Nestled just 12 miles south of Wilmington, NC, Carolina Beach is an enchanting coastal retreat bordered by the majestic Cape Fear River to the west, the iconic Snows Cut Bridge to the north, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean to the east.

Separated from the mainland by the serene Intracoastal Waterway, this charming enclave exudes the timeless allure of a 1950s beach town, where quaint cottages coexist harmoniously with increasingly sophisticated single-family residences and elegant three- and four-story condominiums. The nostalgic charm is further enhanced by its vintage beachfront motels, including several classic motor courts.

Carolina Beach is renowned for preserving one of the last remaining beach boardwalks on the East Coast. Revitalized in 2009, this historic boardwalk now features a delightful family amusement park, complete with a Ferris wheel offering stunning beach vistas, classic rides, and a miniature golf course. Visitors can also enjoy an array of attractions including an arcade, souvenir shops, fudge and ice cream parlors, as well as an array of dining and nightlife options. Among its notable highlights is Britt’s Donuts, a beloved 70-year-old establishment that continues to captivate both locals and visitors with its irresistible treats.

To the south on Pleasure Island lies Kure Beach, an area distinguished by its upscale charm and rapid development. Here, traditional beach cottages are elegantly juxtaposed with newly constructed luxury homes and condominiums, making Kure Beach real estate highly sought after. Many anticipate that Kure Beach will emerge as the next illustrious counterpart to Wrightsville Beach in the Wilmington area.

Ultimately, the allure of these charming yet thriving beach towns lies in their expansive, pristine beaches and natural sand dunes, offering a breathtaking escape in a picturesque coastal setting.