7 Top Vacation Home Destinations in North Carolina

Are you considering buying a vacation home in North Carolina? Here is everything you need to know about the seven top vacation home destinations in North Carolina.

Buying a home is a huge commitment, and buying a second home is an even bigger one. While becoming a homeowner seems like the dream, it is still a large decision that requires a lot of planning and work. However, it'll all pay off in the end when you're sitting in your new and stunning home.

Most vacation homeowners look for options in the mountains, oceanside, or by the lake. All are amazing options, and luckily, North Carolina has more than enough beautiful places to visit. No matter 

North Carolina is known for its diverse landscape. From the rolling Appalachian Mountains to the quiet coastal towns and everything in between. North Carolina is full of amazing places to live due to its mild climate, affordable housing options, deep history, and healthy economy. Once you have settled into your primary hometown, it may be time for you to find a vacation home, and there is no better place than North Carolina. 

This article will show you some of the top vacation home destinations that North Carolina offers. No matter if you already have a place in mind or if you're interested in learning more about your options, you have come to the right place. 

Keep reading to learn all about the seven top vacation home destinations in North Carolina.

1. Outer Banks

The Outer Banks (OBX) is a 100-mile-long chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. The beaches are known to be home to long sandy beaches, historical lighthouses, and stunning waters. Not only do thousands of people visit the Outer Banks for vacation, but many have invested in homes in the area. 

Each coastal town offers something different. From the wild mustangs in Corolla to the deep history of the Wright Brothers' first complete flight in Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hill. 

No matter what you enjoy doing at the beach, these pristine waters make it the perfect place for surfing, tanning, swimming, fishing, and anything else you like to do. Other than the water activities, the Outer Banks has many fun things to do by air, on land, or off the coast. This includes spas, restaurants, sailing, shopping, history lessons, and so much more. You will never be bored while staying in the Outer Banks. 

One of the best parts of the Outer Banks is that it is amazing to visit throughout the year. This means you can visit any time you want or use the wintertime to rent out your vacation home for some extra cash. 

There are many ways to visit the Outer Banks from the Triangle, whether you prefer to fly, drive, or take a ferry. However, once you are on the island, there are a few roads that will take you where you want to go. 

2. Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

Located in western North Carolina, the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau is an exclusive destination atop the Blue Ridge Mountains. Comprised of Cashiers, Highlands, Sapphire, Sapphire Valley, Lake Glenville, and Lake Toxaway, you'll have many options for the location of your vacation home.

One of the best parts of living or visiting the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau is the abundance of things to do throughout the year. This year, there is the Halloween on Main Street, Highlands Food & Wine Festival, Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, and much more. Here, you may also find a certain solitude that you cannot find anywhere else. 

Here, you can choose from neighborhoods with renowned golf courses, unmatched mountain views, or exclusive estates with waterfalls. Known for its abundance of outdoor activities, you must visit one of the exceptional waterfalls. These are known to be some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.

Just a few miles north of the border with Georgia, Highlands sits at 4,100 feet, making it one of the highest incorporated towns east of the Rockies. Cashiers sit slightly lower in elevation. Both towns feature shopping, fine dining, and exploring Mother Nature. 

As mountain towns, you can visit in the summer for slightly cooler weather than the rest of North Carolina or in the winter to see the snow-capped mountains. Don't worry about visiting this area as it is only about 70 miles southwest of Asheville, which has an airport, and only 130 miles north of Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Keep in mind that a car will be essential for the full mountain experience. 

3. Banner Elk

Banner Elk is a well-known getaway near Boone, NC. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk perfectly blends small-town relaxation and city amenities. Not only will you have immediate access to the gorgeous views and outdoor activities, but there are plenty of restaurants, wineries, breweries, attractions, museums, and more. 

Banner Elk is amazing to visit anytime throughout the year. There is a fall leaf viewing from late September to early November. The rolling hills are covered in multi-colored trees throughout the entire fall, making it one of the best times to visit. No matter if you enjoy snowy or summer nights, this is definitely the place to be. Even when you aren't in town, if you choose to rent out your home, you can still make a good amount of money any time during the year. 

The average home value in Banner Elk has increased in recent years and is projected to grow steadily in the coming years. This means that now may be the best time to invest in a vacation home, as you could potentially sell it for more than you bought it for. 

4. Pinehurst

Pinehurst is known for all things golf. It has hosted many prestigious golf tournaments, including the 2024 U.S. Open Championship. This was the 13th USGA championship hosted by Pinehurst and the 12th Pinehurst USGA event in the last 35 years. 

If your ideal vacation includes a round of golf on one of the best courses in the country, then Pinehurst is the place to be. The area includes many regulation courses available to the public, long courses and short, modest and incredible. No matter if you are an avid golfer or are just getting into the game, you will absolutely find an area that fits your lifestyle.

