Why Choose Summer Beach Rentals in Carolina and Kure Beach?
Our summer beach rentals in Carolina and Kure Beach are your perfect home base for enjoying endless seasonal attractions.
Visiting Carolina Beach and Kure Beach in the summer offers a quintessential coastal experience. Considered two of the best beaches in North Carolina, these incredible destinations on the beautiful Pleasure Island provide a delightful mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and wonderful seasonal attractions.
While you can enjoy the charms of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach year-round, there’s something special about the seasonal attractions that make summer truly unbeatable. This is the prime time to take advantage of longer days, soak up the sun on stunning beaches, joining the locals for vibrant summer events, and watch unforgettable sunsets over the Atlantic.
Planning a summer trip to Carolina Beach and Kure Beach? In this blog, we’ve listed some reasons why these NC gems are perfect for a visit during the warmer months.
Before We Start, Here’s a Little About Us…
Staying in a fantastic summer beach rental will undoubtedly help you make the most of your trip.
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.
Ready to soak all the good vibes from a great summer beach rental in North Carolina?
1. Spend Longer Days on Beautiful Beaches
When visiting Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, the top attraction is experiencing the summer breeze along miles of pristine shores, featuring white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxing atmosphere.
In Kure Beach, the main beach area along Atlantic Avenue, known as Kure Beach Oceanfront, offers several access points to the beautiful shoreline. From sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing, to enjoying beach sports, this spot is a must for summer fun in North Carolina. It’s also home to the iconic Kure Beach Pier, a perfect place for fishing, and one thing not to be missed during summer: epic sunsets and stunning sea vistas!
Carolina Beach State Park, located just south of the main beach area, is an incredible spot year-round for soaking in the beach vibes. However, summer’s longer days make it an ideal time to explore its hiking trails, fishing opportunities, calm blue waters, and uncrowded white sands.
To make the best of your summer trip and experience more of NC’s natural wonders, make sure to visit Fort Fisher Recreation Area. This serene, less-developed beach provides a tranquil alternative to the more crowded areas. In addition to the clear waters, you’ll find scenic sand dunes and coastal trails winding through marshlands and maritime forests, offering great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
2. Enjoy the Abundance of Sunshine Engaging in Outdoor Activities
Summer is synonymous with outdoor activities, and in Carolina and Kure Beach, there’s no shortage of fun under the sun beyond enjoying the stunning beaches.
For a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty of Carolina Beach, try kayaking or paddleboarding. Glide through the calm waters of Carolina Beach Lake, a hidden gem within Carolina Beach State Park, or venture out to the Intracoastal Waterway to discover its thriving wildlife.
As mentioned earlier, another fantastic summer activity is fishing at the historic Kure Beach Fishing Pier, one of the oldest on the East Coast. Open 24/7 from April through November, the fishing pass includes the required license. You might reel in flounder, king mackerel, or Spanish mackerel, but even without a catch, the breathtaking views and sunsets make the visit memorable.
Other great outdoor activities during the summer months include biking along the Kure Beach Greenway. With scenic paths winding through town, it’s a great way to enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in views of the beach, local wildlife, and native plants. The paths are also family-friendly, with easy terrain that’s accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Along Kure Beach Oceanfront, you’ll also find perfect spots for flying kites or enjoying a sunset picnic.
Extra tip: Summers in NC are hot and humid, so be sure to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated. For activities where you’ll be outdoors for extended periods, take breaks in the shade and make time to relax. It’s also a good idea to plan outdoor activities later in the day when the temperatures are more comfortable.
3. Summer months at Carolina Beach Boardwalk are Extra Vibrant
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a fun destination year-round, but summer is when this entertainment spot truly comes alive. In addition to the thrilling amusement rides and arcades, the boardwalk hosts summer concerts featuring local bands and artists, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The season also brings weekly fireworks shows, typically on Thursday nights, offering a perfect way to finish a day of fun in the city.
The boardwalk is also great for leisurely walks, biking, rollerblading, and, of course, enjoying a refreshing ice cream from one of the many stands.
Extra tip: At the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of local eateries, snack shacks, and boutique shops. Don’t miss Britt’s Donuts, a legendary spot that has been serving fresh, warm donuts since 1939.
4. Family-Friendly Summer Events Are the Icing on the Cake
Summer in Carolina and Kure Beach is especially enjoyable thanks to the family-friendly events that take place during the warmer months.
Every first Saturday in June, The Beach Music Festival in Carolina Beach is often hailed as “the biggest and only beach music festival actually held on the beach along the North Carolina coast.” The lineup features popular beach music bands known for their upbeat, feel-good tunes that blend elements of soul, R&B, and rock and roll.
This style of music is closely tied to the Carolina shag dance, which many attendees enjoy during the performances. Visitors are encouraged to bring beach chairs, blankets, and coolers to make a day of it, and kids will love playing in the sand while enjoying the lively music. Also, keep an eye out for outdoor movie nights, typically held on select Fridays during the summer in Carolina Beach.
In Kure Beach, don’t miss the Kure Beach Day, typically held in August. This community event features live music, food, games, and family-friendly activities on the beach, celebrating local culture and community spirit.
Classic beach activities like sandcastle-building contests, volleyball tournaments, and other games are often part of the festivities, creating a fun and laid-back competition among attendees. Add to that plenty of food vendors offering local bites, beach snacks, and refreshing drinks, and you have a unique summer experience in Kure Beach.
A Summer Overview of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Although Carolina Beach and Kure Beach attract plenty of visitors in the summer, the atmosphere is generally more relaxed compared to popular destinations like Myrtle Beach or Wilmington. Here’s an overview of what summer looks like in these North Carolina gems.
- Warm and Humid: Summer in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach typically sees temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s °F (around 29-34 °C).
- Humidity: High humidity levels can make it feel warmer, so it’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks from the sun.
- Occasional Rain: Summer also brings occasional afternoon thunderstorms. These usually pass quickly, leaving plenty of sunshine afterward, but it’s wise to check the weather forecast.
- Abundant Sunshine: Expect plenty of sunny days during the summer months. June, July, and August typically boast a high number of sunny days, making it ideal for beach activities.
- Long Daylight Hours: Longer daylight hours allow for extended beach time and outdoor fun, with sunsets around 8:30 PM.
- Peak Season: Summer is the peak tourist season for both Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, with visitors flocking to the area for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere.
- Family Vacations: Many families choose to vacation here during summer break, leading to a noticeable increase in crowds, especially from late June to mid-August.
- Lively Atmosphere: The bustling beach scene creates a festive atmosphere, with plenty of activities, events, and socializing among visitors.
More Essential Tips for a Perfect Summer Getaway
- Arrive Early: To secure parking and a good spot on the beach, consider arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Plan for Rain: Be prepared for the possibility of brief thunderstorms; having a backup plan for indoor activities can help.
- Stay Hydrated: With the heat and humidity, remember to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade or indoors during the hottest part of the day.
- Explore Off-Peak Times: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when crowds are smaller but the weather is still pleasant.
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.