Carolina Beach Travel Guide

Read this travel guide and discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and all you need to know before visiting Carolina Beach, North Carolina.


Introduction to Carolina Beach

Located in the North Carolina Coastal Plain, Carolina Beach is a charming seaside town that is famous for its long coastline, recreational activities, delicious seafood, and warm hospitality. This vibrant town offers something for everyone, from families to solo travelers, to adventure seekers. Here, the sun-kissed sandy beaches stretch for miles, and the azure blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean invite visitors to swim, surf, or paddleboard.

List of Places to Visit in Carolina Beach

There is no shortage of things to do in Carolina Beach. Here is a list of some of the best attractions to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Carolina Beach State Park
  • Fort Fisher State Historic Site
  • Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
  • North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Natural Attractions of Carolina Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Carolina Beach Boardwalk
  • Carolina Beach Fishing Pier
  • Freeman Park
  • Kure Beach Pier

Hiking/Biking Routes of Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The town boasts numerous hiking and biking trails that provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the beautiful natural landscapes.

Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking:

  • Island Greenway
  • Carolina Beach State Park Trail
  • Gary Shell Cross-City Trail
  • Wrightsville Beach Loop

Best Things to Do in Carolina Beach: Activities and Tours

Carolina Beach offers a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained all day long. Here are some of the best things to do during your visit:

  • Go fishing
  • Take surfing lessons
  • Rent a paddleboard or kayak
  • Take a dolphin-watching tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Carolina Beach

If you plan to stay in Carolina Beach for a week, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, navigate the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and have dinner at Michael’s Seafood Restaurant.
Day 2 Take a hike at Carolina Beach State Park, have lunch at The Fat Pelican, and go on a fishing tour in the afternoon.
Day 3 Visit the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and museum, go on a paddleboarding tour, and have dinner at the Sunset Grille.
Day 4 Take a surfing lesson at Tony Silvagni Surf School, have lunch at Hang Ten Grill, and paddleboard in the afternoon.
Day 5 Go on a dolphin-watching tour in the morning, visit the Kure Beach Pier, and have lunch at Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill.
Day 6 Go on a bike ride on the Island Greenway, have a picnic on the beach, and have dinner at Surf House Oyster Bar & Surf Camp.
Day 7 Relax on the beach, shop for souvenirs at Island Breeze, and have dinner at Gibby’s Dock & Dine.

Food and Drink Scene of Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach has a vibrant food and drink scene, and it is home to numerous restaurants and bars that specialize in fresh seafood and local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carolina-style barbecue
  • Shrimp and grits
  • Oysters Rockefeller
  • Seafood chowder

Local Beverages

  • Carolina Pale Ale
  • Cheerwine
  • Sweet tea
  • Scuppernong wine

Where to Stay in Carolina Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Carolina Beach offers a variety of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Carolina Beach Oceanfront
  • Golden Sands Motel
  • Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach
  • Beacon House Inn Bed & Breakfast

What to Buy in Carolina Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Carolina Beach has some unique and interesting places to shop for souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to check out:

  • Island Breeze
  • Carolina Beach Farmer’s Market
  • Saltwater Surf Shop
  • Island Cottage

Local Culture and Customs of Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect the locals and their way of life
  • Practice good beach etiquette
  • Take care of the environment and wildlife

Best Time to Visit Carolina Beach

The best time to visit Carolina Beach is during the summer months, from June to August, when the water is warm, and there are plenty of activities and events happening in town. However, if you are looking for a quieter experience, you may want to visit during the shoulder seasons: May-June or September-October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Carolina Beach

When visiting Carolina Beach, it is crucial to be mindful of the local customs and practices. Here are some essential tips:

Do:

  • Respect the beach rules and regulations
  • Be friendly to locals and fellow travelers
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Leave litter on the beach
  • Ignore beach safety protocols
  • Be loud and disruptive

Safety and Health

Safety in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a safe destination, but visitors should still exercise caution and take necessary safety measures when enjoying water activities and hiking trails. Follow these tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Carolina Beach:

  • Follow beach safety guidelines
  • Be mindful of rip currents
  • Avoid swimming alone
  • Wear sunscreen and protective gear when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Carolina Beach

While Carolina Beach has clean drinking water and a healthy environment, it is still crucial to maintain personal hygiene practices to avoid any health concerns. Here are some essential tips:

  • Stay hydrated
  • Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen
  • Bring insect repellent
  • Maintain personal hygiene

Getting to Carolina Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Carolina Beach

The nearest airports to Carolina Beach are:

  • Wilmington International Airport
  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport
  • Myrtle Beach International Airport

Bus Stations Near Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach does not have a bus station but is accessible by the WAVE transit system from Wilmington.

Other Options

If you plan to arrive by car, the town is easily accessible by major highways, including I-40 and Highway 17.

How to Get Around in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent bikes, golf carts, or take a taxi or shuttle to get around.

Where to Go Next from Carolina Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Carolina Beach is a great base to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Wilmington
  • Bald Head Island
  • Southport
  • Wrightsville Beach

Conclusion

Carolina Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy the beautiful coastlines of North Carolina. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover all the best places to visit, eat, stay, and enjoy.

A Venus flytrap in the wild at Carolina Beach State Park A Venus flytrap in the wild at Carolina Beach State Park A hiking trail in Carolina Beach State Park A hiking trail in Carolina Beach State Park