North Carolina is one of the few states to have both mountainous regions and coastal regions, and neither disappoint. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, the North Carolina coast is a sunny place filled with pristine beaches, giant sand dunes and wetlands teeming with wildlife and a variety of plants. Among the attractions is Jockey's Ridge, the highest beach ridge along the East Coast. The defining characteristic of the area is the Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands stretching 130 miles surrounded by 900 square miles of blue Atlantic water. Protected national seashores are guarded by majestic lighthouses, elegant summer cottages bordered by lush green golf courses, and islands unspoiled by commercial lighting are just a few of the many sights visitors to North Carolina's coastal region can expect to see. Check out the official North Carolina site for trip ideas. Peruse our North Carolina beach houses and North Carolina vacation rentals for great trip ideas. Start today before they're all booked!