One of the best parts of living in NC is the ability to take a weekend trip and enjoy the sandy beaches of the east coast. There are many options for beaches within driving distance to Charlotte. We have rounded up 5 great options and provided direct links to plan your trip. A few of the options are small-town charming beaches, which other options are more commercialized. There is something for everyone in our guide to 5 beach options within driving distance of Charlotte. Enjoy, and start planning your next vacation!
4.5 HOUR DRIVE FROM CHARLOTTE
Play in the sand, walk along the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy sunshine on more than 12 miles of the best beaches in the United States. From South Beach to Folly Field Beach, Hilton Head Island has been recognized as one of the top 10 family beaches in the country. And with so many pristine stretches of sand, warm waters, and days filled with sunshine, it’s no surprise it was named one of the most relaxing vacation destinations.
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6 HOUR DRIVE FROM CHARLOTTE
Corolla is one of the most popular beach vacation destinations on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. It has 24 miles of shoreline and there are distinct and charming communities surrounding the area. Corolla is less commercialized than most beached on the east coast. Visit historical sites such as the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, the Whalehead mansion, and the Currituck Maritime Museum, as well as eclectic shopping, dining, and entertainment. This beach community is known for many things, but mainly its remote beaches and wild Spanish mustangs.
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4 HOUR DRIVE FROM CHARLOTTE
Folly Beach is on Folly Island, South Carolina just south of Charleston. It’s home to Folly Beach Pier, which stretches more than 1,000 feet into the ocean. Center Street is a popular area lined with many unique shops. Folly Beach County Park has picnic areas and a pelican rookery. In addition to beaches and wildlife habitats, Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve has views of Morris Island Lighthouse. Visit the beach in February and experience Folly Beache’s annual sand and sea festival.
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4 HOUR DRIVE FROM CHARLOTTE
Oak Island is located on the southern end of North Carolina’s coastline. The town is nearly 20 square miles with 10 of those miles of containing beautiful beachfront. The island has approximately 8,400 residents year round, while the summertime population grows to nearly 50,000 visitors. Oak Island works hard to successfully maintain a balance of tourism, with the traditional, quiet charm of a small southern town.
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4 HOUR DRIVE FROM CHARLOTTE
Myrtle Beach contains 60 miles of sandy beaches. The town boasts a vibrant boardwalk, live music, theaters dinner shows, and murder mysteries. There are thousands of restaurants serving a wide range of food, plus amusement parks, a fabulous aquarium, more than 90 beautiful golf courses, fishing and many watersports. There are 14 unique communities and quiet towns with coastal charm. Myrtle Beach is more of a commercialized location if you’re looking for the hustle and bustle of a small beach city.
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