Carolina Beach is a relaxed coastal town on Pleasure Island in southeastern North Carolina, about 15 miles south of Wilmington. The area has a long history. It was first home to the Cape Fear Indians, and later became a resort spot in the late 1800s. Back then, steamboats brought people from Wilmington down the Cape Fear River to get away from the summer heat. The town became official in 1925 and soon turned into one of the region’s favorite beach destinations.
Today, Carolina Beach is known for its wide sandy beaches and its classic oceanfront boardwalk, which has arcades, amusement rides, and the famous Britt’s Donuts—a summer favorite since 1939. It’s also easy to go fishing, surfing, or boating here. Right next to town is Carolina Beach State Park, where you can hike trails through maritime forests and see the rare Venus flytrap growing in its natural habitat.
Carolina Beach combines small-town charm, family-friendly attractions, fresh seafood restaurants, and lively summer events like fireworks and boardwalk concerts. It’s a more relaxed and nostalgic choice compared to larger Atlantic beach resorts.























