North Carolina is the perfect ‘in-between’ state. It somehow manages to mix great year-round weather, burgeoning cities, ancient mountains, and white sand beaches.
North Carolina is a place where you can start the morning surfing an Atlantic break and finish with a sunset hike on towering mountains. The state has a flurry of historical cities and old architecture filled with thriving restaurants and bars quietly going about their business.
From Asheville and Greenville to Charlotte and the Outer Banks, N.C. has an exciting range of destinations all with unique breweries, food, adventures, and sights.
When you aren’t trying the Tar Heel State’s delicious, yet down-to-earth cuisine, you could be rafting down rivers or hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains.
Such changes in geography means spending your nights at rentals in North Carolina is the way to go. Don’t fork out on another hotel stay – be among the mountains, by the lakes, or in front of the ocean. Getting yourself a sweet Airbnb in North Carolina will make your trip a memorable one.
Before we dive into the best Airbnbs in the state, here’s what you can expect on your adventure.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 4 Airbnbs in North Carolina
Treefrog Tower
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Sleep among trees
- > Backs onto state park
Riverside Cabin
- > $
- > 3 Guests
- > Sits on river
- > Fish from deck
The Pineapple Beach Club
- > $$$$
- > 16 Guests
- > Oceanfront
- > Beach access
Loft-Style Suite in Charlotte
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > Near Uptown
- > Private bathroom
What to Expect from Airbnbs in North Carolina
The best Airbnbs in North Carolina come in all shapes and sizes, and the price points will make even the most budget-conscious traveler smile.
In the Tar Heel State, you will find Airbnbs that bring out the best in their destination and complement the surrounding nature. You’ll find options from downtown studio apartments that give you great access to the most happening parts of the city, to rustic cabins tucked away in the canopy and overlooking the sparkling river below.
Visitors can expect attentive hosts excited to show off their little piece of North Carolina.
Many homes have been designed to enhance visitor enjoyment whether that be through incredible views or free kayaks to use on the lake.
Regardless of the experience you are after, there will be an Airbnb for you.
We love a good deal!
We’ve included links to Booking.com as well throughout this post — as we have found many of the same properties available on Booking and they are usually at a cheaper price! We’ve included both button options where we can to give you the choice of where you book 🙂
The 15 Top Airbnbs in North Carolina
Now you know a bit about Airbnbs in North Carolina, here are our favorites!
Treefrog Tower | Overall Best Value Airbnb in North Carolina
For a one-of-a-kind trip to an Airbnb in North Carolina, you must pack your bags and head to Treefrog Tower!
Nestled in the trees that surround the Outer Banks, you can soak in the scenery of a private nine-acre property. The tower backs onto Jockey’s Ridge State Park where there are hiking trails, beaches, and waters for kayaking and kitesurfing.
If that 450-acre adventure paradise isn’t enough, the home is just two blocks from the closest beach and a three-minute drive to fantastic local restaurants.
As for the tower itself, cozy up in the bohemian living space and wake up to amazing views without leaving your bed.
Riverside Cabin | Best Budget Airbnb in North Carolina
When it comes to having an adventure on a budget, there isn’t a better Airbnb in North Carolina than Riverside Cabin.
This simple cabin has electricity and A/C yet feels very much off the grid. Each morning you can wake to the sounds of the rushing North Fork River. Enjoy a morning coffee on the deck, hovering over the water’s edge.
Such is the cabins proximinity to the river that you will be able to throw in a line without leaving the deck.
When you are ready to roam, the Pisgah National Forest is all around you. Meanwhile, the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway is nearby.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIThe Pineapple Beach Club | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in North Carolina
Have your own bridge out to the beach at this incredible Airbnb in North Carolina. You can walk right into the lap of luxury the second you enter the home.
The luxurious home on Ocean Isle Beach is the largest home in the area. Each bedroom has its own private bathroom and a handy 4K Smart TV. When you aren’t gawking over the interior, head outside to the heated pool, outdoor bar, and alfresco lounge with its own fire pit.
Grab your towel to enjoy the private beach access, and swim in the Atlantic Ocean.
Loft-Style Suite in Charlotte | Perfect North Carolina Airbnb for Solo Travelers
Inspired by New York City, this suite features a newly renovated industrial style loft.
In other shared homes, you may be used to communal bathrooms and living rooms, but here you will have your own private bedroom, living space, and bathroom, perfect for when you just want to chill. If you’re feeling social, you will find fellow travelers in the upgraded kitchen, dining area, and shared living room.
The suite is close to Charlotte’s best attractions and next to the exciting Uptown district. Have the best of both worlds – mingle or don’t – while being a hop, skip and a jump away from Charlotte adventures.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in North Carolina
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in North Carolina!
Rustic Mountain Studio | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
This Airbnb in North Carolina is a truly romantic escape, perfect for couples looking to shut off the outside world and have time to themselves.
At this mountain cabin, inspired by Italian villas, you will have amazing views, no neighbors in sight, and be just seven minutes from shops and restaurants.
The outdoor patio space is the real MVP at the cabin. There is a grill, fire pit, and a hot tub that all look out over the mountains. Grab a blanket and sit under the stars with your loved one.
In the morning, venture beyond the property to Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Mountain Cove Farm | Best Airbnb in North Carolina for Families
Take the family on an adventure to this wonderful farmhouse Airbnb in North Carolina.
Just minutes from downtown Asheville, you can be close to the shops, restaurants, and the bare necessities during your stay.
The farmhouse has two main bedrooms, plus a bunk-bed room that can sleep up to three guests. With plenty of room inside and out, you won’t have to worry about a lack of space. The kids will love running around outside this epic Asheville vacation rental.
