Questions on moving to a NC beach town. (Raleigh, Wilmington: oceanfront, living)

[sapphire2]

I've been in the Raleigh area for a few years now and really miss living by the beach. I don't know a lot about the NC coastal areas except they are a bit seasonal so I'd love some feedback on some of the beach towns in NC. I am in the day spa business so I would need to move to a town that will still have business in the winter months since I work on commission. Any advice is appreciated

[carolinadawg2]

First, please define a "beach town". Do you literally mean an oceanfront community? Or a town in close proximity to the ocean? You really need to start with a geography lesson...most NC beaches are on narrow barrier islands, and most of these are very seasonal. Some that have more year around populations (that I'm aware of) include Carolina Beach and Oak Island, although even these swell during the summer. Most of the more established communities are on the mainland, behind the beach communities. These can range from small to large, and include Elizabeth City, Washington, Jacksonville, Beaufort, Morehead City, Wilmington and Southport. Then there are place like New Bern and Greenville, which are "close" to the beach, but a little further inland.

[sapphire2]

As long as it is close enough to the beach, not oceanfront community, I'd be happy. Right now I am 2-2 1/2 hours away so areas like Wilmington, etc. are close enough.