Development has come slowly here- and for long stretches of our 26-mile coastline- not at all. Here, you can still find beaches as nature intended them to be. Shorelines consisting of unspoiled sand dunes, vegetation and wildlife that is virtually untouched by man, pure white powdered sand, and gentle jewel-toned surf. Discover Grayton Beach, rated best beach in the U.S.* or stroll along the beach at Topsail Hill, identified as the most pristine and environmentally protected piece of coastal property in the state.