Living in Goldsboro, or Wayne County, means you’re only a few hours away from some of North Carolina’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a quick day trip, Eastern North Carolina offers plenty of coastal destinations that are easy to reach by car. No matter if you are seeking your new favorite restaurant, your next big catch, trying your hand at watersports, or just relaxing on the sand, North Carolina beaches have something for every traveler.
Here’s a look at some of the best beaches within driving distance of Goldsboro and what makes each one worth visiting.
Atlantic Beach
Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours
Why Visit?
Atlantic Beach is one of the most popular family-friendly beaches on the Crystal Coast. The beach is not the only thing you will find in Atlantic Beach! Atlantic Beach is also home to Atlantic Beach Town Park, Fort Macon State Park, and the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. Visitors can also enjoy:
- wide sandy beaches
- calm swimming areas
- fishing opportunities
- nearby restaurants and shops
Best For
Atlantic Beach is best for families, couples, and first-time beach visitors. With the mix of surf, sand, history, and nature it is hard to go wrong.
Emerald Isle
Drive Time: Approximately 2.25 hours
Why Visit?
Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Emerald Isle offers a quieter experience that some larger beach destinations. Emerald Isle, though quieter, still has its well-known Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier as well the Salty Pirate Water Park, which can be a great intermission from the beach. Visitors of Emerald Isle can also enjoy:
- clean beaches
- bike paths
- family-friendly parks
- excellent sunset views
Best For
Emerald Isle, even though it houses a water park, is best for travelers who are looking to relax while avoiding larger crowds.
Wrightsville Beach
Drive Time: Approximately 1.75 hours
Why Visit?
Wrightsville Beach combines beautiful coastal scenery with plenty of experiences to be had. From shopping and watersport activities to harbor cruises and deep sea fishing, Wrightsville has you covered. Some of the more popular attractions include:
- paddleboarding
- surfing
- waterfront dining
- scenic walking paths
Best For
With all Wrightsville Beach has to offer it’s best for active travelers and families. Learn to catch waves together as you take surf lessons or stand-up paddleboard as a family or set sail on a pirate-themed odyssey to Masonboro Island with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours.
Carolina Beach
Drive Time: Approximately 1.75 hours
Why Visit?
Carolina Beach offers a classic North Carolina beach-town experience. With a century-old (and nationally recognized) beach boardwalk, hiking trails at Carolina Beach State Park, surf lessons from an Olympic Surfer (and gold medalist), and a classic glazed donut from the famous Britt’s Donut Shop there is not much that Carolina Beach could leave you wanting. Visitors to Carolina Beach enjoy:
- the century-old boardwalk
- local seafood restaurants
- seasonal events (like the amusement rides at the boardwalk) and festivals
- fishing piers
Best For
Carolina Beach is best for those families that are looking for entertainment beyond the beach itself. Whether you want take a break and browse the shops and treats along the boardwalk, check out the native carnivorous plants at the state park, or experience the nightlife at the Carolina Beach Music Festival (NC’s largest and only music festival held on the beach), you will find plenty to do both on and off the sand.
Kure Beach
Drive Time: Approximately 1.75 hours
Why Visit?
Just south of Carolina Beach, Kure beach provides a quieter atmosphere with smaller crowds. Take in the ocean view from a bench swing at Ocean Front Park or reel in a catch of the day from Kure Beach Fishing Pier, one of the oldest of its kind on the Atlantic Coast or spend a day visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Attractions visitors enjoy include:
- Kure Beach Fishing Pier (711-feet long)
- Fort Fisher Area
- relaxed beach access
Best For
Kure Beach is best for couples and visitors who are seeking a peaceful beach day free from the hustle and bustle or larger areas.
Topsail Beach
Drive Time: Approximately 4 hours
Why Visit?
Topsail Beach, a quiet, family-oriented coastal town on the southern end of Topsail Island, remains one of the hidden gems of coastal North Carolina. Reasons that locals and travelers alike love it are:
- less commercial development
- excellent shell collecting
- family-friendly environment
- scenic ocean views
Best For
Travelers who want a slower-paced coastal getaway that still provides access to fishing, watersports and dining. Topsail Beach is also home to the Missiles and More Museum, which allows you to explore the island’s fascinating history, including World War II’s Operation Bumblebee and the area’s guided missile programs.
Oak Island
Drive Time: Approximately 4.5 hours
Why Visit?
Home of one of North Carolina’s Coastal Lighthouses, the Oak Island Lighthouse, Oak Island offers miles of shoreline and welcoming small-town feel. Popular activities on Oak Island include:
- beachcombing
- fishing
- kayaking
- wildlife viewing
Best For
Oak Island is best for long weekend trips and outdoor enthusiasts.
Vehicle Tip Before Your Beach Trip
Before loading up and heading to the coast, make sure your vehicle is ready for the drive. There are several maintenance items you will want to keep an eye on and check prior to leaving, including:
- tire pressure
- engine oil level
- battery condition
- windshielf wipers
- brake performance
- air conditioning system
A quick inspection can help prevent unexpected issues during your trip and make the drive more enjoyable
Which Vehicle is Best for Beach Travel?
The right vehicle depends on your travel style and what your trip entails.
SUVs
Great for:
- families
- extra luggage
- beach gear
- road trip comfort
Trucks
Ideal for:
- coolers and outdoor equipment
- camping gear
- boats and trailers
Sedans
Perfect for:
- fuel efficiency
- day trips
- smaller groups
Plan Your Next Beach Getaway from Goldsboro
From the Crystal Coast to the Wilmington area, there are plenty of beautiful beaches within easy driving distance of Goldsboro and Wayne County. Whether you’re looking for family fun, outdoor adventure, or a relaxing weekend by the water, North Carolina’s coastline offers something for everyone.
Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip so you can focus on enjoying the sand, sun, and ocean views.
