Best North Carolina Resorts To Visit In 2026

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Trying to find the best North Carolina resorts for your next getaway?

Whether you’re dreaming of mountain luxury, a romantic escape, a dog-friendly stay, or somewhere close to hiking and outdoor adventure, North Carolina has an incredible range of options.

After years of exploring the state and staying at many of the properties on this list, I’ve learned that the best resort isn’t always the fanciest; it’s the one that fits the type of trip you actually want.

From luxury mountain retreats and spa resorts to waterfront stays and hidden gems, these are the best resorts in North Carolina that I would confidently recommend to a friend.

Horse Shoe Farm

If your idea of the perfect getaway includes slowing down, prioritizing wellness, and spending time somewhere that feels peaceful without sacrificing luxury, Horse Shoe Farm deserves a spot at the top of your list.

I personally haven’t stayed overnight here, but I did experience the spa during a women’s retreat with my friend Lauren, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This is hands-down one of the most impressive spa properties I’ve experienced in North Carolina.

We spent time enjoying the pool, multiple saunas, a cold plunge, and the hot tub, and honestly, it felt like one of those places where time slowed down in the best way possible.

Beyond the spa facilities, Horse Shoe Farm offers a variety of accommodations ranging from cabins to larger homes for groups. If you’re planning a girls’ trip, romantic getaway, or wellness-focused weekend, this is one of my top picks among luxury resorts in North Carolina.

Another standout is The Silo, the on-site restaurant that’s open to both guests and visitors, making it easy to turn your stay into a full experience.

Horse Shoe Farm is located in Hendersonville, one of my favorite places to hike, and you’re only a short drive from an adventure playground in Brevard.

Why Stay at Horse Shoe Farm

• Exceptional spa and wellness amenities
• Pool, hot tub, cold plunge, and sauna access
• Peaceful mountain atmosphere
• Multiple accommodation styles
• Excellent on-site dining

Dog Friendly: Yes, select accommodations are dog friendly.
Kid Friendly: Yes, though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend

Best For: Spa weekends, couples, wellness retreats, and luxury mountain escapes.

Snowbird Mountain Lodge

If you’re looking for one of the most peaceful resorts in Western North Carolina, Snowbird Mountain Lodge is such an underrated choice.

Robbinsville has a slower pace than some of North Carolina’s more popular mountain towns, which is exactly why I love it. Staying here feels like an opportunity to unplug and fully settle into mountain life instead of rushing between activities.

One of my favorite parts of staying at Snowbird Mountain Lodge was the setting and the views. This property feels tucked away while still giving you access to some of the most beautiful areas in Western North Carolina.

The food here was also a standout; I still think about the North Carolina trout I had during my stay.

This area is incredible if you want your resort stay paired with outdoor adventure. Some of my favorite nearby spots include Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Yellow Creek Falls, Huckleberry Knob, and Lake Santeetlah for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Snowbird Mountain Lodge feels elevated yet cozy, making it a great option if your ideal trip includes good food, mountain views, and slower mornings.

Why Stay at Snowbird Mountain Lodge

• Incredible mountain views
• Quiet, peaceful atmosphere
• Excellent on-site dining
• Easy access to hiking and outdoor activities
• Great base for exploring a quieter side of Western North Carolina

Dog-Friendly: No. I’d verify current pet policies before booking.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, but I think this property shines most for couples and adults seeking a quieter escape.

Best For: Romantic getaways, peaceful mountain weekends, and outdoor-focused trips.

Cataloochee Ranch

If I could only recommend one property for a luxury mountain escape, Cataloochee Ranch would likely be the first place to come to mind.

My husband and I stayed here in March 2026 and had one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had at a resort in North Carolina. We were able to photograph sunrise at Hemphill Bald, which is incredibly difficult to access unless you’re staying on the property. Watching the sun come up over the Smokies with no one else around felt surreal and will always be so special to me.

