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Spring things to Do
in Carolina Beach, NC

Let Our Seaside Bring Out Your Fun Side

Find good times and good vibes during springtime in Carolina Beach. From outdoor adventures to outdoor dining, coastal fun beckons all season long. Spend spring break with the family enjoying watersports with private lessons, a self-guided kayak tour or sunset cruise with local outfitters. Get moving along the island's hiking and biking trails. Savor the coastal flavors at locally owned restaurants. A Carolina Beach getaway is the perfect time to gear up as spring heats up.

Joggers Carolina Beach State Park

Festive Outdoor Events

A trip to Carolina Beach in spring brings live music outdoors at area restaurants and tiki bars. Immerse yourself in the island's arts scene by browsing local arts vendors and more by the sea during the annual arts festival. Watch surfers compete at area surf fests. Explore the night sky in Carolina Beach State Park at the annual Star Party or run across the island in holiday-themed races. 

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Kayak rentals

DIVE INTO FAMILY FUN

Rent paddleboards, surfboards and more from a local shop, or take a lesson to learn how to catch an island wave like a pro with one of Carolina Beach’s surf schools. Sign up for a surf camp or private surf or stand up paddleboard lesson and discover the island the way it’s meant to be seen. Experience nature and history at the same time by taking a kayak tour around Carolina Beach State Park. Travel the same waters that played a major role during the golden age of piracy, the American Revolution and the Civil War. Spot the Sugarloaf Dune, a 50-foot sand dune near the banks of the Cape Fear River.

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Family fish tales in Carolina Beach

Tours and Cruises

Depart from the Carolina Beach Fishing Center and Marina on a fishing charter for an inshore, nearshore, offshore or even deep-sea adventure. Rent a fully equipped boat from Carolina Beach Pontoon Rental where you can be your own captain or set out with one of theirs. Hop aboard Island Cruises' "Island Explorer" with the whole family for a narrated sunset cruise. Or, wander over to nearby Kure Beach to explore the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, one of North Carolina’s most popular attractions. Connect with the natural world through stunning exhibits of marine life, including a two-story open ocean exhibit featuring sharks, rays and eels. Come face-to-face with a loggerhead sea turtle and otters, or stroll through the outdoor garden to continue your exploration.

Visit the Fishing Center & Marina

Two bicyclists riding on a path in the Carolina Beach State Park in North Carolina

GET OUTSIDE

Spring is the perfect time to witness carnivorous plants and the native Venus flytrap in bloom while taking in waterside views as you hike the trails throughout Carolina Beach State Park. Experience the spacious beach at Freeman Park Recreation Area where you can fish, swim, go boating, crabbing or reserve a permit to camp overnight in the park and to take your 4-wheel drive vehicle for a cruise along the sand. Head to Mike Chappell Park to play a game of tennis, volleyball or soccer, roll around the skate park and bring along your four-legged friends for playtime at the dog park. Learn about the history of Carolina Beach and nearby Kure Beach on a self-guided history bicycle tour of the island. Or, set out on the Island Greenway on two feet or two wheels and see the sites along the 1.2-mile paved path.

Explore Outdoors

Outdoor oceanfront dining in Carolina Beach

Local Flavors

From morning treats to the freshest seafood around, local flavors abound at Carolina Beach. Start your day with a stroll along the Boardwalk to Britt’s Donut Shop for the area’s famous glazed donuts. Take a midday break with a casual lunch at Nollie's Taco Joint. Enjoy outdoor dining with gorgeous views on the oceanfront decks at The Tropical and Hurricane Alley's or marina-side at Stoked Restaurant. Find the fresh catch of the day alongside seasonal views at one of our seafood spots or tiki bars, or savor foodie favorites beyond typical beach fare.

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Featured Spring Blogs

Girl biking the Island Greenway in Carolina Beach

Experience Unlimited Adventure with Carolina Beach Tours & Cruises

From the vibrant beach to colorful Boardwalk, Carolina Beach is a destination that deserves just as much time spent exploring as soaking up the sun....

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Explore More Seasons

Family on Boardwalk

Summer

Hit the beach, visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and see weekly fireworks.

Joggers CB State Park

Fall

Explore the State Park, relax with a fall brew and try surf fishing.

Island of Lights Flotilla

Holiday

Experience the Island of Lights, colorful flotilla boats & NYE beach ball drop.

Couple walking on the shore

Winter

Mild weather means trails to explore, eco-adventures and greenway journeys.

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Carolina Beach Visitor Guide Cover 2024

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Wilmington and Beaches CVB

929 N. Front Street, Suite 410, Wilmington, NC 28401
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