Getting To The North Carolina Coast Made Easy
When it comes to the perfect beach getaway, North Carolina has it all—pristine coastlines, charming local attractions, and a variety of options for every traveler. Whether you’re a family planning a fun vacation, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a solo traveler looking for some peace by the ocean, North Carolina’s beaches will exceed your expectations. This guide highlights the easiest and most accessible beach destinations in North Carolina, with tips on how to get there from the closest airport to Topsail, NC and beyond.
Why North Carolina Beaches Are Perfect for Quick Getaways
With a total of 320 miles of ocean shoreline, North Carolina’s beaches offer the perfect mix of convenience and tranquility, making them ideal for a quick escape. With dozens of destinations, including Topsail Beach, Wrightsville Beach, Emerald Isle and the Outer Banks, you’re guaranteed sandy shores and scenic views.
One of the standout features of these destinations is their accessibility. Thanks to airports near Jacksonville, NC such as Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ), your beach getaway is just a short drive away. OAJ provide easy access to coastal areas, cutting down on travel time and allowing you to soak up the sun sooner.
Top North Carolina Beaches for Effortless Getaways
1. Topsail Island: Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach
Distance from OAJ: ~50 minutes
Topsail Beach is a quiet, family-friendly gem known for its pristine sands and small-town feel. It’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or just soaking in the sun without distractions. Don’t miss the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center—a local treasure and a hit with kids and animal lovers alike.
If you're flying in, Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is the closest airport to Topsail, making it the most convenient beach for a quick, rejuvenating weekend.
2. Wrightsville Beach
Distance from OAJ: ~1 hour 15 minutes
For travelers who want to mix in adventure with their ocean views, Wrightsville Beach delivers. With its crystal-clear waters, great surf, and vibrant local food scene, it’s a favorite for water sports enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic stroll.
Whether you’re paddleboarding, sipping coffee at a dockside café, or watching the sunrise, Wrightsville has energy without being overwhelming.
3. Emerald Isle
Distance from OAJ: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Tucked along the Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle offers a slower pace with all the coastal charm. Bike along quiet streets, fish from the pier, or relax at one of the many oceanfront parks. The calm waters and wide beaches make it perfect for families or anyone looking to unplug.
And when the day winds down, the sunsets here are the kind that make you forget about checking your phone.
4. The Outer Banks
Distance from OAJ: ~4 hours (road trip-worthy)
Looking for an iconic NC beach experience? The Outer Banks are worth the extra drive. Famous for their towering sand dunes, historic lighthouses, and remote beauty, these barrier islands feel like another world. Ideal for weekend warriors who want to soak in maritime history, take scenic drives, or explore charming towns like Nags Head and Duck.
- Duck – Charming small town with waterfront dining and a scenic boardwalk.
- Kitty Hawk – Famous for the Wright Brothers’ first flight and beautiful beaches.
- Kill Devil Hills – A lively spot with history, surf, and plenty of local eateries.
- Nags Head – Known for Jockey’s Ridge State Park and iconic oceanfront piers.
- Manteo – A historic waterfront town with the Roanoke Island Festival Park.
- Rodanthe – A quiet getaway with stunning sunsets and the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station.
- Hatteras – Home to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and world-class fishing.
- Ocracoke – A remote island town with wild ponies and pristine beaches.
Final Thoughts from Albert J. Ellis Airport in Jacksonville, North Carolina
North Carolina’s beaches make it easier than ever to turn a free weekend into a mini vacation. With quick flights to Jacksonville, NC, tranquil coastlines are within arms reach. Whether you’re heading to Topsail Island, Emerald Isle, exploring the Outer Banks, or chasing waves at Wrightsville, your perfect beach escape is just a short trip away.