Welcome to Carolina Beach
Where gorgeous condominiums and oceanfront homes beckon
The temperate waters and sun-kissed beaches of Pleasure Island are shared by two towns, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Carolina Beach has a carefree, light-hearted spirit, and the surroundings are reminiscent of a simpler time.
If you are curious about Pleasure Island’s past, the Federal Point History Center has artifacts dating from the Colonial days to World War II. If you want the past to show itself differently, take a scuba tour and view the shipwrecks of days long past, or hunt for megalodon teeth in the ocean’s dark waters. Fun and adventure await you at Carolina Beach, where memories are made and anything seems possible.
What to Love
- Historic boardwalk
- Festivals and events
- Dining and shopping
Local Lifestyle
Carolina Beach is a lovely town that many choose to call home. The residents are active in the community, and there are multiple town-sponsored events throughout the year.
Locals prefer to walk, ride a bicycle, or drive a golf cart to get around the area. However, you will need a car to get to some locations on or off the island. There are great restaurants and shops in town, but many people head toward Wilmington when they seek a broader selection. When you are at Carolina Beach, it feels like you are in a far-off sector of the world, but in reality, you are never more than a short drive from neighboring towns and the city.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is popular among the locals and stays open year-round. They serve mouth-watering, award-winning chowder. The fresh seafood is caught locally and does not disappoint.
Lake Park Steakhouse has a festive atmosphere, friendly servers, and terrific food. The prime rib is so tender it cuts with a fork, and the quirky build-your-own salad is a hometown hit.
The
Catch restaurant has a sleek, modern look and is just a short drive from the island. Chef Rhodes uses organic ingredients and local fisheries for his flavorful dishes. The Catch also has a food truck that is occasionally at Carolina Beach.
Hang Ten Grill is a sandwich shop featuring specialty burgers and charming, surf-inspired scenery. For tacos, head to
Nollie’s Tacos Joint, which features a fun wall with skateboards. Along with tacos and other Mexican fare, they also are known for their nachos and beer. When it’s time to shop for new surfboards and branded attire, check out
CB Surf Shop, Carolina Beach’s go-to stop.
Things to Do
Swim, surf, or watch the waves come to shore on
Carolina Beach. Take a surf class at the school founded by the surfing gold medalist Tony Silvagni, or get out on the water in a rented kayak or paddleboard. The
Carolina Beach Pier is a great spot. Do not worry about bringing supplies; a tackle shop, game room, and snack bar are on site.
If you are in the mood for people and entertainment, go to the
Carolina Beach Boardwalk. It has been a favorite for visitors and locals since 1887. You will find amusement rides, food, live entertainment, and fireworks. There are also yearly events like the Street Arts Festival and the Summer Music Festival. A favorite sweet spot is
Britt’s Donuts, which has been a staple since 1939.
If hiking, biking, and camping are what you crave, the
Carolina Beach State Park is 761 acres of natural beauty. Camp among the lush green vegetation, or look for the elusive native Venus flytraps if you dare. You can have a picnic and let the kids play at
Carolina Beach Lake Park. The lake is also the site of the farmers’ market and summer outdoor movies. Locals and tourists are fans of
Freeman Park Recreation Area. It is one of the few beaches in North Carolina where you can drive on the beach. People come to camp, fish, and walk their dogs.
Schools
Carolina Beach is part of the
New Hanover County School District. There is a local elementary school on the island. Students in higher grades have several options in the greater Wilmington area.
