Best public beaches near Charlotte

Charlotte is a major city that offers plenty to see and do, but if you're looking for sand and sea, you'll have to hit the road. You can find a state park with a beach near Charlotte, but if you're looking for a full-fledged experience near the ocean, hit the road to venture farther out to the east coasts of North and South Carolina.

From the more laid-back beaches along the North Carolina coast to South Carolina's bustling Myrtle Beach, there are many best public beaches near Charlotte that you'll want to visit:

Lake Norman State Park
www.ncparks.gov/lake-norman-state-park

Lake Norman State Park, which is less than 40 miles from Charlotte, is located on the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. It has a 125-yard-long swim beach, complete with a bathhouse with restrooms, changing stalls, warm showers and lockers. Fees are charged only when lifeguards are present, and the beach is open from April to October. While you're there, you can also enjoy biking trails, fishing and other activities.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
www.nps.gov/caha/index.htm

This seashore is one of the best public beaches near Charlotte, located along a thin strip of barrier islands that spans 72 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are known for their high, sandy dunes as well as their great swimming and body-surfing conditions. It's also home to the country's tallest lighthouse, which you can climb to get amazing views.

>>Guide to Charlotte's lakes, rivers

Emerald Isle
https://www.emeraldisle-nc.org

This 29-mile stretch of island is located on the lower Outer Banks, between Morehead and Jacksonville, N.C. In addition to the beach, you'll find plenty of other family-oriented activities, including a water park, several outdoor parks and more. Outdoor sports enthusiasts can also enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing and scuba diving.

Myrtle Beach
www.visitmyrtlebeach.com

Myrtle Beach, S.C. is a beach town with plenty of vacation activities such as golfing, fishing, shopping and splashing at water parks. The main attraction is the more than 60 miles of wide beaches, which offer several piers on which you can fish. Sunbathing and ocean swimming are popular pursuits, and the beach and town can get crowded around spring break and over the summer.

Wrightsville Beach
www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com/wrightsville-beach

Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach has 5 miles of seashore and plenty of opportunities to enjoy its clear waters. Try chartering a deep-sea fishing boat, taking a kiteboarding lesson, fishing off the pier, or enjoying a scenic harbor cruise. The beach is also a popular spot for scuba divers since its waters are home to more than 200 shipwrecks.

Topsail Beach
www.topsailbeach.org

Topsail Beach is located between Wilmington and Jacksonville, N.C. The area retains a high-rise development ban so it has a laid-back feel, and you may even be able to spot schools of dolphins or some sea turtles on your visit. Take the time to check out the Missiles and More Museum, where you can learn about female pilots during World War II, pirates of the Carolinas, Native Americans on the island and more.

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