Hi - We've been spending our summer vacations in cottages at Hatteras for over a decade. Any recommendations on more southern NC beaches? Definitely looking for a shorter drive from northern VA, and prefer quieter/less commercialized. Also, we like the beach OR sound accommodation options. Like to crab & dig clams, as well as surf. Any rental companies you prefer? THANKS in advance for your help!

I've been going to Topsail Beach my whole life, and my brother now does the drive down from No. VA with his two kids every year. Very uncommercial, quiet, beach and sound access. Like a step back in time. I'm leaving on Friday for our annual trip and can't wait.

We liked Ocean Isle, NC. The beach is nice and there are lots of restaurants in the area. You can go to Calabash, NC-the seafood capital of the world.

Figuring 350 miles from NOVA to Hatteras Village, the furthest away would be Ocean Isle at 414 miles; others such as Carolina, Topsail, and Wrightsville somewhat closer but none are as close as Hatteras mileage-wise.

We really like Emerald Isle Beach, and use Emerald Isle Realty to rent from. Have used them for years, and if you're very clear about your preferences, they aleays come through.

www.ncbrunswick.com.

I've been going to Topsail Island, NC for forty years and I love it.

Mileage might not mean as much as travel time when talking about the final miles to Hatteras, as opposed to a direct shot on normal highways south of Wilmington. Just a thought.

I hate crowded, congested beaches so we were thrilled when we found Topsail last year. I'm not really a beach person, but Topsail was wonderful because it's not overly commercialized and pretty quiet. I wholeheartedly agree with the suggestions for Topsail.

Tracy

Ive lived her all my life and I will never leave.

I wished I could live the rest of my days at Topsail. Only a dream.

If it has to be southern NC beaches, I can't help you. But we live in the midwest (landlocked) and couldn't be happier with the beach cottage we bought in Corolla. Wide quiet beaches, little if any commercial stuff other than some small shopping areas and restaurants. Definitely low key.

N. Topsail Island
Just got back with 4 of my "menopausal" friends. It was wonderful! Quiet and the beach is fantastic! White sand and wide...at least at the N. end. North is not as crowded as the S. end. It's a great place for families with small children. If you older children, I would suggest the S. end. North doesn't have all the commercial stuff!
We loved it and are definitely returning!