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Writer's pictureAngie Harris

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Updated: Mar 1, 2023


On a chilly Mother's Day weekend, I was yearning for a warmer climate. As we resided in Virginia, I inquired my husband about the possibility of a quick and reasonably priced trip down south by car. After searching through several websites, we stumbled upon a unique and unprecedented option: renting an Airbnb sailboat. I was pleasantly surprised to discover this possibility, as it was both cost-effective and novel.




Carolina Beach is a charming seaside town in New Hanover County, North Carolina, located on Pleasure Island. Here is some information about Carolina Beach:

  1. Beaches: Carolina Beach has a long, wide beach that's great for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, surfing, and other water sports.

  2. Boardwalk: The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a popular attraction that features shops, restaurants, and a carnival-like atmosphere. It's a great place to stroll, people-watch, and enjoy the ocean views.

  3. State Park: Carolina Beach State Park is a 761-acre park located on the west side of the island. Visitors can hike, bike, and kayak through the park's natural areas, and there are several camping options available.

  4. Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in Carolina Beach, with several fishing piers and charter boats available for hire. The town is known for its excellent surf fishing and offshore fishing opportunities.

  5. Events: Carolina Beach hosts several events throughout the year, including the Carolina Beach Music Festival, the Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla, and the Seafood, Blues, and Jazz Festival.

  6. Restaurants: Carolina Beach has a variety of restaurants that serve fresh seafood, classic American fare, and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy everything from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining experiences.

  7. Accommodations: There are several options for accommodations in Carolina Beach, including hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.

Overall, Carolina Beach is a laid-back, family-friendly destination that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, dining, and entertainment.


 

Here are some tips for traveling to Carolina Beach on a budget:

  1. Plan ahead: Look for deals on flights, rental cars, and accommodations well in advance of your trip. You can often save money by booking early.

  2. Travel during the off-season: Carolina Beach is a popular summer destination, but you can save money by traveling during the shoulder season (spring or fall) or even in the winter.

  3. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations: Consider staying in a motel or campground instead of a hotel. You can also look for vacation rentals that offer kitchenettes or full kitchens so you can save money on meals.

  4. Cook your own meals: Eating out can be expensive, so consider cooking some of your own meals. You can stock up on groceries at a local supermarket or farmers' market.

  5. Use public transportation: If you don't want to rent a car, you can use the Wave Transit bus system to get around Carolina Beach and the surrounding area.

  6. Enjoy free activities: There are several free activities in Carolina Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, walking along the beach, and exploring the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. You can also visit Carolina Beach State Park and enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities for free.

By using these tips, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Carolina Beach without sacrificing any of the fun and relaxation that this charming seaside town has to offer.


 

Some of our favorite things....


Staying on a sailboat may not be your usual accommodation choice, but waking up to the fresh air and sea breeze while sipping coffee was truly invigorating. The gentle swaying of the boat also made for a peaceful and relaxing experience. Though we couldn't take the sailboat out for a spin, we had a great time lounging on the deck. This unique lodging option was available on Airbnb and was even more affordable than renting a house.









 


The swings on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk are a popular attraction for visitors to the area. They are located at the northern end of the boardwalk, near the entrance to the beach. The swings are situated on a deck overlooking the ocean, providing a stunning view of the water and beach.

The swings themselves are wooden and have a classic, nostalgic feel. They are suspended from a metal frame and can accommodate two people each. Visitors can relax on the swings and enjoy the view or take photos with friends and family.

The swings are open to the public and free to use. They are especially popular at sunset when visitors can watch the sun dip below the horizon and the sky light up with vibrant colors. The swings are also a great spot for taking photos, whether it's a family photo, a romantic shot, or just a fun group selfie.

Overall, the swings on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk provide a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors to the area.


 

Carolina Beach is a popular beach town located on the eastern coast of North Carolina in the United States. Here is some information about the beach at Carolina Beach:

  1. Location: Carolina Beach is located on the Atlantic Ocean, on the southern end of Pleasure Island. It is approximately 15 miles south of Wilmington, North Carolina.

  2. Beach Access: There are several access points to the beach in Carolina Beach, including a boardwalk with public access at the end of Cape Fear Boulevard. There are also several public parking areas available throughout the town, as well as street parking.

  3. Activities: The beach at Carolina Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. There are also several restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby, including the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, which features amusement park rides, games, and a variety of food vendors.

  4. Amenities: The beach at Carolina Beach is equipped with public restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. There are also several lifeguard stations located along the beach during the summer months.


Overall, Carolina Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers looking for a fun and relaxing getaway on the North Carolina coast.


 

The Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar is a popular seafood restaurant located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. The Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar is located in the heart of Carolina Beach, at 6 North Lake Park Boulevard. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, with a focus on oysters. They offer a variety of oysters on the half-shell, as well as fried oysters, oyster shooter's, oyster stew, and oyster po' boys. Other menu items include crab cakes, shrimp, clams, and a variety of fish dishes. They also offer a selection of salads, sandwiches, and appetizers.

The Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar has a casual and laid-back atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating available. The interior is decorated with nautical-themed decor, and there are TVs throughout the restaurant for watching sports.The restaurant offers a daily happy hour from 4-6pm, with specials on oysters, shrimp, and beer.

The Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including oyster roasts, live music, and charity fundraisers. Overall, the Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar is a popular destination for seafood lovers in Carolina Beach, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.


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