While you can laze on the beach in Fayetteville at a local campground, a true Atlantic Ocean experience lies about 100 miles to the southeast. Travel to the towns around Wilmington, North Carolina, in the Southern Outer Banks, for surfing, local seafood and boardwalk attractions.

Wrightsville Beach

Named one of the “World’s 20 Best Surf Towns” by National Geographic, Wrightsville Beach has a laid-back vibe. Surf, kiteboard and stand-up paddleboard lessons, offered by several in-town professionals, allow visitors to hone their beach skills. About 100 miles southeast of Fayetteville, the town has plenty of hotels, motels and vacation rentals. Waterfront restaurants serve local seafood, and if you’re in need of a Wrightsville Beach T-shirt or some surf supplies, souvenir shops are happy to sell you their goods. If the ocean beach is crowded, head for the sound side of the island or explore the channels by kayak.

Research Reserves

Research reserves at Masonboro and Zeke’s islands provide a quieter, more contemplative beach experience. The reserves, set aside to protect coastal habitats like marsh and sand flats, as well as maritime birds and endangered sea turtles, are undisturbed by commercial development. Trails lead over the dunes at Masonboro Island, about 97 miles southeast of Fayetteville, to a pristine beach. Primitive camping is permitted in some areas of the Masonboro reserve, but the island is only reachable by boat. About 15 miles farther south, Zeke’s Island reserve actually covers several islands, marshland and spits. The reserve can be visited by vehicle, on foot or by boat.

Carolina Beach

Family-friendly Carolina Beach, 103 miles southeast of Fayetteville, has miles of biking trails, weekly fireworks shows and sandy ocean beaches. Amusement rides and arcades line the boardwalk, named one of “America’s Best” by Food & Wine magazine. The magazine recommends a stop at Britt’s Donut Shop, a Carolina Beach institution since 1939. A fishing pier juts into the ocean and charter boats take anglers out to sea in search of red drum and marlin. Hunt for the carnivorous Venus' flytrap at Carolina Beach State Park, about two miles west of the village of Carolina Beach on the Cape Fear River. The state park has a wooded campground, a marina and kayak rentals.

Kure Beach

A pirate-themed playground lures kids, and a 712-foot pier beckons fishermen at Kure Beach, about three miles south of Carolina Beach. Stop by Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, where seasonal activities include Sunday concerts, a farmer’s market and story time for younger children. Divers swim with sharks and kids have hands-on encounters with creatures at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Venture to the southern end of Kure Beach to visit Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The park adjacent to a Civil War-era fort offers six miles of beach, off-road vehicle trails and picnic areas with tables and grills.

About the Author

Meg Jernigan has been writing for more than 30 years. She specializes in travel, cooking and interior decorating. Her offline credits include copy editing full-length books and creating marketing copy for nonprofit organizations. Jernigan attended George Washington University, majoring in speech and drama.

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