Carolina Beach has a variety of experiences that showcase its unique coastal charm and local culture – from eco exploration and water excursions to one-of-a-kind eats and lodging. Read on to discover what sets this beach town apart.

A Classic Yet Unique Seaside Boardwalk

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a beloved tradition that has earned national recognition and is one of the few vintage boardwalks remaining in the country. It’s lined with eclectic shops and eateries, including the 1950’s-themed Pop’s Diner, which serves up classic comfort foods to your favorite jukebox tunes. There are also plenty of spots to grab a sweet treat. Fudgeboat serves chocolatey confections from a restored boat that was discovered on a nearby riverbank. And no trip to the boardwalk is complete without a stop at Britt’s Donuts, a seasonal shop that’s been a local favorite since 1939, known for serving just one thing – hot, glazed doughnuts. If you plan to visit, be sure to bring cash; it’s the only form of payment accepted!

 

During the summer, amusement rides add a playful and nostalgic touch to the classic Boardwalk. The Fireworks by the Sea & Boardwalk Blast features live music and a fireworks show over the beach each week between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

 

Park Adventures

Carolina Beach is home to several distinctive natural settings, including Freeman Park, an undeveloped stretch of shoreline on the northern end of the island – ideal for fishing, swimming, surfing and hunting for seashells. It’s one of the few beaches in North Carolina where you can drive your four-wheel-drive vehicle on the beach as long as you have the proper permit (Permits are available online or can be purchased at the Carolina Beach Parking Office or Town Hall).

 

Stretching 761 acres along the Cape Fear River, Carolina Beach State Park features miles of trails and protected green space ideal for kayaking, fishing and boating. One of the park’s standout features is the Venus flytrap, a rare carnivorous plant that grows natively only in this region. You can spot it along the half-mile Flytrap Trail or in the bog garden located behind the visitor center. Join a park ranger for a free guided hike offered on Saturdays at 10 a.m. to learn more about the special species.

 

Another trail in Carolina Beach State Park, the Sugarloaf Trail is a 3-mile loop that passes the historic Sugarloaf Dune – a 50-foot sandy peak that served as a navigation marker and where more than 5,000 soldiers camped during the Civil War. In addition to its historical significance, the dune offers sweeping views of the area.

For a different perspective of the park, Paddle NC, located on-site, provides kayak rentals for self-guided adventures of the waterways surrounding the park. The park is the perfect launching point to explore more of the Cape Fear River, Myrtle Grove and Atlantic Ocean. Paddle NC also provides guided excursions, including an eco-adventure and a sunset tour.

 

Deep Sea Excursions

Approximately 65 ocean shipwrecks lie within 50 miles of the area, with another 25 located in nearby rivers and creeks – offering dive sites for every skill level. Carolina Beach Scuba provides guided tours of wrecks like The Condor, a Civil War-era blockade runner, and North Carolina’s first heritage dive site, which is located in nearby Kure Beach. It’s one of the most well-preserved shipwrecks on the state’s coast. Carolina Beach Scuba also offers full training, daily dive charters and all the necessary equipment, in addition to fossil-hunting trips for Megalodon teeth and spearfishing excursions targeting spiny lobster, grouper and flounder.

 

Art and History with a Twist

Explore Carolina Beach’s colorful character through unique tours and public art. Tasting History Tours offers a flavorful look at the island’s past through its Signature Food Tour and History in a Glass experiences, which combine local history with bites and beverages from area restaurants and watering holes.

Carolina Beach’s vibrant personality is brought to life through public art displayed around town as part of the Carolina Beach Mural Project. Embark on a self-guided adventure to see if you can find them all using this map. Some murals feature QR codes that lead to activities that encourage children and their families to interact and learn about the murals.

 

Fun Flavors

Carolina Beach’s food scene is packed with personality. Grab a bite at Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar, where you can dine on a pier perched over the Atlantic Ocean for a meal with a view. During the summer, Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar hosts live music performances on the pier. For something casual but flavorful, check out Nollie’s Taco Joint, known for Baja-style tacos and a skate-culture vibe. An eclectic collection of skateboards covers the walls and ceiling – plus, they also have a chicken or beef doggie taco for furry friends. Island Burger & Bites is a local hidden gem known for its juicy burgers and bites; Yelp has even recognized it as one of the top cheeseburgers in the state. The Tropical serves colorful island-inspired dishes and frozen cocktails like the Tropical Breeze Cocktail, which comes in a souvenir coconut cup. For a bird’s eye of the ocean and Boardwalk, head to its third-floor rooftop bar and patio.

 

Sip a cocktail at the tiki bar located on the Carolina Beach Pier or inside High Tide Lounge adjacent to the pier. Or, visit the legendary Fat Pelican, the ultimate beach dive bar known for its walk-in cooler with hundreds of beers and laid-back atmosphere. “Pelican Beach” is the bar’s back patio area where you can sink your toes in the sand while enjoying live music. Good Hops Brewing is a small-batch brewery on the island, featuring an 18-hole disc golf course located just behind the taproom. Each hole has beer holders and benches, making it easy to sip and relax as you play. Cap off your culinary tour with a personalized treat from Squigley’s, where your ice cream is “squiggled” by its patented machine.

 

Charming Accommodations

Carolina Beach offers one-of-a-kind stays that blend character, comfort and coastal charm. Boutique spots like Carolina Beach Inn provide a cozy, homey vibe, while Carolina Beach Motel combines vintage flair with seaside aesthetics. The Boardwalk Inn channels the golden age of beach vacations with a clean, modern edge. These locally owned gems offer an experience that’s as unique as the destination itself.

With its distinctive blend of unique offerings, from places to eat and stay to unique experiences, Carolina Beach delivers experiences that are anything but ordinary.