With miles of scenic trails for hiking and nature exploration, Carolina Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers. Spanning 761 acres along the river side of Carolina Beach, the park features a mix of state protected green space and waters with opportunities for kayaking, fishing and boating.

Located just over the bridge to Carolina Beach, off Dow Road, Carolina Beach State Park welcomes guests at its Visitors Center near the park's entrance. Stop in to pick up a map or explore the exhibit hall that showcases the park's ecology and the plants that call it home. From the Visitors Center, continue on State Park Road and veer onto B Road to access the parking lot along Sugarloaf Trail, or continue straight for parking along the Track Trail or farther down at the marina.

 

Check out our guide on everything to see and do in Carolina Beach State Park.

Trails to Navigate

Carolina Beach State Park boasts nearly 9 miles of trails winding through diverse habitats, making the park an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching and exploring rich coastal flora and fauna. The park offers nine unique trails, two of which are handicap accessible.

One of the park's most notable features is the Venus flytrap, a rare carnivorous plant found growing natively only in this region. Visitors can see these fascinating plants along The Flytrap Trail, a half-mile loop that travels through pocosin wetlands, longleaf pine forests and other coastal ecosystems. The trail features a mix of natural surfaces and wooden boardwalks, making it accessible to a variety of visitors. You can get an up-close look at the Venus flytrap and other carnivorous plants in the park’s bog garden, located behind the visitor’s center. For a deeper understanding of the park's ecosystems, join a park ranger on a guided hike, offered Saturdays at 10 a.m., and learn about the plants and animals that call the park home.

 

The Sugarloaf Trail, a 3-mile loop, winds through coastal forests and tidal swamps, passing another one of the park's unique features, the historic Sugarloaf Dune — a 50-foot sandy peak where more than 5,000 soldiers camped during the Civil War. The dune offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a must-see landmark.

 

For water enthusiasts, the Snow’s Cut Trail follows the shoreline connecting the Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear River, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters. For a special tour, join park staff on the Monthly Bird Watching Walk along Snow’s Cut Trail, typically held on the third Thursday of each month.

 

The park's Fitness Trail, a 1-mile loop with several exercise stations, offers the only bike-friendly route option in the park. Bikes are available for rent on-site through Paddle NC.

Runners can take in all the terrain during the Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon and 5K Run, a perfect way to kick off the new year. Participants of all speeds and ability levels are welcome to join this timed, single track trail race.

For more details on the trails and how they intersect, view the park’s trail map here.

Waterways to Explore

From the park's 54-slip marina, boaters have direct access to the Cape Fear River, Myrtle Grove Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Paddlers can bring their own watercraft or rent from Paddle NC, conveniently located at the marina. They offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, along with lessons and guided tours. Don’t miss the Carolina Beach Sunset Kayak Tour for a memorable experience on the water at dusk.

 

Cast a line and go fishing, whether from a boat, the fishing deck or riverbank; the park offers excellent opportunities for saltwater fishing. Try your luck in the Cape Fear River or Snow’s Cut, where you can catch a variety of fish, including flounder and trout. Please note that a North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required. Find out more and purchase a license here.

 

For nature lovers, the park offers a truly unique experience, with fascinating features that set it apart from other coastal areas, like a carnivorous plant bog garden. It is also home to three lime sink ponds, which are distinctive wetlands supporting specialized plant communities.

Stargazing

Each year, the Cape Fear Museum and Carolina Beach State Park team up for Star Party, a free, family-friendly event. Participants can enjoy an up-close look at the planets and more through binoculars and telescopes, while experts provide stargazing tips.

 

Other activities include a guided night-sky tour of the stars and planets, a stellar story corner for listening to star-themed stories and engaging hands-on activity stations designed to help attendees learn about and celebrate the universe.

Ways to Stay

For a full-service stay near the park, consider one of Carolina Beach's resorts, such as the Hampton Inn and Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront or the Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach. Both are conveniently located in the heart of Carolina Beach and just a quick drive to the park. Alternatively, opt for a vacation rental for a home-away-from-home experience. Victory Beach Vacations, Sea Coast Rentals and Palm Air Realty offer a variety of options, from cozy cottages to spacious homes that can accommodate large groups.

Carolina Beach State Park offers the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, from scenic trails and kayaking to unique sights like the Venus flytrap and Sugarloaf Dune.