Nothing beats an ice-cold beverage while relaxing on the beach. Nothing is worse than reaching for an icy drink and finding your cans swimming. Coolers are essential for family days on the sand. A good modern cooler will keep food and drinks fresh for days. In addition to beverages, fishermen rely coolers to keep bait fresh, and hopefully the catch of the day. Walk onto any beach or pier in North or South Carolina and you’ll see a plethora of cooler models and sizes. Cooler technology has advanced rapidly in modern years. Top-end hard-sided coolers can keep ice frozen for a week. Soft coolers are easier for one person to carry onto a beach, but can still keep food cool for days. Cooler materials and price points vary wildly, so we put together this guide with our recommendations for your coastal vacation.

We were not provided with free or discounted products to review. These recommendations were not influenced by manufacturers. We did, however, heavily consider customer reviews at retail websites when deciding which products to feature. We like these products, but we took care to make sure other vacationers agree. Some of the product links include affiliate codes. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices listed are updated regularly, but subject to change at any time.

Best High-End Hard-Sided Cooler:

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler, Chartreuse

Yeti Tundra

$447.58

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

Yeti built its empire by offering best-of-class products for years. The Yeti Tundra offers 2 inches of polyurethane foam insulation in the walls and lid and a freezer gasket seal. Yeti coolers are extremely durable, and tubs are constructed in one piece utilizing food-grade materials. Yeti also included non-slip rubber feet, recessed leak-proof drain plug, a dry goods rack (great feature!), and a locking top. Heavy-duty T-latches fasten the lid securely closed. Strong rope handles make carrying the Tundra easy, and locking this cooler to a deck or boat is quick with tie-down slots. Finally, boaters will appreciate that the outer dimensions of the various Tundra models match many popular marine coolers, making it easy for you to upgrade your old marine cooler. Yetis are big, heavy, provide top-level performance and are priced accordingly. You can’t go wrong with a Yeti Tundra.

Best Mid Range Hard-Sided Coolers

RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart Hard Cooler Insulated Portable Ice Chest Box for Drink, Beverage, Beach, Camping, Picnic, Fishing, Boat, Barbecue, 30% Lighter Than Rotomolded Coolers, Patriot

RTIC Ultra-Light 32qt Cooler

$159.99

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

The RTIC Ultralight 32QT Hard Insulated Cooler is a high-performance, durable cooler designed for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize both efficiency and ease of transport. Weighing in at ~13lbs., this 32-quart cooler offers ample space, perfect for camping trips, picnics, or beach outings, while ensuring that your food and drinks remain chilled for extended periods. The 32qt can hold ~48 cans and ~30lbs. of ice.

Coleman Reunion Premium Insulated Portable Cooler, Leak-Resistant 54qt Steel Belted Cooler with Heavy-Duty Latch, Handles, Drain & Bottle Opener, Great for Camping, Tailgating, Beach, Picnic, & More

Coleman 54-Quart Steel-Belted Cooler

$189.99

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

You likely remember your parents Coleman cooler. Today’s steel-belted cooler from Coleman is just like the one you remember, but adds modern touches. These coolers offer great retro style in a number of colors. They’ve got space to put 2-liter bottles upright, or hold 85 cans, enough for even the largest family beach outing. With the lid closed, these coolers serve as seats. The leak-resistant drain doesn’t require tipping to drain. The latch and hardware are stainless. Some models come with retro-style bottle openers on the front. Coleman offers a 6 year warranty on the steel belted cooler.

Of course, with a lower price point comes some compromises. Handles are advertised as “comfort”, but we find them to be very basic. While the insulation is good enough to keep drinks cold all day, you’ll need to add ice more frequently than Yeti and Cabela’s models. If you can live with those trade-offs, you’ll have plenty left over for food, drinks or bait. Nevertheless, these are solid coolers from a company with decades of experience. Check out color options and great reviews for the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler.

Best Budget Hard-Sided Cooler

Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Cooler, Leak-Resistant Outdoor Hard Cooler Keeps Ice up to 5 Days, 52-Quart

Coleman 316 Series Coolers

$47.79

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

The Coleman 316 Series Insulated Coolers offer top-notch cooling performance perfect for a day at the beach. These coolers come in various sizes to suit different needs, including 52qt, 70qt, 120qt, giant 150qt.

Constructed with high-quality insulation, the Coleman 316 series maintains ice for up to 3 days in temps as high as 90F, ensuring your items stay chilled even in Summer temperatures. The robust design is not only durable but also features a leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining of excess water without tilting the cooler.

Each cooler in this series is equipped with convenient features such as comfortable handles for easy carrying and a Have-A-Seat lid that supports up to 250 lbs, providing additional seating space. These coolers also come with cup holders molded into the lid, keeping your drinks secure and within reach.

