Including Outerbanks, Wilmington, New Bern & More
The Tidewater region of North Carolina, also known as the Coastal Plain, encompasses the eastern part of the state along the Atlantic Ocean. It is characterized by its flat terrain, sandy beaches, and extensive estuarine areas including the Albemarle-Pamlico Sound and the Cape Fear River Basin. These areas support diverse wildlife and provide important habitat for migratory birds, fish, and other aquatic species. Kayaking, birdwatching, and eco-tours are popular ways to explore these natural areas.
- Outer Banks: One of the most iconic destinations in North Carolina, the Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands known for its pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and abundant wildlife.
- Wilmington: is a charming coastal city situated on the Cape Fear River, offering a mix of historic charm, natural beauty, and beachfront attractions. And one of the Dinks favorite places in North Carolina. The heart of Wilmington is its historic downtown area, characterized by cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and a vibrant riverfront.
- Southern Beaches: Renowned for its pristine beaches, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.
- Other Coastal Cities and Towns: The Tidewater region is home to charming coastal cities and towns, including Beaufort, and New Bern. These communities offer a mix of historic architecture, waterfront dining, and cultural attractions.
The Same
The Outer Banks
The Outer Banks(often abbreviated as OBX) is a stunning stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, known for its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities. With over 100 miles of coastline, the Outer Banks boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. From the popular beach towns of Nags Head and Kitty Hawk to the serene shores of Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island, there’s a beach for every preference, whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, water sports, or secluded relaxation. With so many islands and so much to do on the OBX, it is no wonder The Family and the Dinks while visiting some similar areas did it very differently.
Local Cuisine:
Indulge in fresh seafood and local cuisine at the Outer Banks’ many restaurants and eateries. Sample Carolina-style barbecue, feast on freshly caught shrimp and oysters, or enjoy a traditional Outer Banks seafood boil. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like Hatteras clam chowder and Outer Banks-style fish tacos.
- Calabash Seafood: Named after the town of Calabash in North Carolina, this style of seafood involves lightly battering and frying fish, shrimp, or oysters until golden and crispy.
- Hush Puppies: Deep-fried cornmeal fritters flavored with onions, a popular side dish served with seafood or barbecue.
- Shrimp and Grits: A Southern classic, shrimp sautéed with bacon and served over creamy grits. It’s a popular dish along the coastal regions of North Carolina.
- Collard Greens: Slow-cooked greens flavored with bacon or ham hock, a traditional side dish often served with cornbread.
- Cheerwine: A cherry-flavored soft drink that originated in North Carolina, known for its distinct sweet taste and deep red color.
- Barbecue: North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, particularly two distinct styles:
- Eastern Style: Pork shoulder or whole hog cooked slowly over wood coals and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce.
- Lexington Style (Western Style): Similar to Eastern style but with a ketchup-based sauce that includes vinegar and spices.
- Sweet Tea: A staple beverage, sweet tea is brewed with sugar and served over ice. It’s a refreshing drink enjoyed year-round.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Fluffy biscuits topped with a creamy sausage gravy, a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
The DINKs
Living in North Carolina for 20+ years, we often took weekend trips to the coast. We have covered most of it with our favorite area being Wilmington and the surrounding beaches.
Wilmington
Wilmington, NC, offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the coastal ambiance, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. It’s our favorite area probably in the entire US.
Downtown Wilmington
Take a stroll through Wilmington’s historic downtown area, where you’ll find beautifully preserved architecture, charming shops, and cozy cafes. In Wilmington, NC, you’ll find a variety of dining options and entertainment, ranging from historic breweries to coastal cuisine and famous filming locations. Don’t miss the historic Thalian Hall, the Bellamy Mansion Museum, and the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial.