This wasn’t my first visit either. The first time I stayed, I visited with my friend Dani, and we packed our trip with experiences, from horseback riding and wine tasting in the wine cellar to a barn dance and learning about the Great Smoky Mountains from a retired park ranger.

It felt immersive in a way that many luxury resorts don’t.

What I love most about Cataloochee Ranch is that every single person who works there is so genuine and welcoming. The owners care deeply about creating a memorable experience for guests, and it shows in the details.

And the food? I truly haven’t had a single thing here that I didn’t like.

The atmosphere is classic mountain luxury with direct access to outdoor adventure, making it one of my favorite luxury resorts in North Carolina.

They’re also in the process of adding a pool and additional accommodations, which should be open in the summer of 2026!

Use code CATES for 5% OFF your stay.

Why Stay at Cataloochee Ranch

• Private access to Hemphill Bald
• Luxury mountain atmosphere that feels approachable
• Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection
• Horseback riding and seasonal activities
• Exceptional dining experience
• Incredible Great Smoky Mountains access
• Unique experiences and educational programming

Dog Friendly: Yes, select accommodations are dog friendly, but you must contact the property
Kid-Friendly: Yes, I saw families here on both of my visits!

Best For: Luxury stays, romantic getaways, special occasions, mountain views, and outdoor adventure.

You can use code CATES for 5% OFF your stay.

Omni Grove Park Inn

If you’re searching for a classic luxury resort in North Carolina, it’s hard to leave the Omni Grove Park Inn off the list.

Perched above Asheville, this property is one of the most iconic resorts in the state and has earned a reputation for mountain views, historic charm, and a one-of-a-kind resort experience.

One of the biggest draws here is the spa, which people travel specifically to experience. Pair that with multiple dining options, mountain scenery, and access to Asheville, and it’s easy to see why so many people choose this property for anniversaries, weekend escapes, and celebratory trips.

I especially like that you can balance resort time with exploring nearby hiking, breweries, and restaurants before returning to enjoy the amenities.

I’ve only ever eaten at the restaurant here because the prices at the Omni are definitely out of my budget, but I can confidently say it is a stunning property, and the food was exceptional.

This is one of those places that works equally well if you want to stay busy by experiencing everything Asheville has to offer or barely leave the property at all.

Why Stay at Omni Grove Park Inn

• Iconic North Carolina mountain resort experience
• Well-known spa and wellness offerings
• Beautiful mountain views
• Easy access to Asheville attractions
• Multiple dining and resort amenities

Dog Friendly: No. Standard guest accommodations are generally not pet-friendly (verify current policies before booking).

Kid Friendly: Yes, families are welcome, though couples often choose this resort for romantic weekends and special occasions.

Best For: Luxury getaways, spa weekends, Asheville trips, and romantic escapes.

Chetola Resort

If you’re looking for one of the most versatile North Carolina resorts that works equally well for couples, families, and those who refuse to leave their dogs behind (aka me), Chetola Resort is one of my top recommendations.

I recently stayed here in Blowing Rock, and it was honestly everything I wanted it to be.

One of my favorite things about Chetola Resort is that it somehow feels secluded and surrounded by nature, yet is still incredibly close to downtown Blowing Rock. You get the peaceful mountain atmosphere without feeling disconnected from restaurants, shopping, and things to do.

Not only is the property stunning, but it also offers numerous amenities that make it stand out, including multiple fire pits throughout, on-site kayaks, and a restaurant, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the resort. It also has a strong reputation for fly-fishing trips.

The absolute highlight for me was the multiple pairs of swans that would fish in the lake all day.

I literally told my friend while staying here that this would be such a beautiful place to get married. There are multiple venue options and so many scenic spots around the property that feel made for special occasions and a photoshoot.

