These NC beaches are among the best in the South, Southern Living says

Summer is in full swing, and a new report is revealing the top North Carolina destinations for a coastal getaway.

Southern Living released a list of the 15 best beaches in the South based on readers’ votes. Of all the beloved beaches along the coast, here are which ones across the state were among the top vacation spots for travelers:

Outer Banks

“While this area technically encompasses more than 10 beaches — including popular spots like Hatteras, Nags Head , Kitty Hawk and Duck — readers agreed that this stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina has that special something,” Southern Living says.

Located in the northern part of the state, the Outer Banks — also known as OBX — is made up of more than 100 miles of shoreline and seaside villages, according to The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. From lighthouses and historical sites to watersports and wild horses on the beach, there are a wide variety of attractions to see and activities to do in the area.

[PLAN A TRIP: Here's a guide of what to eat, see and do in the North Carolina Outer Banks.]

Oak Is land

“Snuggled between bigger coastal destinations like Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, Oak Island’s eight miles of beaches are a family friendly escape with the perfect balance of things to do and places to unplug,” Southern Living says.

Further down south, you’ll find Oak Island — made up of 10 miles of beachfront along the 12 mile-long island town in Brunswick County. The barrier island, which has over 100 free public accesses to the beach, is also a popular spot for boating, fishing, kayaking, golfing and more.

Across state lines, a few beaches in South Carolina were also included among the best in the region by Southern Living readers, including:

• Edisto Island

• Folly Beach

• Hilton Head Island

• Isle of Palms

• Kiawah Island

• North Myrtle Beach

You can find the full list of the best beaches in the South online at southernliving.com .