North Carolina offers some stunning beaches that are conveniently located near the Virginia border. These coastal gems provide perfect spots for swimming, sunbathing, and various outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach or a tranquil retreat, the beaches in North Carolina near Virginia have something for everyone. From the wide, sandy shores of Corolla Beach to the historical significance of Kitty Hawk Beach, each destination offers its unique charm. Nags Head Beach and Kill Devil Hills Beach provide excellent opportunities for swimming and sunbathing, while Duck Beach offers a more serene, secluded experience. Let’s explore these beautiful beaches and discover what makes each one special.
1. Corolla Beach
Corolla Beach is part of the Outer Banks and is known for its wide, sandy shores and family-friendly atmosphere. Located just south of the Virginia border, this beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. One of the unique features of Corolla Beach is the presence of wild horses, which roam freely in the area. These wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs are descendants of horses brought by Spanish explorers in the 16th century and have become an iconic symbol of the region.
Visitors to Corolla Beach can take guided tours to see these beautiful animals up close. These tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating information about the history and behavior of the wild horses. The sight of these majestic creatures running along the shore is truly a memorable experience.
Beyond the wild horses, Corolla Beach offers a range of activities for visitors. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for families with young children, and the wide sandy beach provides plenty of space for building sandcastles and playing beach games. Surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular water sports here, with rental shops and instructors available to help beginners get started.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it a convenient spot for a day out. Nearby, the quaint village of Corolla offers charming shops, restaurants, and historical sites, such as the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and the Whalehead Club, a restored 1920s Art Nouveau mansion.
With its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly amenities, Corolla Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Outer Banks.
Review Beach Rating: Corolla Beach
Family-Friendliness: 10/10 👨👩👧👦
Ideal for families with safe, shallow waters and plenty of space.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible by car, with ample parking available.
Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Well-equipped with restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and rental facilities.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy shores with wild horses and stunning ocean views.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Moderately busy, but with plenty of space to find a quiet spot.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to Currituck Beach Lighthouse and Whalehead Club.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes.
2. Kitty Hawk Beach
Kitty Hawk Beach is another popular destination in the Outer Banks, known for its historical significance and beautiful scenery. This beach is famous for being the site of the Wright brothers’ first powered flight in 1903. Today, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the nearby Wright Brothers National Memorial, which commemorates this monumental achievement in aviation history.
The memorial features a museum with exhibits on the Wright brothers' experiments and achievements, as well as a monument marking the spot where their first flight took place. Guided tours and educational programs are available, offering a deeper understanding of the history and significance of this site.
The beach itself boasts wide, sandy shores and clear, inviting waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The gentle waves are ideal for wading and playing in the surf, and lifeguards are on duty during the peak season to ensure a safe environment for all visitors. Beachcombing is another popular activity, with a variety of shells and marine life often found along the shore.
For those interested in water sports, Kitty Hawk Beach offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. Several local outfitters provide equipment rentals and lessons for beginners. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with anglers often seen casting their lines from the shore or nearby piers.
The town of Kitty Hawk offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, browse unique boutiques, or take part in various recreational activities, such as hiking and biking along scenic trails.
With its blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, Kitty Hawk Beach is a destination that appeals to history buffs, beach lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Review Beach Rating: Kitty Hawk Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Perfect for families with its shallow waters and historical attractions.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible by car with plenty of parking options.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Well-maintained with restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful beach with historical landmarks and ocean views.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Generally well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Moderately busy, especially near the memorial.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Good parking facilities.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to the Wright Brothers National Memorial and local shops.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisine.
3. Nags Head Beach
Nags Head Beach, located in the Outer Banks, is renowned for its long stretches of sandy shores and family-friendly environment. This beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, making it a versatile destination for visitors of all ages. The wide, sandy beach provides ample space for sunbathers to relax, while the gentle waves offer a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.
One of the main attractions near Nags Head Beach is Jockey's Ridge State Park, home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, hang gliding, and kite flying. The dunes provide a unique landscape for exploration and offer stunning views of the surrounding area, especially at sunset.
Fishing is another popular activity at Nags Head Beach, with anglers frequently casting their lines from the shore or the Nags Head Fishing Pier. The pier is a great spot not only for fishing but also for taking a leisurely stroll and enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Nags Head Beach is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. Several nearby shops and rental services offer beach gear, such as umbrellas, chairs, and boogie boards.
The town of Nags Head also features a variety of dining options, ranging from casual seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants, allowing visitors to savor the local cuisine. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and family-friendly amenities, Nags Head Beach is a top choice for a memorable beach vacation.
Review Beach Rating: Nags Head Beach
Family-Friendliness: 10/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe waters and nearby attractions.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with ample parking.
Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Well-equipped with restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and rental facilities.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming, fishing, and kite flying.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Stunning sandy beaches with views of Jockey's Ridge.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Moderately busy, with plenty of space to find a quiet spot.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to Jockey's Ridge State Park and local shops.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes.
4. Kill Devil Hills Beach
Kill Devil Hills Beach is a popular destination known for its beautiful sand and surf. This beach is particularly significant in aviation history, being close to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the Wright brothers made their first powered flight in 1903. Visitors can explore this historic site and learn about the pioneers of flight through exhibits and a monument marking the spot of their first successful flights.
The beach itself boasts wide, sandy shores and clear, inviting waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The gentle waves and clean sand provide a safe and enjoyable environment for beachgoers. Lifeguards are on duty during peak times to ensure safety for swimmers.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do at Kill Devil Hills Beach. The beach is a popular spot for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Local rental shops offer equipment and lessons for those looking to try their hand at these activities. Fishing is also a common pastime, with anglers often seen casting their lines from the shore or nearby piers.
Kill Devil Hills Beach is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. The surrounding town offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes Kill Devil Hills Beach a must-visit destination in the Outer Banks. Whether you’re interested in aviation history, water sports, or simply relaxing on the beach, Kill Devil Hills Beach has something to offer everyone.
Review Beach Rating: Kill Devil Hills Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with safe swimming conditions and historical significance.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible by car with good parking facilities.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Well-maintained with restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and rental facilities.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy beach with historical landmarks and ocean views.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Generally well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Moderately busy, especially near the memorial.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Good parking facilities.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to the Wright Brothers National Memorial and local shops.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisine.
5. Duck Beach
Duck Beach is a quieter, more secluded option located in the charming town of Duck. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and pristine sandy shores, Duck Beach offers a relaxing retreat away from the more crowded tourist spots. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the natural beauty.
The nearby Duck Town Park adds to the appeal of this area, providing additional recreational opportunities with its walking trails, playground, and picnic areas. The park’s soundside boardwalk offers stunning views of the Currituck Sound and is a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the serene environment. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for those looking to explore the calm waters of the sound.
Duck Beach is well-maintained and offers basic amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers, ensuring a comfortable visit for beachgoers. The beach’s tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot for families and couples looking to relax and unwind.
The town of Duck itself is known for its quaint village atmosphere, with a variety of boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants lining the main street. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, browse unique local crafts, and take part in community events that are frequently held in the town.
With its combination of natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and charming village amenities, Duck Beach provides a perfect escape for those looking to experience the quieter side of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the shore or exploring the scenic trails of Duck Town Park, Duck Beach offers a serene and picturesque setting for a memorable beach getaway.
Review Beach Rating: Duck Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Ideal for families seeking a quieter, more relaxed beach experience.
Accessibility: 7/10 🚗
Accessible by car with parking available.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Basic facilities with restrooms and picnic areas nearby.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and paddleboarding.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful, tranquil beach with a charming village atmosphere.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 6/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Usually not too crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Limited parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Duck Town Park and local shops.
Safety: 7/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisine.
6. Carova Beach
Carova Beach is a remote, unspoiled beach located just south of the Virginia border, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles. This secluded spot is known for its pristine sandy shores and the wild horses that roam freely along the beach. These wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs, descendants of horses brought by Spanish explorers, add a unique and enchanting element to the beach experience. Visitors can take guided tours to see these beautiful animals up close and learn about their history and conservation.
Carova Beach offers a tranquil and unique beach experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature. The lack of commercial development ensures a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and solitude. The expansive sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and building sandcastles. The clear, calm waters are great for swimming and wading, although it's important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty.
For those interested in more adventurous activities, Carova Beach provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even surfing on days when the waves are right. The beach is also a fantastic location for fishing, with anglers often seen casting their lines into the surf.
The surrounding area is part of the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, which offers additional opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking through diverse ecosystems. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
With its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and serene environment, Carova Beach is a hidden gem on the Outer Banks, perfect for those seeking a truly unique and tranquil beach experience.
Review Beach Rating: Carova Beach
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families who enjoy nature and a more rustic beach experience.
Accessibility: 5/10 🚗
Accessible only by 4x4 vehicles, which adds to its secluded charm.
Amenities: 4/10 🏖️
Minimal facilities, so visitors should bring their own supplies.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming, paddleboarding, and beachcombing.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Stunning natural beauty with wild horses and untouched sandy shores.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Pristine and well-preserved.
Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Very quiet and uncrowded.
Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️
Parking is limited to 4x4 accessible areas.
Pet-Friendliness: 9/10 🐕
Pets allowed, making it a pet-friendly destination.
Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to nature trails and wild horse tours.
Safety: 6/10 🦺
No lifeguards, so swimmers should exercise caution.
Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️
No nearby dining options; visitors should bring their own food and drinks.
