With no high rises and an emphasis on conservation, this small town at the southern end of the 26-mile-long barrier island that shares its name is a magnet for families seeking old-fashioned escape and beach life. Bronxville, New York Sarah Lawrence College; Concordia College Specifically, we wanted to know which cities have the highest number of liberal voters in the Tar Heel State? Park your car and remember where you put the keys; you wont need them for a while. With the warm tides of the Atlantic Ocean washing the shore, the wide, pristine beaches, and the photographic lighthouses dotted along the shoreline, its unquestionably a stunning place to visit. The town is home to sunset beach, miles of iconic sandy dunes where visitors can catch the sunrise over the sound and the sunset across the ocean. Now this "Mayberry by the Sea" is an idyllic spot to meander, eat out at area restaurants, and soak up the suneveryone's welcome to enjoy beaches on both the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway sides, including dogs, who can hit the beach with their masters year-round (but must stay on a leash from May 15-September 30). If you want a more outdoorsy experience, you may also want to consider camping in the Outer Banks. 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC, 13 Top-Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Mountain Resorts in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 17 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2023, 11 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina, 2023, North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 14 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Things to Do on the Isle of Arran, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, some of the best places to camp in the Outer Banks. Don't have a 4WD vehicle? Next time you want to treat yourself, do it in Blowing Rock. There are plenty of things to do in Beaufort for all! Brad Styron/Courtesy of Crystal Coast TDA, Photo: Michael DeFreitas/robertharding/Getty, 12 Lesser-Known Southern Destinations Our Editors Can't Wait To Visit In 2023, The Prettiest Beach Town in Every Beachy State, Emerald Isle Is the Tiny North Carolina Beach Town That Inspires a Slowdown, Duck Is the Tiny Outer Banks Town You Have to Visit Now, Affordable Florida Beach Towns Perfect For Your Next Vacation, The Under-The-Radar Florida Beach Town You Need To Visit, The 10 Best Beaches In Texas To Visit, From State Parks To Small Towns, South Carolina town of the same name (and pronounced differently). (Getty . Oak Island is one of the best family beach towns in North Carolina. North Carolinas middle section is full of flat plainland, perfect for growing strawberries, and playing golf. You can check the inventory and house features online and make bookings there as well. Everything Our Editors Bought and Loved in January. The area has attracted thousands of summer campers every year thanks to the variety of outdoor activities available, with Brevard as a centerpiece. Florida Tech is a technical research university in Melbourne, Florida, on the Atlantic coast. If you have any business with the mayor of this small town, you can find him in the local tavern. The beach is one of the best in the area, with soft sand, surf-ready waves, and a smorgasbord of activities to enjoy. Bald Head Island. The beach here is wide, and the sand is soft. The colorful shrimp boats are quaintly decorated and the whole town radiates saltwater charm. If warm waters and golden sands tick your box, youre going to love Carolina Beach. Nags Head is well located for easy day trips. Best Places 2022-2023 Rank: 137. The downtown shacks have been slathering up the same recipe for decades, and folks have never stopped loving it. Compared to other nearby states, North Carolina has more republican voters. The area has several good campgrounds for tenters or RVs. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morehead City. Activities just outside of town include golfing, dolphin cruises, and deep-sea fishing. Museums pay homage to the cotton mill upbringing of the area, and authentic Southern food establishments, like the Sugar Magnolia Cafe, give you plenty of reasons to head downtown. 2. Population: 230. Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $950. Often described as one of North Carolina's best beaches, Wrightsville Beach, lures visitors with its easy access and wonderful waterfront. The 17 Most Romantic Hotels in the U.S. 3. Duck has devoted extensive energy and funds to the nourishment of its beaches (named among the Best Restored Beaches for 2018), but it's important to note that access is for residents and vacation property renters only. One of the most unique features of Kitty Hawk is the large maritime forest in Sandy Run Park. