North Carolina Beachfront Bliss: Holiday Planning Tips
This blog will help you plan your trip for the perfect Carolina and Kure Beach getaway, from big group beach rentals to activities and where to eat.
Considered two of the best beaches in NC, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, located on North Carolina’s beautiful Pleasure Island, offer a delightful mix of relaxation, adventure, and history. These neighboring beach towns boast pristine coastlines, natural beauty, and activities for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned beachgoer, thoughtful holiday planning can significantly enhance your experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover key tips for holiday planning, comparisons between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, activities, dining options, annual events, and more.
Before We Start, Here’s a Little About Us…
At Carolina Beach Realty, we’ve got a range of fantastic rentals. Whether you’re into cozy oceanfront condos or big beachfront houses, we’ve got something for everyone. Want to enjoy the area like a local? Check out our destination blog! We’ve got the scoop on the best time of the year for fishing, lots of pet travel tips, and what it’s like to call these beach towns home. Our blog is packed with articles and local insights to help you make the most of your stay.
Key Differences Between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
While both share a friendly beach-town atmosphere, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach offer distinctly different vibes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Carolina Beach
- Vibe: Lively, vibrant, and social.
- Main Attractions: The iconic Carolina Beach Boardwalk with amusement rides, restaurants, and shops.
- Activities: Perfect for those seeking excitement—water sports, fireworks, live entertainment, and a buzzing nightlife.
- Atmosphere: Ideal for families, groups, and visitors who enjoy an active beach environment.
Kure Beach
- Vibe: Quieter, more laid-back, with small-town charm.
- Main Attractions: The Kure Beach Pier, Fort Fisher, and uncrowded, pristine beaches.
- Activities: Ideal for those looking to unwind—fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and quiet beach days.
- Atmosphere: Great for nature lovers, couples, and those seeking peace away from crowds.
Proximity
Carolina Beach and Kure Beach are just a short drive apart, making it easy to visit both during your stay. Spend one day at Carolina Beach’s lively boardwalk, and the next relaxing on Kure Beach’s tranquil shores.
Things to Do in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Both towns offer a blend of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and family-friendly attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities
Sunbathing, Swimming, and Beach Sports
Both beaches feature wide, sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying beach volleyball. The gentle waves make these beaches ideal for families with children.
Water Sports
For thrill-seekers, Carolina Beach offers water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing. Local rental shops provide equipment, and lessons are available for beginners.
Nature and Wildlife
Carolina Beach State Park
Carolina Beach State Park boasts nearly nine miles of hiking trails through maritime forests and wetlands. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to the rare Venus flytrap. Whether you’re hiking or enjoying the views along the Cape Fear River, this park is a must-visit.
Masonboro Island
For a more secluded experience, take a trip to Masonboro Island, an undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat. Explore pristine beaches, spot dolphins and sea turtles, and enjoy a peaceful escape.
History and Culture
Fort Fisher State Historic Site
History buffs will appreciate Fort Fisher, a significant Civil War site with preserved earthworks and guided tours. Explore the museum exhibits and learn about the fort’s strategic importance during the war.
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Located just a short drive from Kure Beach, the North Carolina Aquarium is great for families. With interactive exhibits showcasing marine life—like sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays—the aquarium provides an educational and fun experience.
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is an iconic attraction. With amusement rides, games, and food vendors, it offers fun for the whole family. Summer visitors can enjoy weekly fireworks and live music, making the boardwalk the heart of Carolina Beach’s summer nightlife.
Fishing
Fishing is a beloved activity in both towns. You can enjoy pier fishing at Kure Beach Pier or surf fishing along the coast. For those seeking bigger catches, deep-sea fishing charters are available for offshore adventures.
Rainy Day Activities in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Rainy weather doesn’t have to dampen your spirits in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
Fort Fisher Historic Site and Museum
Step into history at Fort Fisher. On rainy days, explore Civil War-era artifacts and watch a video detailing the fort’s role in the war. If the weather improves, explore the outdoor remains.
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Rainy days are perfect for exploring the North Carolina Aquarium. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits featuring sharks, turtles, and otters, ensuring plenty of indoor fun.
Good Hops Brewery
For a relaxed indoor experience, visit Good Hops Brewery in Carolina Beach. This local brewery offers craft beer in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a rainy afternoon.
