The 7 Best Places to Buy a Vacation Home in North Carolina — From the Mountains to the Beach

North Carolina offers an enticing blend of natural beauty, southern hospitality, and a laid-back lifestyle, making it an ideal location for a vacation home.

The state’s diverse landscapes include the majestic Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains, offering abundant outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. For beach enthusiasts, the state’s extensive coastline provides miles of sandy beaches and opportunities for water-based recreation.

Adding to its appeal, North Carolina is known for its welcoming community and southern charm, where getting to know neighbors and building a sense of community is common. The state offers a balance between rural tranquility and city convenience, catering to both nature lovers and those who enjoy a more urban environment.

Cost of living in North Carolina is relatively low, with affordable housing and reasonable property taxes, which can be a significant advantage for those looking to purchase a vacation home. The state also boasts mild winters, allowing for year-round enjoyment of its natural and cultural offerings.

Best Places to Buy a Vacation Home

Banner Elk

Banner Elk in North Carolina is a desirable location for a vacation home, blending small-town relaxation with city-like amenities. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area is known for its outdoor adventures, rich cultural scene, and great dining options.

Banner Elk is particularly famous for being close to the largest ski resorts in the South, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

The town also offers a range of activities throughout the year, such as hiking, white-water paddling, and mountain biking, along with shopping, spas, wineries, and breweries.

Its thriving food scene is notable, ranging from high-end dining to cozy delis. Banner Elk is an ideal destination for various travelers, including couples, families, and adventure seekers, offering a mix of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

The area around Banner Elk provides a variety of vacation homes, from modern, upscale cabins to large family homes, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in a vacation property​.

Brunswick Islands

The Brunswick Islands in North Carolina offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and serene beach living, making it an ideal location for a vacation home. Stretching across five barrier islands, the county coast boasts six beautiful beaches and several charming coastal towns.

The area is known for its expansive, pristine beaches, temperate seasons, and a variety of unique attractions, including a rich seafood culture. Vacationers and homeowners alike are drawn to the area for its inviting charm, laid-back lifestyle, and the opportunity to create lifelong memories.

The real estate market here caters to a range of preferences, from private, gated communities with on-site amenities to beach properties and country estates, providing ample options for those looking to invest in a coastal vacation home.

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina presents a unique opportunity for vacation home buyers. Renowned for its stunning beaches and rich history, this chain of barrier islands offers a blend of investment and leisure opportunities.

A significant number of homes here are owned by absentee owners, which includes second homes for personal use, investment-only rental properties, and rental properties that owners also enjoy.

The demand for short-term rentals is high, with a long rental season extending into fall and spring. Buying a home in the Outer Banks is considered a good investment due to affordable prices relative to other resort areas and steady appreciation.

However, potential buyers should be aware that while rental income can offset the costs of ownership, it’s unlikely to cover all expenses. Property maintenance, insurance, and taxes are important considerations, and working with a property management company is often recommended for off-site owners.

Lake Lure

Lake Lure in North Carolina is a picturesque and serene location, ideal for purchasing a vacation home. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the area features waterfront homes offering breathtaking views and ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

The homes in Lake Lure vary in style and size, with options ranging from cozy cottages to expansive estates. Many properties provide direct access to the water, making them perfect for those who enjoy boating, fishing, or simply appreciating the tranquil lake views.

The community around Lake Lure is welcoming, and the area is equipped with various amenities, including golf courses and outdoor recreational facilities.

Properties in Lake Lure often come with additional features such as private docks, hot tubs, and large decks, enhancing the outdoor living experience. The real estate market in this area offers a range of prices, catering to different budgets, while ensuring a peaceful retreat in a natural setting.

Brevard

Brevard, North Carolina, is an attractive destination for those seeking a vacation home in a serene and nature-rich environment. Brevard, known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” is located in Transylvania County.

It offers a picturesque setting with around 250 waterfalls, extensive hiking and bike trails, and a combination of dense forests, wild rivers, and mountainous terrain. This makes it particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural beauty, Brevard also offers cultural attractions, including museums like the Transylvania Heritage Museum and the Brevard Music Center, as well as a charming town center with local shops and dining options.

This blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences creates a fulfilling living environment for both retirees and vacationers. The real estate market in Brevard is diverse, offering options from cozy cabins to larger family homes.

Whether you are looking for a private home for year-round living or a vacation property, Brevard’s real estate scene has something for everyone. The area’s homes are situated in settings that provide privacy and tranquility while still being accessible to the town’s amenities and outdoor activities.

Pinehurst

Pinehurst, North Carolina, renowned for its world-class golf courses, is an excellent location for a vacation home. The area is a golfer’s paradise, offering numerous courses including the famous Pinehurst No. 2.

It’s not just about golf, though; Pinehurst has a charming village atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities. The real estate market here is diverse, featuring everything from new constructions in serene neighborhoods to homes in 55+ communities, catering to a range of lifestyles and preferences.

Properties often come with amenities like pools, spacious living areas, and modern kitchens, and some are conveniently located near medical facilities, adding to the appeal for both retirees and vacationers. 

Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

The Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in Western North Carolina is a picturesque and luxurious destination for a vacation home. This area, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a rustic yet refined setting.

It’s renowned for its natural beauty, including breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, hiking trails, and plateaus. The region is a hub for recreational activities, world-class golfing, and an array of shopping and fine dining options, all set in a storybook mountainous environment.

The real estate market in this area is diverse, ranging from cabins by streams to luxury estates with waterfall views, catering to various preferences whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a second home, or an investment property.

The plateau offers an ideal balance between seclusion and community, providing a charming hideaway that never feels too isolated​.

Final Thoughts

North Carolina offers a diverse range of locations for vacation homes, each with unique characteristics and appeals.  These destinations not only provide scenic beauty and recreational activities but also promise a peaceful retreat and a strong sense of community.

The state’s varied landscapes and communities cater to different tastes and budgets, making it a prime location for those seeking a home away from home.