Bookmark this list of rentals in Ocracoke, Beaufort and Carolina Beach and other North Carolina coast towns for an amazing summer getaway.
by Kayla Guilliams

From Bald Head Island to Ocracoke to Beaufort to Wilmington — North Carolina’s coast stretches far, and as do its vacation rentals. From the surfer town of Wrightsville to charming, historic Beaufort, check out these Airbnbs all along the coast for their quirky and stylish interiors, salty breezes, and ocean sunsets.

Outer Banks

For the Hippie: The Surf Bus in Ocracoke

Located in the heart of Ocracoke, this ‘Surf Bus’ features boho style decor complete with a full bed, sitting area, and kitchen. With its wooden interior, decked out kitchen, and spacious deck, you’ll forget you’re in a school bus. It’s just minutes away from Ocracoke’s shops and restaurants, including Ocracoke Coffee Company and Ocracoke Island Trading Company. Not to mention much of this island is bikeable which means you’re not far from magical places like Springer’s Point Preserve, the Ocracoke Lighthouse, or the island’s wild horses. 

For Endless Views: Round, Oceanfront Home in Avon

This window-filled, oceanfront stay is perfect for a family of beach lovers. Located in Avon, you can enjoy a meal at restaurants like Pangea Tavern or Oceana’s Bistro, or stay in and enjoy the spacious interior and 360 degree views of the area’s beaches and sounds. And did we mention there’s a Tiki Bar in the living room?

For Vintage Lovers: Romantic Retro-Round House in Salvo

This stay caught our eye for its unique architecture, stunning retro-inspired interior, and prime location next to the beach in Salvo. Stay in and enjoy the cool record player, electric fireplace, and colorful appliances, or go out and adventure with the beach bikes, kayaks, surfboards, and skim boards that come with your stay. You can also enjoy the restaurants of Salvo, like Watermen’s Bar & Grill or Waves Market & Deli, or put a record on and cook up an ocean-inspired meal for yourself. 

For Fans of Endless Fun: The Snow Nest in Kill Devil Hills

Get a birds eye view of the outer banks with this nest in Kill Devil Hills. Its rustic beach-inspired interior, ample outdoor space, and amenities like video game consoles, board games, and ping pong make it perfect for a family vacation to the Outer Banks. Stay home and soak in stunning views from the rooftop, enjoy a meal at The Jolly Roger Restaurant or Goombays Grille & Raw Bar, or adventure to Jockey’s Ridge State Park or the Wright Brothers National Memorial. 

For Wildlife Watchers: Manteo Marsh Cottage

This stunning cottage nestled on the Manteo Marsh is bright and minimalistic with deep green and leather accents. You can have a spa night in one of the ensuite baths, or wind down with a drink on the spacious patio where you can see the Croatan Sound and watch the wildlife of the marsh wetlands. Venture into the town of Manteo and you can enjoy Poor Richards Sandwich Shop, 1587 Restaurant, or Lost Colony Brewery and Cafe. 

For Family Retreat: Coral Cove Cottage in Duck

You can bring the whole family to this 4-bedroom, oceanside home in Duck. Complete with multi-level ocean view decks, juniper paneling, ocean decor, and a fully-stocked kitchen, you’ll never want to leave! But if you do, you can explore the town of Duck, home to Duck Town Park & Boardwalk, restaurants like Sunset Ice Cream and Cappuccino and Duck Deli, and shops like Candy & Corks.

Crystal Coast

For Small Town Charm: Historic Beaufort Home

Be just steps away from Beaufort’s waterfront in this stunningly renovated, 120-year-old historic home. Its sweet and cozy interior features rustic accents, scandinavian touches, and colorful, coastal details. Just a quick stroll across the street in this small, walkable town will lead you to some of Beaufort’s best shopping and dining, including Dock House Restaurant and Seagrass Whimsical Gifts. You’ll also be at a perfect location to catch a ferry ride to Shackleford Banks or Bird Shoals.

For Tranquility: Harkers Island Home

What’s better than a spacious, beautiful home right on the water? This Harkers Island retreat is light and bright with navy accents, and comes with beach amenities like chairs, towels, and boat launch access. Harkers Island is the main access to Cape Lookout, and is the perfect spot to unplug and enjoy some sailing, fishing, or seafood at restaurants like Fish Hook Grill. 

