From Corolla to Carolina Beach, these are the top places to vacation on the coast.

The tricky part is deciding which part of the coast to visit in the first place.

Some travelers prefer the Outer Banks, while others like to retreat to the Wilmington area in the summer.

Kayakers on Pamlico Sound, Salvo Day Use Area, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NORTH CAROLINA,

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To help you choose, we asked locals to weigh in on the best beach towns in North Carolina.

If you want to stay in town for your entire trip, thats okay, too.

Here, youll likely see other visitors flying kites, kiteboarding, and windsurfing.

Horizontal shot of family walking along the water holding fishing pole and picnic things. Pier in the background taken at sunrise in the Outer Banks

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Its just you, the beach, and the water," he says.

“And at night I’ve never seen so many stars.”

As far as accommodations, you have a few options.

Golden retriever dog playing on the beach in Duck, NC.

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In classic seaside fashion, theCarolina Beach Boardwalkis populated with carnival games, amusement rides, and street-food vendors.

Dogs are welcome, on a leash, anytime, says Shelton.

Lemke recommends taking the ferry from Southport to Bald Head Island.

People walking parallel to Taylor’s Creek on the boardwalk in downtown Beaufort. Beaufort’s historic and picturesque downtown is filled with acclaimed shops and restaurants.

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The ferry ride alone is worth the adventure.

Swing benches on a boardwalk in Carolina Beach

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Wrightsville Marina

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Oak Island lighthouse pictured in soft morning light with dunes surrounding structure.

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Couple admiring a harem of wild horses gathered near shoreline on Corolla Beach. The Wild Spanish Mustangs are unique to Corolla and were originally brought to NC in the 1500s on Spanish ships.

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A line of people waiting for tables forms in front of Provision Company located on the Southport Waterfront. Intercoastal waterway in background with American and North Carolina flag flying.

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A woman golfing at Bald Head Island Club Golf Course

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