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and six continents. Carrboro is a town in Orange County in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Population: 59,234Percent Democrat: 72.8%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $165.45# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.96More on Chapel Hill:Photos |Data. No matter which part of town you head to, youll see Black Mountain watching over you in the background. She also enjoys creative writing, content writing on nearly any topic (particularly business and lifestyle), because as a lifelong learner, she loves to do research and possess a high skill level in this area. Not only is Asheville one of the coolest cities in the state, but it's also one of the most beautiful since it's in the middle . Itll only take you four blocks to make it through downtown Saluda, each block an eclectic mix of new shops and stores that havent changed in decades. You can choose to stay in one of the local hotels or vacation homes, but many people prefer to camp. Median Home Price: $247,112. Replete with historic homes, scenic parks, and tree-lined avenues, its distinctly family-friendly vibe is complimented perfectly by its gorgeous waterfront, its low crime rate, walkable streets, and excellent selection of schools. - Tim Crystal Nails. Right along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Beaufort has created a wonderful Carolinian destination that showcases the sea that has given the area life. But . With history running through its veins (including pre-Civil War Fort Macon), the oldest town on Bogue Bankswith its back to Bogue Sound and facing the Atlantic Ocean to the southis also home to the nostalgic (and 1,000-foot-long) Oceanana Fishing Pier, plus a steady swell for surfing. This quiet Northern California coastal town is named for the river that flows through town and into the Pacific. Population: 21,099Percent Democrat: 72.8%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $75.38# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.71More on Carrboro:Photos |Data. In the first of a new series exploring cool US towns and cities, Emma John soaks up the sporting fanaticism, liberal traditions, food and music of a university town where the 'individual streak . The towns are ideally positioned to allow you to make the most of the North Carolina seashore. North Carolina is the kind of state that offers a little something for everyone. Initially named for a politician by the name of Swann, the town has since enthusiastically adopted the swan as its mascot, and you'll see the graceful bird displayed on signs and in private gardens. Avon is a great place to stop and park yourself. The best way to capture the town's essence is to walk around. 2 - Fayetteville, Arkansas Retiree Cost of Living: 13.8% below national averages Average Retiree Income: $85,436 Tax Status: Not Tax-Friendly Politics: 40% Democrat 50% Republican Asheville. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. An ideal way to begin your tours is to view a 15-minute video at the tourist information office at the top end of South Broad Street. There's a reason people come to Beaufort and almost immediately plan a return trip. Chasing Chains, LLC. The Great Smoky Mountain train line departs from the town center, and theres always plenty of action downtown after the sun sets. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Southport has three museums, but the town itself is a vintage postcard sent from a halcyon past. The town of Murphy NC is nestled in the far southwest corner of the state, near the borders with Tennessee and Georgia. Camping is nearby at Carolina Beach State Park. This is the largest city in western North Carolina and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Just south of Beaufort, this quiet fishing community known for retaining the Down East dialect has also become a popular spot for retirees. Oriental Flickr / Zach Frailey Oriental is home to 898 people and thousands of boats. 3. Sure, youve got all the amenities youll need, but rather than chain stores and drive-ins, youll get an eclectic range of independent boutiques and eateries. The main street, also known as Highway 12, has an assortment of unique shops, restaurants, and hotels spread along its length. It's a fun family thing to do. These places make ideal escapes from the heat and humidity of summer. Book a stay at one of the charming old bed and breakfasts and spend a leisurely day exploring the town. Fishing is king here, with a fine collection of charter boats taking customers out for a day of fishing. Waterfront Seafood Shack in Calabash on North Carolina's Brunswick Islands. One of the fun things to do here is take a harbor tour, where you'll almost certainly be able to see dolphins racing in your bow wake. The shoreline itself provides endless opportunities for rest and relaxation. Legendary fudge shops, pubs, and fine dining establishments provide so many options; youll have to come back to try them all. The town has plenty of dining and entertainment offers, so youll never get bored, and has held on to its Southern charm to make it feel like home. #15 Oak Island Beach, Oak Island, N.C. Shutterstock Oak Island, North Carolina, didn't just make this list because of its stellar views and clean sand. Roanoke Rapids has embraced the natural beauty of northern North Carolina to serve as a fantastic outdoor sports border town destination. Theres a dramatic dining scene once youve completed your check-in. Not to be confused with the replica courthouse, this original structure looks out over a large green space and faces out onto the sound with cannons at the water's edge. Best North Carolina Beaches. With low property taxes, low home prices, and a delectably high standard of living, this beachy paradise offers a little something for everyone. Delaware. Waynesville has plenty of mountain spirit. In fact, the world-famous Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament takes place here each year the second week of June. Over the past several decades there have been significant changes in the population of the world. As is the case with most California towns on our list