3 Best Hotels in The North Carolina Coast, North Carolina

The seven-story, 1960s-vintage Blockade Runner is pure class, from the large, modern rooms (upper floors have terrific ocean views) to the sparkling lobby, where cool blue drapes create the feel of waves all around you. Although it hardly needs it, new ownership in 2023 promises upgrades and remodeled rooms in the coming years. The outdoor pool is adjacent to an inviting lawn, just behind the dunes from the beach. Approachable service extends to excursions offered by the resort, including kayak and boat tours. EAST Oceanfront restaurant is a destination in and of itself.  The Blockade Runner also offers a private Garden Suite and a two-story beach cottage for rent to families and groups, with 13 bedrooms and nine baths and access to all the hotel amenities.

Nearly every inch of this reliable, seven-story mainstay received an overhaul in 2022, from remodeled bathrooms to all-new furniture in the spacious rooms, almost all of which have balconies. A full lobby makeover includes a coffee shop and a new restaurant, Solstice Oceanfront Kitchen. The beachfront location includes two pools (one is indoors and heated) and a hot tub, plus a grassy lawn, making it a favorite with families. A large deck on the third floor, lined with rocking chairs, is an inviting spot to spend an entire afternoon.

This luxury resort comprising three multistory buildings and six large rental homes spreads over 16 quiet acres of ocean-to-sound property that include two outdoor pools (one that's adults only), hot tubs, an indoor pool, firepits, and a bocce court. Grab a drink at the beachfront Sandbar, sign up for kayak tours and yoga classes, or just relax on your porch and watch the waves roll in. The elegant, dinner-only Kimball's Kitchen restaurant (open May to October) has a wall of windows overlooking Currituck Sound. The resort-casual Lifesaving Station, a restored 1899 former lifesaving station, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner year-round.