Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach offers a diverse dining scene with a variety of restaurants. Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar is a popular spot for coastal cuisine and live music, offering ocean views and a casual beachfront atmosphere. SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is known for its lively outdoor patio and frequent live entertainment, serving seafood and tropical drinks. For a more upscale experience, Havana’s Restaurant offers seafood and drinks in a historic cottage setting. Shuckin' Shack is a family-friendly hub for steamed and raw seafood. Lastly, El Cazador Carolina Beach provides a vibrant Mexican dining experience with live music and a full bar.

Carolina Beach features a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. The Windstar Hotel offers laid-back rooms with some kitchenettes and an outdoor pool. The Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront provides modern amenities with a bistro and two pools. For a more luxurious stay, the Golden Sands Oceanfront Hotel features indoor and outdoor pools along with a tiki bar. The Carolina Beach Inn offers relaxed rooms with BBQ facilities and a garden. Lastly, the Beach House provides beachfront rooms with an outdoor pool and sundeck.

Carolina Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. Public restrooms are available near the boardwalk and beach access points, and many are wheelchair accessible. The beach itself provides shower-off areas and picnic spots, making it ideal for family outings. Rental equipment for water sports like surfing and kayaking is readily available from local shops. Additionally, the town features a scenic lake park with walking paths and a picturesque setting for relaxation.

Visitors to Carolina Beach can enjoy a wide range of activities. Surfing and paddleboarding are popular water sports, with lessons available from local schools like Tony Silvagni Surf School. The nearby Carolina Beach State Park offers hiking trails and opportunities to explore coastal vegetation. Fishing is another favorite pastime, with the Kure Beach Fishing Pier nearby. For those interested in nature, the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project provides educational insights into local wildlife.

Carolina Beach is generally wheelchair accessible, with many amenities designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The town offers free beach wheelchair rentals through the Parks & Recreation Department and organizations like Ocean Cure. The boardwalk is fully accessible with ramps and wide pathways, and public restrooms are equipped with necessary features for accessibility. Many restaurants and shops also provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating.

Parking in Carolina Beach is generally convenient, with designated handicap parking spaces available at public beach access points and near the boardwalk. Many restaurants and hotels offer free parking lots, and street parking is also available. However, during peak season, parking spaces can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable. The town's layout makes it easy to walk or bike around, reducing the need for extensive parking.

Carolina Beach has a rich history, having been severely affected by Hurricane Hazel in 1954, which led to its rebuilding. The town is known for its laid-back motto, 'Relax, you’re here.' It hosts various events throughout the year, including summer fireworks and music festivals. The area is also home to unique wildlife, such as Venus flytraps found in the state park. Visitors can enjoy a mix of old-fashioned seaside fun and modern amenities.

Carolina Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher offer historical and educational experiences. The Fort Fisher State Recreation Area provides six miles of undeveloped beach for hiking and exploration. Additionally, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit for its nostalgic charm, shops, and dining options.