Chances are, one of our southern barrier islands — Bald Head, Oak, Holden, Ocean Isle, or Sunset — has been your beach for years. Look beyond the sand and surf, and you’ll find charming villages, acres of nature, and signature fried seafood, generations in the making.
Cool Sold Here
In the 1980s, three Atlantic Beach surf shops — Bert’s, AB, and Marsh’s — gave teenagers a social network as connected as Facebook and as immediate as Twitter. Before long, surfer fads turned into fashion, gossip became news, and young people found their community.
Where Sea Meets Soul: Wild Wonders in Rodanthe
When waves are breaking, surfers in Rodanthe cancel other plans — or show up late with wet hair and irrepressible grins.
Where Sea Meets Soul: Easy Riders in Wrightsville Beach
Wilmington’s surfing scene sparks creativity and, in turn, creates friendships. Just ask Chip Hemingway and Will Allison.
Where Sea Meets Soul: Dawn Breakers in Kill Devil Hills & Nags Head
Here, on the fine edge of the Outer Banks, the Atlantic offers a working man’s wave, reliable and steady. And when these early risers catch a ride, they feel on top of the world.
Annex Surf Supply in Wrightsville Beach
Whether you’re a wave chaser in search of a surfboard or a coffee lover looking for a pick-me-up, Annex Surf Supply has you covered.
Downtown: Swansboro
In this quaint, laid-back town in Onslow County, every turn leads you back to the water.
The Essential North Carolina Grocery List: Smith’s Red & White
To satisfy customers at this grocery store, grinders have to grind 10,000 pounds of sausage a week. A week!
We Live Here: Pickle Pride
One woman brings a world of inspiration to Mount Olive’s annual pickle festival.