the whole family.

Best Beaches for Finding Shells

Capers Island, South Carolina, Lowcountry

For the best shell hunting experience, head to Capers Island, a secluded treasure just off the coast of Charleston. Accessible only by boat, this pristine beach is a haven for shell collectors, offering a variety of shells like conchs, sand dollars, and scallops, particularly after low tide. The lack of crowds and unspoiled environment means that each visit feels like an exciting discovery. It’s the perfect spot to wander, relax, and gather your beach treasures.

Capers Island Credit: Barrier Island Eco Tours

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches

Morris Island Beach, South Carolina

Looking for a dog-friendly beach with minimal rules? Morris Island is your perfect destination! This undeveloped gem offers plenty of space for your dog to run off-leash, making it a top choice for pets who love to explore. The only way to get there is by boat, but don’t worry if you don’t have one—Adventure Harbor Tours provides 3-hour dog-friendly boat trips to the island. Once there, you and your dog can enjoy watching dolphins, strolling along the beach, or simply relaxing in the natural beauty. It’s the perfect remote getaway where your furry friend can truly roam free.

Morris Beach Lighthouse Credit: Richard F. via TripAdvisor

Best Beaches for Surfing 

Emerald Isle, North Carolina, Crystal Coast

Nestled on Bogue Banks Island, Emerald Isle is a hidden gem for surfers looking for both excitement and tranquility. Known for its diverse wave breaks and steady swells, this beach destination offers some of the East Coast’s most thrilling surf. Whether you're a newbie trying to catch your first wave or a seasoned surfer seeking new challenges, Emerald Isle has you covered. The crystal-clear waters and consistent surf conditions create an ideal atmosphere for all skill levels. Many surfers gravitate towards the Bogue Inlet Pier for its prime location, but if you’re looking for a more peaceful ride, exploring the coastline a little further will reward you with quieter spots. With its laid-back beach vibes and endless surf opportunities, Emerald Isle is the ultimate East Coast surf getaway.

Emerald Isle, NC Credit: Emerald Isle Reality

Best Beaches for Solitude

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, Outer Banks
Looking for a peaceful escape? Ocracoke Island is the perfect destination for solitude and tranquility. Accessible only by ferry, this remote island offers miles of uncrowded beaches, perfect for long walks, reading, or simply enjoying the calming sound of the waves. With no traffic or major development, Ocracoke feels like an untouched paradise where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the coast in total peace.

Call us biased, but we think Ocracoke Island is one of the best all-around beaches in the Carolinas. Photo credit: @ocracokeislandnc on Instagram

Best Beaches for Sunset

Sunset Beach, North Carolina, Coastal Carolina
As its name suggests, Sunset Beach offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets along the coast. Located at the southernmost tip of North Carolina, this quiet, picturesque beach provides unobstructed views of the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean. The flat, wide shoreline offers plenty of space to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning colors of the sky as the sun dips below the horizon. It's the ideal spot to enjoy the serene beauty of nature as the day winds down.

The perfect way to end a beach day!

Best Beaches for Camping

Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina, Lowcountry
For the ultimate beach camping experience, head to Hunting Island State Park. This beautiful park near Beaufort, South Carolina, offers over 200 campsites, many of which are right next to the beach. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, the sound of the waves is the perfect soundtrack to your stay. The park features hiking trails, a lighthouse to explore, and abundant wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins. It’s an amazing place to embrace nature, enjoy outdoor adventures, and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the ocean.

Pictured is Hunting Island State Park in SC by @chris_schuch0571

Best Beaches for Photography 

Bodie Island, North Carolina, Outer Banks
Bodie Island Beach is a photographer's dream, offering dramatic views of the iconic Bodie Island Lighthouse, vast sand dunes, and expansive shorelines. Located on the Outer Banks, this quiet, natural beach provides the perfect backdrop for stunning photos, whether you're capturing the lighthouse against a vibrant sunrise or the untouched beauty of the coastline. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make Bodie Island an ideal destination for anyone looking to take stunning beach photos.

Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina Credit: Cape Lookout National Seashore Facebook

Best Beaches for Weddings

Kiawah Island, South Carolina, Lowcountry
Kiawah Island is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in the Carolinas, offering stunning oceanfront venues and a romantic atmosphere. Located just outside Charleston, the island’s pristine beaches provide the perfect backdrop for exchanging vows. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Kiawah Island offers a variety of venues—from elegant resorts to rustic beachside settings. With its natural beauty and upscale accommodations, Kiawah ensures that your wedding day will be unforgettable.

Best Beaches for Sports

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Coastal Carolina
North Myrtle Beach is an action-packed destination for those who love outdoor sports. From volleyball and frisbee to jet skiing and parasailing, this beach is perfect for anyone looking to stay active on the sand. The area also has several spots for paddleboarding, kayaking, and kiteboarding, making it a mecca for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into team sports or solo adventures, North Myrtle Beach offers the perfect setting for a fun-filled day on the coast.

Cape Lookout National Seashore Facebook

Best Beaches for Fishing

Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina, Outer Banks
Cape Lookout National Seashore is a fishing paradise, offering some of the best surf fishing opportunities in North Carolina. This remote, undeveloped area is accessible only by ferry or boat, making it a tranquil escape for anglers. The waters are teeming with fish, including red drum, bluefish, and striped bass. With its rugged beauty and peaceful surroundings, Cape Lookout provides the perfect environment for an unforgettable fishing experience, whether you’re casting from the shore or heading out on a boat.

Best Beaches for Party Vibes

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Lowcountry
Hilton Head Island offers a lively beach scene with a sophisticated twist. While known for its upscale resorts and laid-back atmosphere, it also has an exciting nightlife that’s perfect for those looking to party. With beachfront bars, live music, and lively beach parties, Hilton Head is the ideal place to let loose while enjoying the coastal views. Whether you’re sipping cocktails with friends, soaking up the sun, or dancing under the stars, Hilton Head Island is a great place to enjoy both relaxation and fun.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Credit: Visit Hilton Head Facebook

Best Beaches for Wildlife Sightings

Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Coastal Carolina
Pawleys Island is a haven for wildlife lovers, offering abundant opportunities for birdwatching, dolphin sightings, and other wildlife encounters. The island’s peaceful, natural environment makes it easy to spot a variety of creatures, including sea turtles, pelicans, and the occasional shark in the distance. Whether you’re strolling the shoreline, kayaking through the salt marshes, or simply relaxing on the beach, Pawleys Island provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and observe the diverse wildlife of the Lowcountry.

Pawleys Island credit: www.townofpawleysisland.com