Why Stay at Chetola Resort

• Great location near downtown Blowing Rock
• Dog-friendly accommodations
• Fire pits, kayaking, and on-site dining
• Beautiful natural setting with water views
• Great balance of convenience and relaxation
• Excellent option for weddings and celebrations

Dog Friendly: Yes, one of my favorite pet-friendly resort options in North Carolina.

Kid Friendly: Yes, one of the best family-friendly resorts on this list with outdoor space and activities for multiple age groups.

Best For: Families, dog owners, mountain weekends, weddings, and couples wanting convenience without sacrificing scenery.

The Swag

If romance is on the docket, then The Swag is one of the top places I’d recommend.

Tucked high in the mountains near the Great Smoky Mountains, this property is known for delivering an experience that feels intimate, luxurious, and completely removed from everyday life. Unlike larger resort-style properties, The Swag leans into personalized service, cozy spaces, and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down.

One of the biggest draws here is the location. Staying this close to the Smokies means incredible mountain views and easy access to hiking, all while returning to elevated accommodations at the end of the day.

This feels like the type of place you book for an anniversary, honeymoon, milestone birthday, or simply because you want a special weekend.

What stands out most about The Swag is that it doesn’t try to pack the schedule full of activities; it lets the scenery and experience do the heavy lifting.

Why Stay at The Swag

• Incredible mountain setting
• Romantic and intimate atmosphere
• Elevated dining experience
• Great access to the Great Smoky Mountains
• Ideal for slower-paced luxury travel

Dog Friendly: No, this is generally not the property I’d choose if traveling with a dog (always verify current policies before booking).

Kid-Friendly: No. This property is better suited for adults and couples looking for a quiet escape.

Best For: Romantic getaways, anniversaries, honeymoons, and luxury mountain stays.

Old Edwards Inn

If your dream weekend includes luxury accommodations, incredible food, walkability, and one of the cutest mountain towns in North Carolina, Old Edwards Inn is hard to beat.

Located right in the heart of Highlands, this is one of the most well-known luxury resorts in North Carolina and a fantastic choice if you want a trip that blends resort amenities with exploring town.

One of my favorite things about staying in Highlands is that you never feel locked into the resort experience. You can spend the morning grabbing coffee (I love Outpost Inn Coffee) and walking through town, head out for a hike or waterfall adventure, then come back for dinner, drinks, or a slower evening at Hummingbird Lounge.

Old Edwards has built a reputation for thoughtful service and elevated details without feeling too stuffy. It’s polished but still feels approachable, which I think is part of why so many people keep coming back.

This is also a great option if you want a romantic getaway but prefer to be near shops and restaurants rather than staying somewhere fully secluded.

Why Stay at Old Edwards Inn

• Walkable location in downtown Highlands
• Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection
• Luxury accommodations with upscale amenities
• Excellent dining options nearby and on the property
• Great access to hiking and mountain activities
• Romantic atmosphere without feeling isolated

Dog Friendly: Limited, select accommodations may allow dogs, but I’d verify directly before booking.

Kid-Friendly: Yes, though I think this resort especially shines for couples, girls’ trips, and adults seeking a slower mountain weekend.

Best For: Romantic getaways, luxury travelers, mountain town access, and couples’ weekends.

The Greystone Inn

If lakefront luxury sounds more your speed than mountain views, The Greystone Inn is one of the most beautiful lake resorts in North Carolina.

Located on Lake Toxaway, this resort feels refined and peaceful in a way that immediately slows you down. It’s the type of place where mornings start with coffee overlooking the water and evenings end with dinner and sunset views, rather than packed itineraries.

One of the things I like about this property is that it offers a slightly different North Carolina experience than many of the mountain resorts on this list. You still get access to hiking, waterfalls, and outdoor adventure nearby, but the lake setting makes everything feel calmer and more relaxed.

This is also a great choice if you want luxury accommodations without staying somewhere that feels overly large or busy.

Whether you spend your time exploring the area or simply enjoying the property, The Greystone Inn feels ideal for travelers wanting something quieter and more intentional.

