Imagine saying “I do” with the rhythmic lapping of waves and beautiful views of pristine beaches as your backdrop. You can have that dream come true in Edenton, North Carolina, a charming coastal town with authentic charm and stunning beauty.

Peak wedding season varies from year to year, but Summer and early Fall are the most popular times for couples to get married.

Carolina Beach

Located within an easy 30-minute drive from Historic Wilmington, Carolina Beach offers an original experience for destination wedding NC coast from the past with a fun family-friendly spin for today. This picturesque coastal town is home to a vintage Carolina Beach Boardwalk, a state park and miles of beautiful beach, world-class fishing, one-of-a-kind festivals and events, and all kinds of people united by the kind of good times that are unmistakably Carolina Beach.

Parents, kids and grandparents alike love Carolina Beach for its timeless attractions. Soak up the sun on the stunning beaches that stretch for miles, where families enjoy classic seaside fun like building sandcastles and strolling along the soft shores. Explore the great outdoors at Carolina Beach State Park, where trails veer through a wide variety of habitats and showcase local vegetation, including a number of rare Venus flytrap species.

The town also boasts three bodies of water, offering a range of exciting aquatic adventures. Paddle, surf or kayak through the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, where you can discover nearby marshes, wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. Rent equipment at local rental shops or book a tour to learn more about the natural environment and rich history of the area’s coastline.

Visit Carolina Beach during the summer, when the community is at its most lively. Live music, summer fireworks and a vintage boardwalk are just a few of the many attractions that await visitors. Or, plan your trip during the spring or fall when you can enjoy mild weather and less-crowded beaches.

Kure Beach

Kure Beach is a charming coastal destination that offers vacationers the best of both worlds - relaxation by the beach and exciting outdoor adventures. Its small-town charm and scenic beaches make it a top choice for families looking to unwind, reconnect and create lasting memories together.

The town's most popular attraction is the historic Kure Beach Fishing Pier, which provides fishing and stunning views of the oceanfront coastline. Visitors can also find family-friendly activities at the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, a lovely beachside public park featuring a playground for kids, rain gardens, swings, and an open air pavilion that hosts special events during the summertime.

Those interested in nature and wildlife will appreciate the many botanical and marine-focused attractions in the area, such as Zeke's Island and the Cape Fear Estuary National Seashore. The NC Ferry at Fort Fisher is another popular attraction, connecting the beach to historic Southport and offering a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean.

Families who are eager to experience all that Kure Beach has to offer should plan ahead, as accommodations in the area tend to fill up quickly during peak season - particularly during the summertime. If possible, we recommend booking a vacation rental or accommodation during the "shoulder" spring and winter months, when rates are typically much lower.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is a charming coastal destination known for its pristine beaches and vibrant surf culture. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for families or solo travelers. You can spend a day lounging on the beach and building sandcastles, or explore the waters with paddleboarding and kayaking.

You can also discover the area’s rich history with a visit to one of the town’s museums. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History reveals the town’s past as a seaport and fishing community. Afterwards, you can stroll along Johnnie Mercer’s Pier, which is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing.

Shopping in Wrightsville Beach is a must. The quaint beach shops and boutiques offer high-quality clothing, accessories, gifts, and souvenirs. You can also find a variety of local seafood restaurants. You can enjoy a casual meal of fish tacos or a gourmet seafood platter. Many of the restaurants have outdoor seating, allowing you to soak in the beach’s scenic ambiance.

For a peaceful getaway, consider a trip to Airlie Gardens, which is home to lush botanical gardens and beautiful plant species. The gardens feature azaleas, camellias, and centuries-old live oaks draped with Spanish moss. You can also explore the nature trails and take in the breathtaking scenery at this scenic park. You can even attend an event hosted by the park’s Parks and Recreation department.

Bald Head Island

Located on the Atlantic Ocean and bordered by the Cape Fear River, a trip to this island destination offers visitors a chance to leave all of their cares behind. This small island is only accessible by passenger ferry and private boats, giving it a unique and special feeling that sets it apart from other North Carolina beaches.

The island has played an important role in American history during two wars, serving as a British outpost for the Revolutionary War and later as the site of Fort Holmes for the Civil War. Today, the tiny island serves as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with beautiful nature preserves covering more than 80 percent of its land mass.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like golfing, tennis, croquet, and swimming in the island’s resort-like pools. There are also plenty of dining options to choose from, including the famous Bald Head Island Club, which has country club-like amenities such as a championship golf course and clubhouse facilities.

There’s a great grocery store on the island, called Maritime Market, where guests can stock up on supplies for their vacation rentals. They can also get fresh seafood and local produce, and they offer grocery delivery if needed. You can also get a temporary membership to either Shoals Club or BHI Club, which have pool and restaurant options that enhance any stay on the island.