Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned beachgoer, Carolina Beach, North Carolina offers the ideal backdrop for sun-soaked fun, fresh coastal eats and easygoing adventure.Here's how to make the most of a perfect beach day in this nostalgia-packed coastal town. 

Where to Rent Beach Gear

Don’t feel like hauling chairs, umbrellas or boards on your trip? No problem. Local rental companies have you covered.

  • Tony Silvagni Surf School: Tony Silvagni Surf School offers surfboard, paddleboard and bike rentals, as well as beach chairs, umbrellas and beach games. You can even schedule surf lessons with Tony himself, who is a professional longboard surfing champion, and learn how to catch some gnarly ones.

  • Pleasure Island Rentals: Pleasure Island Rentals delivers everything from beach setups to baby gear. Order ahead for a stress-free morning.

Many oceanfront hotels, like the Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront, offer complimentary chairs and umbrellas for guests. Always check with your hotel for on-site options. 

 

Grab A Quick Snack Or Drink

Start your day with a quick bite or caffeine fix:

  • Malama Cafe: This island-style cafe offers açaí bowls, smoothies and espresso drinks with coastal vibes.

  • North End Cafe: Grab a fresh iced coffee or breakfast biscuit from this walk-up window before heading to the sand. 

 

Hitting the Beach

For easy access and good amenities, head to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. It’s central, close to parking and steps away from shops, arcade, restaurants and treats—like the legendary Britt's Donuts. Paid parking in Carolina Beach runs from March 1 to Oct. 31 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Looking for something more secluded with less crowds than the boardwalk? Try the access at Oyster Shell Lane near the north end. This ADA-accessible beach access is within walking distance of the North End Cafe, so you can walk right on the beach with your food and drinks.

For a more spacious and adventurous experience, try Freeman Park, where you can drive directly onto the beach and set up camp for the day. 4-wheel drive vehicles are required if driving on the beach at Freeman Park. 

What Do The Flags Mean? 🌊

🟩 Green Flag

Green flags are for calm days. When lifeguard station flags are green, this means there is a low hazard risk. While there may be no indication of danger, normal precaution should be exercised.

🟨 Yellow Flag

Yellow flags mean water conditions are of significant risk. Swimmers who are weak should not be in the water during a yellow flag. Everyone else should be extra careful when entering the water during a yellow flag.

🟥 Red Flag

Red flags mean treacherous conditions. No swimmers should enter the water, but those who do need to understand that the risk to life is serious due to high chance of rip currents and undertow.

🏁 Checkered Flags

Checkered flags on the beach show where surfers should stay. These zones help keep swimmers and surfers safely separated.

Where To Pick Up Supplies

If you didn’t bring snacks or beverages, pop into the Sea Merchants, one of the oldest operating grocery stores in New Hanover County. This full-service grocery store has cold drinks, fresh produce and ready-to-go deli options for any beach adventure. Sea Creature Supplies & Rare Goods is a unique shop with curated goods and beach supplies, like eco-friendly sunscreen and refreshing drinks. On your way to the beach, stop by CB Surf Shop and peruse more than 3,000 sq. feet of clothing, surfboards, skateboards, sunscreen, and more. You can even rent a surfboard, paddleboard or bodyboard at the shop. 

Lunch Break: Walk to the Boardwalk

If you’re at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk access, you’re a short walk to places like The Tropical, where they serve up fresh salads, crunchy egg rolls, delicious poké bowls and refreshing mocktails in an airy atmosphere. If you’re feeling a little more fancy, Havana’s Restaurant is a short walk across the street for some casual seafood served up in a 1916 beach cottage with a lovely patio. After lunch, head to the iconic Britt's Donuts. These made-from-scratch glazed donuts are a must-have for any Carolina Beach trip, but they’re only available seasonally. Pro-tip: eat them while they're fresh for the best experience—it’s not like there will be any left for later, anyway.

Get Out on the Water

If you're ready to leave the sandy shore and hit the water, there are plenty of options. Book an Eco Kayak Tour or just rent kayaks for a half day with Paddle NC to explore the natural beauty of Carolina Beach and its waterways. Again, Tony Silvagni Surf School offers paddleboard and surf lessons for all skill levels. So, get out there and start to shred. 

Evening Bonus: Stick Around

Once the sun sets, the fun continues in Carolina Beach. Enjoy local seafood and some drinks and Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar. This casual coastal restaurant is built on the remnants of the old Center Pier and boasts incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Watch the evening fireworks that take place every Thursday night at 9 p.m. during the summer season. Stand with your toes in the sand right in front of the boardwalk for the best view.