Here Are The 19 Absolute Best Places To Stay In North Carolina
Megan Todaro
Author
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Are you looking for the next ultimate getaway in North Carolina? Start your planning with the perfect overnight stay. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to stay in North Carolina, from coast to mountain, small town to big city. Choosing where to stay in North Carolina for your vacation is only half the battle, but once you choose from this list, you might never want to leave. We have everything from finding coastal accommodations in North Carolina to a mountain escape. Plan your next romantic vacation in Asheville, or enjoy a city excursion in Charlotte. Hike the Appalachian Trail during the day, then cozy up in your very own small-town cabin for a unique night’s stay. It doesn’t matter if you’re near Wilmington, Durham, or Chapel Hill — you’re guaranteed to have a great time at our curated selection of the best Airbnbs in North Carolina and beyond.
Best Affordable Places to Stay in North Carolina
Finding the right getaway for your budget doesn’t need to be difficult. Vacation rentals in North Carolina can run the gamut in terms of price, but we’ve found a few that won’t break the bank. You don’t need views of golf courses or a boutique hotel to enjoy North Carolina’s beauty. You know the adage, sometimes less is more!
1. Cabin Escape - Watauga County, North Carolina
- Location: Watauga County, North Carolina
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 bathrooms
- Price: $150/night
- Amenities: Private setting on 12 acres, stone fireplace, wood stove, deck overlooking a creek
- Ratings: 4.9
This hidden gem cabin in North Carolina is perfect for people looking for a low-cost getaway in the mountains. This cabin is situated on 12 acres of private space, complete with a rushing creek. Relax in front of the stone fireplace and keep warm on winter nights, or enjoy the deck overlooking the creek during the summer. This is pure natural beauty all year round.
2. Floating Boathouse - Graham County, North Carolina
- Location: Graham County, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bathroom
- Price: $119/night
- Amenities: Double kayak, refrigerator, coffeemaker, kitchen, outdoor grill, games, television
- Ratings: 4.9
Looking to disconnect at your very own floating boathouse in North Carolina? This unique vrbo will only have access to this boathouse via canoe, which makes it incredibly easy to get away from it all. The boathouse is totally off-grid, which means you won’t have any shore power. But for anyone looking for a serene spot in nature to disconnect from it all, this is the place to do it.
3. Cottage at Henry River Farm, Burke County
- Location: Burke County, NC
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 full bath
- Price: $87/night
- Amenities: TV, Kitchenette with 2-burner stove, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, fire pit
- Rating: 5 stars
Are you ready for a couple's getaway to the most peaceful part of North Carolina? The beautiful South Mountains meet the Henry River in a slow dance of love that will have you twitterpated with that someone special. This delightful farm cottage on an actual working farm is the relaxing getaway you've been dreaming of. Wake up to a farm fresh breakfast then take a stroll around the farm to see the cows, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks. You can always spend a day in nearby Morgantown or South Mountain State Park, each of which is only about fifteen minutes away.
4. Raven Rock Treehouse, Fletcher, NC
- Address: Fletcher, NC
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1/2 bath
- Price: $147/night
- Amenities: Self check-in, 50-feet in the air, off-grid.
- Ratings: 4.95 stars
This beautiful treehouse in Fletcher offers an off-grid experience like no other. Immerse yourself in nature’s therapy as you drift off to sleep 50 feet in the sky! Ascend to our elevated oasis for a cozy retreat amidst the treetops. Inside the Treehouse, a plush sofa invites relaxation while offering panoramic forest views. Rest easy on the queen-size bed, lulled by rustling leaves and birdsong. Outdoors, a charming kitchenette and dining area provide shelter from the elements. Equipped with a propane stove and kettle, you can savor hot beverages surrounded by nature's beauty.
Best Places to Stay in North Carolina for Families
The best places to stay in North Carolina for families often involve big enough accommodations and some outdoor adventure. Kids can get restless, which makes finding the best overnight accommodation in North Carolina a bit tricky. But with these two rentals below, one in the mountains with river access and one smack dab on the ocean, you’ll never run out of things to do throughout your stay. You might avoid the fitness centers, finest linens, private balconies, and room service for this search. But instead, check out the hiking trails, beachfront amenities, and watersports!