Shipwreck Neon Mini Golf
For family-friendly fun, check out Shipwreck Neon Mini Golf. This indoor mini-golf course features neon-lit holes with fun themes, providing hours of entertainment.
Eating Out in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Both towns offer a variety of dining options for every palate. Here’s a look at some top spots in each location.
Carolina and Kure Beach Dining
Granny’s Country Kitchen
Start your day at Granny’s Country Kitchen, where generous portions of pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and crispy bacon make it a favorite for hearty Southern breakfasts.
Kate’s Pancake House
Another breakfast gem, Kate’s Pancake House offers an extensive pancake menu and a casual, welcoming vibe—perfect for fueling up before a day at the beach.
The Dive Food & Spirits
For lunch, head to The Dive Food & Spirits, where hearty pub fare like burgers and sandwiches is served in a laid-back, beachy setting.
Bowman’s at the Beach
Seafood lovers should stop by Bowman’s at the Beach for fresh, locally sourced seafood like fried shrimp and clam strips.
Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar
Enjoy dinner with a view at Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar. This oceanfront restaurant offers fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, all served with stunning views of the Atlantic.
Freddie’s Restaurant
If you’re craving Italian, Freddie’s Restaurant offers cozy dining with homemade pasta dishes like veal parmigiana and seafood-stuffed ravioli.
Michael’s Seafood Restaurant
Seafood enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Michael’s Seafood Restaurant, famous for its award-winning crab cakes and local favorites like shrimp scampi and clam chowder.
Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill
Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill is a haven for seafood lovers, offering dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fish tacos in a relaxed island setting.
Annual Events in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Both towns host a variety of exciting events throughout the year, offering even more reasons to visit.
Pleasure Island Jeep Jam (May)
This three-day event celebrates Jeep culture with vehicle showcases, live music, food trucks, and activities like the Show and Shine Jeep Exhibition.
Carolina Beach Music Festival (June)
The Carolina Beach Music Festival is the longest-running beach music festival in the U.S. It’s a day of dancing in the sand, set to popular beach music bands.
Fireworks by the Sea & Boardwalk Blast (July)
Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and live music at the Fireworks by the Sea & Boardwalk Blast, held on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk.
Carolina Beach Dragon Boat Regatta and Festival (September)
Join the Dragon Boat Regatta or watch the colorful boat races from the shore. The event also features live music and vendors.
Farewell Summer Jazz (October)
Kure Beach says goodbye to summer with a jazz funeral procession, live music, and food trucks, creating a festive yet relaxed atmosphere.
Cape Fear Kite Festival (November)
The Cape Fear Kite Festival fills the sky with colorful kites. Held at Fort Fisher, this event includes LED-lit kites, live music, and food vendors.
Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake (November)
The Island of Lights Festival kicks off the holiday season with a light display, live music, and a visit from Santa at Carolina Beach Lake Park.
Types of Rentals in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Choosing the right rental is key to a perfect vacation. Here’s a breakdown of rental options:
Oceanfront Condos and Homes
- Condos: Great for smaller groups or budget-conscious travelers, offering shared amenities like pools and fitness centers.
- Single-Family Homes: Ideal for families, with many featuring pools or hot tubs.
- Beach Cottages: Nostalgic rentals, often just steps from the beach.
Duplexes and Canalfront Rentals
- Duplexes: Perfect for larger groups, providing separate living spaces while remaining affordable.
- Canalfront Rentals: Tranquil settings with water views, often including access to kayaking or fishing.
Location Considerations
- Carolina Beach: Offers a lively atmosphere and proximity to Wilmington.
- Kure Beach: Provides a slower pace with access to attractions like Fort Fisher and the North Carolina Aquarium.
Rental Amenities
- Private and Community Pools: Many rentals include pools and hot tubs, with heated options available in the off-season.
- Outdoor Features: Grills, decks, and outdoor showers enhance the beach experience.
- Beach Gear: Many rentals include beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards to ensure hassle-free beach days.
Wondering Where to Stay in Carolina Beach & Kure Beach, NC?
Stay like a local by booking one of our Carolina Beach Realty rentals, including many options for pet-friendly stays. Our rentals are primarily in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, ranging from small oceanfront condos to large beachfront homes. Carolina Beach Realty is a family-owned and operated full-service property management and vacation rental company. We pride ourselves on keeping it local and supporting the surrounding community.