Once a fishing village, Carolina Beach is much more chic than shabby these days with million-dollar listings and colorful beach homes. A boardwalk full of restaurants, shops, bars, and an old-timey doughnut shop is this beach town’s crown jewel.
While property values have increased along with new developments, old and affordable treasures can still be found. Soak up summer memories on a dog-friendly beach or head to the family-friendly North Carolina Aquarium at Ft. Fisher. Nearby Carolina Beach State Park is one of some of the state’s most scenic trails and views of the Lower Cape Fear River.
Rentals to Inspire
Two rental homes and AirBNBs in Carolina Beach stand out as inspiration and may be great places to check out for potential buyers wanting to learn the area.
Book a room at the private home, The Salty Seahorse or check out this converted motel The Lighthouse Inn.
Where to Eat
We’ll state the obvious first: Britt’s Donuts. If you leave Carolina Beach without enjoying one of this beach town’s oldest traditions, all the FOMO you’ll feel is warranted. These hand-glazed treats will cost you a wait in line and $1 per doughnut.
For dinner, Freddie’s Restaurant in Kure Beach will hit the spot if you are looking for an old-school, red-checkered tablecloth Italian meal. Customers seem to come in for the famous pork chops and stay for the salad dressing.
Foodies wanting a chef-driven experience can check out Coast Craft Cocktails & Calabash as well as Salt Fish. Coast’s sister property, The Southerly, is dedicated to serving biscuits and pies.
Try the Fork N Cork for burgers and Lake Park Steakhouse for steaks.
Want seafood? Bowman’s has the traditional fried seafood fare from the Carolina Coast while Michael’s Seafood and Fish Bites have a range of seafood dishes everyone should try.
Where to Drink
Dip into the Fat Pelican — Carolina Beach’s favorite dive bar where customers serve themselves from a giant walk-in fridge.
At the Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar, locals flock here for a classic tiki drink and a view of the water from the pier.
Go Have Some Fun
Beyond a day of fun at the beach and shopping on the boardwalk, get ready to walk!
Walk miles of trails at Carolina Beach State Park. Walk around the beach town’s greenway and bike paths, including a loop around the town’s lake.
Families will love a trip to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and the visit to the civil war fort itself.
In the summer season, be sure to venture out to the boardwalk area for a firework show every Thursday night.
