Vacation Home Design Styles in Coastal North Carolina That Travelers Love

Vacationing in coastal North Carolina is all about immersing yourself in the coastal lifestyle. You’ve got to look the part, and your accommodations are the perfect statement to say you’ve finally arrived!

The coastal region features a variety of popular home styles that define our area. From ocean-inspired homes to restored homes preserving the area’s history, there are tons of styles to experience. Check out these popular coastal NC home styles to see what’s the best fit for your dream vacation.

Oceanfront homes

The best way to embody coastal living is an oceanfront home. Oceanfront homes are gems in locations like Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Topsail Island. These coastal homes incorporate the setting’s natural beauty with coastal-inspired interior design so that you never truly leave the beach. 

Oceanviews, direct beach access, and nautical décor are a few of the amenities when staying in an oceanfront vacation home. ‘A Short Walk’ is for guests who want to fast-track themselves to a beach day. Door-to-sand is just steps away thanks to a simple boardwalk path leading directly to Wrightsville Beach. Sparrow’s Beach Nest offers the best view on the coast with a panoramic view of Surf City beach. See how coral branch décor, sea tones, and hardwood floors create the perfect coastal oasis inside “Goin Coastal”.

Historic homes

Did you know Wilmington, NC’s history dates back to the colonial era? At one point, it was the region’s leading port town. There is more than 300 years of preserved history that can be experienced throughout Wilmington. Many original homes were owned by seafarers, merchants, and port workers. Today, their preserved exteriors open to reveal completely transformed interior spaces ideal for modern living while boasting elements of the past. That kind of character only comes with time. It’s the perfect choice for those timeless vacation memories.

Downtown Wilmington is part of the Wilmington Historic District, where aged brick buildings house upscale, luxury apartments. Located on Front Street, our Luxe 220 penthouse suites charm with exposed brick walls and open floor plans. Right outside your door is the Wilmington Riverwalk, which features more than 200 boutique shops, riverfront dining, and views of the historic USS North Carolina.

Modern/contemporary vacation homes

Sleek. Trendy. Stylish. And with a bit of tech! Contemporary homes can be found along the coast, blending modern living with a coastal lifestyle. Tons of new developments in recent years have welcomed updated condominiums and renovated houses, outfitted with all your home comforts.

Vacation homes with modern design styles feel plucked right out of your Pinterest board. Imagine the first sips of your morning coffee while relaxing on your furnished Oceanview deck. The latest kitchen appliance is within arm’s reach while preparing dinner in a spacious kitchen. Relax on a sleek L-shaped couch while streaming HBO Max on a flat-screen TV. Even updated appliances like in-house laundry, a dishwasher, and A/C for those warm coastal nights.

Community condominiums

Tourism on the NC coast is steadily rising year after year. New condominium projects have created accommodations ideal for visitors who prioritize an excellent location and a long list of amenities. Many coastal condos are located in gated communities with tons of perks for visitors.

Shared spaces make meeting locals and other travelers a breeze, even when you opt to stay in a vacation rental. Community pools, game rooms, tennis courts, and basketball courts are just a few shared spaces you’ll find. And the best part is that they’re only available for guests staying within the community. So, even if the beach is crowded during peak beach season, there’s always a swimming pool alternative to beat the crowds.

The oceanfront condos at The Islander and the family-friendly Dune Ridge Resort can accommodate up to 7 guests.

Boat houses

Boating is one of the top activities in coastal areas like Wrightsville Beach and Topsail Island. With so many waterways, boating is a convenient way to explore the coastal marshes, visit nearby barrier islands, and even arrive at your favorite dockside restaurant. 

There’s a certain luxury that comes with having your very own boat dock. Vacation homes like Carolina Cottage and Harbor Tide Estate include private boat docks for guests. It’s the perfect launch pad for your nautical adventures simply by walking right outside your door. Rent a boat or bring your own, and the friendly waters are yours to explore!

Cottage Style

Romanticize your coastal beach vacation by staying in a charming cottage-style home. Cottage homes are another popular house design style in coastal North Carolina that feels like an escape the moment you step inside. They’re your home away from home, with down-to-earth design that exudes coastal appeal.

Embrace cottagecore at Coastal Cottage in Wrightsville Beach, enticing guests with a fire pit, front porch rocking chairs, and warm interiors. The 4BR Sand Dollar Retreat is the perfect size for a family vacation, with homey maritime décor, an outdoor deck, and an exterior shed holding complimentary beach gear.

Find your dream coastal North Carolina vacation home at Sea Scape Properties.