Each part of the home boasts mountain views, and in the evening you can watch the sun fall behind them from the comfort of your outdoor fire pit.
Cozy Creekside Cabin | Best Cabin on Airbnb in North Carolina
Go on a romantic couples escape, or grab some friends, and head to this secluded cabin in the woods.
Located alongside a glistening creek, you can enjoy total serenity, and won’t have to worry about annoying the neighbors.
The cabin is on the south side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which is home to some of the best hiking in the country. When you’re done hiking for the day, head back to the cabin, light up the remote controlled fireplace and enjoy a nice dinner.
Wake up the next morning for a coffee on the multi-level deck area, and do it all over again.
The Charmer in Greensboro | Best Guesthouse on Airbnb in North Carolina
In the historic Fisher Park neighborhood, you will find this sunny garden studio, and one of the coolest guesthouses in North Carolina.
From the cozy queen bed you can look out to the beautiful green gardens, and open up the doors for easy indoor to outdoor living. The kitchenette has a microwave and coffee pot, with complimentary tea and coffee, as well as a mini-fridge.
When you aren’t chilling in the gardens reading a book, the guesthouse is just walking distance of downtown Greensboro, where you’ll find a plethora of activities to explore. The home of the University of North Carolina, this buzzing college town is full of shops, restaurants, and delightful breweries.
Oceanfront Condominium | Best Condo on Airbnb in North Carolina
Enjoy expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean from the balcony, and watch the sunrise every morning. At this Airbnb condo, you will be just a few steps from Carolina Beach and its world famous boardwalk.
Watch dolphins jump out of the ocean, and surfers strut their stuff on the surf break. There are shops, restaurants, and beach bars to wander and explore on sunny days.
The beach has weekly fireworks which you can watch from the complimentary beach chairs, and the condo also has a shared pool for the days you just want to chill with your partner and friends.
Mountain Dream Cabin | Best Airbnb with Jacuzzi
Hang out in your private Jacuzzi, and look out over snow-capped mountains at this amazing cabin in North Carolina.
You and your friends can enjoy relaxing in this cozy cabin that features two bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and a living area with a fireplace. Make some coffee in the morning and watch the mist rise over the mountains from the comfort of your own porch.
Load up the car with gear, and head to Nantahala Outdoor Center for some world-class rafting, or hikes along the Appalachian Trail.
There is no doubt that chilling in the Jacuzzi, with its amazing mountain views, is the cabin’s real highlight.
Glass House on Hyco Lake | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in North Carolina
When it comes to having a weekend away in North Carolina, it will be hard to say no to the Glass House on Hyco Lake.
And amazing, modern Airbnb, this home has never-ending views down to the lake thanks to its sweeping window panes. The exposed beams, hardwood floors, and natural lighting will make the heart of any architecture buff flutter.
Walk down the steps to the epic patio space with plenty of spots to lounge and torelax on.
Just a few more steps down to the lake itself, and find your very own dock complete with paddle boards and kayaks.
Creekside Honeymoon Heaven | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in North Carolina
For newlyweds looking to add a bit of seclusion and nature to their getaway, check out this Airbnb in North Carolina perfect for honeymooners.
A beautiful, brand new log cabin and a gorgeous spot for all romantic retreats. This home sits alongside a rushing creek, with a porch that features two rocking chairs and a hot tub.
Soak in the morning views, and venture around the property which is its own natural paradise.
Have peace and quiet every evening when you make dinner on the outoor BBQ and cook up s’mores by the campfire.
The River House | Best Airbnb in North Carolina for a Group of Friends
Be minutes from the buzzing country town of Asheville at the best Airbnb in North Carolina for a group of friends.
It is big enough to sleep ten guests, which makes it the perfect place to go with your crew. You can chill out on the huge patio, toast to the marvellous mountain views, and jump in the hot tub and star gaze every night.
Start each day hanging out in the spacious living area creating plans for the day before adventuring out into the wilderness.
Come home and relax on the balcony swing, and challenge your friends to a game of billiard.
The Modern Treehouse | Most Beautiful Airbnb in North Carolina
Airbnbs in the Tar Heel State are often spectacular, so it was hard to choose just one for the most beautiful award. However, we’ve taken a shot anyway.
Located right on Hyco Lake, this ‘treehouse’ home has views of the lake from all sides of the property. The sunset views are surreal, and best captured from one of the homes’ hammocks, hot tub, or even down at the boat dock.
To be honest, the real view is the house itself. Under the moonlight, this beautiful home shines and will have you never wanting to leave.
But when you do, make use of the private dock, complimentary paddle boards and kayaks.
Romantic Bus in the Woods | Most Unique Airbnb in North Carolina
Not quite as famous as the Alaskan ‘Magic Bus’, this romantic bus overlooking the Black Mountains is still the best Airbnb in North Carolina for a unique getaway.
Forget your hippy busses, this unique home is elegant and well furnished. Combined with the surrounding pine forests, it is a romantic sanctuary for couples.
Make the most of the total peace and quiet, and wake only to the sounds of songbirds and leaves rustling.
Asheville is a simple 15 minute drive away where you will find all the supplies you need, plus a number of tasty restaurants and happening bars.
What to Pack for North Carolina
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your North Carolina Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on North Carolina Airbnbs
North Carolina is home to impressive scenery and creative towns with fun to be had around every corner. It makes sense to ditch regular accommodation and stay at an Airbnb in North Carolina.
Why stay among the crowd and drive to each destination, when you can wake up right where you want to be?
The best Airbnbs in North Carolina will have you in the heart of old towns, steps from lakes, rivers and oceans, and among the most exciting parts of the Tar Heel State.
Before you venture out, consider grabbing some travel insurance for your journey.
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around the USA.