5. Beach Front Vista - North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
- Location: North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
- Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 4 bathrooms
- Price: $380/night
- Amenities: Deck, beach access, oceanfront views, new furniture and appliances
- Ratings: 5
What says family time more than an oceanfront getaway at the beach This stunning oceanfront property offers views of the Atlantic, plus a humongous deck to take it all in. Sleeping up to ten people comfortably, you could easily bring the whole family and more. This rental property was built in 2021, which means it’s practically brand new! Enjoy panoramic views of the beach and ocean throughout your stay.
6. Sandpiper Cabin - Rutherford County, North Carolina
- Location: Rutherford County, North Carolina
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 9), 2 bathrooms
- Price: $179/night
- Amenities: Deck, rocking chairs, dog-friendly, walking distance to a private beach, river, and two lakes
- Ratings: 4.5
Bring the whole family to this North Carolina log cabin in the woods which comfortably fits up to nine people. Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll be surrounded by acres of privacy in every direction. Enjoy the large upper deck with rocking chairs and a wood-burning fireplace inside. With close access to a private beach, river, and two lakes, this is pure family fun all weekend long.
7. Oasis of the Sea, Holden Beach
- Location: Holden Beach, NC
- Size: 5 bedrooms (sleeps 14), 5.5 baths
- Price: $700/night
- Amenities: Fast Wi-Fi, full kitchen, washer & dryer, grill, swimming pool, Tiki bar, 60 AMP Tesla charger
- Rating: 5 stars
The beautiful Holden Beach area of North Carolina is the perfect spot for a family vacation. And this delightful 5-bedroom beach house is set up right for large groups or a multi-family getaway. Enjoy free live music on the beach, amazing seaside restaurants, and of course, enough ocean waves to lull you peacefully to sleep each night. Pack the car and head out on a North Carolina road trip to remember.
8. Mountain Estate, Asheville, NC
- Address: Asheville, NC
- Size: 6 bedrooms (sleeps 20), 6.5 baths
- Price: $890/night
- Amenities: Luxury estate, movie theater, two sunken hot tubs, golf simulator.
- Ratings: New
Experience total luxury when you stay at this Mountain estate in Asheville, NC. Clocking in at over 7,000 square feet, this giant house can accommodate up to 20 guests comfortably. Nestled on four private acres with seasonal mountain views, this haven offers 6 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms, ensuring ample space and privacy. Enjoy unparalleled amenities including a golf simulator, movie theater, hot tubs, home gym, game rooms, fire pit, and more. Just six miles from downtown Asheville, indulge in the best of both worlds—serene nature and vibrant city life.
Best Romantic Places to Stay in North Carolina for Couples
Nothing says romance quite like a hot tub and roaring fireplace, right? These special vacation rentals in North Carolina are perfect for couples looking to get away. If you’re looking for a vacation filled with lounging around in bathrobes, massages at the spa, and delicious mountain views, then these romantic places to stay in North Carolina are just right.
9. Almost Heaven - Sugar Mountain, North Carolina
- Location: Sugar Mountain, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bathroom
- Price: $83/night
- Amenities: Dog-friendly, mountain views, stone gas fireplace, board games, books
- Ratings: 4.5
The Almost Heaven cabin in Sugar Mountain is a dog-friendly getaway that is perfect for couples. With Sugar Mountain Resort only a half-mile from the condo, you’ll be able to enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, mountain bike tours, and even a full golf course! But in terms of romance inside the cabin, you’ll have a stone gas fireplace, ideal for relaxing, plus mountain views from every window. Cozy up with a book and enjoy the peace and quiet.
10. Rose Room in the Blake House, Asheville, North Carolina
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- Location: Asheville, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bathroom
- Price: $94/night
- Amenities: Historic accommodations, TV, internet, fireplace, parking
- Ratings: 4.9
Pretend you’re in the Victorian era when you visit this beautifully historic house in Asheville. With a wide variety of rooms available, the Rose Room is a particular favorite. Enjoy a fireplace inside of your room, plus cozy accommodations for two. This is a great accommodation to see where beauty and history connect in modern fashion.