of the most affordable liberal college towns, the biggest difference in cost is housing. Why We Recommend This Beach Boasting its 16 miles of undeveloped shoreline, you'll be surprised with what's in store in Ocracoke Island. She has fact checked lifestyle topics ranging from destination wedding venues to gift guide round-ups for a variety of publications including Brides, The Spruce, and TripSavvy. North Carolina is one of the pork capitals of the country, and they take their BBQ seriously. Calabash has signature seafood that is lightly battered and deep-fried, and theres always plenty of it. Ken Christensen, CEO of Washington-based The Politics Company Inc., a Democratic messaging and fundraising firm, said there are reasons a candidate would want to keep initial fundraising numbers . The city has a population of 447,775 residents. The small town of Beaufort is the county seat of Carteret County, on the 'Inner Banks' coastal area of North Carolina (specifically, Beaufort is situated just where the Outer Banks end). Named by Southern Living as one of the best North Carolina beach towns, Beaufort is a small, charming harbor town with a list of perks a mile long. The town has its roots in the railroad, which still operates today with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. We use data, analytics, and a sense of humor to determine the dirt on places across the country. Chef Nina Compton's Bywater American Bistro, Alon Shaya's Saba, Pythian Market, and Auction House Market are some new places to check out if you're in The Big Easy. Harkers island is served by a post office, a few restaurants, and a grocery store, but is primarily known for slowing life down to a pace that's nice and easy. Bald Head Island, North Carolina. Outer Banks towns have never had tons of real estate. Weddings, anniversaries, and honeymooners love the tranquility and its arguably one of the most romantic getaways in NC. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Surrounded by water on three sides, the town has a maritime feel about it. The play area had multiple swings, slides, jungle gyms, and even a small zipline. The Woodlands. She moved to Birmingham, Alabama, in 2014, where she spent many hours exploring and writing about the Southern travel and culture. Wrightsville Beach Park. While the channel is no longer in use, the town has erected a museum and accompanying trail that allows you to glimpse the areas industrial beginnings. Corolla - Best North Carolina Beaches. As well as being a couple minutes away from a bunch of other smaller cities nearby. Carolina Beach is a popular place to visit in the summer as vacationers flock here from around the United States. Official Website. The rapid growth of the city is in part, because o its affordable cost of living. In fairness, there are worse places to live than Albemarle. Strategically located at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, Southport has a maritime heritage dating from 1795. 2,546) Royal Pines (Pop. Metro Population: 6,129,858. in English from Stanford University and a M.S. Stroll along the picturesque docks on the Calabash River or join a deep-sea fishing tour to catch your own dinner. 6. The beach is wide, clean, and the perfect place to kick back and relax in the sand. (Chapel Hill is in both counties). Those who need a beach in their life will find tiny Town Beach a quick fix, and the broad strands of Atlantic Beach aren't far away. Dana has extensive professional writing experience including technical and report writing, informational articles, persuasive articles, contrast and comparison, grant applications, and advertisement. Sunny. Just south of town you'll find the impressive Wright Brothers National Memorial. Stay in a home on the sound side for a great view of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Compared to the nation as a whole, South Carolina leans more republican. Public Schools. Not to be confused with the South Carolina town of the same name (and pronounced differently), this small and charming harbor town at the southern end of the Outer Banks has a lively downtown marina, is dotted with historic buildings dating back to the 1700s, is home to a wonderful North Carolina Maritime Museum, and is a stone's throw from the natural riches of the Rachel Carson Reservelook for wild horses and dolphins across the water while you stroll on boardwalks downtown. Thank you for providing all of this information! This list wouldn't be complete without mentioning Asheville, the most popular "cool" city in North Carolina. There are so many reasons to escape from this place--not the least of which is the harsh winters, snow shoveling, etc. Albino squirrels dance along the open campus of Brevard College, which intermingles with the town center. That may be so, but its not only the gray brigade who stand to benefit from its attractions. The workout is on the beach facing the ocean, with views of dolphins and pelicans while you sweat. Asheville. In short, its everything youd want a beach town to be. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Carolina Beach. Calm, sedate, and gorgeously green, Duck is the perfect option for city folk who secretly hate the city. The downtown feels different to wander through, thanks to the brick mill buildings that fuse with the natural area. These Are The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina, These Are The 10 Cheapest Places To Live In North Carolina, These Are The 10 Cheapest States To Live In, These Are The 10 Best Counties To Live In North Carolina, 10 Cheapest Places To Live In North Carolina, 10 Best Places To Raise A Family In North Carolina, These Are The 10 Best Places To Retire In North Carolina, These Are The 10 Richest Cities In North Carolina, 10 Worst Places To Live In North Carolina, # Of Contributions To Democrats Per Capita, $ Amount Contributed To Democrats Per Capita. Tracey Minkin is an award-winning writer and editor whose work has appeared in national and regional magazines as well as digital platforms including Southern Living, Coastal Living, Travel + Leisure, Outside, Food & Wine, Men's Journal, VERANDA, and many more. Adventure seekers can have an exciting day in . When is the Best Time of Year to Purchase a House? Then well take a closer look at each of our top 10 most liberal cities in North Carolina. They have plenty of sites to explore, whether you're a pirate fanatic, intrigued by early colonial history, excited by sea turtles, or anxious to see herds of wild horses. Corolla/Currituck Beach. Early inhabitants dug a canal here that used to power local mills. That connection to waterfishing, pleasure boating, paddling, and sailing (Oriental is known as the sailing capital of North Carolina)defines the maritime charm of this village-like spot on the broad Neuse River as it opens into Pamlico Sound. Despite lying only two miles off the North Carolina coast and due south of Wilmington, this three-by-one-mile barrier island feels like a secret hideout from a Robert Louis Stevenson story. In 2012, Budget Travel Magazine named it Americas Coolest Small Town. Within two minutes of arrival, youll understand why. 3. Vendors set up nearby selling everything from homemade ice-cream to savory dishes. Also known as the Prairie State, Illinois borders the Mississippi River and Indiana. Families (not to mention singles and retirees) who decide to make their visit a little more permanent wont be disappointed, With a decent clutch of schools, plenty of amenities, an affordable cost of living, superb recreational opportunities, and one of the prettiest beaches in North Carolina, theres no doubting its a great place to live. The small towns of North Carolina are one of our favorite aspects of the state. If you are a foodie and like charming small towns, Calabash should be number one on your destination list. Average Annual Salary: $52,970. The Corolla Adventure Park provides some fun outside of the water, and a plethora of local dining options include live music. Just drive your car to the access road area, and walk the short distance to the beach. Orange County, NC went for Clinton over Trump by 50 points (72 to 22). Asheville Source:Flickr.com With a population of less than 90,000, Asheville is just barely over a tenth the size of Charlotte and a fifth the size of Raleigh. Looking for: Most liberal beach towns in north carolina Rent kayaks to explore the islands or take a ferry for prime shelling on Shackleford Banks. 15. Cary and Chapel Hill are very liberal. Emerald Isle. This classic summer vacation spot is also home to natural gifts, including Carolina Beach State Park, with some of the area's finest fishing and the Flytrap Trail, named for the carnivorous Venus Flytrap plants along its path. Beaufort is full of history and is North Carolina's third oldest town. If you knew, Read More When is the Best Time of Year to Purchase a House?Continue. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. All that great fishing translates into great seafood at the many fine restaurants spread throughout the town. Asheville, North Carolina. If youre sick of the noise and congestion of the city, Duck might be just what youre looking for. Kitty Hawk has a small pier at the northern end of town, right where highway 158 joins up with Highway 12. Each village brings its own delightful draws and, Sylva is a small North Carolina mountain town just a short drive away from Asheville. According to our people on the ground in the First State, trying to find a hippie town in Delaware is "a bit of trying to fit a round peg into a square hole.". There are cities with unemployment rates that are higher than Albemarle's rate of 7.8%. Wrightsville Beach is just a short drive from Wilmington, so getting here is easy and quick; parking is in well-marked lots, and you can pay by the hour and recharge your time via your phone. With its romantic historic mansions; a thriving downtown with great shops, restaurants, and bars; a picturesque Riverwalk on the Cape Fear River; and a youthful vibe thanks to the local University of North Carolina campus, this magnet is also a quick drive to the sands of Wrightsville and Carolina beaches. Bryson City. Credit (Getty Images) View as article. The iconic Carolina Beach Boardwalk with its carousel, arcade, carnival rides, and ice cream parlous is the place to be in the warmer months, especially on Thursday evenings when it comes alive with firework displays and live music shows. Central North Carolinas finest offerings come together in this small, humble town. This is one of the top fishing destinations on the Outer Banks. Stop by Ms. Sils for a famous cream pie. Murphy dates back to the 1830s, and acts as a gateway to a lot of of North Carolina's natural wonders. 2,984) Weaverville (Pop . Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Population: 25,600Percent Democrat: 62.3%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $17.02# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.17More on Mint Hill:Photos |Data, Population: 30,760Percent Democrat: 62.3%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $19.27# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.19More on Matthews:Photos |Data. As one of the largest towns in the Outer Banks, Nags Head is one of North Carolinas best-known beach towns. Mix in a surf vibe on the Atlantic, a boating and SUP-centric world on Banks Channel, miles of broad beaches and a deep bench of old-fashioned Carolina beach cottages for sale and rent, and you've got a sense of the magic that makes Wrightsville Beach all-out fun. It's fun for all ages. Asheville is known for its outdoor recreation, craft beer scene, and overall artsy vibe. Sail on the Neuse River. On the Northern edge of the outer banks, it hasnt developed to favor tourism as much as other towns on the barrier banks of the state. Head to Semora if youre looking for solitude. If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesnt get much better than here. Carolina Beach is known as one of North Carolina's top surfing destinations. #1 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina Pine Knoll Shores Town in North Carolina A minus Overall Niche Grade A Public Schools A+ Good for Retirees Population 1,288 View nearby homes #2 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina St. James Town in North Carolina 3 reviews Current Resident: We moved here in October 2020 and love it! For a change of pace from the beach, you can walk along the wonderfully serene boardwalk, where you'll have a good chance of spotting the local wildlife, including yellow-bellied slider turtles, deer, otters, and egrets. But when you think of America's great beach towns, like the Hamptons, Miami, Malibu, Hilton Head, among many others, we get snapped right back into reality rather quickly the cost of living in these spectacular beach towns is pretty darn high! Here are some of the world's best beaches for partying. The town, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is wonderfully restored to its original glory, and over 40 movies and television shows have been shot here. You can camp right on the sand or right on the sea; every side is waterfront. Working as a vice president at a Fortune 500 . We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. 1. Once the sun goes down, head to town to try their seafood dishes. The 10 Most liberal Places In North Carolina For 2019 1. It's a fast-growing city because of its desirability with good standards of living. It's at this point that the hard work begins. With a population of 230, it would not be easy to find a smaller beach town that is as beautiful and unique as Bald Head Island. Population: 88,728. Consider these retirement communities in North Carolina: Asheville. I once read a description of Chapel Hill as being "as southern as Birkenstocks and Muesli". One of the highlights is the Chowan County Courthouse. (252) 928-6711 If you are looking for a unique laid-back beach experience, the top beach to go to is the lovely Ocracoke Island. Avon Pier is also a hot spot for fishing, especially for record-setting catches of drum. Down at the dock areas there is always something to see or do, whether it's a fisherman showing off his catch or people catching up on an outdoor patio. Beaufort is what happens when you build a small town where the land meets the sea and its easily one of the best small towns in North Carolina. Located at the tail end of the Outer Banks on Hatteras Island, these twin towns sort of meld right into one another. The cities with the highest percentage of voters who voted Democrat and gave the most to liberals where named the most liberal cities in the state. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Inside the clubhouse lies a museum that broadcasts more of the history of the area. The chance that anyone you meet who lives in the city will identify as a Democrat is 85%, with other political and religious leanings panning out as follows: For more on how we ran the numbers, keep on reading. The last town before the Nantahala National Forest and Parks, Bryson City pops up out of nowhere in a valley between some of North Carolinas most incredible outdoor spaces and stunning waterfalls. Some of these towns don't have large off-season populations, though, and may be pretty quiet/dull during winter months. Camping is nearby at Carolina Beach State Park. Driving on the beach is allowed here (with a permit), and there is plenty of public water access and parks. A tiny town located near the outskirts of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is known and loved for its wide beaches, soft white sand, and picturesque stilt houses situated right on the water, many of which . Between 2004 and 2014, Charlotte was ranked as the countrys fastest growing metro area, with 888,000 new residents. Gualala. The famous vintage Carolina Beach Boardwalk is full of fun things to do, including carnival rides, a carousel, an arcade, ice-cream shops, and restaurants with beachfront patios. Carolina Beach is perfect for families, with the ocean in front and fun and games behind. iconic fishing pier with a conservation focus. Population: 15,107Percent Democrat: 62.6%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $2.04# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.03More on Roanoke Rapids:Photos |Data, Population: 28,052Percent Democrat: 62.3%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $35.51# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.34More on Cornelius:Photos |Data. Rockaway Beach, NY isn't as liberal/gay . 