Why Stay at The Greystone Inn

• Beautiful lakefront setting
• Peaceful and upscale atmosphere
• Great option for romantic getaways
• Easy access to waterfalls and mountain activities
• Excellent balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure

Dog Friendly: Yes, with an additional pet fee

Kid Friendly: Yes, families can enjoy the lake setting, though I think this property especially stands out for couples and quieter trips.

Best For: Romantic weekends, lake escapes, luxury stays, and couples looking for a slower pace.

Half Mile Farm

If I had to pick one resort on this list for a honeymoon or special occasion, it would probably be Half Mile Farm.

My husband and I recently stayed here in Highlands, North Carolina, and it was genuinely one of the most magical places I’ve experienced in the state. From the moment we arrived, the attention to detail and level of care from the staff stood out in a way that’s hard to describe until you experience it yourself.

We stayed in the Justice Cabin, and it was such a cozy, memorable experience. One of my favorite things about the property is that many of the cabins are historic structures that have been thoughtfully deconstructed and rebuilt on-site, which gives the resort so much character and charm.

We visited in mid-May, and the entire property was covered in blooming rhododendron and mountain laurels, which made it feel ridiculously picturesque.

During our stay, I received a massage from Nalu, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it absolutely rocked my world. Between that, the pool and hot tub, and all the tucked-away spaces throughout the property, it felt impossible not to relax.

I especially loved the little details, reading in the garden room while it rained, enjoying the patio spaces, and watching the dining room open up with the collapsible doors on a beautiful day.

My husband is still talking about the burger from JT Tavern and declared it “perfect,” which honestly says a lot coming from him.

Another major perk is that they offer a shuttle to downtown Highlands and Old Edwards, making it easy to explore without having to move your car. Although if you want to drive, downtown Highlands is only 5 minutes away.

Why Stay at Half Mile Farm

• Exceptionally attentive service
• Romantic cabin accommodations
• Beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces
• Spa and wellness offerings
• Incredible dining experience
• Shuttle access to downtown Highlands

Dog Friendly: No, this is not the property I’d choose if bringing Ollie along.

Kid-Friendly: No. Half Mile Farm is adults-only, which is a huge reason I’d recommend it for couples.

Best For: Honeymoons, anniversaries, romantic weekends, and special occasions

Trailborn Highlands

If you want to stay in downtown Highlands (yes, many of these resorts are in this area), but don’t want to break the bank, Trailborn Highlands is a great middle ground.

One of the biggest perks of staying here is the location. Highlands is one of my favorite mountain towns because there is so much to do and at your fingertips.

Trailborn feels more modern and relaxed than some of the traditional luxury properties on this list. The design is stylish without being overdone, and it creates a stay that feels lavish without an outrageous price tag.

I especially like this option for travelers who plan to spend much of their time exploring rather than staying on the property all day. You can head out for hiking, grab dinner downtown, and come back to a comfortable space.

This is also one of the easier properties to recommend if you’re planning a shorter weekend trip and want convenience without sacrificing atmosphere.

Why Stay at Trailborn Highlands

• Great location near downtown Highlands
• Stylish and approachable mountain stay
• Easy access to hiking and waterfalls
• More relaxed feel than traditional luxury resorts
• Excellent option for weekend getaways
• On-site sauna experience

Dog Friendly: Yes, one of the better options on this list if you’re bringing your dog.

Kid Friendly: Yes, a solid choice for families that want flexibility and easy access to town.

Best For: Mountain town access, weekend trips, couples, and travelers who want to explore beyond the resort.

The Inn on Biltmore Estate

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you stepped into another era for a weekend, The Inn on Biltmore Estate is one of the most iconic luxury resorts in North Carolina.

Staying here gives you access to a completely different type of experience than many of the mountain resorts on this list. Instead of secluded cabins or hiking-focused stays, this is all about historic charm, beautiful grounds, elevated dining, and the feeling that everything has been thoughtfully designed.