11. Honeymoon Cabin - Swain County, North Carolina
- Location: Swain County, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bathroom
- Price: $163/night
- Amenities: Hot tub, fire pit, bathrobes, full kitchen, Wi-Fi, shopping service, massages
- Ratings: 4.7
Enjoy views of the North Carolina mountains from your very own hot tub and have close access to Lake Fontana! Just a stone's throw from the Bryson City Scenic Railway, you’ll have everything you need for a romantic getaway in North Carolina. Dubbed the "Honeymoon" Cabin, this getaway offers plus bathrobes, perfect for after a hot tub soak. Plus, you can even have a spa massage service right at your cabin! Talk about pure romance.
12. Timeless Luxe Dome, Mars Hill, NC
- Address: Mars Hill, NC
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bath
- Price: $300/night
- Amenities: Geo dome, Self check-in, hot tub.
- Ratings: 5 stars
The Timeless Mountain Dome offers mid-century modern style and deluxe glamping amenities. Its kitchenette is fully equipped with standard cooking essentials and extra features. Enjoy a king bed with a feature wall view of Mount Mitchell and Mount Pisgah. A modern full-size bathroom and private toilet room provide convenience. Stay comfortable with thermostat-controlled air conditioning/heating, a pellet stove, heated mattress pad, luxury linens, and more. This dome ensures a cozy stay tailored to your preferred temperature. It doesn’t get much more romantic than this!
Best Places to Stay in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the most populous cities within the state, not to mention a covered place to vacation. You’ll have access to museums, restaurants, exhibits, and much more here. Regarding where to stay in North Carolina when visiting Charlotte, we have a few spots that are simply out of this world. Including what might be the most unique Airbnb in North Carolina.
13. Peaceful Place in Plaza Midwood - Charlotte, North Carolina
- Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5), 1 bathroom
- Price: $266/night
- Amenities: Outdoor fire pit, hot tub, Wi-Fi, Smart TV, washer and dryer, grill
- Ratings: 4.7
The charming cottage in Charlotte, North Carolina is an absolute must when looking to explore the beauty of this populous city. Guests here will have access to the stunning backyard space, fire pit, hot tub, grill, and so much more. Plus, being within walking distance of Plaza Midwood means you’ll have shopping, antiquing, and more nearby! This is a cozy getaway that the whole family can enjoy together.
14. Charming Cottage - Charlotte, North Carolina
- Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bathroom
- Price: $197/night
- Amenities: Deck, patio, heater, air conditioning, pets welcome
- Ratings: 5
You’ll feel right at home when you visit this charming yellow cottage home in the neighborhood of Dilworth. Enjoy all of the creature comforts of your home, but someplace new. Spend the day exploring the city, but come back to a cozy cottage in the heart of town. This adorable place is perfect for a weekend away in Charlotte.
15. Bamboo Bungalow, Charlotte, NC
- Address: Charlotte, NC
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 1 bath
- Price: $192/night
- Amenities: Washer and dryer, private patio, security cameras.
- Ratings: 4.95 stars
This Bamboo Bungalow offers forested seclusion right on the outskirts of Charlotte, North Carolina. Tucked away in a serene bamboo and hardwood grove, this forest retreat offers tranquility just minutes from downtown. The spacious covered deck invites relaxation in Adirondack chairs or a hammock with treetop views. Despite its bungalow designation, this home boasts two charming bedrooms with high ceilings, a full bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a well-equipped kitchen, den, and dining area. Enjoy modern comforts including a tankless water heater and full laundry facilities.
Best Places to Stay in Asheville
Asheville, North Carolina, has drawn in many visitors for the Blue Ridge Mountains, the craft breweries, and the charming downtown area. Just hop off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and you’ll be in the thick of this mountain town. Asheville has a vibrant arts scene and historic architecture throughout town! Visit the Downtown Art District and the River Arts District for galleries, museums, and shops. As far as the perfect Asheville accommodation in North Carolina, we don’t just have one. We have two!
