TravelAwaits

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Coastal Countdown: Best Beachfront Airbnbs in North Carolina

Coastal Countdown: Best Beachfront Airbnbs in North Carolina

South Carolina might take the cake when it comes to famous East Coast beaches—but North Carolina isn’t far behind.

Both states are home to coastal dreamscapes.

In summer, North Carolina transforms into a hotspot for families and travelers from across the country. These visitors are in search of summer charm, hoping to spend days at the beach or on the water before heading into town to sample seafood and ice cream.

Even in autumn and spring, North Carolina’s coasts come alive.

Not only is it a destination for nature lovers, but also for those in search of more romantic and less-traveled towns. Quaint surprises seem to lie around every corner.

But let’s not lose focus on the main attraction for many visitors in North Carolina: its tributary-laden coastlines, where lazy rivers wind through lush islets.

If you’re on the hunt for the best beachfront Airbnbs in North Carolina, look no further. (Or if you’re heading to South Carolina instead, start here.) I’ve got the very best in coastal getaways listed below.

Brand New Lux Stay

Oak Island

This is by far my bougiest pick for the North Carolina coast, located in the highly coveted Oak Island.

It’s an extravagant pick… but who doesn’t deserve a massive built-in pool with a pickleball court and a putting green out back? (I know I do. I bet you do, too.)

If you’ve got the funds, go all in. Or, alternatively, if you can fill all nine beds, then you won’t be footing too hefty of a bill.

That makes this great for large families and bachelorette parties. Next-level features aside (like pickleball and beach gear), you’re also located across the street from the beach on the hugely popular Oak Island.

Book here

Small Pleasures

Oak Island

That brand-new stay listed above isn’t located precisely on the beach—so if you’re after porches that overlook the Atlantic, this stay is for you. Best of all, you’re still on Oak Island.

This cottage’s interior is perfectly designed for the beach, from its white-paneled walls and features to its expansive back porch. Though small, it’s got serious charm.

What I love most about this quaint stay is its range of features.

Want to spend the day fishing and then eat your catch? There’s a fantastic grill and outdoor area. What about curling up with friends and playing a game? Not only do you have board games, but a functional living room and a cute fireplace that are ideal for hangout sessions.

What about swinging while you watch the waves lap against the shore? Yep. You can do that, too.

Book here

The Crab Shack

Morehead City

Dreaming of the ocean and little else? Head to Morehead City’s Crab Shack, a remote outpost located on the Newport River.

This stay has a lovely dock that extends into the water, making you feel like you’re sitting at the edge of the world. Seriously, it’s a cinematic view.

You might not find too many next-level amenities here (aside from the brand-new sauna, which is definitely worth mentioning), but I don’t think you’ll mind. The dock is the stuff of dreams, making the crab shack an oasis of calm.

Book here

Entire Cottage

Wilmington

Who says fishing is only for summertime?

This beautiful cottage is located on an estuary reserve of Masonboro Island, meaning you’ve got access to some seriously unspoiled waterways. Best of all, you can kayak your way to and from this Airbnb.

Oh, and you won’t be missing out on pristine beaches either.

Nearby is Masonboro Island’s white-sand beach, which can also be accessed via kayak. Though the cottage itself is small, that shouldn’t matter—there’s way too much to capture your attention outside.

Book here

Petite Noire

Kitty Hawk

Aren’t a fan of the standard beachy design of North Carolina’s coastal getaways?

You’ll probably love the dark palette of this modern tiny home. Despite its small size, you’ve got access to some awesome amenities. I’m talking a gel-infused King-sized mattress, a traditional barrel sauna, and copper soaker tubs that overlook the forest.

Though it’s not overlooking the beach (once again, you need to cross the street), I think those lux amenities are well worth the tiny, tiny hike.

Book here

Wedge House Tiny Home

Kill Devil Hills

Similar to Petite Noire in Kitty Hawk, this tiny home offers a modern stay—one that’s more squarely in the Scandi minimalism zone.

If you’re on the hunt for Americana-themed stays, this won’t be it.

Still, its design is intriguing and its features are functional. Plus, you’ll be located near a major national park and the beach. It also has zanier offers, like an Audiophile sound system and extensive record collection.

Book here

Sand Dune Trail Hideaway

Ocracoke

Compared to the Wedge House, Sand Dune Trail Hideaway isn’t quite as flashy. But it’s located right on the 16-mile stretch of stunning North Carolina’s National Seashore beaches—and that alone makes it worth the stay for beachgoers.

The porch is also large and functional, offering a grill, couches, hammocks, and more. Mature pines surround the property, adding an extra dose of solitude and peace.

Book here

Soho House: Enter the World of International Private Members’ Clubs

Private members’ clubs.

Even the name sounds exclusive, harkening back to the day of blue-blood establishments.

The first private members’ clubs emerged in places like London and Paris in the late 1700s. The clientele was decidedly bourgeois—even if the atmosphere in many clubs was casual, bordering on rowdy.

These were the places where business deals were forged, where brandy was poured and cigars lit. Where friends showed off new three-piece suits and the first double-monks were worn. (I can’t prove that last part, but there’s evidence.)

Fast forward a few centuries and private members’ clubs aren’t quite as focused on old money.

Instead, they’re a focal point for ultra-trends, where artists, innovators, and entrepreneurs rub elbows. Big money is absolutely involved—but only where it intersects with prestige.

In other words, there’s an emphasis on style. That’s especially true at newer and more socially-centric clubs like Soho House.

The setup doesn’t deviate too much from the social clubs of yore. All members must apply, and face a rigorous evaluation. Things like industry connections, relevant friends, social media reach, business acumen, and more are all points of focus.

And money is still heavily involved. Members who make the cut will pay thousands to remain part of the club.

But let’s take a closer look at the world of private members’ clubs, starting out with the most well-known brand to set up shop in these elite, lux space.

Here’s what you need to know about Soho House, the latest ultra-trendy members’ club to go global.

Soho House (Greek Street, London)

Soho House: The everyman’s social club

Soho House is the world’s most visible and accessible private members’ club.

As of 2024, it runs over 42 exclusive clubs in 10 countries around the world—and it’s constantly expanding its portfolio.

You might have heard of Soho House back in the early 2000s when it first made headlines.

This private members’ club got its start in London’s Soho neighborhood in 1995. At the time of its launch, it remained an under-the-radar affair. For the most part, only those working in fashion, arts, and media knew about it.

But by the early 2000s, it had become a hot spot for celebs from Hollywood and beyond. That’s because this private members’ club didn’t put a financial barrier on its members—only a creative and innovative one.

No large net worth required. Just edge. (A high net worth won’t hurt your chances of landing a membership, of course.)

That made Soho House instantly cool—after all, you can earn money or inherit it, but you can’t fake artistic edge.

But what’s the vibe?

I’ve likely sold you on the fact that Soho House is cool. And as someone who has spent time in Soho Houses in New York City and Barcelona, I can tell you—it lives up to its reputation.

From its bars to its swanky lounges, you’re going to feel effortlessly glib and sexy just by breathing that Soho House air.

But what do you do at a Soho House aside from loafing around and discussing trends?

Well, it’s a hot spot for first dates and business meetings. It’s also a place to get work done, especially for digital nomads just passing through. Many locations also host networking events geared toward its entrepreneur members.

There are usually bars and restaurants, along with pools and gyms. Think of it as a next-level hangout. A ‘third space’ for the aesthetically elite. In some cities, Soho House members have more than one location to choose from.

Soho House (Dumbo, Brooklyn)

Is it hard to get into Soho House?

My time spent in Soho Houses was strictly on guest lists. So, it’s easier to know people with a Soho House membership than it is to land one yourself. (Who would have thought?)

But what if you want a full membership all to yourself?

At the moment, Soho House reports that its waiting list is around 30,000 applicants deep. Its membership count at the moment is around 50,000 globally.

So, the short of it—it’s hard to get in.

There’s also a huge celebrity angle here. Not only are celebrities shoo-ins, but their children, too. And despite Soho House’s claim to be focused on creative innovation more than money, I have noticed a pretty clear intersection between wealth and membership.

To be fair, that might be because of Soho House’s prices.

I’ve read that membership costs around $5,000 per year, while some sources claim it costs around $700 quarterly. Regardless, Soho House requires pretty deep pockets, which naturally bars any starving artists from entry.

That being said, if you’re intrigued, you have the funds, and you have a profession that involves creative work, then consider applying. Just don’t expect a quick response.

Hidden Gems Only: Best Beachfront Airbnbs in South Carolina

South Carolina beaches are some of the most atmospheric in the US.

Though they’re not as tropical as Florida beaches and they don’t have the same emerald waters as the Gulf Coast, they deliver on character.