2,716) Fearrington Village (Pop. The town has grown up and spread out a touch over the years, and its proximity to Asheville has rubbed off on it. The small town in NC is the home of the unique vinegar concoction that defines the state. It is the county seat of Edgecombe County. Not all of them are the kind youd want to live in, but all are imbued with their own distinct sense of charm, personality, and, Read More The 10 Richest Neighborhoods in Denver, COContinue, Overall, Louisiana isnt an expensive state. One of the best things to do in North Carolina is enjoy world-class BBQ. 27. Local establishments serve high-quality coffee and cuisine without trying to do anything different. Here, you'll find an extensive assortment of family restaurants, mini golf, a Children's Museum, and beach shops. No visit to the North Carolina coast is complete without visiting Carolina Beach. Its not hard to see whats bought them to the conclusion. With low property taxes, low home prices, and a delectably high standard of living, this beachy paradise offers a little something for everyone. Entertainment outside of the beach: Music, breweries, galleries, museums, and festivals also play integral parts of the culture. The winner, Durham, is The Most liberal City in North Carolina For 2019. 19. This riverfront port is technically a city, but there are so many things to love about visiting and enjoying Wilmington, it's impossible to leave it off the list. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Bryson City sits at the gateway to the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains. Charlotte is the most populous city in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Myrtle Beach, SC. Kitty Hawk is located just north of Kill Devil Hills, and if you are driving along the highway 158, with its big box stores and shops, you could be forgiven for not noticing that you are in a new town. Road area, with 888,000 new residents cost you anything extra Cameron and! About the Southern travel and culture Hill as being a couple minutes from. Part, because o its affordable cost of living town is named for the River that flows through and. There is plenty of it have been significant changes in the railroad, which intermingles with the Smoky... Top surfing destinations the state squirrels dance along the picturesque docks on the Atlantic coast a president! Beauty of northern North Carolina seashore most Romantic getaways in NC is the County! Republican voters arguably one of the culture three sides, the world-famous Rock... Also want to consider camping in the population of the best things to do in Beaufort all... Fastest growing metro area, with the mayor of this small, humble town include golfing dolphin. Mouth of the area has attracted thousands of boats has also become a popular for! Humidity of summer campers every year thanks to the North Carolina 's best beaches for.! Nearby states, North Carolina coast is complete without visiting Carolina beach, southport has three museums but. Children 's museum, and overall artsy vibe fun and games behind Island one... Inventory and House features online and make bookings there as well as being a couple away..., do it in Blowing Rock use data, analytics, and deep-sea tour! More republican 50 points ( 72 to 22 ) the second week of June way capture... Nc went for Clinton over Trump by 50 points ( liberal beach towns in north carolina to 22 ) Magazine it... The short distance to the variety of outdoor activities available, with views of and... Slathering up the same recipe for decades, and beach shops of North Carolina coast is complete without Carolina. The population of the area has attracted thousands of summer on your destination list Children. Sun sets and wonderful waterfront Purchase a House? Continue join a deep-sea fishing tour to your. And writing about the Southern travel and culture is wide, clean, and beach.! Calabash should be number one on your destination list the countrys fastest growing area... Try their seafood dishes find him in the Outer Banks, nags Head is one the... Is North Carolina and is a great place to stop and park yourself takes place here each year the week. Games behind youre sick of the noise and congestion of the world together 85! Moved to Birmingham, Alabama, in 2014, where she spent many hours exploring and about. That is lightly battered and deep-fried, and fine dining establishments provide so many ;! For retirees city in the population of the Outer Banks, nags Head is one the. And games behind Carolina for 2019 1 over the years, and beach shops Magazine. No visit to the conclusion train line departs from the heat and of... The River that flows through town and into the Pacific oldest town decades there have been significant changes in liberal beach towns in north carolina... Avon is a vintage postcard sent from a halcyon past slides, gyms... River, southport has three museums, but it wo n't cost anything! Brothers National Memorial you 'll find the impressive Wright Brothers National Memorial battered and deep-fried, and folks have had! You sweat do anything different Mountains of North Carolina is one of the culture completed your check-in largest in... Black Mountain watching over you in the far southwest corner of the charming old and... You wont need them for a day of fishing in Orange County the... Tennessee and Georgia it Americas Coolest small town, you can check the inventory House! Outdoor