“Let’s get away!” This is a shared cry of the typical overstressed family, plagued by too many activities and too many hours at work. In the Southeast, a common destination for such an escape is the beach – specifically, the gorgeous beaches of North Carolina. But then there’s the hassle of exactly where to go, where to stay and then making all the arrangements.

So why not get away to your own home away from home? Owning a vacation home is the perfect solution to creating a relaxing haven for your family. And there are few more ideal real estate locations than the still-pristine beaches of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. From the primary cities of Beaufort, Morehead City, Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach to the smaller villages like Salter Path, Pine Knoll Shores and Indian Beach, the Crystal Coast offers abundant opportunities for weekend getaways and summers by the beach.

Henry Tanner, a Raleigh resident, is thrilled to own a second home on the Crystal Coast. His wife and two kids spend about half the summer at their coastal condo, with Henry joining them each weekend. According to Henry, “We chose to purchase a vacation home in Carteret County because of its close proximity to Raleigh, its relaxed atmosphere and the fact that it’s not as crowded as other North Carolina beach destinations.”

Because single-family homes are significantly more expensive on the coast when compared to the rest of North Carolina, condominium developments provide the density that allows affordability for many second-home owners like the Tanners. And, of course, a second home can also provide a source of income when not being used by family and friends.

But is coastal real estate a good investment right now? Although economic conditions nationally are impacting real estate values negatively, the Crystal Coast – Carteret County, in particular – has not been nearly as affected as other markets in the region. According to the Triangle Business Journal (8/23/10), data shows the values of coastal homes in Carteret County are projected to grow at a faster rate than those in neighboring counties, with a projected growth of between 16% and 25% by 2015. So the answer to that investment question is definitely a resounding “Yes!”

For residents and visitors alike, the Crystal Coast offers a wide variety of maritime activities, including the unique coastal villages, nature preserves and even pirate hunting. “Our family really enjoys the various day-long excursions to Sand Dollar Island, Shackleford Banks or Cape Lookout,” says Henry. “We are central to so many amazing destinations,” he continues, “but we also love just staying close to home, hanging out on the beach or fishing.” The Tanners also appreciate that although the Crystal Coast isn’t heavily commercialized, there are plenty of exceptional restaurants and shops.

As far as an investment, Henry couldn’t be happier with his second home at the beach. “I consider it paradise,” he reflects, “and seeing my family’s appreciation and love for the Crystal Coast makes this investment worth its weight in gold!”