Best Piers in NC
By George Wilmington, NC
Look, I know we’re all “so over” the typical tourist traps, but North Carolina’s piers are actually holding it down. If you’re looking to escape the mainland drama and pretend you’re in a Nicholas Sparks novel (minus the tragic ending, hopefully), here’s the tea on where to drop a line—or just a very expensive selfie.
1. Kure Beach Pier: The "I’ve Seen Some Things" Icon
This pier is literally older than your grandma's vintage Chanel. Built in 1923, it’s survived ten hurricanes. Honestly? Relatable. It’s been rebuilt more times than my skincare routine, but it still stands tall at 711 feet. It’s private, it’s quiet, and there are no "loud bells and whistles"—which is code for "I can finally hear myself think." Fish for Spanish mackerel or just sit there and judge the seagulls. Your call.
2. Johnnie Mercers Pier: The Concrete Queen
Located in Wrightsville Beach, this is the only concrete pier in the state. Why concrete? Because it can withstand 200 mph winds, which is the kind of stability I’m looking for in my 30s. It’s 1,200 feet of "look at me," complete with a full tackle shop and a grill. Pro tip: grab a beer at the pier house and watch the sunset. It’s $2 just to walk on it, but let’s be real, you’ve spent more on a mediocre oat milk latte.
3. Jennette’s Pier: The Overachiever
If Johnnie Mercers is the stable one, Jennette’s in Nags Head is the one with the Master’s degree. It’s 1,000 feet long, eco-friendly (wind turbines, hello!), and run by the NC Aquarium. It’s basically the "clean girl aesthetic" of piers. Great for families, or for anyone who wants to learn about marine life without actually getting their hands salty.
4. Ocean Isle Beach Pier: The Nostalgia Trip
This one has been around since the 50s and it feels like it. It’s got an arcade, ice cream, and a vibe that says, "I don't know what TikTok is and I don't care." It’s nearly 1,000 feet of pure, unadulterated coastal tradition. If you want to feel like a kid again—but with better hair and a credit card—this is your spot.
5. Oak Island Pier: The Tall Drink of Water
At 27 feet high, this is the tallest pier in the state. It was rebuilt in 2019, so everything is fresh and clean. It’s got a restaurant, a coffee shop (essential), and views that actually justify the "scenic" tag. It’s the perfect place to pretend you’re pondering life's big questions when you’re really just wondering if you left the toaster oven on.
The Bottom Line: Whether you’re actually there to catch a King Mackerel or just catching feelings for the Atlantic, NC’s pier scene is peak coastal living. Just don’t forget the SPF—wrinkles are only cute on pugs.