Dreaming of your own private island? With summer on the horizon I think we are all plotting our next tropical getaway. While we can't always be so lucky to escape and leave the mainland behind, there is one place in North Carolina that gets you pretty close.
Hammocks Beach State Park is located on Bear Island. The three-mile undeveloped island is pure paradise in terms of coastal North Carolina. Deemed a 'crown jewel,' the wide beach and large dunes are left fairly untouched other than by the occasional sunbather or camper.
Accessible by the park's passenger ferry, private ferry, boat or kayak, the park's mainland gateway is the 'greeting zone' with a full service visitor center including kayak and canoe rentals.
One draw to the state park is primitive, beachside camping. Falling asleep to twinkling stars and the sound of waves, then waking up to it all over again the next day...hello, bucket list!
Many seasoned kayakers prefer to take the easy three-mile paddle from the mainland to Bear Island. If you go this route make sure you save energy to paddle some more once you get there. Many winding creeks take you to a vast expanse of coastal marsh where the scenery is both relaxing and adventurous. You're in a truly untouched wilderness here and that's part of the excitement.
Even if you're looking for a little less adventure and a little more relaxation, this is the perfect place. Go on a weekday to have the beach fairly to yourself. In 2017, the parks mainland area has expanded by 290 acres, so you'll probably want to come back more than once!
Hammocks Beach state park is such a neat, little-known gem of North Carolina. Many people keep driving straight past and head to the beaches (if you're on your way to Emerald Isle or the Crystal Coast) but it's definitely worth a stop or even a whole vacation day during a summer beach trip. Vacationing on a budget? Free lodging beneath the stars and next to the waves here!
Have you visited Hammocks Beach State Park before?
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Ferry service to and from the mainland begins May 3. Until then you can still explore the island via kayak or private boat.
You'll find Hammocks Beach at
1572 Hammocks Beach Road
Swansboro, NC 28584
For another way to get away from it all this summer -- how about this 'glampground' high up in the Smoky Mountains!
No matter where you are in the Tar Heel State, you'll find that fall in North Carolina brings with it brilliant hues, breezes that feel as if they'll whisk you away, and a calm serenity as you enjoy both to the fullest. We're fortunate to live in such a gorgeous state to experience it all beginning in just a few weeks. Until then, dazzle your sense of adventure with an enticing look at 12 of the best places to experience fall in North Carolina.
Fall in North Carolina simply isn't complete without at least one trip to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Linn Cove Viaduct can be found at milepost 304.4. The last section to be completed on the Blue Ridge Parkway is also one of the most photographed. Autumn is especially beautiful from this vantage point on the Parkway. See if you agree!
If you're looking for a "fall getaway near me," the Biltmore in Asheville is a wonderful choice. It's difficult to pinpoint the best time of year to visit America's Castle, but if you have the chance to visit in the peak season for leaf peeping, it's a sight to behold. Did you know that the Biltmore is the largest privately owned estate in the entire country? And, it's also rumored to be one of the most haunted places in North Carolina.
Head to Transylvania County to visit the highest mountain valley in the state. Graveyard Fields Valley itself is more than 5,000 feet in elevation and is surrounded by mountain peaks above 6,000 feet. You'll find it along the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 418.8. One of the best ways to experience this beautiful landmark in North Carolina is the 3-mile trail.
Julian Price Park sits at the base of Grandfather Mountain. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing here, and for those wanting to spend more than a day, there's a campground operated by the National Park Service. Imagine waking up to these vivid colors! Price Lake in North Carolina is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 296.7.
Situated along Mingus Creek and found a short distance from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, this 1896 grist mill is a must-see, especially when surrounded by the vibrant hues of autumn. While you're in the area, be sure to check out some of the most picturesque views during the North Carolina fall.
The westernmost end of the Sauratown Mountain range in North Carolina is marked with the towering Pilot Mountain. A visit to this legendary guidepost at the peak of the fall season is a guarantee you'll walk away with spectacular images to remind you of the day. It's easy to see why Pilot Mountain is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in North Carolina.
7. Stone Mountain - Stone Mountain State Park - Roaring Gap
The centerpiece and namesake for this popular state park is a stunning backdrop for the season change each fall. Photos are lovely, but they can never really make the same impact as seeing it in person. Plus, while you're there, you can hike through a former historic homestead in North Carolina.
8. Crabtree Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway - Grassy Creek
One of the most popular waterfalls on the parkway is basked in the glow of yellow, orange, and rusty red hues once the peak of the leaf-peeping season arrives. Time your visit perfectly to see it at its best. Hiking to Crabtree Falls is a short and strenuous trek but one of the best things to do in fall in North Carolina.
Found within the Pisgah National Forest, the arboretum has miles of walking trails and cultivated gardens and is aglow with color during the height of the fall season. And, if you happen to be in the area during wintertime, don't miss the famous Winter Lights garden walk in North Carolina!
The American Tobacco Trail follows an old rail line built in the 1970s for the American Tobacco Company. It passes through 22.6 miles of the Research Triangle, including the city of Durham. When it comes to unique day trips in North Carolina, this trail is definitely one you'll want to experience.
Start your colorful adventure in Robbinsville when you hop on the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile road that travels 18 miles before entering the state of Tennessee. Many consider the Cherohala Skyway to be the most beautiful drive in North Carolina, and it's no mystery why!
An easy, 1.3-mile hike leads to an astounding view of the tallest waterfall in North Carolina (at 411 feet). Hit this trail in the height of the season for an immersive hiking experience to dazzle your sense of adventure. Can't get enough of waterfalls in the Tar Heel State? Check out this incredible 2-day itinerary for exploring the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina - including Upper Whitewater Falls!
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Where is your go-to spot for enjoying everything that fall in North Carolina has to offer? And will you be going there this year, or does the pandemic have you considering just staying home? We'd love to know, so join the discussion in our Facebook comments!
If you plan on taking a road trip to see fall foliage around North Carolina, take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need for a comfortable car ride!
These European-style getaways in North Carolina offer journeys to other worlds without the expense and complications of traveling abroad. From the mountains to the sea, the locations look and feel like you're far away. Consider these perfect escapes if you've been dreaming of visiting Europe.
Located at Mile Marker 334 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland is only an hour away from Asheville. Visit Geneva Hall for mountain music and folk dancing, learn the history of mining at Emerald Village, and enjoy the fantastic cuisine at the local cafes and fine dining restaurants.
See the magical wild horses that have provided a free show to residents and tourists alike for more than 400 years. We love that you arrive by ferry, adding more elements to the enchanting, old-world charm.
Visit Winston-Salem to experience Reynolda Village, offering an eclectic adventure from art galleries to furniture, home decor, and clothing. In addition, the shops sit in buildings modeled after an old English Village.
Reminiscent of something you would find in old Europe, this gorgeous destination sits in Jamestown, North Carolina. The incredible event venue captures the imaginations of old and young alike.
Known as "Chianti in the Carolinas," this destination is located in the pastoral foothills of the Swan Creek Wine Appellation within the Yadkin Valley, bringing Tuscan charm to The Tar Heel State.
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These European-style getaways in North Carolina offer affordable adventures that are closer to home. During the holidays, explore the magic of a European Christmas village. And keeping with the theme, reserve this Scandanavian-style cottage on Vrbo.
