Bachelorette parties are for creating memories that last a lifetime. While typical locations like Nashville, Scottsdale, Austin and Las Vegas are usually top of mind for the festivities, brides and their squads looking for an upscale experience that’s a little more unique should head to North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

So why is this destination perfect for bachelorette parties? Here’s a breakdown courtesy of our friends at the Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority:

Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority

The destination’s brightly colored “Sandcastle” vacation rentals are perfect for groups staying on one of the Crystal Coast’s most pristine beaches in Emerald Isle. These houses are perfect for bachelorette parties as they can sleep large groups and can come stocked with provisions for the entire weekend. The luxury vacation homes provide beach access and many of them have private pools.

Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority

Rent a boat and spend a day of your bachelorette weekend basking in the sun-kissed waters, viewing the coastal mansions, dolphin watching, even restaurant hopping by water. The Crystal Coast also offers world-class wreck diving for adventure-seekers who prefer to spend their time underwater. Island hop to nearby Cape Lookout and see the wild Shackleford horses.

The Crystal Coast is a foodie’s paradise. From sampling caviar at Marshallberg Farms to enjoying a three-course meal prepared in-house with locally sourced ingredients by chefs Kim Bell & Jonathan Haas, owners of Inn on Turner, you’ll leave the trip full of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. Other stand-out foodie experiences include Sushi Thursdays at Amos Mosquito’s in Atlantic Beach and dinner at the newly-opened Prime Bistro for an elevated steakhouse experience.

Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority

Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority

Beaufort is the perfect place to shop and stroll. Stop into Beaufort Linen Company for chic housewares or Calypso Cottage for one-of-a-kind vintage treasures. After exploring Beaufort, stop by the Beaufort Hotel for a drink on their wraparound porch or head to Cru Wine Bar for live music.

Sea Legs Pedal Pubs hosts bachelorette parties on a booze cruise past the Beaufort waterfront. Groups provide their own alcohol, decorations and playlists making this a completely customizable experience.