Summer is here, and it's vacation time! If you're like me, you are so over the crowded tourist filled beaches that have occupied your summers this far. Who wouldn't want their own private little get away to a pebbly paradise? Here is a list of three cute and quaint beach towns that I have visited that I completely recommend!

1. Ocean Isle

On the coast of North Carolina, sits the small seaside town of Ocean Isle. With a population around 500, this is the perfect summer getaway. Don't worry, there is plenty to do and see while you are here. There are free concerts every Friday night, a rooftop tiki bar with live music, and if you plan it right you could make the NC Oyster Festival! Guys can enjoy a day of golf and great food, and ladies can relish in Sunday brunch at Brick Landing Plantation, beach yoga, and the Coral Tree Salon and Day Spa.

2. Southport

Another North Carolina beach town coming in at number two, Southport will blow you away. This southern little escape was recently named "America's Happiest Seaside Town" by Coastal Living Magazine. The beautiful views you see might seem familiar... The movie "Safe Haven" was filmed here, as well as scenes from "A Walk to Remember" and "The Secret Life of Bees." Visitors can enjoy the beauty and history of a port that has been around as far back as the 1700s. Great food, golf, and shopping are also available.

3. Bald Head Island

A two-mile journey across the Cape Fear River, from our #2 Beach, Southport, NC and you arrive at the ultimate private getaway. No, there is not a two-mile bridge that will take you there, only a ferry! Pack some groceries and leave the keys to your car behind, BHI is a car-free island where only golf carts, bikes, and your own two legs will get you around. This unique island has some of the most beautiful real estate in North Carolina. There is a market to buy food, and many lovely restaurants. Mojo's On the Harbor is a favorite among the island-goers with a fun atmosphere right on the water. Their summer bar hours are "11:30 am – The party fades or the last ferry leaves the island!"

I have personally been to all three of these destinations and can tell you they are all amazing! Little seaside towns like these give you an amazing getaway without feeling like a tourist and getting lost in the crowds. The locals and summer visitors made my family and I feel more than welcome, and we cannot wait to go back and visit them all again someday!