OUR GUIDE TO

Things To Do in Carolina Beach, NC

Carolina Beach is the kind of place that turns a simple weekend into a full-on coastal story. Sunrise beach walks, boardwalk lights at night, local seafood, and easy adventures in between. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, this guide covers the best things to do in Carolina Beach, all with The Starlite Inn as your walkable home base.

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Aerial view of a coastal town with a beachfront hotel, Ferris wheel, and amusement rides near the ocean under a clear sky.
A DREAMY SUMMER POSTCARD

Carolina Beach Boardwalk: Classic Oceanfront Fun

Aerial view of a beachfront town with a Ferris wheel near the shore and buildings extending inland under a blue sky.Group of windswept trees bending in one direction on a grassy field under a partly cloudy sky with three birds flying above.

Sand, sun, and surf. Carolina Beach is classic, free-spirited, and filled with the charm of vacations past. Stroll the famed boardwalk for the best restaurants to enjoy the familiar taste of summer. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for stunning views and soon-to-be cherished memories. When you’re ready for an adventure, Wilmington–one of the state’s hippest small cities–is just a short drive south.    

Things to do in CB
Ocean waves crashing against vertical wooden pilings under a pier on a sunny day.
Person walking along a sandy beach during an orange sunset with gentle waves.
Take a Look!
Things to do
Eat + Drink
Adventure
Sights + Sounds

An evening at the boardwalk is a vibe. Salt air, arcade energy, sweet treats, and that electric beach-town glow. Start with a stroll, grab a bite, and lean into the “vacation mode” that Carolina Beach does so well.

Rides, games, and family-friendly fun
Oceanfront views and photo spots
Food, treats, and casual dining
Things to do in CB
Calm water with shallow pools and muddy sand reflecting a sunset sky and distant dark vegetation.Person fishing at the edge of a calm sea during a colorful sunset with a clear blue sky.

Beach Time, Your Way

Whether you want a full beach day with chairs and a cooler or a quick morning dip, the shoreline is the main event. Go early for quiet vibes, or head out later when the beach feels social and lively.

Best Beach Moments

Sunrise walks and coffee on the sand
Afternoon sun + swim breaks
Sunset strolls before dinner
Wooden pier extending over ocean water at sunset with a partly cloudy sky.

Freeman Park: Off-Road Beach Adventure

If you like a more rugged, wide-open beach feel, Freeman Park is a favorite. It’s a great option for travelers who want something a little different from the main beach scene.
Outdoor seating area with light green metal mesh chairs, potted plants, and wooden privacy screens along a white wall with windows.Wooden nightstand with a drawer, a remote control on top, a hanging round white lamp above, and a surfboard-shaped wall decoration reading 'PRAY FOR SURF'.

Carolina Beach State Park: Trails, Nature, and a Reset Button

Need a break from the buzz? Head to Carolina Beach State Park for fresh air and coastal nature. It’s a great “half-day” plan—especially if you want to balance beach time with something quieter.
Easy trails and scenic overlooks
Great for couples, families, and solo explorers
A calm contrast to boardwalk energy
Aerial view of a crowded beach with umbrellas, hotels, and an amusement park near a coastline under an orange sunset sky.
Four hamburgers with lettuce, tomato, and cheese on a plate, an American flag toothpick on one burger, bowls of salad and coleslaw, two glasses of tomato juice with striped straws, and a tray of roasted chicken on a red and white checkered tablecloth.

Local Eats & Beach Bars: Where to Go Hungry

Carolina Beach is full of spots that feel like vacation: casual seafood, laid-back patios, and places where you can show up sandy and happy.

Ask a local, and you’ll get ten different answers, which is exactly the point. Pick a spot, try something you haven’t had before, and make it part of the trip.

Day Trips & Nearby Coastal Favorites

If you’re staying more than a weekend, add a day trip. Nearby coastal towns and Wilmington make it easy to mix beach time with shopping, riverwalks, and nightlife.
Boardwalk with palm trees and a colorful Ferris wheel at an amusement area under a clear sky.
Wilmington for restaurants, history, and riverfront strolling
Nearby beaches for a change of scenery
Easy adventures without overplanning

Seasonal Events in Carolina Beach

From summer energy to shoulder-season charm, Carolina Beach has a calendar that keeps the town lively. Check what’s happening during your dates and build one “event night” into the stay.

Carolina Beach FAQs

How far is The Starlite Inn from the beach?

We are located just a short walk from the beach and Carolina Beach Boardwalk.

Do you offer free parking?

Yes, free on-site parking is available for guests.

Is Wi-Fi included?

Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Where is the hotel located?

We are located on Cape Fear Boulevard in the heart of Carolina Beach, North Carolina.

