Favorite these incredible beach rentals to make the best out of your summer vacay with family, friends or solo.
by Sophia Melin
We’re halfway through July — have you hit the beach yet? If not, it’s time to pack up the car and head to the nearest shore to soak up the sun. Lucky for us, North Carolina offers tons of ways to experience the beach, from the quiet preserves of Bald Head Island to the bustling boardwalk at Carolina Beach. Whatever your vacation style — and whether you’re bringing along a partner or a whole minivan-full of family — bookmark one of these memorable rentals for an amazing trip to the Carolina coast.
For Modern Minimalists: Wedge-house Bungalow in the OBX
This unique one-bedroom caught our eye as the ultimate antidote to the clutter of daily life. The high windows and soaring ceilings placed to catch the sun provide a soothing, light-filled oasis. Sitting on the edge of a 400+ acres of the Wright Brothers National Memorial and only 3 blocks from the beach, you won’t find anything else quite like this fun, Scandinavian-inspired sanctuary. With a turntable and growing vinyl collection, European spa inspired bathroom and Solo Stove fire pit, this calming space is an ideal spot for couples to unwind. Even explore fun attractions while you’re there such as Lost Treasure Golf or Kill Devil’s Frozen Custard & Beach Fries.
For Sunrise Watchers: Boho Beachfront Condo in Carolina Beach
Located just a 7-minute stroll on the sand from the famous Carolina Beach Boardwalk, you can’t go wrong with this spacious, remodeled retreat. With an enormous private balcony spanning over 500 feet, this 8-guest getaway possesses the perfect, unbeatable view of the ocean. Complete with a stocked kitchen, outdoor shower and high-speed internet, this coastal dwelling as an ideal family escape. Not to mention, the local joints such as Hang Ten Grill, Squigley’s Ice Cream & Treats and Unique Boutique, all within walking distance.
For Stylish Comfort: Luxury Bald Head Island Home
You can’t beat this family-friendly, updated Southern abode tucked away in Cape Fear Station. Each room is carefully decorated with patterns, plants, and teal accents makes it hard to stay away! Featuring an electric fireplace, a telescope for stargazing, a 6-person golf cart, wrap-around and screened-in porches, and two kayaks makes your stay relaxing and entertaining, no matter what time of day. You can also check out some of Bald Head’s best places such as the Maritime Market and the Old Baldy Lighthouse & Smith Island Museum.
For Modern Wanderers: Orange Crush Cottage in Kitty Hawk
Let your inner hipster shine in this chic, mid-century inspired modern home. Bask in the sun by the 6-foot concrete pool, or wander over to the beach, conveniently less than 100 yards away. With amenities like ping pong, a Brazilian hardwood deck, and Sonos speakers for the soundtrack of your choice, you can’t go wrong with this incredibly groovy getaway. Also, take a night out on the town with fabulous restaurants such as Carawan Seafood and Valai’s Thai Kitchen.
For a Fun Time with the Whole Family: Emerald Isle Escape
Bring the whole family to this pet-friendly 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom haven. Residing within less than a mile from the beach, this rental has thought of everything from high chairs to a trampoline AND playground in the backyard. Equipped with an outdoor patio, board games and beach essentials, this house serves as an irresistible family vacation. Visit Salty Pirate Water Park or the nearby Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, or grab a bite to eat at Surf’s Up Grill & Bar or Caribsea.
For Immaculate Views: Dune Haus Paradise in Salvo
What’s better than an oceanfront stay with private beach access? Featuring the Cape Hatteras National Seashore as your backyard, this enormous cottage is a one of a kind place for up to 10 discerning guests to explore the best of the Outer Banks. Inside, it’s decorated in modern, natural tones — outside, tons of balconies and a crow’s nest offer 360 views of the area. Attractions from Pea Island Art Gallery, to Hatteras Watersports make your trip an enjoyable experience for everyone.
For Young Families: Sonrise Inn in Corolla
With room to up to 14 guests, this renovated, spacious home with ocean views rests in the heart of Corolla amidst the famous wild horses. With a private pool, enclosed kiddie pool, toddler playground, and a sand volleyball court and more, this house checks off all the boxes for every generation in your long-awaited family reunion. Venture into town to check out restaurants like Bernie’s Brother Tropical Grill & Bar or Mike Dianna’s Grill Room.
For Seashore Scenes: Island View Condo in Manteo
This tranquil bay-front condo is the ultimate modern vacation spot. A home full of plants and cool furnishings with a full kitchen and flat-screen TV, it’s a magnificent place to chill out and take a nap after a day out in the NC sun. Equipped with 2 bedrooms and two baths, it’s a great launching pad to make the most out of the charming town of Manteo, which is not far from Elizabethan Gardens and the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.
For Ocean Front Luxury: Searenity Now in Bald Head Island
Come out and enjoy this calming, lavish hangout with a new ocean view outdoor bar. The space has 4 bedrooms, each with a smart TV and bathroom, plus two different club memberships available for purchase during your stay. It’s the ideal hideaway for families and friends to seek refuge from the digital world complete with high ceilings, direct beach access, an elevator, and two golf carts. You can also take advantage of local remedies such as the restaurant Jailhouse Provisions and Noonie Doodle Sweets & Treats.
For Coastal Extravagance: Pirate’s Cove Vista in Nags Head
This beautiful, canal front home has over 800 feet of front and rear deck leading off into the Roanoke Sound and the downtown waterfront. Ideal for a large family or fishing group, this space offers a private hot tub, alluring hardwood floors, and a gigantic communal pool. Feel free to try out the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island and Nags Head Golf Links during your trip.
