Towns on the Beach in North Carolina: A Coastal Living Guide

Why North Carolina’s Beach Towns Are So Special

From the crystal-clear waters of the southern coast to the wild dunes of the Outer Banks, North Carolina offers some of the most beautiful and diverse coastal communities in the country. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a permanent residence, or an investment property, each beach town comes with its own charm—and its own insurance needs.

Popular Beach Towns in North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach

Just minutes from Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a favorite for year-round residents and vacationers alike. With its active boating community, boutique shops, and pristine beaches, it’s a sought-after spot for coastal living.

Carolina Beach

Known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant boardwalk, Carolina Beach combines family-friendly activities with a growing year-round population.

Kure Beach

Smaller and quieter than its neighbors, Kure Beach offers a slower pace, making it ideal for second homes and retirement properties.

Emerald Isle

Part of the Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle is famous for its calm waters and family-oriented vibe. Many properties here are used as vacation rentals, making specialized rental insurance a must.

Morehead City & Atlantic Beach

These twin coastal hubs balance fishing, boating, and beach access with thriving local dining scenes.

Outer Banks (OBX)

Stretching over 100 miles, the Outer Banks is home to towns like Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, Duck, and Hatteras. OBX properties face unique windstorm and flood risks due to their barrier island locations.

Insurance Considerations for Beach Town Properties

Living in—or owning property in—a North Carolina beach town often means higher exposure to:

  • Hurricanes and tropical storms
  • Wind and hail damage
  • Flooding from storm surge or heavy rain

Depending on your location, you may need:

  • Windstorm coverage (often separate from your homeowners policy)
  • Flood insurance (required in FEMA-designated flood zones)
  • Specialized second home or rental property coverage for seasonal use

How Sizemore Insurance Supports Coastal Property Owners

At Sizemore Insurance, we:

  • Compare multiple top-rated carriers that specialize in coastal insurance
  • Help you navigate hurricane deductibles and windstorm requirements
  • Review property use (primary, secondary, or rental) to find the right policy type
  • Offer guidance on flood zone mapping and coverage limits

We’re local, independent, and experienced with North Carolina’s coastal insurance market, so we understand both the beauty and the risks of beach-town living.