One of the biggest perks is being able to stay directly on the estate and enjoy the property beyond the busiest daytime hours. That alone makes the experience feel more immersive.

This is also an excellent option if your ideal trip includes a balance of relaxing and exploring. Spend the day walking the grounds, visiting the gardens, enjoying dinner, or perusing Asheville before returning to the hotel.

While this isn’t the resort I’d personally choose for an adventure-focused trip, it’s an incredible option if your goal is to slow down and treat yourself. It’s also PERFECT if you plan on visiting the Biltmore, especially during the Holiday Season.

Why Stay at The Inn on Biltmore Estate

• Luxury accommodations in a historic setting
• Beautiful estate grounds and scenery
• Elevated dining experience
• Unique and memorable atmosphere
• Great for slower-paced vacations and special occasions

Dog Friendly: Yes, select accommodations welcome dogs (confirm current restrictions before booking).

Kid Friendly: Yes, families can enjoy the estate, though I think adults and couples will appreciate the experience most.

Best For: Luxury stays, special occasions, romantic weekends, and travelers looking for a classic North Carolina experience.

Lakeview on Fontana

For a more unique stay in one of my favorite areas of Western North Carolina, Lakeview on Fontana is the place for you.

Of all the stays on this list, this might be the one that surprised me the most. When I visited, I felt like I had escaped to a small European destination instead of staying in the mountains of North Carolina.

The design and overall atmosphere reminded me of something you’d find in France or Italy, which made the whole experience feel extra special.

I stayed here while working on a project in Bryson City, and it turned out to be the perfect place to relax after long days of hiking and exploring.

One of the standout features here is the resort atmosphere itself. There’s a pool on-site, beautiful mountain views, and luxury soaking cabanas that I honestly haven’t seen anywhere else.

Another thing I loved is that it feels tucked away and peaceful, but you’re still only about 10 minutes from downtown Bryson City, so it’s easy to combine resort time with restaurants and local exploring.

I am also a massive fan of hiking in this area, so if that’s your speed, you’ll have plenty of trails to choose from.

If your ideal trip includes slower mornings, a beautiful setting, and somewhere that feels a little different than the typical mountain lodge experience, this is such a fun option.

Why Stay at Lakeview on Fontana

• Unique European-inspired atmosphere
• Luxury soaking cabanas
• Beautiful pool and mountain setting
• Close to Bryson City while still feeling secluded
• Great balance of relaxation and adventure

Dog Friendly: Yes, some of the accommodations are dog-friendly!

Kid Friendly: Limited, families can stay here, but I think adults and couples will appreciate the atmosphere the most.

Best For: Romantic getaways, luxury mountain stays, Bryson City trips, and travelers wanting something unique.

Longview Resort

A resort that is HIGH on my bucket list to visit is Longview Resort.

This property is also right near Bryson City and looks absolutely insane.

It has incredible views of the surrounding mountains and a beautiful sun terrace. Just looking at the pictures makes my heart ache for a trip here.

Compared to some of the larger resorts on this list, Longview feels more intimate and peaceful, making it especially appealing to couples or travelers seeking a quieter experience.

Why Stay at Longview Resort

• Peaceful atmosphere for a slower-paced getaway
• Beautiful mountain surroundings
• Great option for relaxation-focused travel
• A less crowded feel than larger resort properties
• Comfortable base for exploring the surrounding area

Dog Friendly: Limited, check current accommodation policies before booking.

Kid Friendly: Yes, though this property looks better suited for couples and romance

Best For: Romantic weekends, quiet mountain escapes, and travelers looking to unplug.

The Sanderling

Just because I’m not a huge beach person doesn’t mean that there aren’t some great resorts on the North Carolina coast. If beach mornings and ocean views are more your style, The Sanderling is a great option.

Located in the Outer Banks, this property offers a completely different experience from the mountain resorts on this list. Instead of hiking trails and fireplaces, think beach walks, sunrise coffee, ocean air, and days that revolve around relaxing instead of checking off an itinerary.

One of the things I like most about resorts in this area is that you can choose your pace. Spend the day at the beach, enjoy the amenities on the property, explore nearby towns (there are so many good ones in OBX), or simply sit outside and appreciate the fact that your biggest decision is whether to go to the pool or the ocean.

This is also one of my favorite types of properties to recommend for groups because it appeals to a wide range of travelers. Couples can enjoy a romantic coastal weekend while families have enough space and activities to keep everyone happy.

Although I’m more of a mountain girl, OBX is seriously one of the most beautiful areas in North Carolina and you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you never visit it.

Why Stay at The Sanderling

• Beautiful beachfront location
• Relaxing coastal atmosphere
• Easy access to Outer Banks attractions
• Great amenities for both short and longer stays
• Works well for couples and families

Dog Friendly: Limited, verify pet-friendly room availability before booking.

Kid Friendly: Yes, one of my favorite picks on this list for families.

Best For: Beach vacations, family trips, romantic coastal getaways, and travelers wanting a resort experience outside the mountains.

Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites

I’m not going to lie, I still think about my stay at Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites. This is such a special place to stay, and if your perfect vacation includes waterfront views without the crowds and chaos of the main Outer Banks strip, then you’re in the right place.

I had the opportunity to stay here while visiting the Outer Banks with my mom and aunt, and it ended up feeling like a real beach fairy tale. It was one of those stays where everything felt easy and peaceful from the moment we arrived.

One of the biggest highlights for me was that this stay is right on the sound, and you can easily watch the sunrise from the numerous decks. I did this every single morning and had the joy of watching the two resident ospreys fishing. Such a cool way to start the day.

The owner is local and truly one of the nicest people I’ve encountered during my travels. She gave us recommendations for places nearby and desperately wanted us to have a great experience, which made the stay feel much more personal.

Another reason I’d recommend this property is the location. It’s just minutes from Manteo, which is one of my favorite areas near the Outer Banks.

The property also provides complimentary kayaks and bikes for exploring the sound and downtown Manteo.

Why Stay at Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites

• Beautiful waterfront setting
• Dog-friendly accommodations
• Close to Manteo and Outer Banks attractions
• Complimentary kayaks and bikes
• Incredible sunrise and sunset views
• Personalized local hospitality

Dog Friendly: Yes, one of my favorite pet-friendly coastal stays in North Carolina.

Kid Friendly: Yes, this works well for families, though couples and smaller groups may appreciate the quieter atmosphere most.

Best For: Outer Banks trips, dog owners, waterfront stays, and travelers looking for a quieter beach experience.

Pinehurst Resort

If golf is even remotely on your radar for this trip, Pinehurst Resort should be your destination.

Pinehurst is a renowned location in North Carolina and offers a completely different experience than many of the mountain and beach stays featured in this guide. Even if you don’t golf, there’s enough dining, relaxation, and resort atmosphere to justify a stay.

One thing I love about Pinehurst is that you have multiple accommodation options to suit the experience you want.

Magnolia Inn

If you want to stay close to the action while keeping things a little more relaxed, Magnolia Inn is a great choice. This option feels more boutique and is great for smaller groups looking for a more intimate setting.

Holly Inn

Holly Inn offers historic charm and a classic Pinehurst feel. It was the first hotel on the property and feels more feminine in terms of its charm and style. If you love properties with character and a more traditional atmosphere, this is a strong option.

The Manor

If you like moody vibes that feel more gentlemanly, The Manor is a great fit. It feels chic and classy with two bars and in spitting distance from Pinehurst Brewing Co.

Why Stay at Pinehurst Resort

• Multiple accommodation options
• Iconic North Carolina resort experience
• Excellent dining and amenities
• Spa and relaxation opportunities
• World-famous golf access

Dog Friendly: Limited, confirm pet-friendly availability by accommodation type.