- Cape Fear Riverwalk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Cape Fear Riverwalk, a scenic pathway that winds along the Cape Fear River. Enjoy picturesque views of the waterway, browse local art galleries and boutiques, and stop for a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Front Street Brewery: Enjoy a taste of local craft beer and classic pub fare at Front Street Brewery. Located in downtown Wilmington, this historic brewery offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring everything from burgers and sandwiches to hearty entrees.
- Something Fishy Restaurant: For fresh seafood and waterfront dining, head to Something Fishy Restaurant. Situated along the scenic Cape Fear River, this restaurant serves up a delicious selection of seafood dishes, including shrimp, crab cakes, and grilled fish at reasonable prices.
- Sweet n Savory Cafe: Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Sweet n Savory Cafe. Known for its creative twists on classic dishes, this charming cafe offers a menu of breakfast favorites, gourmet sandwiches, salads, and decadent desserts. We always get some peanut butter cookies to-go.
- Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill Filming Locations: Explore the iconic filming locations of hit TV shows like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill. Take a self-guided tour to spot familiar sites such as the Riverwalk, the Old Davis Warehouse, and the historic homes of the historic district, which served as backdrops for many memorable scenes. Walk along the Cape Fear Riverwalk and soak in the picturesque views of the Cape Fear River. Stroll past landmarks featured in Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill, including the Market Street Landing, where Dawson and Joey shared many romantic moments. Visit the Bellamy Mansion Museum, a historic antebellum home that served as the backdrop for several scenes in One Tree Hill. Explore the beautifully restored mansion and its gardens to see where your favorite characters once roamed.
Wrightsville Beach:
Just a short drive from downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for sun, sand, and surf. With its wide, sandy beaches and clear blue waters, Wrightsville Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- The Johnnie Mercer’s Pier offers fishing opportunities and scenic views of the coastline. It is also home to several surf competitions which are always fun to watch.
- Surfing Competitions: Wrightsville Beach hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year, drawing surfers from around the region and beyond. These competitions take advantage of the area’s consistent waves and vibrant surfing community. Events like the Wrightsville Beach Wahine Classic, which celebrates women in surfing, and various amateur and professional contests attract surfers of all skill levels. The competitions not only showcase the surfing talent but also contribute to the lively beach culture and community spirit that Wrightsville Beach is known for.
- The Oceanic restaurant, situated on the pier at Wrightsville Beach, offers a delightful dining experience with its Cajun pasta, which was not only delicious but also a great value. Alongside, their fried oysters were quite tasty, though portions were somewhat limited. Overall, it’s a charming spot to enjoy good food with a view of the ocean.
Pleasure Island – Carolina & Kure Beaches:
Located south of Wilmington, Pleasure Island encompasses Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, two charming seaside destinations..Carolina Beach is known for its lively boardwalk with amusement rides, shops, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy fishing off the pier, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores. Kure Beach, on the other hand, offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its family-friendly environment and attractions like the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Both beaches boast beautiful stretches of coastline perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
- The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant and lively waterfront attraction known for its nostalgic charm and family-friendly atmosphere. Stretching along the scenic coastline, it offers a variety of entertainment options such as amusement rides, arcade games, and souvenir shops. Visitors can stroll along the wooden boardwalk, enjoy live music performances during the summer months, and indulge in classic beach treats like ice cream and funnel cakes.
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: Situated at the southern tip of Pleasure Island, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers pristine beaches, salt marshes, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the remains of the Civil War-era Fort Fisher, learn about local wildlife at the visitor center, or enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and nature walks along the scenic trails.
Topsail Beach:
Topsail Beach, located on Topsail Island along the coast of North Carolina, offers a serene and picturesque getaway for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Topsail Beach provides a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, shelling, and fishing along the shorelines. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and charming beach cottages create a nostalgic feel, ideal for family vacations or romantic escapes. Topsail Beach also boasts opportunities for exploring local marine life, birdwatching, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.