Most obviously, there’s a hefty dose of Southern charm at major destinations in the state, from Kiawah Island to Folly Beach. There’s also plenty of infrastructure for vacationers heading to the beach, making it a top spot for families during summertime.

Then there’s the coastline.

South Carolina’s beaches are dotted with islets and barrier islands. Lined with oak trees and slow-winding rivers, visitors get the beauty of the Atlantic without leaving behind the East Coast’s temperate forests.

Toss in some seriously good seafood, a festival-like atmosphere in the summer, and that slow-moving lifestyle that gets all of us back in touch with ourselves, and you could make the case that South Carolina is the summer destination in the US.

It’s a win on all fronts. Assuming you know where to stay, that is.

If you’re looking for the perfect landing pad for your South Carolina coastal vacations, then start with these options. I’m skipping over Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Kiawah to uncover South Carolina’s loveliest hidden gems.

Marshfront Villa in the Trees

Edisto Island

Want to get into the woods on Edisto Island?

You’ll have a fantastic bird’s-eye view of the surrounding marshlands at this elevated stay, letting you get a real feel for the bayou-esque jungle.

But don’t let the location fool you—you’re still close enough to the coast to hear the lapping waves. Best of all, you have multiple porches to choose from when it’s time for afternoon tea. (Although I’d probably be glued to that outdoor furnace. It’s beautiful.)

Book here

The Hideaway

Saint Helena Island

Top-tier modern design meets yet another rugged coastal forest. You’ll have everything you need to explore the snaking rivers outside or head to the beach nearby.

Along with its clean design, I’m a fan of all the added amenities offered at this Airbnb.

There’s plenty available for families, from beach-ready trollies to comfortable cribs to brand-new highchairs. Oh, and the sauna—the beautiful, beautiful Scandi-themed sauna.

Book here

True Beachfront

Surfside Beach

It’s beautiful on the outside and stunning on the inside.

This new rental has a near-perfect rating thanks to its renovated interior and beachfront access. That beachfront access is worth noting, as guests can cross a lovely footbridge to get to the beach in seconds.

But there’s also a massive swimming pool in the backyard—which makes this location even better for hosting its 12-person capacity. For families or friend groups, this rental has absolutely everything you’ll need.

Book here

Beach House with Backyard Oasis

Isle of Palms

By backyard oasis, I think the hosts mean pure tropical luxury.

From the lighting to the seating arrangement, you and your guests will have what you need to spend the whole vacation outside. That’s not even mentioning the pool—or the almost direct beach access.

Aside from its beautiful outdoor space and great proximity to the beach, guests also have the best Isle of Palm’s eateries and bars within reach. If you want to squeeze even more activities out of your beachy vacation in South Carolina, this rental has what you need.

Book here

Luxury Seabrook Beachfront

Seabrook Island

You get beach vibes everywhere you look with this rental—from its bright interior design to its coastal, dune-covered vistas. The latter offers the perfect way to watch the sunset over the Edisto River and the Atlantic.

But you’ll also have state-of-the-art amenities, too. From marble countertops to Big Chill appliances, this location has the quality-minded attention to detail that many are after.

Book here

Real-Life Pandora: Visit the Mountains That Inspired James Cameron’s Avatar

Pandora is one of the world’s most recognizable fictional planets.

From the imagination of James Cameron comes a fantastical landscape of jutting and flora-covered mountains.

And while the Na’vi people in 2009’s Avatar and 2022’s The Way of Water are decidedly alien, the landscape of Pandora—a habitable moon in a faraway galaxy—has its origins on Planet Earth.

The most recognizable inspiration for Pandora is China’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in the country’s northwestern Hunan province.

But that’s not all. There are two other locations that will make you feel like you’re venturing through Pandora. Vietnam is home to Ha Long Bay, while Chile is home to the lesser-known Torres del Paine.

All three locations offer an otherworldly view into our planet’s strangest natural formations.

Though I only spent a week in Ha Long Bay almost a decade ago, I remember the trip in great detail. The most memorable part of the trip was the experience of zipping between mist-covered, emerald islets, along with watching the sunset between the strange and beautiful rock formations around Cat Ba.

It’s no surprise that these three locations inspired such an epic and fantastical tale.

Best of all, they make it easy for hardcore Avatar (and Pandora) fans to step into an alien world. Ever dreamed of becoming Jake Scully or Neytiri? Here’s where to go.

Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash

Zhangjiajie National Park Forest, China

Year-round humidity feeds the lush greenery of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

This destination is characterized by towering and narrow pillars, which are the result of water erosion. These towers—made partly of sandstone—are so tall that the upper portions are only accessible via an industrial elevator.

Aside from its large-scale elevator, visitors can use two other lifts to explore Zhangjiajie’s canopy level. There’s also an extensive cable car track that weaves between the mountains.

Best of all for fans of Avatar, there’s an official tie-in to the franchise. Back in 2010, the National Park opted to name the tallest pillar ‘Avatar Hallelujah Mountain’ in honor of the film’s release.

Along with the stunning sandstone pillars, you might also recognize a few other tourist hotspots in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Ever seen videos of tourists clambering half-terrified over a glass bridge in China? Some of these videos are from the world’s longest pedestrian glass bridge, located in Zhangjiajie, which opened in 2016. (In case you didn’t know, glass bridges are big in China.)

Where to stay to explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie Utopia Hotel

Homeward Mountain Resort-English Speaking Steward

Photo by Lewis J Goetz on Unsplash

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

In terms of places that look like Pandora, Ha Long Bay might be the most well-known to Westerners.

This chain of exotic islands is located in the South China Sea in Northern Vietnam, accessible from Hanoi. The 2,000-odd islets are formed from limestone karsts and earned the term ‘Ha Long’, which means descending dragon.

Most travelers head to Cat Ba Island for lodging. I stayed here over Christmas back in 2012; it was a sleepy and misty experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. Because of the overcast weather, the islands and their vegetation weren’t particularly bright. That being said, there were few tourists, which is always a huge plus for me.

Where to stay to explore Ha Long Bay?

Hotel Perle d’Orient Cat Ba

The Moon Boutique Hotel Cat Ba

Photo by Claudio Mota

Torres del Paine, Chile

Is a trip to China or Vietnam a little too far from home? Consider hiking down to Chile instead.

This country is home to some truly stunning mountain views and otherwise rugged landscapes. Torres del Paine National Park takes that rugged moniker to another level.

Unlike Zhangjiajie and Ha Long Bay, Torres del Paine’s jutting rock formations aren’t layered with lush greenery. They rise into the sky like snow-covered giants. Seriously, the scale is hard to fathom.

These formations are also a bit harder to get to. Unlike the regions listed above, Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park isn’t too accessible to the average tourist—which means only dedicated and sporty tourists make it there.

But those who do are offered the spoils of Patagonian luxury.

Where to stay to explore Torres del Paine?

Ecocamp Patagonia

Pampa lodge

Travel Advice: Best Platforms for Home Swaps & Home Exchanges

Home swaps are on the rise again.

In the mid-2010s, interest in home swaps picked up—almost simultaneously the rise of self-directed rental platforms like Airbnb. Since the lockdown ended, they’ve seen yet another boost in travel trends.

But how do you know if a home swap is right for you?

Reciprocal home swaps (in which you trade homes directly with someone else) are great for those who want to save money, want a longer-term lodging option, and you’re okay doing things a bit more DIY.

But even if you’re not enthused by a reciprocal home swap, then you can still find a platform that’s right for you.

Many home swap platforms let you select an available option based on the number of points you have. You can use points (or other types of credit) that you’ve accrued or that you’ve purchased directly.

Best of all, there’s a home swap for just about everyone. Want reciprocal exchanges only? Or what about more luxury options? And what about platforms that offer free trials?

I’ve rounded up the best platforms for home swaps, including options for every type of traveler. All you need is an address and an enviable home to get started. (Or maybe not even!)

Best platform for newcomers: HomeExchange

  • Fee: $220/year
  • Types of exchanges: Reciprocal home exchanges or credits via GuestPoints
  • Members: 150,000
  • Countries active: 145 countries

HomeExchange is one of the biggest names in home swaps.

You’ll have plenty of options all around the world, plus flexibility thanks to its GuestPoints system. The GuestPoints system makes it easy to find a place to stay even if you’re own home isn’t a popular option. It also has an extension and highly rated customer support setup, which I’m sure comes in handy.

Best overall platform: Kindred

  • Fee: $600/year for the Kindred Passport or up to $35/night service fee
  • Types of exchanges: Reciprocal home exchanges or ‘give a night to get a night’ program
  • Members: Over 40,000
  • Countries active: USA, Canada, Mexico, and in major European cities

I recommend Kindred because it’s got both style and functionality. The platform has been shouted out in Thrillist, Tech Crunch, and other major publications—meaning it’s got a youthful edge and a strong focus on experience.

