In Carolina Beach, playtime fits right into a day of island fun, whether you’re planning to hit the beach, stroll the Boardwalk or take a guided tour or cruise. Spend time at the inclusive playground at Carolina Beach Lake Park, or stop by Mike Chappell Park and McDonald Park for classic slides and swings. Bonus: If you’re up for exploring more of the island, a couple laid-back playgrounds in nearby Kure Beach are worth adding to the list, too.
Brandy Myers Memorial Playground at Carolina Beach Lake Park
Just two blocks from the ocean, this inclusive playground brings the beach to life with sea creature-themed rubber flooring and equipment. Climb the playset, which looks like a stingray from above, and let your imagination take you under the sea.
Relax at the shaded, lakeside picnic shelter and gazebo, with public restrooms conveniently located nearby. Also, check out the Town of Carolina Beach website for special park events throughout the year, from Summer Movies at the Lake to holiday-themed celebrations and local markets.
Good to know: A small parking lot sits by the playground, although it can fill up quickly on busy weekends or during events.
Mike Chappell Park
This playground has slides, swings, a rock wall, monkey bars and more. Pack your kiddo’s sports gear and try out the park’s tennis courts, full basketball court and youth basketball area, baseball and softball fields, soccer field and skate park. There’s also a shelter with picnic tables and a grill, plus public restrooms.
Insider tip: After playtime, stroll or ride along the Island Greenway, a scenic 1.2-mile paved path for walkers and bikers. If you need gear, training bikes, jogger strollers, baby buggies and rear-mounted baby seats are available for rent from Pleasure Island Rentals.
Climb the pyramid rope structure, zoom down yellow slides and swing on the monkey bars at this small neighborhood park. Relax or refuel in the gazebo, which has a picnic table and grill.
Insider tip: For a quick lunch on the go, order a pie from nearby Fentoni’s Pizza – either the seasonal walk-up window at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk or the year-round Publix Commons location.
Playgrounds in nearby Kure Beach
Just a short drive away, Kure Beach has a couple playgrounds you won’t want to miss.
- Joe Eakes Park: This park’s sandy playground is close to the ocean, offering classic swings, slides and monkey bars. Hang out at the picnic area, or practice pickleball, basketball, baseball and more on the park’s athletic fields and courts.
- Ocean Front Park & Pavilion: Located in Kure Beach’s largest public green space, this coastal-themed playground has slides, interactive elements and nearby bench swings with ocean views. Restrooms and parking (subject to paid parking enforcement during peak season) are also available. For up-to-date details on seasonal activities like Turtle Talks, Story Time by the Sea and the Boogie in the Park Concert Series, visit the Town of Kure Beach website.
