Spot off the NC Coast ranks among nation’s best island getaways, survey says
North Carolina is home to one of the nation’s best island destinations, according to new rankings from Travel + Leisure.
The Outer Banks earned a spot in the magazine’s 2026 World’s Best Awards, placing 10th overall among the top islands in the Continental U.S.
The scenic barrier islands, located just off the North Carolina coast, scored an 82.51 and was the only North Carolina locale to be recognized on the coveted list, published Tuesday, July 7.
The annual survey highlights supreme travel as voted by readers, providing “a snapshot of the places, brands, and experiences resonating with travelers today,” according to Travel + Leisure.
This year, readers cast 661,000 votes for their favorite cities, airlines, hotels and more.
“If an island getaway is favored, there are plenty of options across the globe to choose from, all with pristine beaches and seaside charm,” editors wrote.
The Outer Banks was among them, best known for its serene waterfronts, wildlife and historical attractions. There’s no shortage of activities — from fishing to snorkeling to hiking “the “tallest living sand dune system” on the Atlantic Coast at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
U.S News and World Report has also recognized the region as the perfect spot for a family getaway and pointed out the availability of affordable vacation rentals.
Other top NC travel destinations
WorldAtlas recently ranked Beaufort among the Top 14 small towns on the Atlantic Coast. The seaside locale and third-oldest town in the Tar Heel State is famous for its serene waterfronts and “rich maritime history.”
Southern Living has recognized Sunset Beach for its white sand and crystal clear waters, as well as Boone as the one place in North Carolina everyone should visit. The latter earned high praise for its “outdoor adventures, rich history, walkable downtown, nearby High Country attractions, upgraded lodging and diverse dining scene.”
The magazine also recognized Calabash, a quaint fishing village known as the “seafood capital of the world.”
Last year, Oak Island, Hatteras Island, Topsail Beach, Ocracoke, Duck, Beaufort, Emerald Isle, Nags Head and Wrightsville Beach landed on Southern Living’s list of 50 best beach towns in the South, The Charlotte Observer reported.
What are the top islands in the US?
Travel + Leisure readers ranked these island destinations among the best in the nation:
- Golden Isles, Georgia (Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island and St. Simons Island)
- Mount Desert Island, Maine
- Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Kiawah Island, South Carolina
- San Juan Islands, Washington
Portions of this story were previously published in The Charlotte Observer.