Carlina Beach for family vacation
 

Hi - We're looking at going to Carolina Beach (not because we know anything about it but we're meeting friends from Atlanta and we thought that area might be halfway for both of us - we're in Williamsburg, VA) this summer. My step-brother lived in Wilmington and suggested it - but I am concerned because he's a big surfer and we have kids ( 7 - 9 yr old). I've perused some of the forums on the NC beaches and found references to Carolina Beach, but nothing specific to tell me more about it. I vacationed in OBX my childhood (back in the 70's) and our friends are used to the hustle and bustle (which I despise) of Myrtle Beach. What we want is a laid back beach area which is not over-developed and with no high rises, but which is close to a city with amenities that could entertain if the weather fails. We're not into pools while we're at the beach, but our friends would love to have access to one somewhere if possible. I'd really appreciate any ideas and suggestions and info.

The area around Wilmington/Wrightsville/Carolina is probably the best for surfing. And there is plenty nearby.

Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach have become family attractions for their small town charm and less hustle/bussle than Myrtle Beach. The surfing is good, however, there are certainly other things to do such as shop, eat, walk on the beach, fish off the piers or just sit and relax. I grew up around that area and still am amazed at how nice it can be in the summer with the bonus that Wilmington is not far away.

Suggest you also check out Kure Beach, it's just south of Carolina Beach. It's somewhat less developed than Carolina Beach, meaning less hi-rises. Your kids might enjoy the nearby Ft. Fisher. Also, in the summer heat they might enjoy exploring at the nearby Carolina Beach State Park, which is more shaded. Check out www.visitkure.com for some info.

Nearby Wilmington has the USS North Carolina and other attractions for that rainy day.

If you like even less hustle and bustle, I suggest Topsail island, half an hour northeast of Wilmington. Topsail is 95 % private houses with only a couple of condo developments in limited areas, mostly on the less desirable north end. There is plenty of room on the beaches.