North Carolina’s varied terrain and outdoorsy attractions draw family vacationers of all ages and interests. The state is home to mountains, forests and a coast full of white sand beaches that provide an endless supply of entertainment. Many of the state’s resorts are both family-friendly and located in prime locations for enjoying all that North Carolina has to offer.
Best Resort with Children’s Activities: High Hampton Inn and Country Club
High Hampton Inn and Country Club is a family resort located in the mountains of North Carolina. The cabin-like accommodations are located on 1,400 acres of forests and pastures along with a golf course and a private 35 acre lake. Families can take nature hikes, go fishing, canoe or go sailing together. When mom and dad want some alone time, the resort provides a seasonal, age-appropriate children’s program complete with swimming, hayrides, arts, crafts and donkey cart rides. Three restaurants are available on the property, as is a resort spa and health club.
Best North Carolina Beach Resort: The Winds Resort Beach Club
For North Carolina families that want some fun in the sun, The Winds Resort Beach Club is located along the state’s coastline just north of Myrtle Beach. The resort is family owned and operated and can accommodate families of all sizes with cottages that have up to six bedrooms. Children and adults alike will enjoy each of three swimming pools, tropical gardens, complimentary bicycle rentals, a fitness center, shuffleboard and access to beach volleyball. To help families save money and time, the resort also offers a complimentary hot breakfast buffet each morning.
Best North Carolina Ski Resort: Scenic Wolf Resort at Wolf Ridge
The Scenic Wolf Resort is a family resort with an emphasis on family fun through activity and adventure. Cabins and cottages of all sizes are located throughout the property, some of which can sleep up to 12 people. The resort’s restaurant is open seasonally during the winter months, and on weekend during the warmer months. Visitors who arrive during cool weather can ski the 23 slopes on Wolf Ridge or swim in the glass-enclosed heated swimming pool. Summer and spring travelers will find adventure hiking and mountain biking the property’s surrounding trails, or kayaking and fishing at the nearby French Broad River.
Most Luxurious Family Resort: Pinehurst Resort
Old world architecture and carefully manicured landscaping invites families to the Pinehurst Resort. Small families may elect to stay in the traditionally sized hotel rooms at the resort, while bigger families will benefit from condos with up to four bedrooms. A golf course, spa and fitness center are located on the property for the adults, while children ages 3 to 12 can participate in the Pinehurst kids’ club for arts and crafts, movies and snacks. Family activities include tennis, carriage rides, swimming and horseback riding.
