Walk to Britts Donuts from The Sunrise Shack

A Sweet Adventure | Best Dessert in Carolina Beach

The Best Dessert in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Carolina Beach, nestled on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and lively summer atmosphere. Visitors flock here for various reasons including sunbathing, surfing, exploring the nearby state park, and sampling local cuisine. But one part of this charming seaside town that often steals the spotlight is its incredible selection of desserts. Whether you’re craving ice cream, donuts, or a decadent slice of cake, Carolina Beach has plenty of treats to satisfy every sweet tooth.

In this article, we will take a culinary journey to explore the best desserts in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. From longstanding favorites to hidden gems, each place is as unique as the dessert it serves. So, grab your spoon, fork, or cone, and let’s dive into the sweetest spots in town.


Britts Donut Shop located in southeastern Carolina Beach, North Carolina since 1939

1. Britt’s Donut Shop: The King of Carolina Beach Desserts

No conversation about desserts in Carolina Beach would be complete without mentioning Britt’s Donut Shop. Opened in 1939, this small, unassuming donut shop located on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk has become a legend not only for its longevity but also for its simple, classic glazed donuts. Britt’s has garnered a loyal following over the decades, and the long lines stretching from its doors are a testament to the quality of its product.

The Famous Glazed Donuts

Britt’s offers just one type of donut: a golden-brown, lightly crispy, perfectly glazed donut that melts in your mouth. While some places try to impress with dozens of flavors, Britt’s sticks to what it does best—classic glazed donuts. The dough is soft yet chewy, and the glaze provides the perfect level of sweetness without being overwhelming. It’s a testament to how mastering a single item can create a legendary experience.

A Ritual for Locals and Tourists

Eating a Britt’s donut is not just about satisfying a sugar craving—it’s about participating in a local tradition. Many families have made visiting Britt’s a yearly or even weekly ritual, with multiple generations of beachgoers savoring these delightful donuts. Whether you’re grabbing a dozen to share with friends on the boardwalk or enjoying a fresh one with your morning coffee, Britt’s Donut Shop is a must-stop on any Carolina Beach dessert tour.


Squigleys Ice Cream and Treats is Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

2. Squigley’s Ice Cream & Treats: Custom Creations for Every Palate

If you’re in the mood for something cold and customizable, Squigley’s Ice Cream & Treats is the place to go. Located just a few blocks from the beach, Squigley’s has been serving up ice cream in a fun, creative way for over 25 years. The shop’s quirky décor and colorful outdoor seating immediately invite you to embrace the playful atmosphere.

The Squigley: A Personalized Ice Cream Experience

The star of Squigley’s menu is, unsurprisingly, the “Squigley.” This dessert allows you to choose from over 4,050 possible combinations by mixing ice cream flavors and a variety of mix-ins like fruit, candy, and cookies. Imagine a base of vanilla or chocolate ice cream blended with chunks of your favorite candy bars, fresh strawberries, or crunchy nuts. Each bite brings a new texture and flavor, making every Squigley creation unique to your taste.

Homemade Ice Cream and More

Squigley’s also offers homemade ice cream, which is churned on-site daily. The flavors rotate frequently, ensuring that there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re craving a simple scoop of cookies and cream or you want to venture into creative flavor pairings like banana and Nutella, you’ll find that Squigley’s has a flavor to match your dessert desires.


The Fudgeboat is Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina along the Historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk

3. The Fudgeboat: For Chocolate Lovers

For those with a deep appreciation for rich, decadent chocolate, The Fudgeboat offers an array of handmade sweets that will make your taste buds rejoice. Situated along the boardwalk, The Fudgeboat is another iconic Carolina Beach dessert spot where visitors are drawn in by the scent of freshly made fudge wafting through the air.

Homemade Fudge Varieties

The Fudgeboat is renowned for its silky-smooth fudge, made fresh daily using traditional recipes. From classic flavors like chocolate and peanut butter to more adventurous varieties like cookies and cream or maple walnut, each bite of fudge here is an indulgent experience. The creamy texture and bold flavors will satisfy even the most discerning chocoholics.

Beyond Fudge: Candy, Chocolates, and More

While fudge is the star of the show, The Fudgeboat also offers a wide range of other confections. You can find chocolate-covered pretzels, caramel apples, and gourmet truffles, all of which are made in-house. It’s the perfect place to pick up a treat to enjoy while strolling along the beach or to take home as a sweet reminder of your Carolina Beach vacation.


Wake N Bake Donuts is a Delicious Donut Shop Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

4. Wake N Bake Donuts: A Modern Twist on a Classic Treat

Although Britt’s Donuts is the reigning champion of donuts in Carolina Beach, Wake N Bake Donuts brings a modern and inventive twist to the traditional treat. With locations in both Carolina Beach and Wilmington, Wake N Bake has made a name for itself by offering an eclectic selection of gourmet donuts and pastries.

