Skip Europe This Summer: This Coastal Town in North Carolina Is Just as Picturesque as the French Riviera

Have you ever dreamt about hopping a transatlantic flight and exploring the French Riviera with nothing but a few good novels, a retro bathing suit, and a big floppy hat? Sometimes I daydream exactly like this, and then reality creeps in and I get distracted by things like work, finances, and other day-to-day responsibilities. But what if I told you that there is a place in North Carolina comparable to the French Riviera, particularly Villefranche-sur-Mer, France, but at a fraction of the cost? Sounds too good to be true, maybe, but it's not. Welcome to the coastal town of Beaufort, North Carolina. Here's why this is the perfect European dupe, but right in our own backyard.

This is Villefranche-sur-Mer, France, a quiet coastal town with so much charm, color, and waterfront views. It's a dreamscape that deserves to be visited in one's lifetime. If the cobbled lanes and pastel harbors are calling your name, the good news is you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to satisfy your seaside daydreams. Beaufort, North Carolina—pronounced BOH-fert, unlike its South Carolina counterpart—offers a stateside alternative that rivals Villefranche-sur-Mer in charm, atmosphere, and coastal beauty. While the Mediterranean might get the glory, this quiet gem on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast brings European allure to the American South, with fewer crowds, friendlier prices, and plenty of character.

Founded in 1709, Beaufort is North Carolina’s third-oldest town and it shows off its heritage with pride. The historic district is a lovely blend of waterfront homes, vintage cottages, and centuries-old live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Much like Villefranche’s winding alleys and varied buildings, Beaufort’s Front Street radiates Old World elegance with a Southern twist. You can spend an afternoon strolling past art galleries, locally owned boutiques, and waterside cafés with sailboats bobbing just feet away.

What makes Beaufort particularly special is its seamless connection to nature. Just across Taylor’s Creek is the Rachel Carson Reserve, a protected estuary that’s home to wild horses, dolphins, and a kaleidoscope of coastal birds. It’s a peaceful view from the Beaufort boardwalk, and even better by kayak or paddleboard.

Like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaufort embraces its seafaring identity. You’ll find world-class fresh seafood in cozy waterfront restaurants, with soft-shell crab, shrimp and grits, and local oysters taking center stage. For a true taste of the town, grab a table at Moonrakers or Front Street Grill, where views of the marina and marshland stretch into the horizon. The slower pace and genuine hospitality create a dining experience that feels as intimate as a candlelit dinner on the Riviera—just swap the rosé for a Carolina craft beer if you like.

For those who crave a little adventure with their elegance, Beaufort also serves as a perfect jumping-off point for Crystal Coast explorations. A short boat ride will take you to Cape Lookout National Seashore, where the iconic lighthouse and untouched beaches feel like a private paradise. Or visit the nearby town of Morehead City, known for its lively seafood festival and deep-sea fishing opportunities.

The best part? While Villefranche-sur-Mer may require months of planning and a passport, Beaufort offers that timeless, windswept beauty with far less hassle. So this summer, skip the stress of overseas travel and discover a coastal escape that’s just as picturesque—and a lot closer to home.