Renting a golf cart in Carolina Beach is a convenient and fun way to explore the island during your visit. If this is your first time visiting Carolina Beach, you may be surprised to see golf carts sharing the roads around town. In Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, golf carts are allowed on public roads as long as they meet safety standards and follow certain rules. Renting a golf cart during your stay at North Carolina Cottages can provide a unique experience that enhances your stay. Here’s what you need to know about renting a golf cart in Carolina Beach.
What is considered a golf cart in Carolina Beach?
If you decide to rent a golf cart in town, you’ll most likely be provided a low speed vehicle (LSV). The majority of LSVs look like traditional golf carts, but you may also see Mokes, Gems, and other low-speed electric vehicles on the road. In Carolina Beach, the town differentiates between golf carts and low speed vehicles in the following way.
Golf Carts
A golf cart is designed for use on a golf course and is not capable of reaching speeds greater than 20 miles per hour. Golf carts do not have state license plates and do not have state vehicle registration. As of July 1, 2023, no new golf cart permits are being issued in Carolina Beach. Previous golf cart permit holders may continue to renew their permits until January 1, 2028.
Low Speed Vehicles
A low speed vehicle (LSV) is a four-wheeled vehicle that runs on electricity or gasoline with a top speed greater than 20 miles per hour but less than 25 miles per hour. Low speed vehicles have state license plates and state vehicle registration. Starting January 1, 2028, only LSVs will be allowed to operate on public roads in Carolina Beach.
Why should I rent a golf cart?
Renting a golf cart during your Carolina Beach vacation is a convenient way to navigate the island. This is especially true in the summer when town roads and parking lots are filled with visitors. Many parking lots offer golf cart specific parking which can make it easier to secure a spot during the busiest months. Golf carts are family-friendly and make it an easy-breezy ride to restaurants, the Boardwalk, and the beach!
The slower speed and open-air ride of a golf cart allows you to take in the sights of the town at a leisurely pace. Remember to travel along the right side of the lane when driving a golf cart in Carolina Beach. It’s a town rule that allows faster vehicles to pass and decreases traffic congestion.
What are the rules for driving a low speed vehicle in Carolina Beach?
Golf carts and LSVs may only be operated on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. Drivers must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. Although some rental companies may require drivers to be at least 25 years old. The operator of the golf cart must comply with all traffic rules and regulations adopted by the State of North Carolina and the Town of Carolina Beach. Some important golf cart rules to remember include:
- No standing on a golf cart while it is in motion
- No open containers of alcohol
- Every passenger must wear a seatbelt
- Car seats are required for kids under the age of 8 and less than 80 lbs
- Car seats must be placed in a forward facing seat
Where can I rent a golf cart in Carolina Beach?
Currently, there are three places in town to reserve your golf cart rental. Sun Fun Rentals, Icon Golf Cars, and Journey Golf Carts are all easily located off of Lake Park Blvd in Carolina Beach. Rental companies may require drivers to be 25 years old and request proof of liability insurance meeting North Carolina auto minimums. Each rental company has their own fleet, prices, and rental requirements. So be sure to shop around for the best fit.
Renting a golf cart in Carolina Beach during the summer is a popular option, and many families make the mistake of waiting until they arrive to book their reservation. At North Carolina Cottages, we recommend booking your golf cart reservation as early as possible. Be sure to check that your rental cottage allows golf cart parking and electric charging.
How much does it cost to rent a golf cart?
When it comes to renting a golf cart in Carolina Beach, you have options. Low speed vehicle rentals are available with four or six seats, backward or forward facing last rows, lifted or non-lifted bodies, and in a variety of colors. Some rental companies offer daily rentals while others may require a full week rental. Expect to pay at least $100 for a daily four seat golf cart rental or as much as $600 for a weekly six seat golf cart rental.
Where can I drive a golf cart in Carolina Beach?
You can drive a golf cart almost everywhere in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach! A golf cart will provide you easy access to island restaurants, grocery stores, nightlife, and beach parking. Golf carts may not be driven on the beach.
Be aware of two roads on the island that have a speed limit above 35 mph — Dow Road and Snow’s Cut Bridge. Golf carts are not permitted to drive anywhere along Dow Road and cannot drive onto Snow’s Cut Bridge. Golf carts may cross across Dow Road to access locations like Carolina Beach State Park, the post office, or the Food Lion shopping plaza.
Where can I park a golf cart in Carolina Beach?
Golf carts and low speed vehicles may occupy any traditional parking space in Carolina Beach as long as the appropriate parking fees are paid. The advantage of driving a golf cart is the availability of additional parking spaces provided for golf cart and LSV parking only. You can find designated golf cart parking near Carolina Beach Lake Park, Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and at numerous beach accesses.
A New Way to Explore Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is a golf cart friendly destination just waiting to be enjoyed by your family this year. At North Carolina Cottages, we offer the perfect place to relax close to the heart of Carolina Beach. Whether you are planning a romantic weekend getaway or a full week of family fun, reserve your stay at North Carolina Cottages today!
