Recognized by Food & Wine magazine as one of the top 10 boardwalks in the nation, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk offers timeless seaside family entertainment with its variety of shops, eateries, and attractions. Situated just steps from the beach, the Boardwalk District is a pedestrian-exclusive zone with plenty of parking and bike racks in close proximity. A raised wooden walkway connects the iconic strip to the ocean, providing beach access and breathtaking views of the coastline for all.
The Boardwalk is one of the few vintage boardwalks that still remains on the entire east coast.
1887 – The resort of Carolina Beach opens with a pavilion, the Oceanic Hotel and boardwalks
1925 – The Town of Carolina Beach is incorporated
1939 – Britt’s Donuts opens on the boardwalk
1941 – Boardwalk and businesses reopen for summer season billed as “The South’s Miracle Beach” after the 1940 fire destroyed 2 blocks of the boardwalk
1954 – Hurricane Hazel hits October 15th, again the beach and boardwalk rebuild
1978 – Seashore Amusements relocates to Lake Park Blvd.
1989 – New wooden boardwalk is built over the berm
1990-2007 – Town Council revises zoning to pave the way for more desirable businesses at the boardwalk
2008 – Boardwalk Makeover Group revitalizes boardwalk making it family-friendly, the amusements return
2014 – Boardwalk Improvement Projects breaks ground
Planning a visit to Carolina Beach and need a place to stay? We offer 4 historic beach cottage vacation rentals several blocks from the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Relax knowing you can walk to everything going on in Carolina Beach and explore the Boardwalk like a local!
- The Sunrise Shack – 2 Beds 1 Bath – Check Availability – See Rates
- Carolina Clover – 2 Beds 1 Bath – Check Availability – See Rates
- Seabird Cottage – 1 Bed 1 Bath – Check Availability – See Rates
- The Little Paddle – 1 Bed 1 Bath – Check Availability – See Rates
Photo Credit: CarolinaBeach.org
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk in North Carolina is a vibrant destination filled with a variety of businesses offering dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Here is a list of a few or our favorite businesses on the boardwalk:
- Britt’s Donut Shop – This iconic establishment has been serving its famous glazed donuts since 1939, making it a must-visit spot for a sweet treat.
- The Fudgeboat – Known for its handmade butter and cream fudge, The Fudgeboat is a favorite stop for those with a sweet tooth.
- Carolina Surf Brand – Offering rentals of surfboards, and boogie boards, CSB is perfect for those looking to explore the area on wheels or catch some waves.
- Boardwalk Arcade – This entertainment venue is filled with pinball machines, video games, and redemption games, providing fun for both kids and adults.
Photo Credit: CarolinaBeach.org
The Boardwalk is free to walk around. Grab a cup of coffee or a delicious Britt’s Donut and hangout on the Boardwalk with the whole family! During peak summer months, parking is difficult to find. Get there early if you are looking for a spot, or reserve a vacation rental home that is within walking distance.
Photo Credit: CarolinaBeach.org
