The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is the perfect place for a family vacation or group getaway. We have beautiful white sandy beaches and tons of fun activities for every walk of life to enjoy. We’ve even made planning your trip to our gorgeous coast a breeze with our ultimate visitor’s guide to Carolina Beach!

Parks

Carolina Beach State Park | 1010 State Park Rd

Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm with trails, fishing, boating, swimming, and more!

Freeman Park | 1800 Canal Dr

Open 24 hours a day with swimming, fishing, boating, crabbing, and horseback riding.

Carolina Beach Lake Park | 400 S Lake Park Blvd

Open daily from 6 am to 11 pm with trails, gazebo, playground, picnic area, and restrooms.

 

Family-Friendly Attractions

Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park

Families will love the games, rides, and boardwalk food at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park! Grab an all-day pass for unlimited rides or pay $1.50 per ticket as you go. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day every year.

The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher | (910) 772-0542

Head to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher for some off the beach fun and a whole lot of under the sea magic! Here you can experience the beautiful marine life daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Adult admission is $9.95 and kids (3-12) are $7.95.

Restaurants

Cape Fear Boil Company | (910) 707-3034

Cape Fear Boil Company not only offers up the best lowcountry boil around, they also bring dinner to you! You can virtually come off the beach and enjoy a boil of shrimp, sausage, crab legs, potatoes, and corn hot and ready to eat.

Surf House Oyster Bar + Surf Camp | (910) 707-0422

Chic and modern, Suf House Oyster Bar offers some of the most decadent dining in a laid back atmosphere. Call ahead for reservations during busy summer nights!

SeaWitch Tiki Bar | (910) 707-0533

Enjoy a variety of different seafood items at the SeaWitch Tiki Bar. Choose from things like SeaWitch Combo platter with shrimp, oysters, scallops, and grouper or their Maryland-style Crab Cakes! This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers casual vibes.

Deck House | (910) 458-1026

If you’re looking for mouthwatering surf and turf, try Deck House. They specialize in fresh seafood and juicy handcut steaks among other savory starters and entrees. 

 

Boat Tours & Fishing Charters

Island Hopper Tours | (703) 915-0605

Island Hopper offers full and half-day tours out of Carolina Beach, NC. Choose from an all adults cruise or family fun trips with your choice of destination, including Masonboro Island, Shark Tooth Island, Wilmington, and Wrightsville Beach.

Sail Ava Grace Charters | (919) 491-4875

Experience the serenity of sailing the Atlantic Ocean on the S.V. Ava Grace. Charters can accommodate up to 6 people with rates varying depending on length of time and type of sail. Be sure to book your charter in advance!

Fish Witch Charters | (910) 458-5855

Fishing enthusiasts will love a Carolina Beach fishing charter with Fish Witch! They offer a variety of fishing trips including trolling and bottom fishing starting at $450 for 3 hours. The fish you can expect to catch are mackerel, barracuda, shark, mahi-mahi, and more!

Wild Rover III | (910) 264-3973

Wild Rover III offers air-conditioned charter fishing for the Carolina Beach, NC area. Book a ½, ¾, full day, or extended day tour with all the fishing your heart desires! On the Wild Rover III you can expect to catch barracuda, king mackerel, and tuna –among other species of fish.

 

Watersport & Boat Rentals

Carolina Beach Jet Ski Rentals | (910) 524-7547

Have an adventure on the water with a jet ski rental from Carolina Beach Jet Ski Rentals. Riders must be at least 16 years old to drive and renters must be at least 18 years old. 1-hour rides are $90 and 2-hour rides are $175.

Carolina Beach Pontoon Rental | (910) 508-9075

Float along the Intracoastal Waterway in a pontoon boat rental as you enjoy the company of your friends or family (accommodates 10-13 people) on a warm sunny Carolina day. Rates are available for half-day & full-day rentals during the week and weekends starting at $245.

Nauti Times Boat Rentals | (910) 262-4386

Rent a 21ft Carolina Skiff for a half-day or full-day and enjoy cruising, fishing, or just sunbathing on the Intracoastal Waterway. Half-day boat rentals start at $280.

