One-of-a-kind experiences await in Carolina Beach, where you can craft your own adventure in the free-spirited atmosphere of our seaside town. Let the wind or tides take you on an unforgettable journey filled with exploration and excitement.
Lay of the Land
Set off on an adventure to discover all Carolina Beach has to offer with an e-bike tour of the island from Wilmington Bike & Brew Tours. Travel through town, starting at Carolina Beach State Park to learn about the indigenous Venus flytrap, before making pit stops at local hotspots like The Fat Pelican, a laid-back dive bar, and the seasonal Britt's Donuts. For a self-guided journey, rent a ride from Pleasure Island Rentals and explore the 16 different public art displays that tell stories of the town's unique history and culture in vibrant colors through the Carolina Beach Mural Project. Pedal along the Island Greenway and continue your adventure through the scenic trail that starts at Mike Chappell Park.
Fill up on local flavors with Tasting History Tours and learn more about the island's history, from its involvement in the Civil War during its early years to its heyday and present-day significance. The signature food tour stops at local favorite restaurants to savor their authentic offerings, and the "History in a Glass" tour is a drinks-only adventure for adults. Or get a history lesson with a side of art with a tour of 16 (and counting) island murals.
State Park Adventures
With miles of hiking trails and its location along the Cape Fear River, Carolina Beach State Park is ideal for all types of adventures. Spanning 761 acres, the park has nine trails, including two accessible ones, ripe for exploration. Hike the Flytrap Trail, which travels through wetlands, pine forests and savanna habitats, and also showcases the Venus flytrap, one of the world's most unique carnivorous plants that is indigenous to the area. The Sugarloaf Trail journeys through various coastal habitats to one of the most unique features within the park, the 50-foot Sugarloaf Dune, where more than 5,000 troops camped during the Civil War.
Discover the park from a unique perspective with Paddle NC and explore the waterways surrounding the park. Choose from renting kayaks or paddleboards for a self-guided adventure, or opt for a guided kayak tour, such as the Eco Kayak Tour, to learn about the surrounding ecological wonders. Experience the magic of golden hour on the Sunset Kayak Tour, where you can observe birds and wildlife at their most active. For beginners, the Intro to Paddleboarding (SUP) class offers the perfect adventure.
Surf’s Up
Ride the waves of Carolina Beach' laid-back surfing lifestyle with lessons and board rentals from Tony Silvagni Surf School. Founded by Olympic gold medalist Tony Silvagni, who recently placed fifth in the world for professional longboard on the World Longboard Tour, the school is perfect for beginners looking for a new adventure. Odysea Surf School offers private and group surf lessons led by certified instructors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for surfers of all levels. Equipment is provided, including surfboards and wetsuits, when necessary.
Set Sail
Sail away on an adventure with cruises and guided experiences along the waterways of Carolina Beach. Island Time Water Tours offers half-day and full-day adventures, from a clamming excursion you're sure to dig to shelling on Masonboro Island Reserve or Shark Tooth Island. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a sunset cruise aboard Island Cruises' double-decker catamaran or hunt for stolen treasure on The Pleasure Island Pirate Adventure.
Sea Legs Pedal Pub offers an exciting adventure that harnesses the power of pedaling during a 90-minute journey on the water. Sip, pedal and cruise your way to a fun-filled waterfront experience. For a memorable scenic tour or sunset cruise, Big Kahuna Tiki Charters also provides guided island excursions to secluded islands.
Embark on new adventures in Carolina Beach, from surfing and paddleboarding to exploring the best of what Carolina Beach has to offer. Adventure can be found in every corner of our classic beach town.