In addition to the golf, Pinehurst is a short 15 minutes from Southern Pines, which serves as the center of commerce. Here, you can take a stroll through the beautiful streets in the downtown shopping district and visit one of the many fine restaurants, locally-owned boutiques, and coffee shops. 

Pinehurst is a popular spot for retirees who are searching for a quiet yet lively area in North Carolina. This is perfect for families as well who need a home away from home. The median home sold price in Pinehurst has been trending upwards, at approximately $510,225 in June 2024. You'll have many choices of affordable homes in the area. 

5. Lake Lure

Many might recognize Lake Lure for its role in the hit movie Dirty Dancing. On top of this, Lake Lure is known as a sanctuary for serenity and relaxation. You can explore the area on foot, bike, boat, kayak, or water. There are more than enough things to do in the area to keep you busy on vacation.

There is no better time to visit Lake Lure because the lake is amazing year-round. From camping in the summertime when it is warm and sunny to Spring and Fall for more comfortable weather. Depending on how you like to spend your time, you will have many opportunities to visit throughout the year. When you aren't in the area, you can rent out your home to make extra cash. 

The median home price at Lake Lure is lower than the majority of other vacation home destinations we have mentioned thus far. Home prices average between $488,000 and $607,000, meaning you'll find a range of home sizes, prices, and styles in the area. 

6. Figure Eight Island

Just North of Wilmington, NC, Figure Eight Island is a barrier island in North Carolina. This summer colony is widely known as an affluent summer community. In order to access the private island, visitors and residents enter by boat or via a guarded causeway swing bridge. This is the only private bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway in the American Southeast. Once you cross the bridge, you are transported to a world of natural beauty and stunning homes. 

Figure Eight Island is now one of the most expensive neighborhoods in North Carolina, with homes ranging in the millions from $2.9M to $12.6M. However, there is no place like it. There are a total of 475 exclusive privately owned single-family homes on this peaceful retreat. 

Due to its close proximity to Wilmington, you'll have access to all the city amenities while keeping peacefulness on the island. As a popular vacation destination with high home prices, you would be able to rent out your home for a lot more than you would in any other area. This would help tremendously in paying off your home. 

7. Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is like no other. There is no limit to fun things to do in the summer boardwalk, complete with rides, shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and miles of beautiful shorelines. 

The best time to visit is from May to August when the weather is consistently warm and pleasant. This is the ideal time and place for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island. There are also plenty of other things to do once the weather gets colder, including the Carolina Beach State Park, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, and the North Carolina Aquarium. 

The best part of Carolina Beach is the affordability of the homes. However, homes are still slightly higher than the average home price, with a median home price between $665,000 and $699,000. Many also visit Carolina Beach over other N.C. beach towns for peace and quiet, as it is a less crowded beach. 

Methodology

We used information and data from several different sources, as well as our own data, to determine everything you need to know about the top vacation home destinations in N.C. Most of the data was sourced from the following sources:

• Southern Living
• Pacaso's 2022 Second Home Attitude Report

FAQ: Top Vacation Home Destinations in North Carolina

Here are some commonly asked questions about the best vacation home destinations in North Carolina.

Where is the best place to invest in Airbnb in N.C.?

Sugar Mountain, NC, is a top market for Airbnb investors because of its popularity as a ski resort and year-round outdoor activities. Thousands of people visit this town for the beautiful snow-capped mountains every winter season.

Where do most people visit in North Carolina?

The top attractions in North Carolina include the Biltmore, Blue Ridge Parkway, Battleship North Carolina, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial. 

How do I find the perfect vacation home?

One of the best questions to ask yourself when buying a vacation home is to consider how you'll get to and from your vacation home. This will give you a good idea of the travel costs and how often you will spend time in the home. Most vacation homeowners prefer driving to their home, which means it is typically close to their primary home. 

What is the prettiest place in N.C.?

The most beautiful places in North Carolina, according to Southern Living, include the Outer Banks, Biltmore Estate, Airlie Gardens, Shackleford Banks, and Highlands' Waterfalls. 

How much should I spend on a vacation home?

Most professionals would recommend that you spend no more than 15% of your net worth on the value of a vacation property. Ensure that you are both financially and financially ready to purchase a vacation home before you commit. 

Vacation Home Destinations in North Carolina - The Bottom Line

While you have already gone through the home-buying with your primary home, buying a vacation home is still a little different. You'll have to qualify for a second home mortgage and determine if you can afford another house. It can be helpful to reach out to an agent who specializes in buying vacation homes for a short-term rental. 

Buying a vacation home is extremely exciting, but there is still much to think about, starting with the location. According to Pacaso's 2022 Second Home Attitude Report, location is the most important factor in the purchasing decision for second homeowners and aspiring homeowners. 

Make sure you will absolutely love your vacation home and the new town. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and the amount of time you'll be spending at the new home. 

Before you buy your vacation home in North Carolina, feel free to contact one of our helpful real estate specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect home. We know that buying a home can be overwhelming, but a real estate agent can walk you through the entire process.