8 Best Hotels in The North Carolina Coast, North Carolina

This 19th-century Queen Anne–style B&B, with fascinating turrets and period details, is a companionable sister to the family of architectural beauties in Wilmington's 230-block historic district, putting it within easy walking distance of the city's riverfront shopping and dining. New owners in 2022 undertook a complete remodel of rooms and shared spaces, balancing the home's history with modern amenities, new beds, and stylish decor. Convenient off-street parking, huge porches, and strategically placed outdoor accent lighting make it a safe, welcoming property, even after dark.

Relax in a rocking chair on the verandas that encircle this classic, three-story, cedar-shingle inn (it's on the National Register of Historic Places) and admire the ocean views. Rooms have four-poster or canopy beds, handcrafted armoires, and English antiques, along with extras such as heated towel bars and English toiletries. The story of this landmark's near demolition, its rescue, and the move to the present site is told in framed photographs, letters, and news accounts lining the sunny dining room.

This oceanfront, family-owned hotel is a bargain hunter's dream (at least by Outer Banks standards), with spacious, spartan rooms equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and full-size coffeepots. On-site activities include a family game room, indoor and outdoor pools, beachfront access, and cabana services.

You'll feel like an honored houseguest in this casually elegant, full-service boutique hotel, with sweeping waterfront views, intuitive rather than intrusive service, and an indoor-outdoor fine-dining restaurant, Café Pamlico. Lounge by the pool or relax on an array of decks, balconies, and porches, all designed to maximize the sunset experience over the sound. Schedule an in-room spa treatment or kick up your heels by stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, or bicycling. There's a full-service bar as well and regularly scheduled live music.

This charming 19th-century-style waterfront inn would look perfectly in place on Martha's Vineyard and is just steps from shops, restaurants, and Roanoke Island Festival Park. Individually decorated rooms sport clean, classic lines and muted colors, though some furniture could use updating. The popular on-site restaurant, 1587, is known for inventive entrées.