7 Best Things To Do In Carolina Beach NC
Where is Carolina Beach?
Located in the southeastern corner of North Carolina between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean. A small beach town on North Carolina’s Pleasure Island. Carolina Beach is part of the greater Wilmington Metro area, but despite what many think, Carolina Beach is separate from Wilmington. The separation point begins when visitors cross onto the Island via the Snow’s Cut Bridge. Often overlooked as a vacation destination in the region, going up against other popular places like Myrtle Beach. However, this coastal town offers outdoor family-friendly activities, adventures and a flourishing restaurant, bar scene and of course a beautiful beach. With fewer crowds than similar destinations and plenty to do, Carolina Beach is a perfect year-round getaway.
Watch this short video of the many things Carolina Beach has to offer.
1. Go to the Beach
Let’s start with the most obvious, Carolina Beach has scores of access points and lifeguard towers for your protection all along the shoreline. There are miles and miles of coastline just waiting to be explored. Head to the piece of sand closest to your accommodation or from many of the public beach access points and enjoy the fun and sun. Check our Packing List so you’re sure to show up prepared and remember to always pick up after yourself while at the beach.
2. Visit the Boardwalk
No trip to Carolina Beach is complete without a visit to the famous Boardwalk. A place to go for family-oriented and even late-night fun after a fund day on the beach. During the summer season, enjoy amusement rides, live music and weekly fireworks. Fun for the entire family with shops, restaurants, bars, homemade ice cream, fudge, donuts and other fair friendly food. The boardwalk is essentially a must-see destination. If you stay at CABANA the complex is actually connected to the boardwalk with it’s own private entrance.
3. Fort Fisher Aquarium
Visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher should sit near the top of your list for things to do when visiting Carolina Beach. It’s easily one of the most family-friendly activities. The aquarium will provide kids and adults alike with a fun, hands-on experience! Stunning exhibits of wildlife and aquatic environments that will connect you with nature. Explore marine life from a two-story open ocean exhibit featuring sharks, rays and eels, salt marshes and tidal pools. Meet Luna, a rare albino alligator, and a rescued bald eagle. Come face-to-face with a loggerhead sea turtle and feel the skin of a stingray. Stroll through the Aquarium’s outdoor garden while discovering the wildlife.
4. Carolina Beach State Park
Visitors that want to take a break from the beach and surf can enjoy the blissful retreat with nature. The park is a popular coastal attraction with 761-acres steeped in both history and natural diversity. The park includes a visitor’s center with exhibits showing the wonders of its environment and includes the presence of a Venus flytrap, one of the world’s most unique carnivorous plants.
5. Freeman Park
This beach attraction is popular among locals as well as visitors of Carolina Beach. Vehicles, Leashed Dogs, Horseback Riding, Overnight Camping, and Fishing are Allowed on the beach. Read Freeman Park’s Rules and Regulations beforehand to plan properly.
Photo: roverpass.com
6. Learn Surfing
Carolina beach is considered to be a great place to enjoy surfing. Also, for people who want to learn. Head to the beach and grab some waves, you can rent surf boards locally and even get expert lessons as a lot of facilities provide rental equipment.
7. Eat at Britt’s Donuts
Britt’s Donuts is located on the Boardwalk at Carolina Beach. A local, seasonal favorite since 1939, Britt’s serves only one kind of doughnut – glazed. It’s not uncommon for the line to wrap around the block. Britt’s Donuts is open seven days a week during tourist season, usually from late March to early September.