Kid Friendly: Yes, especially The Manor for families.

Best For: Golf trips, family vacations, couples, and luxury weekends.

High Hampton Resort

For travelers who want a resort that feels like summer camp grew up and got super classy, High Hampton Resort is right up your alley.

Set in Cashiers, this property is one of the most bougie resorts on this list. This place is on another level, but for good reason.

Staying here gives you access to top-notch golf, amazing culinary experiences, and a wide array of activities, including wine and whisky tastings, guided hikes, fly-fishing clinics, and numerous outdoor sports.

The resort is only minutes from Cashiers, which has a bunch of great local places to eat and a handful of shops to peruse.

If you’re looking to ball out in the mountains with friends and family, this is the ideal place.

Why Stay at High Hampton Resort

• Relaxed luxury atmosphere
• Beautiful setting near Cashiers
• Great mix of resort amenities and outdoor activities
• Easy access to waterfalls and mountain adventures
• Feels social without feeling crowded

Dog Friendly: Limited, verify pet policies before booking.

Kid Friendly: Yes, one of the best family-friendly mountain resorts on this list.

Best For: Families, multigenerational trips, couples, and travelers who want a classic mountain getaway.

Beachwoods Resort

If your family vacations tend to involve keeping multiple people entertained at once, Beachwoods Resort might be just the ticket.

Unlike some of the quieter or more romantic properties on this list, Beachwoods feels built for travelers who want activities, convenience, and plenty of space to spread out.

Located on the Outer Banks, this resort gives you easy beach access while also offering amenities that make downtime fun. That’s one of the things I think makes beach resorts work so well: you can spend part of the day exploring and still have enough to do back at the property.

This is also a nice option if your group has different vacation styles. Some people can relax while others stay active without needing to split up completely. Think pool lounging, tennis, pickleball, volleyball, arcade room, playground, etc.

Because the accommodations tend to offer more room than a traditional hotel setup, Beachwoods works especially well for longer stays and trips with big families.

Why Stay at Beachwoods Resort

• Great location in the Outer Banks
• Spacious accommodations
• Easy beach access
• Plenty of activities for different travel styles
• Good option for longer stays and larger groups

Dog Friendly: No, I’d look elsewhere on this list if bringing your dog.

Kid Friendly: Yes, this is one of my top family-friendly picks in North Carolina.

Best For: Family vacations, beach trips, larger groups, and travelers wanting lots of amenities.

Tapoco Lodge Resort

Tapoco Lodge Resort is often overlooked because it’s so far out of the way, sitting right on the North Carolina-Tennessee border.

This property has a completely different feel from some of the luxury resorts on this list. It’s relaxed and scenic, and it feels like a place where people actually gather and enjoy themselves rather than staying tucked away in their rooms.

I haven’t stayed overnight here, but I have stopped for lunch at the restaurant and immediately understood the hype. The setting is gorgeous. Sitting outside by the river with the trees towering over me made me swoon.

The restaurant really feels like the heart of the property and creates such a fun atmosphere, whether you’re grabbing lunch after a hike or making an afternoon out of it.

Another huge bonus for me is that Tapoco is dog-friendly. It’s also just a few miles from the beginning of the legendary Tail of The Dragon, so you’re bound to see plenty of characters coming through on their way to this iconic spot.

I also think this is a great option if you want a stay that feels lower-key and outdoorsy while still being comfortable and memorable.

Why Stay at Tapoco Lodge Resort

• Beautiful riverside location
• Fun restaurant with outdoor seating
• Dog-friendly accommodations
• Relaxed mountain atmosphere
• Great stop near hiking and outdoor adventures

Dog Friendly: Yes, one of my favorite pet-friendly mountain resort options.

Kid Friendly: Yes, families would have a great time here, too.