Kayaks, Paddle Boarding & Surfing

Pleasure Island Rentals | (910) 458-4747

Kayaks, paddleboards, bike rentals, and beach chairs –Pleasure Island has it all! Rent all your beach needs (even surfboards and skimboards) in one place to make vacation easy and relaxing!

Kayak Carolina | (910) 458-9171

Single and double kayaks are ready and waiting for you at Kayak Carolina! Rentals start at $40 for 1-4 hours. Kayak Carolina also offers tours and surfboard rentals!

Dives

Carolina Beach Scuba | (910) 458-7390

Explore the wrecks off the Carolina coast or dive for fossilized megalodon teeth with Carolina Beach Scuba. They offer diving and spearfishing charters as well as provide scuba gear rentals if needed.

Wrightsville Beach Diving | (848) 448-6849

Join the Wrightsville Beach Diving team for a diving adventure of some of the most popular wrecks off the Carolina coast. Charters start at $70 per person and vary based on wreck and charter.

 

 

Things To Do Near Carolina Beach

Are you looking for things to do near Carolina Beach? You’ve come to the right place. Carolina Beach boasts miles of beachfront, kid-friendly activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. At Golden Sands Beach Resort we want to make sure our guests are entertained to the fullest. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best things to do near Carolina Beach.

 

Visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is one of the area’s largest attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, the boardwalk should be first on your list of places to visit. It’s an entertainment hotspot for attractions, shopping, and all-around family fun. Even during the off-season, the boardwalk hosts seasonal festivals, entertainment, and so much more.

Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park

From Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, the Carolina Beach Amusement Park is open for business. Travelers can delight in rides, games, food, and entertainment. The park offers individual tickets, ticket bundles and $25 unlimited ride wristbands. We recommend the wristband for unlimited fun! Pro tip: Visit on a Thursday night to see their weekly fireworks show accompanied by live performances!

Boardwalk Parking

Parking at the boardwalk can become challenging during the summer season. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk offers several paid parking lot and single space options. Carolina Beach Boardwalk is now taking advantage of the Parkmobile app! Set your account up free and pay by the hour or by the day. Avoid the hassle by finding a hotel with easy boardwalk access and free parking. Our Carolina Beach Hotel is in close proximity to the boardwalk (just 1 mile!), plus one parking pass per room.

Check out our Carolina Beach Boardwalk Travel Guide for additional information and planning tools.

Carolina Beach Restaurants

Carolina Beach has plenty of delectable dining options to choose from. Indulge in coastal seafood, a Carolina Beach specialty, or house-made hush puppies, a southern favorite, from our on-site Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar.

Want to know more about our favorite beach bites? Check out our top Carolina Beach Restaurant picks.

Movies Sets Near Carolina Beach

The Carolina Beach area is a popular backdrop for many movies and television shows! Visit some of the spots where your favorite scenes were filmed. Check out some of our favorite notable movies:

Weekend at Bernie’s (1989)

A portion of the hit comedy, Weekend at Bernie’s, was filmed on Bald Head Island just south of Golden Sands.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)

This classic children’s favorite evokes feelings of nostalgia for many. Fun fact: The New York rooftop scenes were actually filmed right here at the North Carolina Film Studios.

Iron Man 3 (2013)

Did you know? Robert Downey Jr. took on the role of Iron Man in the box-office-favorite Marvel movie Iron Man 3 on Oak Island, NC.

Learn more about our favorite Movies Filmed in Carolina Beach, NC.

Carolina Beach Shops

From one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs to beach essentials, we’ve noted some of the most popular Carolina Beach shopping destinations.

The Mermaid Castle

The Mermaid Castle is a unique retail store specializing in all things mermaid, less than a mile from Golden Sands Motel. Browse their collection of essential oils, crystals and more. Open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (9:00 p.m. on Friday & Saturday).

