The point of being there to me would be the view, and the breeze. Two miles inland is muggy, humid swamp to me at least. If I was to relocate that far from “old home” up close to VA with the Blue Ridge in view on the horizon, I’d be doing it because of that. Close only counts in horseshoes.
You can do both at that price. Living on the beach comes with a variety of problems, whether it be tourons or hurricanes. I’d rather rent.
You can get a house close to the beach and a house in the mountains for about $150k each. If you want to REALLY live in the mountains, look at Narrows Va. You can still get a house for under $100k and the views are stunning. Nearby Craig County has a Prepper Festival every year.
The closest thing price-wise in NC might be Ashe County.
http://virginiasmtnplayground.com/