Creative Donut Flavors

Wake N Bake’s menu is constantly changing, offering an exciting mix of both traditional and experimental flavors. Some crowd favorites include the “Cereal Killer” (topped with Fruity Pebbles), the “Maple Bacon Bar” (a sweet-and-savory combination), and the “Boston Cream.” Each donut is artfully decorated, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

Wake N Bake also caters to those with dietary restrictions by offering a selection of vegan and gluten-free donuts. These treats maintain the same level of quality and creativity, ensuring that no one misses out on the fun. If you’re looking for a unique twist on dessert, Wake N Bake is the place to go.


The Celtic Creamery is Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

5. Celtic Creamery: Bringing Irish Ice Cream to the Beach

Located a short drive from the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach, The Celtic Creamery offers a taste of Ireland right here on the coast of North Carolina. This charming ice cream shop is known for its traditional Irish ice cream, which is made using a special technique that results in an incredibly creamy and dense texture.

Irish-Inspired Flavors

Celtic Creamery offers a variety of flavors, many of which are inspired by Irish desserts. You’ll find flavors like “Brown Bread,” which mimics the taste of traditional Irish soda bread, and “Irish Coffee,” which combines the rich flavors of coffee and whiskey. These unique flavor profiles set Celtic Creamery apart from other ice cream shops in the area, offering visitors a distinctive dessert experience.

Signature Sundaes and More

In addition to its rich ice cream offerings, Celtic Creamery is also known for its extravagant sundaes. The “Death by Chocolate” sundae, for example, combines multiple layers of chocolate ice cream, brownies, fudge sauce, and whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat. If you’re a fan of over-the-top desserts, you won’t want to miss this spot.


Island Ice Factory Menu and Delivery Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

6. Island Ice Factory: A Rolled Ice Cream Sensation

Island Ice Factory brings the trendy rolled ice cream phenomenon to Carolina Beach, located right on the Boardwalk. This dessert spot is known for its hand-rolled ice cream, which is prepared right in front of customers on a cold metal surface. The ice cream mixture is spread thin, frozen quickly, and then scraped into delicate rolls that are served in a cup with a variety of toppings.

Made-to-Order Ice Cream Rolls

At Island Ice Factory, you can customize your ice cream by choosing a base flavor and mix-ins, which are incorporated into the ice cream as it’s being rolled. Popular combinations include Oreo and caramel, fresh berries and chocolate, or Nutella and banana. The visual experience of watching the ice cream being made is almost as enjoyable as eating it.

Creative and Instagram-Worthy Desserts

The presentation at Island Ice Factory is as impressive as the taste. Each cup of rolled ice cream is carefully arranged and topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a drizzle of sauce, making it an Instagram-worthy dessert that’s sure to delight both your eyes and your palate.


Pop's Diner is Located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina

7. Pop’s Diner: Classic Milkshakes and Old-School Charm

If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic dessert experience, Pop’s Diner is the place to be. This retro-style diner serves up classic American comfort food, but their milkshakes are the real showstoppers. Thick, creamy, and topped with whipped cream and a cherry, these milkshakes are the epitome of a traditional diner dessert.

Classic Milkshake Flavors

Pop’s offers all the classic milkshake flavors you’d expect, including chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. For those looking to mix things up, you can also try unique variations like the “Peanut Butter Cup” milkshake or the “Cookies and Cream” shake. Each one is made with high-quality ice cream and blended to perfection.

A Step Back in Time

The ambiance at Pop’s Diner enhances the dessert experience, with its checkered floors, jukebox, and 1950s décor. Sipping a milkshake at the counter while listening to oldies music feels like stepping back in time, making this a fun and memorable stop on your Carolina Beach dessert tour.


The Veggie Wagon has homemade deserts

8. The Veggie Wagon: A Healthy Twist on Sweet Treats

For those seeking a lighter, healthier dessert option, The Veggie Wagon offers a variety of treats made with locally sourced ingredients. This small market and café focuses on farm-fresh, organic products, and its dessert offerings are no exception.

Homemade Ice Cream and Sorbet

The Veggie Wagon offers a selection of homemade ice creams and sorbets, many of which are made with organic fruit and natural sweeteners. Flavors like blackberry lavender and peach basil are refreshing and light, perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day. The sorbets are dairy-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Baked Goods and More

In addition to ice cream and sorbet, The Veggie Wagon also offers a selection of baked goods, including gluten-free and vegan options. From oatmeal cookies to banana bread, these desserts prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat healthy. If you’re looking for a guilt-free treat, The Veggie Wagon has plenty to offer.


A Dessert Destination

Carolina Beach, North Carolina, may be known for its sandy shores and ocean views, but its dessert scene is equally worth exploring. Whether you’re a fan of classic treats like donuts and ice cream or you prefer more adventurous flavors and creative presentations, there’s something here for everyone.

From the timeless appeal of Britt’s Donut Shop to the customizable delights of Squigley’s, each dessert spot in Carolina Beach offers its own unique twist on satisfying your sweet tooth. So, the next time you find yourself in this coastal town, make sure to take a break from the sun and sand to indulge in some of the best desserts the area has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you!

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