Family-Friendly Attractions in Carolina Beach, NC

BOARDWALK FUN and AMUSEMENT RIDES

The nearly century-old Carolina Beach Boardwalk has served as a site of fond family memories for generations. In recent years, this signature attraction has made Budget Travel’s list of "America’s Most Awesome Boardwalks" and received recognition from likes of CNN and USA Today. While these accolades may appeal more to grown-ups, there’s plenty to impress the kids, too – from the Boardwalk’s summer Fireworks by the Sea and Boardwalk Blast to the old-school Carolina Beach Arcade filled with fun games and prizes like stuffed animals, inflatables, candy and more.

Summer (Surf) School is in Session

Frequently ranked at the top of TripAdvisor’s list of most-recommended things to do in Carolina Beach, Tony Silvagni Surf School is one school kids will actually look forward to. Led by an Olympic gold medalist, the school’s camps run from March through September and feature an impressive 2:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Campers receive the full attention of professional instructors while learning about water safety and surfing etiquette. Kids will also be stoked by Odysea Surf School, which offers a variety of surf and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) lessons. Join a small group or request private instruction to catch waves. Gear up for your water adventures at nearby surf shops.

“P” is for Paddle

Families can join in the popular sport of stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP for those in the know) at Carolina Beach. Local outfitters offer special excursions geared towards the younger set. Even those who haven’t yet perfected their swim strokes can participate, as many tours and trips offer personal flotation devices. Rent a paddleboard or kayak from Paddle NC within Carolina Beach State Park and embark on a guided tour on the Cape Fear River. Kids will be amazed to encounter a unique salt marsh ecosystem, home to residents like bottlenose dolphins, jumping mullet, osprey and the elusive bald eagle.

Bikes, Beach Games & More

Find everything you need for hours of outdoor family fun at one of the island's outdoor rental companies. Rent popular beach games and equipment like bodyboards, beach carts and chairs at Polar Bear Beach Games. Reserve bikes from Pleasure Island Rentals, which offers wheels ranging from beach cruisers to kid-sized training bicycles – and even offers free delivery and pickup of your rental gear! Ride along the bike- and pedestrian-friendly Island Greenway, or follow this bike map to reach the island's most important landmarks. Your family can also set out on a self-guided tour to spot vibrant Carolina Beach Mural Project installments which illustrate the island’s history, culture and originality.

Bike or stroll around the 11-acre Carolina Beach Lake Park, where you can set out a beach blanket to enjoy a free summer outdoor movie series by the lake. Ollie the ramps, skate the bowls and slide the rails in the 8,000-square-foot Mike Chappell Skate Park. The park also includes tennis, basketball and volleyball courts and a large playground.

Get to Know Nature

Carolina Beach is a haven for eco-adventurers. At Carolina Beach State Park, discover a towering 50-foot sand dune and the fascinating Bog Garden, which is home to the rare Venus flytrap. Join a guided hike along the state park’s easygoing Flytrap Trail, led by a park ranger who will teach kids about native carnivorous plants and diverse habitats. Appreciate sea breezes and scenic views of the coastline along the Carolina Beach Pier. Learn about area’s sea turtles and their nesting habitats with Turtle Talks from the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project.

Fishing Tales

Let the little ones stretch their sea legs aboard a Gulf Stream fishing vessel and reel in a photo-worthy catch on a deep-sea fishing excursion. Kids will dig the idea of bringing back a souvenir to the beach house vacation rental that will become dinner. If you prefer to fish from the surf or search for seashells, head to Freeman Park at the north end of Carolina Beach. The park also allows four-wheel-drive vehicles with a purchased pass.

Food with a Side of Fun

Vacation will be especially sweet for kids who visit Squigley’s Ice Cream & Treats for a frozen treat blended with a variety of mix-ins. Indulge in Celtic Creamery's rich, Irish-style ice cream and delights like the signature Tummy Trembler – a family-sized favorite featuring six scoops atop a split banana and fresh donuts. While strolling along the Boardwalk, stop at Fudgeboat to try old-fashioned handmade fudge in a variety of flavors. The famous, glazed Britt’s Donuts have been a Carolina Beach favorite for generations and even earned a spot on Yelp’s list of top U.S. donut shops. Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill offers more than coloring sheets to entertain kids while they dine: the restaurant boasts a popular fenced-in yard with games like giant Jenga, cornhole and more.

Beach Day Becomes Beach Play

With three miles of beautiful shoreline covered by 20 lifeguard stands from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Carolina Beach is a great place for kids to play safely. Many of the beach access locations are suitable for strollers and offer convenient parking, concessions and public restrooms.