Best For: Dog owners, mountain weekends, casual getaways, and travelers who love spending time outdoors.

The Fearrington House Inn

If mountain views and outdoor adventure aren’t your priority and you’re looking for something that feels a little unexpected, The Fearrington House Inn is a beautiful choice.

Located in Fearrington Village near Chapel Hill, this property feels completely different from the other resorts on this list. Instead of mountain lodges or beachfront stays, this experience centers around beautiful gardens, incredible food, and enjoying a slower pace.

One thing that makes this stay especially notable is that The Fearrington House Inn is part of Relais & Châteaux, a collection of luxury hotels and restaurants known for exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences. That designation feels fitting here because the property focuses less on endless amenities and more on creating a stay that feels thoughtful and exceptional.

This is the kind of place where you sleep in, wander the village with coffee in hand, browse the local shops, and turn dinner into an event instead of just another meal.

I also like that the experience extends beyond the inn itself. Staying here gives you access to the village atmosphere, making the whole trip feel more immersive and distinct from a traditional resort stay.

If your version of luxury is beautiful spaces, incredible hospitality, and a slower pace, this is such a fun alternative to the mountain and beach resorts on this list.

Why Stay at The Fearrington House Inn

• Located in charming Fearrington Village near Chapel Hill
• Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection
• Beautiful gardens and walkable grounds
• Exceptional dining experience
• Relaxing atmosphere that encourages slowing down

Dog Friendly: Limited, select accommodations may allow dogs; verify current policies before booking.

Kid Friendly: Limited, better suited for adults, couples, and quieter getaways.

Best For: Romantic weekends, food-focused trips, luxury stays, and travelers wanting something different from the typical resort experience.

FAQs: North Carolina Resorts

Does North Carolina have any all-inclusive resorts?

North Carolina doesn’t have many true all-inclusive resorts in the traditional Caribbean sense, but there are several properties that deliver a similar experience by encouraging you to stay on-site and enjoy dining, activities, and amenities.

Some of my favorites for this type of trip are Cataloochee Ranch, Half Mile Farm, The Swag, and Fearrington House Inn because they make it easy to build your entire getaway around the property itself.

What’s the prettiest place in North Carolina?

This obviously depends on what type of scenery you love, but if I had to narrow it down, my personal favorites are Western North Carolina and the Outer Banks.

For mountain views, it’s hard to beat places like Boone, Cashiers, Brevard, and the Great Smoky Mountains.

When it comes to waterfalls, Western North Carolina is unreal.

And if your happy place involves water, the Outer Banks has some of the prettiest coastal scenery in the state.

What is the number one tourist destination in North Carolina?

If we’re talking pure popularity and recognition, Asheville is probably one of the most visited destinations in North Carolina, thanks to the combination of mountains, food, breweries, outdoor adventure, and access to places like the Biltmore Estate.

That said, the Outer Banks, Great Smoky Mountains area, and Highlands/Cashiers are very popular for travelers looking for more scenic experiences.

What are the best beach resorts in North Carolina?

If you’re planning a coastal trip, these are my top picks from this list:

• The Sanderling: Best overall beach resort experience
• Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites: Best for quieter waterfront stays
• Beachwoods Resort: Best for families and larger groups

If I wanted a romantic beach trip, I’d personally choose Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites. If I wanted a classic resort experience, I’d go with The Sanderling.

Wrap-Up: North Carolina Resorts

Whether you’re planning a romantic mountain getaway, a beach weekend, or simply want somewhere beautiful to unwind, North Carolina has an incredible range of resort options.

If I were planning a luxury mountain escape, I’d book Cataloochee Ranch. For a romantic weekend, Half Mile Farm would be my pick. And if I wanted a coastal stay, I’d head straight for Burrus House Inn Waterfront Suites.

The best resort really comes down to the type of trip you want, but hopefully this list helped make choosing a little easier.

Read More:

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Best Hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Best Hiking Trails in North Carolina