Best Soft Coolers

YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler with MagShield Access, Navy

Yeti Hopper Soft Backpack Cooler

$275.00

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

Yeti knocked it out of the park with the Hopper. We love the lighter weight (6-8lbs.) and portability with minimal performance loss vs. hard sided coolers. Don’t worry about insulation, the Hopper will keep ice solid for days. It is often easier to sling the hopper over your sholder and keep your hands available for other gear at the beach. The Hopper is leak-proof, and available in 15qt (18 cans), 30qt (24 cans) sizes. The outer shell is a tough Dryhide Shell fused with RF welded seams. The large, high-performance signature wide-mouth opening has been re-engineered to stay open with ease and close tight with a gentle push. D-ring tie-down points help anchor the cooler to anything. The bottom is a heavy foam platform which makes the cooler sit upright without propping. Carry straps are reinforced and double-stitched. A side attachment system allows you to add Yeti accessories for your application. Yeti offers a substantial warranty on the Hopper. Some owners use the Hopper as a dry bag, a camera bag, or a carry-on. We love packing it with drinks, fruit and lunch.

RTIC Soft Cooler 12 Can, Insulated Bag Portable Ice Chest Box for Lunch, Beach, Drink, Beverage, Travel, Camping, Picnic, Car, Trips, Floating Cooler Leak-Proof with Zipper, Cardinal

RTIC Soft Cooler

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

The RTIC Soft Pack is leakproof, puncture-resistant, and mildew-resistant. Like the Yeti Hopper, it comes in 12 can, 20 can, 30 can, and (large!) 40 can sizes. It’ll keep ice cold for 24 hours with thick, closed-cell foam insulation. RTIC’s soft cooler floats and the zippers are waterproof. We prefer the fully-accessable top of the RTIC to the Yeti Hopper. The front pocket is a nice feature, but the only thing we’ve used it for is a bottle opener. Straps are heavy and well made, and we really like the bright color offerings.

Polar Bear Coolers 12 Pack Original Nylon Soft Cooler Bag Insulated Leak Proof Beach Cooler Bag, Small Coolers for Travel | Heavy Duty Bag Cooler, Portable Cooler Bag | Sweat Proof

Polar Bear Coolers Nylon Series

$94.94

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

A backpack cooler? Yes please! The Polar Bear name is quickly gaining recognition for good reason. This reasonably-priced design hits all the important features. Polar Bear makes 12 can, 24 can, and big 48 can versions, but our personal favorite is the backpack for easy of carry onto the beach. Features include high density open-cell foam insulation that keeps ice cold for up to 3 days in 90 degree heat, genuine YKK #10 zippers, bottle openers, stainless tie downs, and a durable shoulder strap and handle system. Polar Bear coolers are waterproof, and utilize FDA-approved food grade interior liners. Like the RTIC, this top opens wide and access is easy. The exterior is rugged 1000 denier nylon, available in a number of colors. And if you’re into custom, Polar Bear will embroider your logo on the cooler. These coolers come with a limited lifetime warranty. Multiple colors and camo patterns are available. And, Polar Bear makes an upgraded leakproof, sweatproof and waterproof H2O Cooler version with even more insulation!

Coleman Ocean Blue 18-Liter Soft Cooler with 4-Way Stretch Mesh Pockets, Padded Handles, and Durable Protective Base

Coleman Soft Cooler

$38.03

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

Coleman continues its legacy of well made, affordable coolers with the 16-can soft cooler with hard liner. It’s hard to beat the value this basic soft cooler offers. The inner hard liner prevents food from being crushed, and is removable for flexibility. An adjustable shoulder strap allows hands-free carrying. The small size and light weight make for an easy haul. There is a front pocket, bungees on the lid and FDA food grade antimicrobial interior liner. Heat welded construction helps prevent liner leaks. This cooler won’t keep food or drinks cold as long as the high-end models listed above, but it’s perfect for a day on the beach, and a great value. More than 1,000 customers agree.

CleverMade Collapsible Insulated Cooler Bag – 50 Can Leakproof Soft Cooler for Beach, Travel, Car – Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener – Charcoal/Black

Clevermade Tahoe Collapsible Cooler Bag

$54.60

*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change

A collapsible cooler at a fantastic price. When taking a road trip to the beach, space in the car is always at a premium. CleverMade solves a problem with their 30 liter insulated cooler tote. This bag collapses down flat for your trip, and quickly expands with enough cold space for a family. CleverMade interiors are leak resistant, and designed to keep ice cold for up to 36 hours. The exteriors feature tough rip-stop fabric. Basic, sturdy handles are stitched all the way down the side for durability. Other features include an integrated bottle opener, front zipper pocket, and multiple fun, beachy color combos. Just like the Coleman, The CleverMade SnapBasket gets great reviews for value and performance.