The Checkered Church Gift Shop

This eclectic gift shop is home to nautical essentials like local art, collectibles, and home decor. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Salty Chic Boutique

The Salty Chic Boutique is a one-stop-shop for all things fashion! This whimsical boutique offers clothing, jewelry, shoes, accessories, and more. Open every day from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Plan your visit to our oceanfront family-friendly hotel today and experience plenty of things to do near Carolina Beach.

Carolina Beach Restaurants

Are you looking for the perfect Carolina Beach restaurant? We’ve made it an easy choice by confessing our favorites. From mouthwatering seafood to juicy burgers, our list of the best Carolina Beach restaurants will help narrow your search.

Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar

(910) 458-2000 | 1211 S Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC

Located beside the Golden Sands Motel, the Ocean Grill and Tiki bar is a two-story restaurant and tiki bar just steps down the pier. The upper level of Ocean Grill is a casual dining area that features panoramic views of the coastline, while the bottom level boasts a full bar and outdoor patio seating. The Ocean Grill is known for its fresh coastal cuisine and their signature fish and crab tacos. The Tiki Bar is a casual hangout spot during the spring and summer months that draws a substantial crowd of tourists and locals alike where you can sip a fruity cocktail or an ice cold draft beer.

Michael’s Seafood

(910) 458-7761 | 1206 N Lake Park Blvd A, Carolina Beach, NC

Michael’s Seafood has been serving up quality seafood since 1998. A staple to the Carolina Beach area, Michael’s Seafood boasts award-winning chowder and a perfectly seasoned catch of the day. Open from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (or 10:00 p.m. in season).  

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill

(910) 458-7668 | 113 K Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 

Experienced in casual dining with a Caribbean flair, Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill in nearby Kure Beach is a great spot to eat during your stay. Customers delight in their island-spiced seafood, steaks, and burgers. Open from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Sunday-Thursday) and 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Friday-Saturday).

Big Daddy’s Seafood Restaurant 

(910) 458-8622 | 206 K Avenue, Kure Beach, NC

A short drive is worth it for Big Daddy’s Seafood Restaurant, specializing in delectable surf and turf! Big Daddy’s boasts delectable burgers, house-smoked meats, and of course, fresh seafood. Open from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday) and 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Friday, Saturday).

Bowman’s at the Beach 

(910) 458-6292 | 911 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC

Bowman’s at the Beach offers a great selection seafood and more. They’ve been serving up “Calabash Style” cuisine to locals and tourists alike since 1992. Nosh on classics like barbecue pulled pork or a juicy hamburger at this Carolina Beach Restaurant. Open from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. every day.

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant 

(910) 791-1117 | 6132 Carolina Beach Rd Suite 11, Wilmington, NC

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant is located just outside Carolina Beach in Wilmington, NC and is home to the freshest fish around! Serving up signature seafood dishes like tuna filet, stuffed flounder, or fisherman’s stew, Fish Bites is the perfect choice for any seafood lover. Open from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Tuesday-Sunday), closed on Monday.

Blue Surf Cafe 

(910) 523-5362 | 250 Racine Dr, Wilmington, NC

Blue Surf Cafe boasts sophisticated food in a casual atmosphere and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This quaint cafe serves up elevated classics alongside a variety of summer floats. Yum! Pro tip: Table service is only available during dinner hours, while breakfast and lunch are pay at the counter. Open from 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Tuesday-Saturday) and 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Sunday-Monday). 


Need more area inspiration to plan your Carolina Beach stay? Check out our area guide featuring local attractions, shops and more!

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk Travel Guide

Carolina Beach is one of North Carolina’s top locations for travelers. It hosts the award-winning, fun-filled Carolina Beach Boardwalk.  Although the boardwalk is busier during the summer season it is open year-round, making Carolina Beach a year-round destination for all types of travelers.

 

Read on to learn more about the Carolina Beach Boardwalk’s attractions, events, and more!

