Planning Your Time

The North Carolina coast is a string of beach and inland towns, each with its own character. Pick one and plan day trips from there. Boisterous Nags Head and Wilmington provide dining, shopping, and nightlife, but they are also short drives from quiet beaches, dense woodlands, and historic landmarks. Beaufort's is a brief, private ferry ride away from barrier islands where wild horses roam. Just an hour inland are New Bern's charming downtown and historic Tryon Palace and gardens. In summer, on secondary roads and some major highways you're bound to pass fresh seafood and produce stands.