Carolina Beach beach vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Carolina Beach vacation rentals

Stay near Carolina Beach's top sights

Carolina Beach Boardwalk184 locals recommend
Freeman Park97 locals recommend
Britts Donuts277 locals recommend
Michael's Seafood Restaurant113 locals recommend
SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar176 locals recommend
Havana’s Restaurant115 locals recommend

Carolina Beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite
Apartment in Carolina Beach
Carolina beach home with view of saltwater pool
Aug 23 – 30
$121 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 194 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Sweet Carolina Ocean View, Luxury Top Floor 403
Apr 26 – May 3
$150 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Wilmington
The Tree House Apartment
Sep 21 – 28
$97 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 263 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
❤️of Carolina Beach / Ocean views / Steps to sand⛱
Apr 30 – May 7
$163 per night
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 361 reviews
Guest favorite
Guesthouse in Bolivia
Serenity by the Sea. Waterfront & Dock w/ Kayaks.
Jun 9 – 16
$78 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews
Guest favorite
Cottage in Carolina Beach
One Beach’in Cottage, walk to the beach!
Feb 6 – 13
$150 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews
Guest favorite
Townhouse in Carolina Beach
Steps from the beach! All the comforts of home!
Sep 30 – Oct 7
$138 per night
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Oak Island
Oak Island beach getaway
Jan 27 – Feb 3
$72 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 325 reviews

Carolina Beach fishing vacation rentals

Guest favorite
Cottage in Carolina Beach
Charming beach cottage blocks from the beach!
Feb 10 – 17
$214 per night
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 263 reviews
Guest favorite
Apartment in Carolina Beach
Crabby Pad #2 Entire upper unit
Dec 23 – 30
$149 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews
Guest favorite
Cottage in Carolina Beach
The Surf Chalet
Apr 9 – 16
$159 per night
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Carolina Beach
Reef Point in Carolina Beach *New Updates 2023*
Aug 19 – 26
$189 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 157 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Island Escape-3 Min to Beach/Boardwalk
Dec 5 – 12
$180 per night
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
The Tropical Palm-Ocean View, Pool, Heart of CB
Jul 25 – Aug 1
$212 per night
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews
Guest favorite
Guesthouse in Wilmington
Lake House - Recently Remodeled, Centrally Located
Feb 6 – 13
$89 per night
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
*Oceanfront…Pet Friendly…Central Location*
Sep 16 – 23
$270 per night
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Other great vacation rentals in Carolina Beach

Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach Boardwalk w/ Ocean & Marina View!
May 8 – 15
$196 per night
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 316 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
15% Off 7 Night Stays!
Jan 26 – Feb 2
$85 per night
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 21 reviews
Superhost
Condo in Carolina Beach
Pool!
Nov 1 – 8
$107 per night
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 95 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Dune Our Thing! With an amazing view!
Oct 29 – Nov 5
$120 per night
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 87 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
A Wave From It All
Nov 3 – 10
$100 per night
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 66 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Almost Heaven-Beyond Breathtaking Views!
Jan 1 – 8
$101 per night
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 9 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Carolina Beach
Morning brew with an ocean view
Jan 21 – 28
$95 per night
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 47 reviews
Guest favorite
Condo in Kure Beach
Oceanfront Condo With Balcony and Pool
Nov 17 – 24
$103 per night
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 73 reviews