Two young women in bikinis enjoying a sunny day on a sandy beach beside a red off-road vehicle.

What to Do

$
5.6 MILES

North Carolina Aquarium

Make connections with the natural world at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Feel the smooth skin of a gliding stingray, look an albino alligator in the eye, and delight in a family of otters playing in a waterfall.

PHONE
(910) 772-0500
ADDRESS
900 Loggerhead Road
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$$
A SHORT WALK AWAY

Lazy Pirate

Beachfront bar & grill with seafood, tropical cocktails, sand volleyball courts, corn hole boards, axe throwing, & live bands.

PHONE
(910) 458-5299
ADDRESS
701 North Lake Park Boulevard
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1.6 MILES

Freeman Park

Popular seaside park for tent camping & bonfires, plus fishing, swimming & boating.

PHONE
(910) 458-4614
ADDRESS
1800 Canal Drive
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4.9 MILES

Fort Fisher

Site of Civil War’s largest Amphibious Battle, Fort Fisher has a scenic trail that leads around the fort remains. Also, guests will have access to a video on the history of Fort Fisher, exhibits, and artifacts recovered from sunken ships.

PHONE
(910) 251-7340
ADDRESS
1610 Fort Fisher Boulevard South
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$$
14 MILES

Fork and Cork

Gourmet burgers, sandwiches & appetizers are offered at this quaint, brick-walled bar with TVs.

PHONE
(910) 228-5247
ADDRESS
122 Market Street
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$$
A SHORT WALK AWAY

Buzz's Roost

Easygoing stop for seafood & tacos with a full bar amid shabby beach decor with outdoor seating.

PHONE
(910) 599-5593
ADDRESS
8 Pavilion Avenue South
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$
A SHORT WALK AWAY

Britts Donuts

Britt’s first opened in 1939 and has become famous for their homemade glazed donuts. It can be the perfect place to end your morning run or the spot to cap off your evening beachside with a late night treat.

PHONE
(910) 707-0755
ADDRESS
11 Carolina Beach Avenue North
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$
A SHORT WALK AWAY

Malama Cafe

Malama Cafe is a locally owned coffee shop with a focus on delicious drinks and fresh and healthy breakfast and lunch.

PHONE
(910) 707-5077
ADDRESS
108 Cape Fear Boulevard
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Awesome vegan and gluten free options!

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$
14.1 miles

Bespoke Coffee

Classic coffee shop beverages & baked goods with mid-century interior details & natural light.

PHONE
(910) 769-4088
ADDRESS
202 Princess Street
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A short walk away

Carolina Beach Boardwalk

A classic American boardwalk hugging the sandy beach with kid-friendly rides & snack bars, plus concerts & fireworks.

PHONE
(910) 458-8434
ADDRESS
Carolina Beach Avenue South
INSIDER TIP

Named one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country by Food & Wine magazine!

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$
5.6 MILES

North Carolina Aquarium

Make connections with the natural world at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Feel the smooth skin of a gliding stingray, look an albino alligator in the eye, and delight in a family of otters playing in a waterfall.

PHONE
(910) 772-0500
ADDRESS
900 Loggerhead Road
INSIDER TIP
VIEW MAP
VIEW WEBSITE
To Do & See
$$
A SHORT WALK AWAY

Lazy Pirate

Beachfront bar & grill with seafood, tropical cocktails, sand volleyball courts, corn hole boards, axe throwing, & live bands.

PHONE
(910) 458-5299
ADDRESS
701 North Lake Park Boulevard
INSIDER TIP
VIEW MAP
VIEW WEBSITE
Bars & Booze
1.6 MILES

Freeman Park

Popular seaside park for tent camping & bonfires, plus fishing, swimming & boating.

PHONE
(910) 458-4614
ADDRESS
1800 Canal Drive
INSIDER TIP
VIEW MAP
VIEW WEBSITE
To Do & See

From the Guide

Our Favorites

Britt's Donuts

Britts is a must. This charming, family-owned bakery makes the best homemade glazed donuts you'll ever eat. Make sure you pop by on your stroll down the boardwalk!

Freeman Park

After you've sunbathed to your hearts content, check out Freeman Park. This special stretch of beach is a hot spot for fishing, swimming, boating, tent camping, and even horseback riding!

Lazy Pirate

There's always something fun to do at the Lazy Pirate. Grab a cocktail. Play volleyball or cornhole. Listen to live music. Try your hand at axe throwing. It's guaranteed fun for the whole family!

Aerial view of a winding river flowing through green marshland and sandbanks.
Wet golden retriever standing in ocean surf with tongue out on a sunny day.

Stay Close to the Best of Carolina Beach

Make The Starlite Inn your home base for beach mornings, boardwalk nights, and everything in between.
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