16. Spacious Cottage, Asheville, North Carolina
- Location: Asheville, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bathroom
- Price: $190/night
- Amenities: California king bed, claw foot bathtub, pet-friendly, free Wi-Fi, quiet neighborhood
- Ratings: 4.9
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Downtown Asheville but still experience it all, then we have the perfect spot! This cozy cottage in North Carolina is attached to a 100-year-old home, less than one mile from the heart of downtown. Tucked away in nature, you’ll experience luxurious amenities like a California king mattress and a clawfoot tub in the bathroom! Plus, this cottage is dog-friendly, so you can bring your fur friends.
17. Downtown Loft - Asheville, North Carolina
- Location: Asheville, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bathroom
- Price: $280/night
- Amenities: Modern luxuries, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, downtown views
- Ratings: 4.9
What better way to get a taste of Asheville than with your very own downtown Asheville loft space? This loft is located in the historic art deco S&W building in a premier downtown location. You’ll be within walking distance of all the best restaurants, stores, and shops. Plus, the loft space features high-end furniture, local art, high ceilings, and eclectic accents.
18. Moroccan Inspired Cottage, Asheville, North Carolina
- Location: Asheville, North Carolina
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 3), 1 bathroom
- Price: $146/night
- Amenities: Reading loft, quiet neighborhood, walking distance to restaurants, Mediterranean inspiration
- Ratings: 5
This charming two-level Moroccan cottage in Asheville is the perfect getaway for 1-3 people looking to feel like they’ve crossed continents. Artist-owned and designed, a lot of love and care went into the elements of this home, making it a true retreat in Asheville. Keep an eye out for the resident cats and chickens on the property!
19. Treehouse Dreams, Asheville, NC
- Address: Asheville, NC
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bath
- Price: $334/night
- Amenities: Treehouse, self check-in, double outdoor tubs.
- Ratings: 5 stars
Situated in Asheville, North Carolina, you’ll find the beautiful Airbnb rental, Treehouse Dreams. Indulge in the luxury of a newly constructed Scandi-modern log cabin, nestled in the stunning Asheville mountains. Just minutes from downtown, you can sleep under the stars, unwind in double outdoor tubs overlooking picturesque views, and explore four acres of tranquil forest with a creek and small waterfall. Enjoy the comforts of a gourmet coffee bar, plush bedding, spa-like bath amenities, and more. This idyllic retreat promises an unforgettable getaway experience.
We’ve covered family-friendly houses with multiple guest rooms and even some spots with an outdoor pool! From Raleigh to Greensboro and beyond, North Carolina does have some award-winning accommodations.
What do you think are the best places to stay in North Carolina? Have any of these already made your must-visit list for your next North Carolina vacation? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section!
If you’re looking for more fun and exciting day trips in North Carolina, you’ve come to the right place. Look at these 12 unique day trips in North Carolina, perfect for any time of year.
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More to Explore
Best Places To Stay In North Carolina
What are the best unique hotels in North Carolina?
The best places to stay in North Carolina have been included in our list of unforgettable experiences. These places include:
- Castle Of Joy in McKenzie
- Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem
- Caribbe-Inn in Atlantic Beach
- Iron Horse Station in Hot Springs
- Dunhill Hotel
- Fearrington House Country Inn in Pittsboro
- High Hampton Resort in Cashiers
- Middle Earth at Hobbithenge
The last accommodation in North Carolina we included in the list perhaps is the most unique of all. This vacation rental is built into a hill and made to look like a Hobbit House from Lord Of The Rings!
Where are the most unique getaways in North Carolina?
As far as where to stay in North Carolina, the most unique getaways include:
- Buffalo Creek Vacations, Clyde
- Airstream rental, Asheville
- Outer Banks Houseboat
- Sky Ridge Yurts, Bryson City
- Treehouse Vineyards, Monroe
- Cedar Crest Inn, Asheville
- Sanderling Resort, Duck
- The Grand Bohemian, Asheville
- The Inn at Rodanthe
- The Inn on Biltmore Estate
- Chetola Resort
You won’t find too many vacation rentals in North Carolina quite like this. Enjoy coastal access near the beach, or head up into the mountains for a natural getaway.