Carolina Beach vacation rentals

Family fun at Carolina Beach vacation home rentals

Bursting with fun, Carolina Beach is one of the Atlantic's top family-friendly destinations. It's perched on the coast of North Carolina and is loaded with sun, sand and seaside charm. So why not pack your bags, stock up on sunscreen and escape to a Carolina Beach vacation rentals property? Spend your days buildings sandcastles on the beach, strolling along the boardwalk, exploring world-class aquariums and discovering a treasure trove of multi-generational fun.

Places to visit near Carolina Beach vacation homes

Set on the Cape Fear River, Carolina Beach State Park lures anglers with its top-notch fishing spots. You can also explore the Flytrap Trail, a scenic walking route named after its abundance of carnivorous plants. Ocean lovers will swoon over the North Carolina Aquarium, home to stingrays, sea turtles and a rare albino alligator. For a glimpse at the state's colorful past, head to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. It's the site of the Civil War's biggest battle, with visitors welcome to peer into the enormous trenches, check out seacoast guns and even don SCUBA gear to explore Condor, a sunken blockade runner on North Carolina's Heritage Dive Site trail.

Things to do near Carolina Beach vacation rentals

It's hard to resist the buzz of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The vintage promenade hugs the coast and is lined with ice cream parlors, donut stands, burger joints, shake shacks and a handful of amusement rides. The atmosphere is infectious, so why not stay local with Carolina Beach vacation rentals overlooking the boardwalk? On the sand you'll find beach umbrellas and lounge chairs, plus plenty of stalls renting kayaks and surfboards. Alternatively, round up the family and head to Carolina Beach Lake, a popular spot for picnics and paddle boating.

Climate for your stay in Carolina Beach vacation rentals

Summer is high season in Carolina Beach, with flocks of vacationers descending on the resort. Expect long days, endless sunshine and temperatures that hover around the high 80s. Crowds peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, when Carolina Beach vacation rentals fill up with families. For a more laid-back scene, consider visiting in late spring or early fall. Thanks to a lively year-round population, Carolina Beach is a great winter destination. It'll be too cold to swim and sunbathe, but you can still beachcomb, bike ride and work your way through the resort's indoor attractions.

Discover Carolina Beach's carnivorous plants

Around 15 miles from Wilmington, Carolina Beach sits on the northern end of Pleasure Island. It's part of the North Carolina coastline, which stretches for over 300 miles. The resort is laced with sandy beaches that lure droves of sunseekers. There's plenty of green space to explore, from freshwater wetlands near Carolina Beach Lake, to hidden fishing spots at Freeman Park. Botanists will jump at the chance to hike in Carolina Beach State Park, home to the rare Venus flytrap. Visit in May to see the carnivorous plants in full bloom.

Transportation options to and around Carolina Beach

The nearest airport is in Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), located 16.1 mi (25.9 km) from the city center.

Family-friendly sights near Carolina Beach vacation homes

If you're traveling with the whole family, you'll enjoy the numerous kid-friendly attractions at Carolina Beach. Vacation homes are available near places like Carolina Beach State Park, with a scenic, sandy trail that leads to an overlook of the Cape Fear River, and Carolina Beach Lake Park, a park with a large lake, walking trails, a playground, and picnic areas. Federal Point History Center, a museum with local history exhibits and archives, is another great stop for families and history buffs alike.

Couple's vacation homes in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach has an array of romantic and tranquil locations to explore on your trip. Vacation rentals are available near Freeman Park, a seaside park with campsites, bonfires, fishing, swimming, and boating, and Masonboro Island State Natural Area, a picturesque coastal preserve with abundant wildlife and pristine beaches.