7. Currituck Beach
Currituck Beach, located in Corolla, offers beautiful sandy shores and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. This beach is less crowded than some of its neighbors, providing a more peaceful and relaxing environment. The expansive shoreline allows visitors to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf without the hustle and bustle of more populated beaches.
One of the standout features of Currituck Beach is the nearby Currituck Beach Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Outer Banks from its top. Climbing the 220 steps to the top of the lighthouse is a popular activity for visitors, rewarding them with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Currituck Sound, and the surrounding landscape. The lighthouse, built in 1875, is an iconic symbol of the area and is part of the Currituck Heritage Park, which includes the historic Whalehead Club and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education.
Currituck Beach is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available for public use. The beach is also known for its clean, soft sand and gentle waves, making it a great spot for families with children. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season to ensure the safety of swimmers.
For those interested in water sports, Currituck Beach offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. Local rental shops provide equipment and lessons for beginners. The nearby sound side of Corolla is also a popular spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing, thanks to its shallow waters and steady winds.
With its combination of natural beauty, historical attractions, and recreational opportunities, Currituck Beach provides a well-rounded and enjoyable beach experience for visitors of all ages.
Review Beach Rating: Currituck Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Ideal for families with calm waters and a quiet atmosphere.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible by car with parking available.
Amenities: 7/10 🏖️
Basic facilities with restrooms and picnic areas.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, paddleboarding, and beachcombing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy shores with views of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Moderately busy, but with plenty of space to find a quiet spot.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and historic Corolla Village.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during peak times.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several nearby restaurants and cafes.
8. Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach, located within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is known for its wide, sandy shores and natural beauty. This beach offers a more rugged and undeveloped experience, perfect for those looking to connect with nature. The expansive shoreline provides plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the serene environment, making it a great spot for swimming, beachcombing, and fishing.
The beach is named after the tiny coquina clams that can be found buried in the sand. These colorful shells add to the unique charm of the area and are often a delight for beachcombers to discover. The clear waters and gentle waves make Coquina Beach an ideal spot for swimming and wading, although visitors should be cautious of the occasional strong currents and always swim near lifeguard stations.
Fishing is a popular activity at Coquina Beach, with anglers often seen casting their lines from the shore or nearby piers. The beach is also a great place for shelling, with a variety of shells and marine life frequently washing up along the shore.
Coquina Beach is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which means it is protected and preserved in its natural state. As such, amenities are minimal, with only basic restrooms and showers available. Visitors should bring their own supplies, including food, water, and beach gear.
The nearby Bodie Island Lighthouse adds to the allure of Coquina Beach. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and significance to the area. The surrounding national seashore offers additional opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse coastal habitats.
With its pristine beauty, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, Coquina Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Review Beach Rating: Coquina Beach
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families who enjoy a natural beach setting.
Accessibility: 7/10 🚗
Accessible by car with parking available.
Amenities: 6/10 🏖️
Basic facilities with restrooms and picnic areas.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Good for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful natural setting with wide, sandy shores.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Pristine and well-maintained.
Crowd Levels: 6/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Usually not too crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Adequate parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to the Bodie Island Lighthouse and other Cape Hatteras attractions.
Safety: 7/10 🦺
No lifeguards, so swimmers should exercise caution.
Local Dining: 5/10 🍽️
Limited dining options; visitors should bring their own food and drinks.
9. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Beach
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Beach is a pristine, undeveloped beach located on Hatteras Island. This beach is perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers, offering a serene and unspoiled environment. The calm waters and sandy shores make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Review Beach Rating: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Beach
Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦
Good for families who appreciate nature and wildlife.
Accessibility: 6/10 🚗
Accessible by car with limited parking available.
Amenities: 5/10 🏖️
Minimal facilities; visitors should bring their own supplies.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming, beachcombing, and bird watching.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Stunning natural beauty with diverse wildlife.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Pristine and well-preserved.
Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Very quiet and uncrowded.
Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️
Limited parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed on a leash.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.
Safety: 7/10 🦺
No lifeguards, so swimmers should exercise caution.
Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️
No nearby dining options; visitors should bring their own food and drinks.
Whether you’re seeking serene seclusion, vibrant beach communities, or historical landmarks, the beaches of North Carolina near the Virginia border offer a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. From the tranquil beauty of Carova Beach and its wild horses to the historical significance of Kitty Hawk Beach and the Wright Brothers’ first flight, each beach boasts its own unique charm and attractions. The expansive shores of Nags Head Beach and the quiet retreat of Duck Beach provide perfect settings for family outings and peaceful getaways. Explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities these coastal gems have to offer and create unforgettable memories on the stunning shores of North Carolina.
Stay tuned for more coastal adventures and unforgettable beach experiences at Review Beach, where we uncover the best seaside gems near the Virginia border!
#NorthCarolinaBeaches #OuterBanks #BeachParadise #HiddenGems #BeachLife
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