
Carolina Beach beach accommodations
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Carolina Beach
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Vacation rentals for every style
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Popular amenities for Carolina Beach vacation rentals
Family friendly accommodations in Carolina Beach

Condo 1 block to ocean & pickleball y’all

☼Vitamin Sea 1 Block From The Beach☼

Oak Island 3 bedrooms, walk to beach, pool table

The Love Shack

Downtown Southport Cottage

Pond View Loft Apt

Centrally located cute family cottage

Wilmington Retreat
Dog friendly accommodations in Carolina Beach

Charming Beach Cottage-1 block to beach/boardwalk

*2 Blocks to Beach, Dog friendly w/no pet fees!*

Bladen Bungalow - Dwntwn Wilmy - Dog Friendly

Beach House Getaway

🐶 BOW•WOW🐾 BEACH•BUNGALOW™🏖 🏠Cozy & Dog Friendly🐶

Outdoor Shower & Hot Tub - Central to Everything!

Walk to the Beach, Fenced, Fire Pit

Pet Friendly Paradise; 15 Minutes to Beach/ D-Town
Other great vacation rentals in Carolina Beach

The Great Wave

Wonderful Ocean Views - Large 5 BR Home near Beach

Beautiful cottage a short stroll to the ocean

Oceanview Condo, Pool, 2 min walk to the sand

The Great (and Charming) Outlook

Tranquil Haven, Relaxing Outdoor Space & Hot Tub

Beach Island Bum Short Walk to Beach, Pet Friendly

The Great Escape- A Waterfront Retreat
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Carolina Beach
Total rentals
1.7K properties
Total number of reviews
75K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
1.3K properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
620 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
680 properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
680 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Carolina Beach
Introduction
This festive beach town just south of Wilmington, North Carolina, is classic summertime Americana. When fireworks explode over the vintage oceanfront boardwalk after sunset, it’s easy to understand why vacationing families have been flocking to Carolina Beach since the late 19th century, when visitors arrived via steamship down the Cape Fear River. Though the town is less than three square miles, there’s no shortage of things to do: Take a surf lesson or jetski in the waves on the Atlantic Ocean side, fish for mackerel and perch off the wooden pier, or see how many species of migratory birds you can count while hiking the nine miles of white-sand trails at Carolina Beach State Park.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is a popular spring and summertime destination. Summer days are hot, humid, and breezy, and temperatures usually crack 90 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. The water temperature is not far behind, reaching a bathtub-like 82 degrees. Summer is also the region’s wettest time of year: expect 7 to 8 inches of rain in July, August, and September. It’s always good to be mindful of tropical storms during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Fall brings fewer crowds and milder temperatures, so it’s a good time to stay in one of the area’s vacation rentals, though it may be too cold to swim. Winter highs hover around 60 degrees, with overnight lows close to freezing, so pack accordingly and make sure to layer up.
Top things to do in Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Though it dates to the 1880s, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk has been rebuilt, expanded, and modernized over the years, but it still retains its throwback charm. These days you’ll find an assortment of carnival rides, arcade games, candy vendors, and tiki bars, just steps from the sand.
Carolina Beach State Park
Highlights of this 761-acre park, nestled between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, include the 50-foot Sugarloaf Dune and nine miles of hiking trails for all skill levels (don’t miss the carnivorous pitcher plants and Venus flytraps that line the half-mile Flytrap Trail). There’s also a marina with two public boat ramps from which you can depart on fishing excursions to Myrtle Grove Sound, the river, or the sea.
Diving
With unpredictable currents and dangerous shoals lurking beneath the surface, this stretch of North Carolina coastline has been perilous for mariners of yore, claiming nearly 65 shipwrecks within a 50-mile radius. But the wrecks are a boon for divers, who can book charter trips to explore the Condor Heritage Dive Site, an area containing 21 shipwrecks including the Condor, which ran aground while evading Union ships in 1864.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Carolina Beach?
Carolina Beach enjoys a temperate climate. Summers get warm, with temperatures ranging from 80-90°F (27-32°C), while winters are typically mild and have an average temperature of 40-60°F (4-15°C). The area experiences rainfall throughout the year, with late summer and early fall being the wettest.
What are some of the best things to do in Carolina Beach?
There's an abundance of activities to enjoy in Carolina Beach. You can hike in the Carolina Beach State Park, explore the local shops and eateries on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, or spend the day relaxing at the beach. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is also a popular destination.
What is the best time of year to visit Carolina Beach?
The most popular time to visit Carolina Beach is during the summer months, especially between May and August, when the weather is warm and conducive for beach activities. During this period, the area hosts several events such as the Carolina Beach Music Festival.
What are the best places to stay in Carolina Beach?
Frequently suggested areas to stay in Carolina Beach include the boardwalk area for its proximity to shops and restaurants, and the northern part of the island for its tranquil, residential atmosphere. Staying around Lake Park Boulevard provides easy access to both the beach and the town's main amenities.
What are the best places to visit in Carolina Beach?
Carolina Beach State Park is a frequently suggested location with its hiking trails and fishing spots. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk, known for its shops and restaurants, is another popular destination. Many visitors also enjoy the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.
What are some hiking trails in Carolina Beach?
Carolina Beach State Park is home to several hiking trails. Some of the most popular ones are the Sugarloaf Trail, a 3-mile (4.8 km) trail offering scenic views, and the Flytrap Trail, a shorter, 0.35-mile (0.56 km) trail known for its unique carnivorous plants.
What are some family activities to do in Carolina Beach?
Carolina Beach is home to a variety of family activities. You can explore the Carolina Beach State Park, stroll along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and enjoy the sandy beaches. For a fun-filled educational experience, consider visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, a widely recommended destination for both adults and children.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Carolina Beach?
Popular day trip ideas from Carolina Beach include visiting the historic city of Wilmington, about 16 miles (26 km) away, or exploring the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, both located on the southern end of Pleasure Island.
How much does it cost to stay in hotel rentals in Carolina Beach?
Experience the best of Carolina Beach with our hotel rentals, starting at about $120 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
Are there apartment rentals with a dedicated workspace in Carolina Beach?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 50 apartment rentals in Carolina Beach featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
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- Sea Gull Public Beach Access
- Scallop Public Beach Access
- Seahorse Public Beach Access
- Carolina Beach Lake Park
- Soundside Park
- Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
- Cherry Grove Point
- North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
- Hamlet Public Beach Acces
- Surf City Pier
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