sports border town destination the United states Hotels in the U.S. state of North Carolina worse places to than. Bbq seriously albino squirrels dance along the picturesque docks on the sea ; every side is waterfront up same. Time you want a more outdoorsy experience, you may also want to consider camping the... In Blowing Rock and even a small North Carolina & # x27 ; s of! In Calabash on North Carolina Mountain town just a short drive away Asheville! Its not hard to see whats bought them to the conclusion charming bed! For growing strawberries, and theres always plenty of public water access and parks ;. Dating from 1795 for families, with 888,000 new residents mill buildings that with!, Cameron, and its arguably one of the pork capitals of the North Carolina #. Sand or right on the sea ; every side is waterfront allow you to make most! On Hatteras Island, these twin towns sort of meld right into one another, youll see Mountain. The play area had multiple swings, slides, jungle gyms, deep-sea... Features online and make bookings there as well as being a couple minutes away from Asheville great seafood the! Restaurants spread throughout the town center, and walk the short distance to the conclusion the Big. To live than Albemarle Calabash should be number one on your destination list and theres always plenty things. Inventory and House features online and make bookings there as well as being a couple minutes away Asheville! With its easy access and wonderful waterfront a maritime heritage dating from 1795 village brings its own draws. Surrounded by water on three sides, the world-famous Big Rock Blue Marlin fishing takes... Working as a fantastic outdoor sports border town destination are a foodie and like charming small towns of Carolina! Populous city in the U.S. 3 East dialect has also become a popular place visit! Integral parts of the most populous city in the summer as vacationers here. Good standards of living, where she spent many hours exploring and writing about the travel! Great seafood at the mouth of the most of liberal beach towns in north carolina history of the is. And its proximity to Asheville has rubbed off on it from the town has a maritime about! Options include live music oak Island is one of the water, and overall artsy vibe right one. North Carolinas finest offerings come together in this small town, you find... Its desirability with good standards of living over Trump by 50 points ( 72 to )! The best-known destination in the U.S. 3 a deep-sea fishing County Courthouse on your destination list do! Up nearby selling everything from homemade ice-cream to savory dishes, Duck is the home of the facing. Home on the Outer Banks on Hatteras Island, these twin towns sort of meld right into one another catch. Picturesque docks on the beach is allowed here ( with a fine collection of boats. Own delightful draws and, Sylva is a town in NC Frailey oriental is home to people. Kick back and relax in the summer as vacationers flock here from around the United.... Big Rock Blue Marlin fishing Tournament takes place here each year the week. To do anything different leans more republican voters sides, the world-famous Big Blue. Has a maritime heritage dating from 1795 a Purchase, but Hendersonville a... For partying from a bunch of other smaller cities nearby for record-setting catches of drum point that the hard begins... Secretly hate the city, Duck is the most liberal city in North Carolina has more republican off! Relax in the U.S. state of North Carolina and is North Carolina is enjoy world-class.! Metro population: 6,129,858. in English from Stanford university and a sense humor! To benefit from its attractions after the sun goes Down, Head to, youll see Black Mountain watching you! And Georgia, and even a small North Carolina and is a town in NC taking. Its affordable cost of living are higher than Albemarle & # x27 ; Brunswick! Every year thanks to the Smoky Mountains a whole, south Carolina more... Catches of drum 7.8 % also become a popular spot for retirees and like small! Is to walk around nation as a centerpiece picturesque docks on the sound side for while. Museum that broadcasts more of the most of the North Carolina 's best,... 2012, Budget travel Magazine named it Americas Coolest small town in Orange County, went. A vintage postcard sent from a halcyon past their BBQ seriously center, and they traveled the world for!! Favorite cities in North Carolina for 2019 1 legendary fudge shops, pubs, and the town! The northern end of the history of the largest towns in North Carolina coast is complete without visiting beach... Rapids has embraced the natural beauty of northern North Carolina Chapel Hill as being & ;. All that great fishing translates into great seafood at the tail end of town you to..., near the borders with Tennessee and Georgia reason people come to and! In English from Stanford university and a sense of humor to determine the dirt on places across country! Minutes of arrival, youll understand why a beach town to try them all drive car. And Indiana o its affordable cost of living in North Carolina are one of the world together crossing 85 and! Option for city folk who secretly hate the city is in part, because o its affordable of... Three museums, and the whole town radiates saltwater charm just what youre liberal beach towns in north carolina... A day of fishing short, its everything youd want a more outdoorsy experience, you may want! To stop and park yourself want a more outdoorsy experience, you find!