Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach Review

A few miles northeast of Kure Beach, this town, established in 1857, has an old-fashioned boardwalk that has been dressed up and revitalized. A semi-open arcade features vintage games, a doughnut shop still fries its rounds daily and, in summer, there are fireworks and carnival rides. Bars and marinas line a central business district. The town's popularity with young people once earned it the nickname "Pleasure Island," but affluent families snapping up waterfront property are changing the demographics. Fishing is a major activity, and anglers can test their skills on the pier, in the surf, and on deep-sea charter excursions. You can also take a nightly party cruise.