 

Carolina Beach Boardwalk Events:

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is overflowing with family-fun attractions. The quarter-mile strip has events that can excite anyone. For thrill-seekers, the amusement park is a great spot for little kids all the way to adrenaline junkies. In addition, there are a series of weekly fireworks, arcades, and concerts. Some specific events hosted at Carolina Beach are Christmas by the Sea, Island of Lights New Year’s Eve Celebration, The Carolina Beach Wine & Beer Walk, Rock the Beach, and the Carolina Beach Music Festival.

 

Boardwalk Restaurants:

Another Staple of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk is the wide variety of restaurants. Whether it’s fine dining or a quick bite, there is surely a place for you. Check out some Carolina Beach dining options that might suit you.

 

Boardwalk Shops:

Escape the beach and attractions with some air-conditioned shopping, located all throughout the boardwalk. Ranging from craft stores to beach supplies, any savvy shopper will find their store on the boardwalk. Find some of our favorite shops in Carolina Beach. 

Boardwalk Parking: 

Due to a large number of tourists in the quarter-mile boardwalk area, parking can be a bit of a hassle. The boardwalk has strict regulations and encourages parking permits. A way to avoid the parking hassle is to find a hotel that includes parking in their package. Luckily, Golden Sands Motel offers a parking pass per room, with the option to buy another pass for $20. This way you can enjoy your stay without the headache of parking.

Hotels near Carolina Beach:

Golden Sands Motel is a great pick for Carolina Beach because it has so much to offer. Including cozy, beachfront rooms are indoor and outdoor pools, the Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar, an expansive pier, and a large stretch of golden sand just steps from the property. Golden Sands Motel is located 1 mile from the boardwalk, about a 3-minute drive, a 10-minute walk, or a quick uber ride away.

 

Check out the latest Golden Sands Motel rates to start planning your visit!

Is Carolina Beach Family Friendly?

The easy answer is yes! Carolina Beach boasts miles of beachfront, family-friendly attractions, and kid-friendly activities. From the Fort Fisher Aquarium in Kure Beach to the fun and amusement along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, families visiting the area will have a handful of beachside things to choose from that will delight all ages.

 

Check out the attractions and activities that make Carolina Beach so family-friendly.

Visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk

If you’re visiting Carolina Beach anytime between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk should be first on your list of places to visit. This hot spot for entertainment, attractions, and family fun are one of the area’s most popular destinations. During the summer months, this oceanfront boardwalk is buzzing with amusement rides, carnival games, and festivals.

 

Even if you’re visiting during the cooler months, the boardwalk also hosts seasonal festivals, entertainment, and much more. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk also has shopping and dining options from quick bites to sit-down restaurants that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Dive beneath the sea at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Pet a stingray and meet some of the world’s most exotic creatures at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Exhibits include the freshwater streams and swamps of the Cape Fear River, coastline habitats, and the reefs of the open ocean. The aquarium is a popular attraction for those rare rainy days or if you’re looking to escape the heat during the summer months.

Take on the Waves with Surfing Lessons

Opt for something a little different during your visit to Carolina Beach with Tony Silvagni Surf School. There’s no better souvenir to bring back home than an experience, and this is an experience you won’t forget! Learn to ride the waves with a private lesson or group lesson for the family as you’re coached by professional surf instructors. Call (910) 232-1592 for more information.

Shelling Cruise

Guests will no doubt have a shell of a time with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours. During a shelling cruise, participants will visit Masonboro Island, an 8 ½-mile long undeveloped barrier island. With the help of a knowledgeable guide, you may find some of Carolina Beach’s most infamous shells, including Horse conches, shark eyes, and baby’s ears. Kids will have a blast discovering and picking up native shells along the beachfront.

Take a hike at Carolina Beach State Park

If your idea of a perfect outing with the family includes exploring and educating, Carolina Beach State Park is the top destination. The park has picnic spots, fishing, and hiking with nearly 9 miles of trails. Get a closer look at the park’s biodiversity at the on-site visitor center, which houses indigenous plants and educational exhibits that will pique the interest of all ages.

 

Take your pick from our family-friendly Carolina Beach hotel rooms to start planning your visit!