Spring break is the perfect time for families to escape to Carolina Beach, where classic seaside fun and adventure await. Here are 10 ways to make the most of your family-friendly spring break in Carolina Beach.
1. Take Up Surfing – Learn how to hang ten as a family with private lessons from the seasoned instructors at Tony Silvagni Surf School or Odysea Surf School. Both provide all the equipment you need, including wetsuits for cooler temperatures. Surfing together is a fun and unique way to create unforgettable memories.
2.Visit Carolina Beach State Park – For outdoor family fun, Carolina Beach State Park offers 8.5 miles of scenic hiking across nine trails, picnic areas and the chance to see the rare Venus flytrap in its natural habitat along the Flytrap Trail or at the bog garden behind the visitors center. Join a Saturday morning ranger-guided hike to learn about these fascinating plants and other native carnivorous flora. Kids will love the Kids in Parks Track Trail, a self-guided portion of the Snow's Cut Trail designed just for them. For young ones who enjoy fishing, cast a line off the fishing deck or riverbank; the park offers excellent opportunities for saltwater fishing. Please note that a North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required – find out more and purchase a license here.
3. Cruise Around – Embark on a family-friendly adventure with Island Time Water Tours. The 23-foot pontoon boat offers a variety of experiences from which to choose. Visit nearby Masonboro Island for a shelling adventure, explore Shark Tooth Island in search of shark teeth or join an eco-tour along the Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear River to observe birds, dolphins and alligators. You can also enjoy a leisurely cruise along Snow's Cut Trail and the Carolina Beach Yacht Basin.
4. Paddle the Waters with a Kayak or Paddleboard – Explore the Cape Fear River with a guided kayak tour from Paddle NC, located in Carolina Beach State Park. Families can rent kayaks or paddleboards for their own adventure or join the guided Carolina Beach Eco Kayak Tour for a deeper dive into the area's ecosystem. If you're new to the sport, lessons are available for both kids and parents.
5. Track Down Carolina Beach’s Murals – Many businesses in Carolina Beach feature colorful murals illustrating the town's history and culture thanks to the Carolina Beach Mural Project. Take a self-guided tour to find them all using this mural map. Outfitters like Pleasure Island Rentals and Tony Silvagni Surf School offer beach cruiser bike rentals, perfect for exploring at your own pace. Several murals have QR codes placed at kids' eye level. The codes lead to interactive activities that help kids learn more about the artwork and artists.
6. Soak Up the Sun – No spring break is complete without spending time by the sea. Pleasure Island Rentals provides all the gear you need for the perfect beach day, including coolers, carts, games and more. You can even reserve beach chairs and umbrellas for their team to set up for you in the morning and pick up in the evening, making for a hassle-free day of building sandcastles, playing beach games and splashing in the waves. Find the best public beach accesses here.
7. Go on a Pirate Adventure – Set sail with Island Cruises on its Pleasure Island Pirate Adventure! Perfect for younger children, this interactive cruise shares the stories of real pirates who once traveled the waters around Carolina Beach. Kids can take part in arts and crafts on board, creating the perfect blend of learning and fun.
8. Stroll Along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk – The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit for classic family fun, featuring colorful shops, sweet treats and more. Step into the Carolina Beach Arcade to take a break from the sun with some family-friendly competition. Cool down with a treat from Island Ice Factory, or visit the legendary Britt's Donut Shop. This no-frills spot keeps it simple, serving one delicious item: freshly glazed donuts. Be sure to bring cash, as they don't accept cards!
9. Grab Bites for All Ages – Carolina Beach is packed with family-friendly dining options, whether you're craving fresh seafood, comfort food or sweet treats. For oceanfront dining, Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar offers fresh seafood and burgers and a pier to walk along, while Stoked Restaurant serves up delicious coastal cuisine with a scenic marina view. If tacos are on the menu, Nollie's Taco Joint is a laid-back favorite for a casual meal, while Hang Ten Grill dishes out breakfast, lunch and dinner with a beachy vibe. Families looking for a fun dining experience will love Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill, where kids can enjoy games like giant Jenga and cornhole. Gab a frozen treat at Squigley's Ice Cream & Treats, or indulge in Celtic Creamery's rich, authentic Irish-style ice cream.
10. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations – To make the most of your spring break, it's important to find the perfect home base. Luckily, Carolina Beach has two full-service oceanfront hotels: Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront and Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront. Both are centrally located, with easy access to all Carolina Beach has to offer. Golden Sands Beach Resort offers newly refurbished rooms, including a King Family Suite with a twin-over-queen bunk bed and a twin sleeper sofa, perfect for up to six guests. Choose one of Carolina Beach’s vacation rentals to enjoy the space and freedom of a home.
For more family-friendly attractions, including a lively aquarium and another state park, check out offerings in nearby Kure Beach.
With its mix of beachside fun, outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions, Carolina Beach is the perfect place for a spring break getaway. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation!
