What to do in Carolina Beach, NC

Activities, attractions and tours

A crowded beach with waves, umbrellas, and buildings in the background.
Two people fishing by a pier with waves in the background.
A large yellow amusement park ride against a clear sky.
A beachside bar with a green exterior and a sign listing beer prices.
A beach with waves and tall grasses.

Things to do

Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise

Intracoastal Waterway: Eco Tour

฿3,971
per adult
Intracoastal Waterway: Eco Tour
Picture 4 for Activity Wilmington: Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour

Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour

฿794
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour
Picture 5 for Activity Wilmington History and Architecture Tour

Wilmington History and Architecture Tour

฿827
per adult
Wilmington History and Architecture Tour
Carolina Beach History and Mural Walking Tour

Carolina Beach History and Mural Walking Tour ( TUESDAYS!)

฿994
per adult
Carolina Beach History and Mural Walking Tour ( TUESDAYS!)
Masonboro Island Intracoastal Kayak Tour

Masonboro Island Intracoastal Kayak Tour

฿2,250
per traveller
Masonboro Island Intracoastal Kayak Tour
Cape Fear River Leisure Kayak Family-Friendly Adventure

Cape Fear River Leisure Kayak Family-Friendly Adventure

฿1,986
per traveller
Cape Fear River Leisure Kayak Family-Friendly Adventure
Private Boat Charter for Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach

Private Boat Charter for Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach

฿40,538
per traveller
Private Boat Charter for Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach
Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Tour

Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Tour

฿629
per adult
Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Tour
Southport Guided E-Bike Tour History and Nature

Southport Guided E-Bike Tour History and Nature

฿3,645
per adult
Southport Guided E-Bike Tour History and Nature
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What to do in Carolina Beach

Stay near popular Carolina Beach attractions

A colorful street with a blue building labeled 'Krazy Kones' and a sign for 'Fried Dough Cakes'.

Carolina Beach Boardwalk

9.0/10 (1,273 reviews)
This vintage 1930s boardwalk combines classic seaside charm with ocean views and entertainment. Savour fresh seafood or famous Britt's Donuts while enjoying weekly summer fireworks and live music events.
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Where to stay in Carolina Beach

Find the best Carolina Beach areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A wooden boardwalk with a Ferris wheel, palm trees, and a beach in the background.

Wilmington Beach

While there might not be top attractions in Wilmington Beach, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Carolina Beach Lake Park and Carolina Beach Boardwalk.

A crowded beach with waves, umbrellas, and buildings in the background.
Photo by Wilmington and Beaches CVB
Open Photo by Wilmington and Beaches CVB

Downtown

If you're spending some time in Downtown, Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Carolina Beach Arcade are top sights worth seeing.

Day trip destinations from Carolina Beach

The Alton L. Lemnion Federal Building, a United States Court House, with palm trees and a flag.

Wilmington

A calm lake with green grass in the foreground and a tree line in the background.

Winnabow

Frequently asked questions

Is Carolina Beach worth visiting?
Known for its coastal beaches and watersports, discovering awesome things to do in Carolina Beach is simple. Don't forget to add Carolina Beach State Park to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Carolina Beach?
Kick your day off with a visit to Tregembo Animal Park and Odysea Surf and Kiteboard School. Then, check out other areas of Carolina Beach for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Carolina Beach?
Carolina Beach State Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Carolina Beach and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Carolina Beach?
Three days is plenty for a short trip to Carolina Beach — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good feel for the place. But if you want to really soak it all in, hang around for at least seven to ten days to discover some hidden gems too.
Is Carolina Beach a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your style of getaway, Carolina Beach is a perfect place to visit. Find top attractions, including Odysea Surf and Kiteboard School, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Wilmington Beach, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 2 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Carolina Beach with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Carolina Beach with kids.

What to do in Carolina Beach for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Carolina Beach. Whether you're into the arts, outdoor activities or just love finding new places to explore, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Carolina Beach?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Carolina Beach is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Carolina Beach State Park is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.