The only way to get on the app is to list your home—no grifters allowed. However, there’s a pretty limited geographic scope here, which might be a turn-off for those hoping to go to Brazil or Japan.

Best luxury platform: ThirdHome

  • Fee: From $500 – $1,395 per week
  • Types of exchanges: Non-simultaneous and non-reciprocal
  • Members: 15,000 properties (member count unknown)
  • Countries active: 100 countries

Want access to ThirdHome? Well, your own property must be listed—and it needs to be worth at least $2.4 million.

That’s a high charge that many of us won’t be able to hit. Still, it’s worth showcasing just how elevated the world of home swaps is.

  • Fee: $105/year
  • Types of exchanges: Reciprocal only
  • Members: Unknown
  • Countries active: Over 20 countries

HomeLink got its started way back in 1953, making it the end-all vet of the home swap world. Despite all that experience, there are no exorbitant fees or complex programs involved.

Also, there’s a solid 30-day free trial to let you get acquainted with the platform, try out a home swap, and see if it works for you. Aren’t convinced about home swaps? Start here.

Best for reciprocal swaps: People Like Us

  • Fee: $95/year
  • Types of exchanges: Reciprocal home exchanges or credits via Globe system
  • Members: Unknown
  • Countries active: 100 countries

Though People Like Us offers a Globe system, it’s only for users who have been active on the platform for three years. That makes People Like Us heavily geared toward reciprocal exchanges.

The Facebook page is also very active, making it easy for newcomers to see how the platform works and peruse its offerings. Best of all, it has a solid 5/5 rating on TrustPilot.

Driver’s Digest: Which Countries Are Safest & Most Dangerous?

Travel is designed to relax us, but it can also boost our stress levels—especially where car rentals are involved.

I recently survived a trip to Sicily. As someone who has been a passenger princess on multiple continents, I can tell you that no place scared me like this Mediterranean island.

I have driven on tiny rural roads in Norway, battling big-rig drivers.

I have faced the terror of forgetting which side of the road is the ‘correct’ side in India.

I have had my pinky toe crushed on a moto in Vietnam.

I have gone on ill-advised road trips with poorly decorated camper-vans in Australia. (This one had graffiti of a rabid Ronald McDonald wielding french fries with a quote saying ‘if you loved me, you’d eat that’.)

Respectfully, the road between Siracusa and Catania in Sicily was like Mad Max: Fury Road, except with more hand gestures.

It made me think more deeply about driving in foreign countries.

When we get behind the wheel abroad, not only do we need to learn the actual rules of the road—including deciphering road signs and knowing when to yield—but we also need to pick up on dozens of unwritten rules.

Like in India, if you’re not planning on stopping while going through an intersection, give a little honk. Or, like in Spain, knowing how close you’re allowed to get to pedestrians without inciting a brawl.

From the unspoken etiquette to the hard rules of the road, there’s a lot that drivers need to think about when driving in another country. And that can be tough to keep track of—especially when driving on the ‘wrong’ side of the road.

Wanna know the short-and-quick of it? I’ve done a bit of research into the most dangerous countries in the world for drivers, including tourists.

The metrics used in my rankings are based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Road Safety Report, which takes into account things like speed limits and data on road fatalities, the World Bank’s Traffic Injury Deaths report, and The Swiftest’s Travel Safety Index report.

Most dangerous countries for drivers

Based on the number of road traffic deaths per 100,000 residents per year, the most dangerous countries to drive in are:

  • Dominican Republic: 64.4 deaths
  • Thailand, 32.2 deaths
  • Vietnam, 30.6 deaths
  • Saudi Arabia, 35.9 deaths
  • Malaysia, 22.5 deaths
  • South Africa, 22.2 deaths

Watch out in these countries, too. They also rank highly on the traffic index score, which relates to efficacy of traffic infrastructure (ie good roads, speed limits, etc.):

  • Peru
  • Lebanon
  • India

Safest countries for drivers

Don’t let all the road deaths get you down. As outlined above, I’ve driven in a handful of countries and haven’t faced any major issues.

In terms of overall number of traffic-related deaths and traffic infrastructure quality, these countries come out ahead:

  • Japan (often regarded as the safest place in the world to drive)
  • Singapore
  • Switzerland
  • Sweden
  • Japan
  • Spain
  • Portugal
  • Norway
  • Netherlands
  • Denmark
  • Germany