Southern Beaches
Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach, located in Brunswick County, North Carolina, is renowned for its serene coastal beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. This barrier island stretches for seven miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering pristine beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The island is known for its relaxed vibe, making it a popular destination for families and those seeking a peaceful getaway. In addition to its beaches, Ocean Isle Beach boasts a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy fishing from the pier or chartering a boat for deep-sea fishing excursions. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at several golf courses in the area. Nature lovers can explore the nearby marshes and tidal creeks, which are home to diverse wildlife and bird species.
The town of Ocean Isle Beach itself offers charming shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, perfect for strolling and enjoying local flavors. Events such as concerts, festivals, and art shows often take place during the summer months, adding to the vibrant community atmosphere.
Oak Island
Oak Island, located along the southern coast of North Carolina, is a beloved destination known for its expansive beaches, family-friendly environment, and relaxed coastal charm. Stretching over 12 miles, Oak Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
The island’s beaches are its main draw, featuring wide stretches of soft sand ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. Oak Island Beach is known for its uncrowded shores, making it a peaceful retreat for beachgoers seeking tranquility. The warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean also provide opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and boating. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Oak Island’s natural beauty, including the scenic marshes, creeks, and maritime forests that are home to diverse wildlife. In addition to outdoor activities, Oak Island offers amenities such as waterfront dining, local shops, and ice cream parlors along the main thoroughfare. The town hosts community events throughout the year, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and art festivals, adding to its vibrant coastal culture.
Holden Beach
Holden Beach, nestled on the southern coast of North Carolina between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, is renowned for its serene atmosphere, pristine beaches, and family-friendly environment. As a barrier island, Holden Beach stretches for about 8 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger beach resorts.
Holden Beach is known for its relaxed and residential feel, with many vacation rental homes and cottages lining the shore. There are no high-rise hotels or commercial developments, maintaining the island’s laid-back charm and pristine natural beauty. In addition to beach activities, visitors can explore nearby parks and nature preserves, such as the Holden Beach Park and Pavilion, which offers picnic areas and scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The island is also home to a variety of local shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and Southern cuisine.
- In 2022, sand dredged from the sea floor was relocated to Holden Beach, bringing fossils previously submerged to the shore, where they can now be discovered by shell collectors. Among these are sea biscuits, once inhabitants of seagrass beds in the Caribbean and beyond but now extinct in the Carolinas. These particular fossils found on Holden Beach date back 34 to 55 million years to the Eocene epoch, offering a glimpse into ancient marine life.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, located along the southern coast of North Carolina, is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. This barrier island stretches for about 3 miles and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a relaxed beach experience. The main attraction of Sunset Beach is its wide, sandy shoreline, which is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and shell collecting. The beach is known for its gently sloping dunes and calm waters, making it suitable for swimming and family-friendly activities. The island’s fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers, offering opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.
- Bird Island: One of the unique features of Sunset Beach is Bird Island, a coastal reserve located at the western end of the island. This undeveloped sanctuary is home to diverse bird species and offers pristine natural habitats for wildlife viewing and nature walks. Visitors can access Bird Island via a scenic walk along the beach or by kayak from the mainland.
- The Kindred Spirit Mailbox is a famous landmark located on Bird Island, North Carolina. It’s a weathered mailbox nestled among the sand dunes where visitors leave handwritten notes, letters, and reflections. This unique attraction has become a symbol of connection, hope, and shared human experiences, attracting visitors who come to read the messages and add their own. The mailbox and the serene surroundings of Bird Island offer a peaceful and contemplative experience for those who visit.
Summary
The DINKs, seasoned with two decades of living in North Carolina, ventured extensively across the Outer Banks, uncovering treasures from Corolla to Hatteras Island, with side trips to Ocracoke and Roanoke Islands. Their coastal journey was complemented by frequent escapes to Wilmington and its surroundings, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. On the other hand, the Family’s focus on the Outerbanks like provided them with a quieter, more relaxed coastal experience. Both groups indulged in local cuisine and coastal charm, showcasing the rich diversity and natural beauty that North Carolina’s coastal region has to offer.
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