The Cotton Gin

The Cotton Gin

For those traveling to the Outer Banks, The Cotton Gin is a beloved landmark with its large windmill and picturesque gardens. The Cotton Gin has stood in the same location since 1929, starting as a working cotton gin and growing to a gift store with 4 locations. Visitors are treated to a unique shopping experience in our main store in Jarvisburg, as well as our beach stores in Corolla, Duck, and Nags Head. Explore room after room filled with décor for your home and coastal fashions for both men and women. Discover the brands you really want, like, Vera Bradley, Vineyard Vines, La Mer Luex, Simply Southern, Lindsay Phillips, Scout, Pandora, Kameleon, Brighton, Spartina, Tommy Bahama, Southern Tide and Salt Life and Old Guys Rule - all under one roof!

 

Don’t forget the gourmet market, or shop our beautiful linens for your bedroom and bath. We also feature coastal books and fine art, or just a whimsical fun gift to bring home to family and friends. Stop by soon and don’t forget to try our estate grown wines in our stores or visit our vineyard and winery, Sanctuary Vineyards, located adjacent to the original Cotton Gin in Jarvisburg.

 

Most know The Cotton Gin as a must-stop shop for fine gifts, beachwear, souvenirs and so much more, but this retailer has a long-standing history within the Outer Banks. A local landmark that holds almost a century of memories, The Cotton Gin started from humble beginnings and continues to adapt to the times and tourists. Tommy Wright’s family has been in the Outer Banks for nearly 200 years. His great-great grandfather, Jacob Francis Wright, shipwrecked in Duck back in the early 1800s. Calling these barrier islands his new home, Wright and his family acclimated to their new environment.

 

Adaptation is a common theme for the Wright family. Tommy and his wife Candace, who continue to steer The Cotton Gin, have seen not only their business change with the times, but the Outer Banks as a vacation destination as well. A farm market in Jarvisburg eventually transformed and flourished into several retail locations dotting the Outer Banks.

 

“As the area changed and tourism took off in the 1960s, the family saw people coming for vacations, so they began to grow vegetables and things developed from there,” says Tommy Wright. The Wright family expanded upon the farm market and began to remodel a working cotton gin, later transforming the gin into The Cotton Gin general store in the late 1960s. While the additions to the farm store drew visitors, it was their encounters with the Wright family that kept people coming back year after year, which is something that remains true today.

(More Locations)
Elizabeth II

Elizabeth II

Anyone with a fascination of history and America's European roots will love a day exploring the Elizabeth II, a historic 16th century sailing vessel that is docked along the borders of the Roanoke Island Festival Park. This ship can be admired by virtually anyone who takes a stroll along the downtown Manteo waterfront, as it sticks out like a sore thumb amidst the modern day sail boats, yachts, and fishing boats that are docked nearby. The wooden exterior and brightly colored Tudor flags sail in the breeze, and the sight of the resting ship certainly feels like a step back in time.

Henry's Restaurant

Henry's Restaurant

Henry's Restaurant offers down home, simple food done Outer Banks style. Henry's Restaurant has been serving the Outer Banks of North Carolina since the summer of 1989. They are pleased to be considered one of the most popular restaurants in Dare County. Owners Henry and Linda Ezzell, along with daughter Kim Ezzell Parker offer honest American Style food that appeal to people of all ages. With so many fine dining establishments in the area they felt there was a need for a down-to-earth, no-frills experience for those that wanted good food, a pleasant and accommodating staff, and an affordable menu. As their customers will attest, they feel confident they have achieved this goal.

This is the kind of delicious food grandmothers of North Carolina have been cooking for generations. You’ll feel like you're visiting family with the comfort food and the restaurant's nautical-style decor.  

The kid-friendly and casual restaurant has been serving hearty portions to locals and visitors since 1989. Breakfast is what Henry's does best, although it's a wonderful restaurant for lunch and dinner as well. Start your day with incredible hotcakes, omelets, biscuits, french toast, eggs benedict, breakfast sandwiches, and even fried trout, served 7:00am to 1:00pm daily.

The Northern Outer Banks

The Northern Outer Banks

Discover Historic Corolla Park With its wide open green spaces and scenic views, Historic Corolla Park is the heart of Corolla in Northeastern North Carolina. It's a great place to take in a seasonal event or simply take a walk, and is home to three unique landmarks—The Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Whalehead in Historic Corolla ,the Currituck Maritime Museum and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. Outdoor activities such as fishing, crabbing and kayaking the Currituck Sound are welcomed, as are bicycles, kites and leashed pets.