Situated at the northern end of North Carolina’s Pleasure Island, Carolina Beach offers the ideal opportunity for a relaxing getaway without the crowds.
Explore Carolina Beach on foot or by bicycle as the entire town is just 1,600 acres (650 hectares) and parking is limited. The area is home to several types of beach: Inland beaches along the Cape Fear River offer calm waters while the white-sand beaches on the Atlantic Ocean side are popular for surfing.
A great place to start is at the original beachside boardwalk considered by many to be one of the best in the nation. Here, you can enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel or a heart-pounding venture on the 80-foot (24-meter) tall Drop Tower.
Visit the Carolina Beach State Park to see its beautiful beaches. Take a nature walk through a number of different coastal ecosystems and even get a close-up look of fascinating carnivorous plants such as the Venus flytrap.
Rent a kayak and paddle across the creeks and swampland or take a guided boat tour. Charter boats depart from the river docks, offering a chance to go fishing, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise or do a twilight tour. Visit Carolina Beach Lake Park and rent a paddleboat for a gentle ride across the large freshwater lake. Head to the park’s amphitheater to watch a movie on Sunday evenings.
Back in the township, shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, beach apparel and surfing gear, or taste a homemade donut at Britt’s Donuts, a fixture here since 1939. Visitors drive long distances to indulge in one of their hot-glazed treats.
Carolina Beach is an ideal spot to enjoy meals outdoors many restaurants offer impressive views of the sea. Dine and drink at anything from tiki bars and seafood grills serving the daily catch, to family-owned Italian bistros.
Carolina Beach, NC
Reviewed on Apr 14, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 15, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 14, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 9, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 5, 2024
Reviewed on Mar 26, 2024
Popular places to visit
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Take the family on an outing to Carolina Beach Boardwalk during your trip to Carolina Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Carolina Beach
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Carolina Beach during your travels in Carolina Beach? While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
Carolina Beach Fishing Pier
Learn about the local history of Carolina Beach when you take a trip to Carolina Beach Fishing Pier. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.
Freeman Park
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Freeman Park during your travels in Carolina Beach? While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
Carolina Beach State Park
Explore the great outdoors at Carolina Beach State Park, a lovely green space in Carolina Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Odysea Surf and Kiteboard School
Take the family on an outing to Odysea Surf and Kiteboard School during your trip to Carolina Beach. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches, or simply savor its lively bars.
Things to do
Cheeky Carolina Beach Scavenger Hunt
Sunset Sail Tour
3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl
2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour
Wilmington: Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game
Private Charter
Reviews of Carolina Beach
5/5 - Excellent
The restaurants were very careful in observing the Covid regulations. Overall a great time was had by all.
5/5 - Excellent
No everything most improved over The last few years. My family has lived here for over 30 years.
5/5 - Excellent
Beach was gorgeous - nice white sand, clean, well kept. We ended up coming to this beach because Wrightsville beach had restrictions. We are SO THANKFUL we made the switch!
4/5 - Good
The beach and location was fine. I travel here several times a year to see family. It was the hotel that was an issue.
5/5 - Excellent
Very clean and updated
5/5 - Excellent
We love Carolina Beach! We go several times a year!