In movies, music and books, meeting down by the boardwalk has long been associated with nostalgic and quintessential summer experiences. There’s just something about strolling alongside the water, popping in to an ice cream shop or two, or even riding a few rides while the salty air rushes through your hair. Boardwalks make summer complete, but in North Carolina our boardwalks aren’t just limited to by the beach. We have some pretty amazing ones found throughout the state, like these ten.
1. Beaufort
Beaufort is home to a charming boardwalk that perfectly matches the town's quaint, laid back vibe. You'll see docked boaters, abundant locals, and plenty of visitors during the summer. The boardwalk offers you a great view of Carrot Island's wild horses and the Dockhouse is a great place to get a brew or some fresh crab.
2. Wilmington
While more a 'riverwalk' this boardwalk allows you to see some of the best views downtown Wilmington has to offer. Pop in to shops, restaurants, a bar or even cafe. There's benches for sitting and taking it all in and plenty of places perfect for frame-worthy moments.
While in the area, don't forget to stop by the epic battleship USS North Carolina.
3. Carolina Beach
The Carolina Beach boardwalk is your quintessential beachy boardwalk. Filled with fun amusements and rides for the kiddos, home to the famous
Britt's Donuts, and filled with plenty of seaside nostalgia this is THE cream of the crop when it comes to North Carolina boardwalks.
4. New Bern
While New Bern's boardwalks aren't filled with glitz and glamour like Carolina Beach, they offer simple, quiet strolls through gorgeous scenery. You'll see historic New Bern in the distance with the Neuse River right by your side.
5. Atlantic Beach
While there's not much to this small boardwalk, it's peaceful and quiet. After your stroll there's plenty of sights to see, like the aquarium or Fort Macon. Pictured above is the Oceana Pier, which might as well serve as your own ocean boardwalk.
6. Washington
This quirky and cool riverside town is quite inland, but has all the coastal vibes of your next beachfront town. The waterfront has paved walkways for the perfect stroll on the Pamlico River.
7. Bodie Island Lighthouse
While not deemed an actual 'boardwalk,' the walkway to Bodie Island Lighthouse is a guiding direction to a guiding light. Stroll through the marshes and up to the historic lighthouses. While there's no flashing lights and shops to pop into, this one is perfect for nature lovers.
8. Lake Lure
Aside from being an amazing place to stay for a weekend away, 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa is walking distance to a nice park with a boardwalk that extends out to the lake. Even if you don't want to book your weekend away, you can visit the park and stroll along this absolutely gorgeous lake with amazing scenery.
9. Dry Falls
While not an actual boardwalk, Dry Falls has a graveled walkway that leads you RIGHT beneath this gorgeous waterfall. Now that's my kind of 'boardwalk.'
10. Nags Head
Jeanette's Pier is one of the nicest piers on the Outer Banks. Walk right over the ocean and even have a seat and take it all in.
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