By James Rada, Jr.
The Best Vacation Spots in North Carolina
With mountains and oceans and a temperate climate, North Carolina is a popular vacation destination. Besides the varied terrain, there is plenty to do in North Carolina with amusement parks, historical sites,
beaches, museums, sports and more. North Carolina is the sixth-most visited state in the country, and once you visit some of these vacation spots, you'll know why.
The Outer Banks
North Carolina's Outer Banks are a series of more than 100 miles of beaches on the Atlantic Ocean. Besides being able to enjoy beach activities, the Outer Banks are where the Wright Brothers' first flew their airplane, where an early American colony disappeared and where the notorious pirate Blackbeard died. You'll find camping, ghost towns, beautiful gardens and fun activities for the whole family. You can also visit nearby wineries and golf courses for day trips.
Cape Hatteras
Cape Hatteras is one of the most-popular vacation spots along the Outer Banks. The cape is a great spot for swimming, fishing or just relaxing. You can also climb to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which is open for visitors from the third Friday in April to Columbus Day. The park has four campgrounds so you can extend your visit. Because of the strong winds in the area, Cape Hatteras is also a great location for windsurfing.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs is a historic North Carolina vacation spot. It's located 40 miles northwest of Asheville within the Pisquah National Forest. As its name suggest, you'll find hot mineral springs in town for a relaxing and healthy vacation. Besides the springs, you'll also find plenty of massage therapists who will work all of the kinks out of your body. Once you're feeling relaxed and refreshed, take in the beautiful scenery surrounding the town with canoeing, hiking or horseback riding.
The Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains stretch from Canada to Alabama and North Carolina has many ways to enjoy them within the state's borders. Hikers can walk the famous Appalachian Trail (88 miles long in North Carolina) or motorists can enjoy the beauty of the mountains along the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is skiing at the Appalachian Mountain Ski resort and plenty of other outdoor activities to do and good food to eat in the towns throughout the mountains.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Jordan Lake is 14,000 acres of water in center North Carolina. The lake has nine recreation areas: Crosswinds Campground, Ebenezer Church, Parker's Creek, Poplar Point, Seaforth, Vista Point, Robeson Creek, New Hope Overlook and White Oak Recreation Area. The lake can be used for boating, swimming and fishing. You'll also find camping, picnic areas and hiking trails in the area. Keep your eyes open, too. Jordan Lake is a place where you can see bald eagles.
About the Author:
James Rada, Jr. was a newspaper reporter for eight years and earned 23 awards from the Maryland Delaware D.C. Press Association, Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists, Maryland State Teachers’ Association and CNHI. He also worked for 12 years as a marketing communications writer, earning a Print Copywriter of the Year Award from the Utah Ad Federation. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications.
Photo Credits:
Bodie Island Lighthouse on North Carolina's Outer Banks. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
