I'm taking my kiddos to the beach next weekend. I've only been to the beach once, as a passenger, so I really didn't pay much attention to the drive. From 40/42, about how long does it take to get to a nice beach? What beach would you suggest? Hotel/motel (must have pool). Thx.
time and mileage wise, you can be at the ocean in about 2 hrs +/- 15 mins depending on how you drive just by going east on 40. smaller homier beaches are more like 2.5 hrs. depends on what you're looking for...i recommend the atlantis lodge in atlantic beach/pine knoll shores myself. about 2.5 hours down hwy 70 east.
I think Wrightsville Beach is the closest at 115 miles, 1 hour 52 minutes from 40/42: http://g.co/maps/8d6ad Just a short drive more, Emerald Isle is very nice at 130 miles, 2 hours 17 minutes: http://g.co/maps/5yqac Nags Head is about 213 miles, 3 hours 32 minutes: http://g.co/maps/ajvkg Obviously these times are estimates and will vary based on traffic, how fast you drive, and where you start from exactly. Usually I make it from my house to Wrightsville Beach in about 1 hour 30 minutes or so with no traffic.
Personally i love Carolina Beach, we take our grandkids down several times a year & it is under 2 hour drive from 40/42
We love Topsail. It is not over developed at this point and only 1.5hr from McGees Xroads exit on I-40. Easy drive, great beaches....family oriented.
I love Oak Island. It's about 2 hours 15 min. from 40/42. Quiet. Family friendly. Free parking at the beach at every street.
Carolina Beach has limited parking without paying... But it's the easiest to get too.. Keep 40hwy till you can't go anymore... But Wrightsvillie is a quite place to go.
being a native of NC I know it's going to be hard to believe but I have never been to Wrightsville beach. Growing up we used to camp a lot at carolina, fort fisher, and emerald isle. But that was way back in the day.....LOL
Well closest does not always mean quality...Just sayin. I was excited to be moving down here to Myrtle. But when I got here that totally changed. It is not like it use to be. Also...What is it about the old people coming to these beaches and not heading further south? Jeez. It ruins it for the younger crowd. Hell I was listening to my radio kinda loud oneday and this old lady in a mercedes was at the light just a bitchin about it. I told her to shut up and go get some ensure. Cracka!
I love Kure beach. I had special training at the base there for like 3 weeks. The public can rent those house on base for like 3 to 4 hundred a week. Which would be 7 days. Which is an awesome deal. The PX use to be open. Not sure if it is now though.
Sounds like you should have done your homework better before moving there. Quit complaining, it was your choice. 8)