For the Sailor: Beaufort Bungalow 

This nautical-themed bungalow features one large room with an open sleeping loft plus (surprise!) another queen hidden in a Murphy bed. It’s in the perfect location to soak in everything that charming Beaufort has to offer. Visit the NC Maritime Museum, Carrot Island, or nearby Fort Macon State Park, or grab a bite at Moonrakers, Aqua, or the Beaufort Creamery.

Wilmington

For Modern Life: The NoFo House in Wilmington

This modern getaway in the heart of Downtown Wilmington features bright lights, a colorful kitchen, and amenities like a large closet and spacious kitchen just steps away from the iconic Riverfront. You can also take advantage of its downtown location in the Brooklyn Arts District to visit Brooklyn Cafe, The Blind Elephant, or Rumcow. 

For Country Vibes: Farmhouse at the White Barn Compound in Wilmington

Enjoy a private getaway at this farmhouse in Wilmington’s Seagate Neighborhood. Enjoy the home’s wooded interior, eclectic decor, and outdoor green space while being centrally located to all Wilmington has to offer. You’ll be just minutes from attractions like Airlie Gardens and Wrightsville Manor. 

For Urban Living: Masonic Temple Condo

This newly renovated, historic condo in Wilmington is perfect for the couple looking for a downtown getaway. The space features exposed brick walls, a piano, and a modern kitchen, and there’s a bar and indie theater on the roof of the complex! You’ll be just steps away from the Cape Fear River where you can enjoy a meal from Caprice Bistro or YoSake Downtown Sushi Lounge. 

Southern Coast 

For the Minimalist: The Container Home in Carolina Beach

If you’re looking for a unique, minimalist stay, this container home in Carolina Beach is for you.  At just 320 square feet, it’s a cozy yet comfortable space with features like mahogany floors, Paperstone countertops, and a spacious deck. Just steps away from Wilmington Beach, you can also walk to restaurants like Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar or Uncle Vinny’s Pizzeria & Ristorante. 

For a weekend of self-care: Cabana Del Mar in Carolina Beach 

This oceanfront condo is perfect for a couple looking for a weekend of self care. Located on Pleasure Island in Carolina Beach, you can watch dolphins, fireworks, sunrises, and sunsets all without leaving the back deck. You can also walk to some of the best restaurants Carolina Beach has to offer, including Britts Donuts, The Fat Pelican, and COAST Craft Cocktails & Calabash.

For Wanderlusters: Lumina By The Sea in Wrightsville Beach

Enjoy a luxurious interior, newly remodeled kitchen, and hot tub at this well-equipped cottage in Wrightsville Beach. It caught our eye for its stunning beach inspired decor, bright and airy bedrooms, and location just steps from the beach. You’ll also be just a short walk away from Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier, and restaurants like Trolly Stop, Roberts Grocery, and Brasserie Du Soleil. 

For A Group Island Getaway: Aqua Vista in Bald Head

Ditch your car and take a ferry to this villa in Bald Head Island that has a beautiful blue interior and is fully stocked for your car-free family vacation. With a great outdoor living space, plenty of beach gear, and two golf carts for cruising the island, your kids will never run out of fun. You can also check out some of Bald Head’s best restaurants while you’re there, like Delphina and Jule’s Salty Grub & Island Pub. 

For Interior Design Lovers: Here Comes The Sun in Carolina Beach

Light, bright, and steps from the beach, this stay is perfect for a sunny retreat to Carolina Beach. It caught our eye for its mustard yellow and leather accents, light and airy interior, and ocean views. Just minutes from the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, you can grab breakfast from The Southerly Biscuit and Pie, a cup of coffee from North End Cafe To-Go, or a meal from Nollie’s Taco Joint. 

For the Young Families: Holden Beach Beachfront Cottage

This beachfront cottage on Holden Beach is a cozy studio perfect for a small family. The space comes with a well-quipped kitchen, fully fenced yard, and rockers on the covered porch where you can watch dolphins, seabirds, or stunning ocean sunsets. You can also enjoy the town’s shopping and restaurants, like Provision Co., Dock House Seafood & More, and Beaches-N-Cream.