The Charming North Carolina Beach Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

Did you know that North Carolina has the 7th-longest coastline in the United States? The Tar Heel State boasts 3,375 miles of total shoreline, including all of the bays, sounds, and tidal inlets. Of course, now that we are quickly approaching warmer weather and longer days, it’s time to start looking at some beach getaway options. Many folks flock to the Outer Banks to sink their toes in the sand, and towns like Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head get crowded quickly. If you want to escape the crowds, this hidden beach town in North Carolina is just the ticket to a relaxing and quiet beach getaway. 

Why This North Carolina Beach Town Flies Under the Radar

The Outer Banks certainly deserve their popularity. The 130-mile string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina is filled with endless side quests. Spend your days enjoying the undeveloped beaches, touring historic lighthouses, and strolling through charming fishing villages. 

Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills are some of the most popular areas to visit in the Outer Banks, but there are plenty of hidden beach towns peppering these barrier islands. 

The population of Salvo hovers under 500 residents, and its secluded location makes it the perfect quiet beach town in North Carolina. While most beachgoers will head north onto Highway 12 (coming from Roanoke Island), Salvo-bound beachgoers will head south. Its charm lies in the small collection of tackle stores and not much else, which is what makes Salvo stand out from the pack. 

Best Things to Do in This Quiet Beach Town

This hidden beach town in North Carolina is hiding a big secret: it’s one of the best places for kiteboarding on the East Coast. Even if you don’t want to catch some air time across the waves, just watching these aquatic acrobats from the beach is mesmerizing. 

For folks who do want to give it a try, check out Hatteras Watersports or Real Water Sports for rentals and classes. Who knows—you might be a natural!

Want to keep your feet on the ground? Take a stroll along the beach, do a little beach combing, or explore Cape Hatteras National Seashore. You can always find yourself a patch of sand and catch up on that book you've been meaning to finish.

The hardest decision will be where to stay in Salvo. I’m a big fan of finding places that offer ocean views, and this oceanfront cottage in Salvo is pure perfection. If I’m going to drive (or fly) a long distance to enjoy a beach vacation, then I want to wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing onto the shore. Not only does this place have some great views from the porch, but you have your own beach access, an outdoor shower, a fire pit, and a hot tub. You’ll also have a full kitchen so you can stock up on groceries and cook your own meals. 

If you're looking for a quiet beach town in North Carolina where you can escape the crowds and have a little fun in the sun, Salvo is the perfect option. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to Salvo using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner, or read on to check out even more of our favorite hidden beaches in North Carolina.