The best time to vacation in Carolina Beach isApril and May, September through November when visitors are fewer and prices are reasonable if looking for the best rates.
Low Season: April and May, September through November is less busy. Average Daily Rates of:
- 2 Star: $46-$150
- 3 Star: $92-$200
- 2 Star: $56-$175
- 3 Star: $107-$290
Sights you mustn’t miss
This vacation destination is all about the beach and the sea, so set your sights of fun adventures on both in our “Fun to do” section. One sight you just can’t miss is spending time on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, named in the top 10 in the U.S.Take a stroll around the Federal Point Yacht Club and see some of the worlds most luxurious yachts moored there.
Take a tour of Fort Fisher State Park and experience history on the coast. Walk around the ruins of this historic old fort, and view the many exhibit panels giving you history and photographs.
Fun things to do
You will find some of the best and most exciting fishing charter experiences off the coast of Carolina Beach. Whether you are an experienced angler or novice, this is a great place to get your first experience, or that trophy you’ve been waiting for.Another fun time is for you to rent a Pontoon Boat and take the family for a cruise along the coast. You won’t believe how much fun this can be, and a great place to tan up.
If you are a scuba diver, you have hit the pot of gold, with some of the finest waters and dive shops available to guide you. If you’ve never dived, here is your chance to get certified.
This is also known for its surfing here on the East Coast, so why not hit the surf or for the novice, take a lesson.
Wine and Dine Tips
Being on a sea coastline that features fishing, you can expect some awesome seafood restaurants. And so it is true. Here are a few local favorites for you to choose from.The Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar has an amazing view of the ocean and the stars from its perch above the water on the pier. Serving local catch and tantalizing cocktails this is a fun relaxing experience for dining in your swim attire.
Another local and visitor favorite if the Fat Pelican where you can experience it’s massive walk in fridge, offering for your thirst over 350 beers to go with your light lunch or dinner. Also available a nice list of wines if so inclined.
Another favorite of anyone who has eaten there is the Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar where metal buckets overflowing with oysters or shrimp are the target. It’s a combo of beach setting, seafood restaurant and sports bar. This is a fun place and local favorite.
Day Trips
You might decide to take a drive and visit the beautiful coastal town of Atlantic Beach, and the historic Fort Macon State Park, a totally restored Civil War fort.Lunch or dinner on the pier is a must.
Another nice ride up the coast is to Cape Lookout National Seashore with it’s stunning deserted beaches, historic lighthouse, and wild horses running the beaches.
Our recommendations in Carolina Beach
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites
Located in Wrightsville Beach, Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is near the airport and on the beach. Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include New Hanover County Arboretum and Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Traveling with kids? Consider Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens, or check out an event or a game at Legion Stadium.
Extended Stay America Suites Wilmington New Centre Drive
Located in Wilmington, Extended Stay America Wilmington - New Centre Dr is in the city center. Bellamy Mansion Museum and Burgwin-Wright House are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Halyburton Park and Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park and New Hanover County Arboretum are also worth visiting.
Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall
Located in Wilmington, Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall is in a shopping district and near the beach. Johnnie Mercer's Pier and Poplar Grove Plantation are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Halyburton Park and Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation. New Hanover County Arboretum and Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park are also worth visiting.
Wingate By Wyndham Southport
Located in Southport, Wingate By Wyndham Southport is near the airport. Old Brunswick County Jail Museum and Bald Head Island Lighthouse are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Bay Beach and Caswell Beach.
Best Western Plus Westgate Inn & Suites
Located in Leland, Best Western Plus Westgate Inn & Suites is in the city center and near the beach. Mayfaire Town Center and The Cotton Exchange are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Wrightsville Beach and Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park and New Hanover County Arboretum are also worth visiting.
AmeriVu Inn
Located in Wilmington, AmeriVu Inn is in the city center and near the airport. Halyburton Park and Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens and Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park are also worth visiting.
Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach
Located in Carolina Beach, Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach is on the beach. Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Carolina Beach Fishing Pier are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and Tregembo Animal Park.
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Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carolina Beach
Located in Carolina Beach, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carolina Beach is near the beach. Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Carolina Beach Fishing Pier are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and Tregembo Animal Park are also worth visiting.
Beacon House Inn Bed & Breakfast
Located in Carolina Beach, Beacon House Inn Bed & Breakfast is near the beach. Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Carolina Beach Fishing Pier are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and Tregembo Animal Park. Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens and Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park are also worth visiting.