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Best Water Activities On The North Carolina Coast

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Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best water activities on the North Carolina Coast!

Dive into thrilling adventures and aquatic fun with our curated selection of top water-based experiences along the stunning coastline.

Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Outer Banks with a guided kayak tour, where you can paddle through scenic marshes, tranquil soundside waters, and pristine coastal habitats while spotting wildlife along the way.

Discover the excitement of stand-up paddleboarding along the Cape Fear River in Wilmington, where you can glide across calm waters and take in picturesque views of the historic waterfront and downtown skyline.

Experience the thrill of offshore fishing in the Gulf Stream waters off the coast of Hatteras Island, known for its abundant game fish, including tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin. Join a charter boat excursion for an unforgettable day on the water.

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Experience the beauty and excitement of the North Carolina Coast with these top water activities. From pristine beaches to scenic waterways, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the picturesque coastline.

1. Surfing

Wrightsville Beach

Catch some waves at Wrightsville Beach, one of the East Coast’s premier surfing destinations. With consistent swells and sandy breaks, it’s the perfect spot for surfers of all skill levels to hang ten and ride the waves.

2. Kayaking

Outer Banks

Paddle through scenic waterways and explore hidden coves with a kayaking adventure on the Outer Banks. Whether navigating calm sounds or tackling ocean surf, kayaking offers a unique perspective on the coastal landscape.

3. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Crystal Coast

Glide across tranquil waters on a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) excursion along the Crystal Coast. Perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, SUP allows you to explore the coastline while enjoying a full-body workout.

4. Deep-Sea Fishing

Hatteras Village

Set sail on a deep-sea fishing charter from Hatteras Village and reel in a big catch. Whether you’re targeting marlin, tuna, or mahi-mahi, the waters off the coast of Hatteras offer some of the best fishing opportunities on the East Coast.

5. Snorkeling

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Discover the underwater wonders of Cape Lookout National Seashore with a snorkeling adventure. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.

6. Dolphin Watching

Beaufort

Embark on a dolphin-watching cruise from Beaufort and witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Cruise along scenic waterways and keep your eyes peeled for pods of dolphins frolicking in the waves.

7. Jet Skiing

Topsail Island

Feel the thrill of speeding across the waves on a jet ski excursion along Topsail Island. Rent a jet ski and explore miles of coastline, enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.

8. Parasailing

Carolina Beach

Soar above the coastline on a parasailing adventure from Carolina Beach. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views as you glide through the sky, taking in the beauty of the coastline from a bird’s-eye perspective.

9. Kiteboarding

Outer Banks

Harness the power of the wind and take to the skies with a kiteboarding session on the Outer Banks. With relatively flat waters and consistent winds, the Outer Banks is an ideal destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts.

10. River Tubing

Cape Fear River

Float down the scenic Cape Fear River on a tubing excursion through lush forests and tranquil waters. Relax and unwind as you soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina’s coastal rivers.

Cape Fear River
"Cape Fear River" by sdobie is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Conclusion

From surfing and kayaking to fishing and snorkeling, the North Carolina Coast offers endless opportunities for aquatic adventure. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or peaceful relaxation, there’s a water activity for everyone along the picturesque coastline.

Picture of The Doirons

The Doirons

Our mission is to get you to encounter the unlimited potential that North Carolina has to offer and experience it to the fullest. RankNC is designed to be a source of research, inspiration, and ideas for those who refuse to settle for anything less than an extraordinary time. On this website, we will openly and passionately share the very best that NC has to offer as my family and I continue to discover this beautiful state.
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