Dotting along the scenic coastline, just off of Wilmington, lies Carolina Beach. Our vibrant seaside retreat provides families and fellow travelers alike with the perfect playgrouund for their upcoming vacation. Whether you choose to spend your day meandering along the boardwalk, exploring the town on foot or by bike, or planning an outdoor adventure, the opportunities are limitless when you choose to spend your day enjoying our favorite things to do in Carolina Beach, NC!
The History of Carolina Beach
Established in 1857, a man named Joseph Winner planned the streets and lots for the 50 acres of land on the island. At that time, the only way to access the island was by water and the town was called St. Joseph’s. The town was renamed and incorporated in 1925. There is now a high-rise bridge that was built over Snow’s Cut, connecting the mainland and the island which was constructed in 1962. A fun fact is that Carolina Beach is home of Chicken Hicks who is given credit for developing the Shag dance and making it popular. The town underwent a major transformation in the 1990s and a renovation of the town’s boardwalk, beginning in Fall of 2014.
Our Favorite Places to See & Things to Do in Carolina Beach, NC!
Carolina Beach Activities to Enjoy When You Head This Way
Your Carolina Beach stay will be packed with opportunities for things to do whether you’re one for strolling and people watching, shopping, dining, or making the most of time on the water. From fantastic entertainment to exciting annual events, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Check Out the Boardwalk
A highlight of any Carolina Beach visit for travelers is often time on the boardwalk with family and friends. This welcoming and vibrant destination is brimming over with family-friendly activities to check out as well as arcades, souvenir shops, tasty eateries, and more.
Nightlife on the Boardwalk
When you make time for a trip to the boardwalk, you’ll often find live music setting a lively scene and on select evenings this area hosts fireworks as well. If you are searching for nightlife – you won’t be disappointed! Just to name a few, The Fat Pelican, High Tide Lounge, and The Lazy Pirate are sure to keep you entertained! The boardwalk is also where you can enjoy many annual festivals that are highly anticipated in the area by locals and visitors alike.
Places to Eat on the Boardwalk
When cravings come calling, the boardwalk is the place to be! For Italian fare or a savory slice, enjoy Uncle Vinny’s Pizzeria & Ristorante. If you’re more in the mood for a 50s-themed outing, the team over at Pop’s Diner has fries, burgers, and milkshakes waiting to be enjoyed. At the Carolina Smokehouse, you can enjoy barbecue at its best while the Shuckin’ Shack is a one-stop shop for fantastic fresh seafood offerings. From fresh seafood to a burger at the Ocean Grille and Tiki Bar, you are sure to enjoy your time at Carolina Beach! On the sweeter side, enjoy the locally beloved Britt’s Donuts or Squigley’s Ice Cream & Treats.
Fishing Charters to Book
For travelers who can’t wait to get out on the water and cast a line, Carolina Beach is a beautiful and inviting place to book a fishing charter or two! Companies like Hot Ticket Fishing Charters, Fillet and Release Fishing Charters, and Fish Witch Charters are all great places to start when you’re looking for a comprehensive day of casting a line alongside a pro.
Exciting Events in Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is a place that knows how to celebrate, and they prove it with an annual calendar bursting with family-friendly activities and gatherings to enjoy all year long. If your travel plans bring you this way in June, you’ll be right on time to enjoy the Carolina Beach Music Festival. The summer concert series at Fort Fisher is another musical experience to look forward to while Movies under the Stars are held on Sundays and appeal to families heading this way in the name of fun.
See Carolina Beach For Yourself
Frequently Asked Questions About Carolina Beach, NC
What’s a featured attraction to enjoy on the Carolina Beach boardwalk?
There’s a 10-story Giant Gondola Wheel to check out when you’re looking to enjoy views from 100 feet up. Up to 150 people at a time can enjoy this attraction with views out over the ocean.
What’s the best season to visit Carolina Beach?
Many visitors choose to enjoy a Carolina Beach stay between Memorial Day and Labor Day when temperatures fluctuate between the 70s and the 80s.
What time are the Summer Concert Series fireworks in Carolina Beach?
During the summer concert series, music begins at 6:30 pm and fireworks are held at 9:00 pm.
Do I need a car to get around Carolina Beach?
While you’re certainly welcome to use a car to get around Carolina Beach, many visitors swap out vehicles for bikes to enjoy taking in the scenery at their own preferred pace.
How popular is Carolina Beach?
- #1 “N.C’s Most Overlooked Beaches” – Travel Channel, 2014
- #8 “Best Boardwalks for Food Across the USA” – USA Today, 2013
- #11 “America’s 25 Best Donuts” – The Daily Meal, 2014
- #16 “America’s Most Awesome Boardwalks” – CNN & FOX News, 2013
- #6 “Classic Beach Boardwalks” – Huffington Post, 2013
Where can I stay in Carolina Beach?
Taking time to unwind in Carolina Beach is always a good choice and when you need amazing accommodations to match, Victory Beach Vacations has them waiting just for you. Reach out today to learn more about our options and to start planning your next trip.