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When people want to plan a beach vacation, the first locations that come to mind are California and Florida. However, there are other options. How about the Carolinas? North and South Carolina to be exact. What do North and South Carolina have that you can't find elsewhere? History and lighthouses come to mind, as well as the option of seclusion, and a chance to live among 5th generation locals for a few days.

This seclusion can be found on the Outer Banks; probably the best-known area of North Carolina. Since this area is only accessible by ferry or by driving over one of the bridges that connect to the mainland, you too can experience the awe the first English colonists must have felt when they first set foot there over four centuries ago. Over 130 miles of sandy barrier islands greet today's visitors with some spectacular watery hideaways.

From watching wild horses roaming the northern parts of the Outer Banks, to walking and bicycling the Ocracoke beaches in the south, there are many activities and pastimes for every type of vacationer and family member. If bird watching, fishing, boating, and windsurfing are not enough to fill your time, there are many other types of entertainment.

Many local artisans dot the villages and gladly keep their galleries open to visitors. Musicians, comedians, and poets provide nighttime entertainment in cafes and nightclubs. All this can be had in a peaceful setting while watching some of the best sunsets in America. Even the finest establishments with their cuisine of the freshest shrimp, crab, and fish will make you feel casually welcome.

For golf enthusiasts the town of Oak Island would be the perfect North Carolina destination. Oak Island's eighteen-hole course is framed by wind swept oaks and yaupon trees. Don't fear to bring the whole family along (as well as your canoes and kayaks), because their ten-mile stretch of ocean beach offers water related activities for all ages. If the kids get tired of water sports, there are also numerous playgrounds and even a skateboard park available.

If you want to vacation farther south, Kiawah Island on the coast of South Carolina is home to the most romantic spot and best spot to walk the beach (per Southern Living's editorial staff). Villas, private homes, cottages, golf, tennis and resort communities dot 10 miles of pristine beach without disturbing the natural landscape.

Shopping, as well as 300 years of history, art and culture await you just a stones throw away in Charleston. While in the area, be sure to visit the Morris Island Lighthouse on the barrier island of Folly Beach. Gourmet food served with southern hospitality and viewing of rare bird species will add to your delight.

If you want the most famous family beach location in America, look no further than Myrtle Beach. 60 miles of sandy white beaches along the bluest waters of the Atlantic Ocean will make for some of the most unforgettable pictures. With fun amusement and water parks, theaters, malls, four star restaurants, and over 100 golf courses you will never run out of things to do.

Whether staying in a luxury hotel, renting a condo or oceanfront home, or staying in a local motel, the Carolinas offer a versatile vacation for every budget and family situation.

Learn more about this author, Alexandra Heep.
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