Spending time away from the hustle of life in scenic Carolina Beach is always a treat when you’re overdue for a much-needed break. While this gem of a destination in North Carolina is known and loved for its shorelines, surf, and sun, the bars in Carolina Beach are also top-notch additions to your stay. Whether you’re looking for a great dive bar where you can connect with locals, or a sophisticated tiki bar by the water for a cocktail with friends, you’ll find it all waiting for you right here this year.
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SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar
Locals and visitors alike would agree that no trip to Carolina Beach is quite complete without a stop at the SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar. Located at 227 Carolina Beach Avenue North, the SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar is a locally loved hot spot where you can easily pair tropical cocktails and great live entertainment almost any day of the week.
The ambiance is welcoming and casual, while the performances here are vibrant, and the outdoor seating space is prime for fresh-air fun in the sun. From the tiki torches that adorn the landscaping to the colorful décor throughout, the SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar never fails to inspire its patrons to relax and kick back in authentic coastal style.
In addition to a great lineup of cocktails, this destination’s menu offers craft beers and wine selections that can be matched with tacos, burgers, and seafood baskets, too. It’s the perfect place for a drink in the afternoon, or a night out with friends when you’re visiting Carolina Beach.
Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar
When you’re looking for yet another great bar to explore in Carolina Beach that leans into the tiki bar vibe, Ocean Grill is it! Found at 1211 Lake Park Boulevard South, Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar is a one-stop hub for fantastic coastal cuisine and a beverage menu that’s hard to top. The beauty of enjoying time at Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar is that when you do, you’ll treat yourself to flavorful moments enjoyed right on the sand. That’s because this beach bar is built on a pier overlooking the Atlantic, and offers patrons unmatched views out and over the waves at all times.
The tropical-inspired cocktails here are always a treat, but the cold beers on the menu promise to be just as inviting when temperatures are on the rise. If you arrive with an appetite, you can always order fresh seafood and steaks that are sure to satisfy. If you’re only dropping by for drinks, the tiki bar itself is welcoming and friendly, and it enjoys gorgeous surroundings at every turn. This is truly a place that will very likely have you lingering longer than you originally planned for good reason.
The Silver Dollar
If you find yourself longing for that quintessential beach bar experience in Carolina Beach, be sure to make time on the itinerary for a stop at The Silver Dollar. Located at 3 Cape Fear Boulevard, The Silver Dollar is a cozy dive bar found not far from the iconic boardwalk in town.
The vibe here is decidedly laid-back, and once you’ve ordered up your drink, you have options to play a game of pool, chat with the bartenders, or find something great to listen to on the jukebox. Many locals love this stop for its affordable drinks and fare, making it a popular place for a night out with friends. When you spot the bright turquoise façade, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Whether you order up a vodka bomb, a Cuba Libre, or a Bloody Mary during your next visit, this no-frills beach bar might just be a highlight of your stay.
The Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill
Among the best bars to explore in Carolina Beach just waiting to be enjoyed, the Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill certainly sits at the top of the list. Located at 701 N. Lake Park Boulevard, the Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill offers up a picture-perfect balance of sports bar entertainment and inviting beach party flavors and vibes.
Those who head this way will find an extensive menu of beverage and food options to browse, featuring frozen drinks, cocktails, wine, and beer as well. Selections like seafood platters, all-you-can-eat crab legs, burgers, and wings easily curb any cravings that come along.
Opportunities to enjoy live entertainment and even karaoke here only add to the overall fun factor of your visit! If you’re up for a bit of friendly competition, you’ll love that this bar hosts a full outdoor volleyball court to enjoy, as well as an area dedicated to corn hole. From the spacious patio to the pirate-themed specials on the menu, it’s a bar with something for everyone to love.
The Fat Pelican
Finally, if quirky dive bars are exactly your style, you won’t want to miss out on time spent at The Fat Pelican while you’re in Carolina Beach. Located at 8 Lake Park Boulevard South, The Fat Pelican keeps the drinks flowing and the doors open until 2:00 am every day of the week.
While some visit this legendary stop for the convenience of the self-serve cooler, others come for the funky murals and memorabilia that make up the décor. Here, everyone is invited to feel right at home, whether you’re a fan of craft brews, cocktails, or international imports.
Depending on the night of the week you arrive, you might just find you’re right on time for karaoke, live music, or a whimsical themed event taking place. This is a staple location in town that’s beloved among locals and visitors alike. Whether you come for a few hours or stay until the small hours of the morning, it’s a place you won’t soon forget.
Book a Flavorful and Fun Getaway to Carolina Beach This Year
No matter when you have time to enjoy a vacation to Carolina Beach, booking your luxury accommodations through Victory Beach Vacations is the place to start. From cozy abodes by the water to multi-level homes by the beach, our Carolina Beach vacation rentals are designed to inspire. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting property options and how we can help you tailor the details of your stay to fit your unique travel style. We look forward to welcoming you to North Carolina soon!