Places to Stay | Things to Do | Food & Drinks

Family summer fun returns to Carolina Beach with a variety of attractions, activities and places to eat perfect for kids of any age. Enjoy fresh donuts and handmade fudge on the Boardwalk and fly high on seaside amusement rides. Sign the kids up for surf camp, paddle out on a guided kayak tour with the whole family or venture to the nearby aquarium to see the new otter exhibit. From fresh seafood and live music at tiki cafes, to ocean-front accommodations and family-friendly vacation rentals, explore our guide to a perfect family beach vacation before booking your next trip.

Charter a half-day fishing excursion for the family, take a guided tour with area experts or chart your own course with a rental from island outfitters. From stand up paddleboarding at a state park to kayaking to nearby island reserves, explore area waterways from the river to the sea. Dive North Carolina’s first heritage dive site just offshore or sign the kids up for lessons to surf alongside an Olympic Gold Medalist, or at island surf camps. All aboard for these water activities in Carolina Beach.

Summer events return to the island with seaside fireworks every Thursday night, July - September. Families enjoy Free Movies at the Lake every Sunday evening beginning July 11 - September 25. Attend the East Coast “Got-Em-On” King Mackerel Tournament that has been a staple of the North Carolina fishing scene for 40 plus years, July 10 & 11. Plan to experience one of the longest-running beach music festivals in the country at the Carolina Beach Music Festival on Aug. 14.