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Carolina Beach

Total rentals

1.6K properties

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

560 properties have a dedicated workspace

Rentals with a pool

640 properties have a pool

Pet-friendly rentals

550 properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

1.2K properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

64K reviews

Your guide to Carolina Beach

Introduction

This festive beach town just south of Wilmington, North Carolina, is classic summertime Americana. When fireworks explode over the vintage oceanfront boardwalk after sunset, it’s easy to understand why vacationing families have been flocking to Carolina Beach since the late 19th century, when visitors arrived via steamship down the Cape Fear River. Though the town is less than three square miles, there’s no shortage of things to do: Take a surf lesson or jetski in the waves on the Atlantic Ocean side, fish for mackerel and perch off the wooden pier, or see how many species of migratory birds you can count while hiking the nine miles of white-sand trails at Carolina Beach State Park.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a popular spring and summertime destination. Summer days are hot, humid, and breezy, and temperatures usually crack 90 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. The water temperature is not far behind, reaching a bathtub-like 82 degrees. Summer is also the region’s wettest time of year: expect 7 to 8 inches of rain in July, August, and September. It’s always good to be mindful of tropical storms during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Fall brings fewer crowds and milder temperatures, so it’s a good time to stay in one of the area’s vacation rentals, though it may be too cold to swim. Winter highs hover around 60 degrees, with overnight lows close to freezing, so pack accordingly and make sure to layer up.


Top things to do in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Though it dates to the 1880s, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk has been rebuilt, expanded, and modernized over the years, but it still retains its throwback charm. These days you’ll find an assortment of carnival rides, arcade games, candy vendors, and tiki bars, just steps from the sand.

Carolina Beach State Park

Highlights of this 761-acre park, nestled between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, include the 50-foot Sugarloaf Dune and nine miles of hiking trails for all skill levels (don’t miss the carnivorous pitcher plants and Venus flytraps that line the half-mile Flytrap Trail). There’s also a marina with two public boat ramps from which you can depart on fishing excursions to Myrtle Grove Sound, the river, or the sea.

Diving

With unpredictable currents and dangerous shoals lurking beneath the surface, this stretch of North Carolina coastline has been perilous for mariners of yore, claiming nearly 65 shipwrecks within a 50-mile radius. But the wrecks are a boon for divers, who can book charter trips to explore the Condor Heritage Dive Site, an area containing 21 shipwrecks including the Condor, which ran aground while evading Union ships in 1864.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Carolina Beach?

    Carolina Beach enjoys a temperate climate. Summers get warm, with temperatures ranging from 80-90°F (27-32°C), while winters are typically mild and have an average temperature of 40-60°F (4-15°C). The area experiences rainfall throughout the year, with late summer and early fall being the wettest.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Carolina Beach?

    There's an abundance of activities to enjoy in Carolina Beach. You can hike in the Carolina Beach State Park, explore the local shops and eateries on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, or spend the day relaxing at the beach. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is also a popular destination.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Carolina Beach?

    The most popular time to visit Carolina Beach is during the summer months, especially between May and August, when the weather is warm and conducive for beach activities. During this period, the area hosts several events such as the Carolina Beach Music Festival.

  • What are the best places to stay in Carolina Beach?

    Frequently suggested areas to stay in Carolina Beach include the boardwalk area for its proximity to shops and restaurants, and the northern part of the island for its tranquil, residential atmosphere. Staying around Lake Park Boulevard provides easy access to both the beach and the town's main amenities.

  • What are the best places to visit in Carolina Beach?

    Carolina Beach State Park is a frequently suggested location with its hiking trails and fishing spots. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk, known for its shops and restaurants, is another popular destination. Many visitors also enjoy the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

  • What are some hiking trails in Carolina Beach?

    Carolina Beach State Park is home to several hiking trails. Some of the most popular ones are the Sugarloaf Trail, a 3-mile (4.8 km) trail offering scenic views, and the Flytrap Trail, a shorter, 0.35-mile (0.56 km) trail known for its unique carnivorous plants.

  • What are some family activities to do in Carolina Beach?

    Carolina Beach is home to a variety of family activities. You can explore the Carolina Beach State Park, stroll along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and enjoy the sandy beaches. For a fun-filled educational experience, consider visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, a widely recommended destination for both adults and children.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Carolina Beach?

    Popular day trip ideas from Carolina Beach include visiting the historic city of Wilmington, about 16 miles (26 km) away, or exploring the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, both located on the southern end of Pleasure Island.

  • Are there vacation rentals near Carolina Beach's top attractions?

    You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near Carolina Beach's top attractions. We offer over 4,390 vacation rentals near Britts Donuts, over 4,390 vacation rentals near SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar, and over 4,390 vacation rentals near The Fat Pelican, and so much more! Experience the best of Carolina Beach right on your doorstep.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Carolina Beach?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 560 vacation rentals in Carolina Beach featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore