Carolina Beach is a nearby destination that offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy plenty of activities and open spaces. Whether your family is in search of a weekend getaway, your group of friends or significant other is planning a trip or you’re contemplating a solo excursion, Carolina Beach is the perfect place to dip your toes in the water – literally and figuratively.

It’s easy to get here whether you’re already in-state, or you’re planning a trip from a neighboring state. Thanks to convenient access via numerous interstates, we’re only a quick car ride away for road trippers or anyone looking for an active staycation. 

Read on for our guide to 48 hours in Carolina Beach. 

Friday 

Check in to Relaxation

Even if it’s only for a short time, find your home away from home at one of Carolina Beach’s lodging options. 

Both of the island’s full-service hotels are located oceanfront and just steps from the famous Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront offers guest rooms and suites with scenic views of the ocean, an oceanfront pool and an outdoor tiki bar serving specialty drinks. The Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront features spacious guest rooms, private balconies, seaside views of Carolina Beach, an outdoor, resort-style pool and an indoor pool.  

Families wanting more space and privacy may want to reserve one of Carolina Beach’s vacation rentals, many of which feature amenities like direct beach access, decks with sunrise views, private pools, on-site grills and more. 

Saturday

Spend the Morning Waterside

Build the perfect breakfast sandwich at the grab-and-go Southerly Biscuit & Pie (currently open on Saturday and Sunday mornings). Then decompress by spending the next few hours on or by the water – it’s better than therapy!

  • Enjoy some beach time! Carolina Beach’s three miles of coastline features lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day
  • Explore Carolina Beach Lake Park via kayak, or take a jog or stroll around the paved path that encircles the lake
  • Rent a standup paddleboard or kayak from Paddle NC or walk or hike one of the trails at Carolina Beach State Park
  • Cast a line on an inshore, nearshore, offshore or even deep-sea fishing charter

 

Afternoon on the Go

Grab lunch and a drink with seating and a view on the outdoor patio or tiki bar at The Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar. Or, pick up a picnic lunch from The Veggie Wagon, then find the perfect spot to enjoy the afternoon. The Veggie Wagon offers fresh fruits, vegetables and other homemade products from some of the best local farms and small-batch producers.

 

Al Fresco Dinner and Drinks

End the day the way it started: enjoying the salty beach air:

  • Order takeout or dine al fresco at Carolina Smokehouse (known for its hardwood-smoked brisket, pork, ribs and chicken) or Nollie’s Taco Joint (known for having the “Best Tacos and Burritos at the Beach” and shaded decks) 
  • Or, pick up a seafood pot-on-the-go from Cape Fear Broil Company to prepare a Low Country Boil from the comfort of your vacation rental

 

Sunday

Brunch with a Side of Adventure

Enjoy a lazy brunch at Havana’s or Seawitch Café & Tiki Bar, both of which offer outdoor dining. Then get in a bit of outdoor adventure before heading home:

 

If a quick getaway or active staycation sounds like the perfect therapy, Carolina Beach has you covered.