THINGS TO DO

─── Local Area

activities and attractions around Carolina Beach

Nestled on Carolina Beach Avenue N, offers a charming coastal retreat just steps from the sandy shores. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations, a relaxing atmosphere, and stunning ocean views. With easy access to local attractions, dining, and outdoor activities, it's the perfect spot for a beach getaway. The Boardwalk Inn, nestled on Carolina Beach Avenue N, offers a charming coastal retreat just steps from the sandy shores. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations, a relaxing atmosphere, and stunning ocean views. With easy access to local attractions, dining, and outdoor activities, it's the perfect spot for a beach getaway.

Activities

Explore the Carolina Beach Boardwalk

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a classic family destination featuring amusement rides, arcade games, and delicious treats like Britt’s Donuts. During the summer, it comes alive with weekly fireworks and live music, but even in quieter months, it’s a fun place to explore with kids

North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Located just south of Carolina Beach, this aquarium is a favorite for families. Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and see marine life like sharks, rays, and sea turtles up close. There are also special programs and exhibits designed to educate while entertaining children of all ages

Hike at Carolina Beach State Park

This park is great for outdoor family adventures. It offers easy hiking trails where kids can discover the unique Venus flytrap plant, as well as opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and exploring nature. The Sugarloaf Dune trail is a highlight for families

Carolina Beach Lake Park

This freshwater lake near the ocean provides paddleboat rentals, picnic areas, and a playground for kids. During warmer months, families can enjoy outdoor movie nights here as well.

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Bars to visit

The Tropical

• Address: 2 Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC
• Highlights: A trendy three-story restaurant with rooftop seating and ocean views. It serves a mix of comfort food and creative dishes with vegan options.
• Must-Try: Hermie egg rolls (krab meat and cream cheese) and craft cocktails.


The Fat Pelican

• Vibe: Iconic Dive Bar
• Why Visit: Known as one of the “diviest dive bars in America,” The Fat Pelican is a local favorite with a quirky charm. It features a walk-in cooler with an extensive selection of over 1,000 beers and a laid-back outdoor patio.
• Highlights: Casual vibe, eclectic decor, and affordable drinks.


Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar
• Vibe: Oceanfront Tiki Bar
• Why Visit: Located on a pier over the beach, this bar offers stunning ocean views, tropical cocktails, and live music during warmer months. It’s perfect for relaxing with a drink while listening to the waves.
• Highlights: Signature tiki drinks and fresh seafood options.


Shag Bar
Vive: cozy and stylish spot

Why visit: It’s known for its high-quality cocktails and intimate ambiance, making it a great choice for a relaxed evening out.

• Highlights: The bar focuses on crafting exceptional cocktails, offering a more upscale yet welcoming vibe compared to some of the other nightlife options in the area. Perfect for those looking for a quieter, more refined setting to enjoy expertly mixed drinks.

Places To Eat

El Cazador Mexican Restaurant

• Highlights: Offers a wide variety of Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, and quesabirria tacos. They also have a great bar.
• Must-Try: Quesabirria tacos, fajitas de la costa, and fried ice cream are customer favorites.


SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar

• Highlights: This restaurant combines great food with live entertainment in a tiki bar setting. It’s family-friendly during the day and transforms into a lively nightlife spot in the evening.
• Must-Try: Ahi tuna nachos and tropical cocktails.


Nikki’s Gourmet & Sushi Bar

• Highlights: For sushi lovers, Nikki’s offers fresh rolls and Japanese-inspired dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Must-Try: Volcano roll and spicy tuna roll.


Britt’s Donut Shop (desert)
• Highlights: A Carolina Beach institution since 1939, Britt’s is famous for its simple yet irresistible glazed donuts. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
• Must-Try: Their classic glazed donuts (they only make one kind, and they’re perfect!). (seasonal)

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COFFEE SHOPS

Coffee shops:


Mālama Cafe (coffee)
• Highlights: A Hawaiian-inspired cafe offering specialty coffee made with sustainably sourced beans. Their signature drinks include the Malama Latte (espresso with macadamia nut syrup and coconut) and the Lilikoi Cold Brew (infused with passion fruit). They also serve healthy breakfast and lunch options like acai bowls and avocado toast.
• Why Visit: Cozy tropical vibes, eco-friendly practices, and a focus on high-quality ingredients make this a standout spot.


Crush and Grind (coffee)
• Highlights: A unique combination of coffee shop, wine bar, and craft beer spot. They serve organic, sustainably sourced coffee and are located near the boardwalk, making it perfect for grabbing a cup to enjoy by the beach.
• Why Visit: Sleek decor, great coffee, and the option to transition to wine or beer later in the day.


The Vault Coffee & Pour House (coffee)
• Highlights: Located in a former bank building, this cafe offers expertly crafted espresso drinks alongside fresh pastries. Their Sea Salt Caramel Latte is particularly popular.
• Why Visit: A relaxed atmosphere with both drive-thru convenience and dine-in charm.

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