5 Must-Visit Islands in North Carolina

North Carolina is one of the most scenic states in the country, from its Smoky Mountains and dense forests to its coastal plains and beautiful beaches. But the state also boasts at least 300 named islands along its coast. The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a 130-mile stretch of barrier islands where you will find charming beach towns, delicious seafood restaurants, and plenty of activities. Check out these five must-visit islands in North Carolina and discover how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat. 

1. Ocracoke Island

Part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island features 14 miles of pristine and secluded beaches. And the small unincorporated town of Ocracoke sits on the southern end of the island, where it’s known for its unique culture and history, like the Hoi Toider accent and the location of pirate Blackbeard’s death. There are no roads connecting the island to the mainland, so you must take a plane or ferry. Luckily, there are several ferry boats that deliver people to and from the island each day.  

Things to do and see: Ocracoke Lighthouse, Springer’s Point Preserve, Pony Pen, Lifeguarded Beach, Hammock Hills Nature Trail

Where to stay: Pony Island Inn (low-key lodge), Ocracoke Harbor Inn (relaxed harbor-view rooms)

Where to eat: Howard’s Pub (lively American tavern with a roof deck), SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill (dockside seafood spot)

2. Bald Head Island

This small, remote island and village is in Brunswick County, south of Wilmington. Bald Head Island has been the site for several popular movies, like Weekend at Bernie’s. And it’s a popular destination for summer vacations due to its abundant natural beauty, wildlife, and events. Check out the annual pirate festival! You can get to Bald Head Island by ferry in about 20 minutes from the mainland. 

Things to do and see: Old Baldy Lighthouse and Smith Island Museum, Cape Fear, Southport Waterfront Park, Oak Island Lighthouse, Zeke’s Island Reserve, Kent Mitchell Nature Trail

Where to stay: The Inn at Bald Head Island (casual B&B with harbor views)

Where to eat: Shoals Club (eclectic menu with pool and ocean views), Mike’s Bites (casual spot for Italian ice, hotdogs, sandwiches, and more) 

3. Roanoke Island

Located near Nags Head, Roanoke Island sits between the Outer Banks and the mainland. It’s eight miles long and two miles wide and was named after the Roanoke people that inhabited the island at least 800 years before European settlers arrived. Roanoke Island has a rich and unusual history, as it is the site of the famous lost colony. You can access the island by car on U.S. Highway 64 or by boat.

Things to do and see: North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Elizabethan Gardens, The Lost Colony, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Island Farm, ghost tours

Where to stay: The Tranquil House Inn (3-star waterfront country-chic hotel), Island Motel (tropical-themed motel with a guest house)

Where to eat: Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar (casual seafood), Hungry Pelican (deli and ice cream shop)  

4. Bogue Banks

This 21-mile barrier island contains several prominent and well-known island communities: Atlantic Beach, Indian Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, Emerald Isle, and Salter Path. Separated from the mainland by Bogue Sound, Bogue Banks is a popular destination for vacationers. While there are some hotels in the area, the island is more notable for its rentable beach houses. You can get to Bogue Banks by car or boat.

Things to do and see: North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach Town Park, Salty Pirate Waterpark, Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, Emerald Isle Woods Park, Lost Treasure Golf & Raceway

Where to stay: Hotel Alice at Atlantic Beach (3-star beachfront hotel), A Place at the Beach (beachfront apartment resort)

Where to eat: The Crab Shack (casual fresh seafood), 4 Corners Diner (American comfort food)   

5. Topsail Island

Topsail Island is an excellent place to see dense maritime forests and sea turtles. Plus, it features miles of stunning beaches, 26 miles to be exact. This barrier island is equidistant to the Crystal Coast and the Cape Fear beaches, just south of Camp Lejeune and Jacksonville. This island is a paradise for those looking to skip the crowds of more well-known areas. You can get to the island by car or boat.

Things to do and see: The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, Soundside Park, Surf City Ocean Pier, Salty Turtle Beer Company

Where to stay: Seaview Fishing Pier and Motel (casual beachfront motel), Saltwater Suites (full suites close to the beach)

Where to eat: Beach Shop & Grill (casual seafood spot), Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille (steaks and seafood on the beach) 

Must-Visit Islands in North Carolina: A Recap of the Top 5

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