Spending a Local’s Summer in Coastal North Carolina

With summer crowds returning home from the coast and the warm sun still shining bright on the beach, it’s time for a local’s summer! “Local’s summer” is whispered among coastal dwellers as a preferred time to leave their local abodes and reclaim their beach towns from tourists.

Now that you’re in on the little secret in coastal North Carolina, it’s time to see why the local’s summer is an exciting time to visit the area. Discover how to experience top destinations in coastal North Carolina during local’s summer and why it’s a great time to book a stay on the coast with Sea Scape Properties.

What is a local’s summer?

The local’s summer, a hidden gem of a season, arrives right after summer and lasts until the warm weather goes away for the year. Typically starting in September and extending into October, the longer the warm weather persists, the longer this special time of year lasts. It offers unique experiences you won’t find during the peak summer season.

An influx of tourists occupies the North Carolina coasts during the actual summer. However, patient locals and in-the-know visitors can still maximize their time at this beach destination when the busy season ends.

Here’s why you’ll love the local’s summer season:

• Fewer tourists crowds
• Warm coastal weather for outdoor fun
• Seasonal activities

Mark your calendar because this unique season will be gone before you know it!

Best Places to Spend Your Local’s Summer Season in Coastal North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach

What does a local’s summer look like in Wrightsville Beach? Picture empty white sand beaches, the best seat at your favorite oceanfront restaurant, and an abundance of ocean space to enjoy one of Wrightsville Beach’s top activities.

Wrightsville Beach is a hot spot for surfing, and the waves are still rolling in nicely during the local’s summer months. With fewer crowds, you can ride the waves with peace of mind that you won’t collide with another surfer. Once the selfie-snapping tourists flee from Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier and Crystal Pier, it’s a tranquil spot to catch Mackerel before migrating to warmer waters and incoming Bluefish ready to settle into year’s cooler water temperatures.

Carolina Beach

Blend in with the locals at Carolina Beach. Summers are always busy in this area, with tourists spending time at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Amusement Park. We’ve got good news—no more long lines! This season, experience the best of Carolina Beach at your own pace.

Set your alarm for fun o’clock because you’re almost always guaranteed to get on your favorite ride at the amusement park any time you walk up. Indulge in another round of your favorite game in the arcade to earn more prize tickets. Don’t forget to take advantage of shorter lines for a homemade glazed donut at Britt’s Donut Shop.

Prefer the slower pace? Take a romantic walk on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, free of summer crowds. September and early October are the best times to see the Venus Flytraps on the Flytrap Trail at Carolina Beach State Park.

Kure Beach

Kure Beach is famous for being the most serene beach in coastal North Carolina. Remove the summer crowds, and this destination truly becomes an idyllic paradise during the local’s summer.

Beachcomb through the powdery sands of Kure Beach, offering 6 miles of tourist-free oceanfront. Sea turtle nesting season ends at the end of August, but you may see a few lagging members making their way toward the ocean if you’re lucky. With the ocean waters still warm, you can explore popular diving spots at The Condor, part of the North Carolina Heritage Dive.

Topsail Island

Topsail Island is one of the longest barrier islands off the North Carolina coast, with approximately 26 miles of shoreline. Spend your local’s summer months on Topsail Island, and you’ll have ample time to explore all the best parts of the island.

Start your off-season adventure at ORV Beach on the island’s northern end. This period is perfectly spacious for 4×4 fun on one of North Carolina’s top off-roading beaches. Next, head into Surf City to experience the local tourist hotspot with few tourists. Claim the empty Topsail Beach for yourself, take your time browsing calmer local shops, and enjoy traffic-free kayaking down the Stump Sound. Arrive at the island’s southernmost point by the end of the day for a solo sunset at Serenity Point.

Fall is a popular time for local events. You can catch the last monthly session of the Sounds of Summer Free Concert Series.

Ocean Isle Beach

During the local’s summer months, Ocean Isle Beach feels like a true getaway to explore your hobbies and passions. OIB is a playground for kids and adults. This is the best time of year to play!

Culture enthusiasts can explore local exhibitions at the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Wine lovers can sip on seasonal varieties of Chardonnay and Merlot at the award-winning Silver Coast Winery. Golf fanatics can enjoy a round of 18 holes unhurried at Leopard’s Chase Golf Links.

Local’s summer kicks off the Fall Concert Series at the Museum of Coastal Carolina with a lineup of free shows. Stay in one of our Ocean Isle Beach extended stay vacation rentals to train for the Run Ocean Isle Beach marathon held at the end of October.

Wilmington

The countless visitors exploring Wilmington as a gateway to coastal North Carolina during the summer soon fade away when September arrives. Hold your travel anticipation for the local’s summer period to discover the authentic charm of Wilmington.

Calm walks await on the Riverwalk to check out laid-back restaurants and friendly shopping boutiques—the local owners are always up for a fun chat with out-of-towners! It’s the best time to tour Battleship North Carolina for fewer crowds in the tight corridors of the battleship. It’s easy to find a seat on the free Port City Trolly for a self-guided tour of the five main districts in Downtown Wilmington.

Feel like a Local When Staying at a Beach Vacation Rental

Good news! The local’s summer months are one of the best times to find accommodations in coastal North Carolina destinations because of seasonal rates and availability. Vacation homes checked out their last summer booking, and it’s before holiday travel to the area. Find local accommodations to make this year’s local summer one that makes you feel like you’re home.