Carolina Beach

Travel Guide
Photo provided by Wilmington and Beaches CVB
This town, set on a peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River, is known for its uncrowded beaches, outstanding surf and boardwalk amusement park.

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.

Golden Sands Oceanfront Hotel
Golden Sands Oceanfront Hotel
2.5 out of 5
1211 Lake Park Blvd S, Carolina Beach, NC
The price is CA $217 per night from May 20 to May 21
CA $217
CA $245 total
includes taxes & fees
May 20 - May 21
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the restaurant and the bar in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (758 reviews)
"The property was beautiful, beach and parking very close and the bunk beds perfect for kids. Our family loved it!"

Reviewed on May 12, 2024

Golden Sands Oceanfront Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront
Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront
2.5 out of 5
1 Harper Avenue, Carolina Beach, NC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $301 per night from May 28 to May 29
CA $301
CA $340 total
includes taxes & fees
May 28 - May 29
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,007 reviews)
"We love the Hampton Inn at Carolina Beach! This was our second stay in a row and we plan on returning the same time next year! The staff is fabulous! We were graciously welcomed by Sharon at the desk, and while our rooms weren’t ready as we had arrived at 11:30am. We relaxed in the lovely, high-ceilinged ..."

Reviewed on May 12, 2024

Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront
The Beach House
The Beach House
2 out of 5
412 Carolina Beach Ave N, Carolina Beach, NC
The price is CA $340 per night from May 19 to May 20
CA $340
CA $388 total
includes taxes & fees
May 19 - May 20
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (166 reviews)
"Perfect quiet little place on the beach!!! My room was exceptionally clean, quite roomy!!! The bathroom is small, but very clean. I didn’t find a hair dryer so pack one. The bed was a little lumpy, but maybe I’m just spoiled to my bed?? I enjoyed my stay and can’t wait to return for a longer ..."

Reviewed on May 9, 2024

The Beach House
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
OCEAN FRONT!  SUPER CLEAN!!! see reviews.. .Private boardwalk beach access!
OCEAN FRONT! SUPER CLEAN!!! see reviews.. .Private boardwalk beach access!
Carolina Beach
Book a stay at this beach condo in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (334 reviews)
I love CB!!!
"We will be returning!!"

Reviewed on Apr. 29, 2024

OCEAN FRONT! SUPER CLEAN!!! see reviews.. .Private boardwalk beach access!
OCEAN FRONT! SUPER CLEAN - see reviews!!! w/PRIVATE boardwalk beach access!
OCEAN FRONT! SUPER CLEAN - see reviews!!! w/PRIVATE boardwalk beach access!
Carolina Beach
Book a stay at this beach condo in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (439 reviews)
Weekend Beach Vacation
"The rental was very clean and comfortable, in a great location, and had very friendly hosts."

Reviewed on May 6, 2024

OCEAN FRONT! SUPER CLEAN - see reviews!!! w/PRIVATE boardwalk beach access!
Spacious Beachy Bungalo One Block From Ocean
Spacious Beachy Bungalo One Block From Ocean
Carolina Beach
Stay at this vacation home in Carolina Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Carolina ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)
Superb Beach Cottage
"Property was well appointed. The front and back decks were wonderful. Beds were great. Plenty of seating in the family spaces. Host was very responsive to questions and request. I would stay here again."

Reviewed on May 7, 2024

Spacious Beachy Bungalo One Block From Ocean
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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