Carolina Beach, North Carolina, is a haven for water enthusiasts. Its location along the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, the Cape Fear River, and numerous inlets and waterways makes it a top destination for water-based activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to ride the waves or someone seeking a peaceful day on the water, Carolina Beach offers a variety of aquatic experiences for every type of traveler. Let’s dive into the top 10 water activities that you can enjoy in this beautiful coastal town.
1. Surfing
Carolina Beach has become a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels due to its consistent waves, sandy breaks, and welcoming atmosphere. The town offers several surf shops where you can rent gear, get lessons, or even join surf camps if you’re a beginner. During the summer, the beach’s warm waters make it an ideal spot for catching waves. For experienced surfers, fall is the best time to visit, as hurricane season brings bigger swells.
Key Locations:
- The north end of Carolina Beach is known for its surf-friendly breaks.
- Hamlet Avenue is the local spot. Find a vacation rental nearby so you can just walk over.
Why it’s Unique:
- Carolina Beach hosts surf competitions and community events for surf enthusiasts.
- Several surf schools provide lessons for all ages, making it accessible for newcomers.
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
For those who prefer a calmer water experience, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers an incredible way to explore the coastal environment. Glide over the glassy water of Carolina Beach’s backwaters or along the Cape Fear River, taking in the scenic beauty at a relaxed pace. SUP offers both a workout and a meditative experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural surroundings.
Key Locations:
- The Intracoastal Waterway and Carolina Beach State Park are perfect for peaceful paddling.
- You can paddle out into the ocean on calmer days.
Why it’s Unique:
- SUP yoga classes are offered on the water, combining the tranquility of yoga with the peacefulness of being afloat.
- Guided SUP tours allow you to explore hidden creeks, marshes, and even see local wildlife like dolphins and birds.
3. Kayaking
Kayaking is one of the most versatile water activities in Carolina Beach, offering opportunities for both ocean paddling and river exploration. You can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to explore areas such as the Cape Fear River, Snow’s Cut, or the salt marshes. Whether you’re looking for a challenging paddle in the open ocean or a serene ride through calm backwaters, kayaking in Carolina Beach is a must-do activity.
Key Locations:
- The tidal marshes of Carolina Beach State Park offer calm waters for beginners.
- Snow’s Cut, a canal connecting the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway, offers scenic paddling opportunities.
Why it’s Unique:
- Wildlife spotting is a major highlight of kayaking in Carolina Beach, with frequent sightings of birds, fish, and occasionally dolphins.
- Sunset kayak tours provide a magical experience as you paddle under the setting sun.
4. Jet Skiing
If you’re seeking a high-speed water adventure, jet skiing is the perfect way to explore the waters around Carolina Beach. Jet ski rentals are widely available, and you can ride along the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, or Cape Fear River. With wide-open spaces and calm conditions in some areas, you can feel the thrill of speeding across the water with the wind in your hair.
Key Locations:
- The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway are ideal for jet skiing.
- For more experienced riders, the open ocean offers a greater challenge.
Why it’s Unique:
- Jet ski tours are available, allowing you to explore different parts of Pleasure Island while following a guide.
- You might spot dolphins swimming alongside your jet ski in certain areas, adding an unforgettable element to your adventure.
5. Fishing
Carolina Beach is a paradise for anglers, offering a variety of fishing opportunities from both the shore and the water. Whether you prefer deep-sea fishing, surf fishing, or casting a line from a pier, the area is known for its abundance of fish species. Local fishing charters offer half-day or full-day excursions where you can catch species like flounder, Spanish mackerel, red drum, and kingfish.
Key Locations:
- The North End of Carolina Beach is a hotspot for anglers.
- Charter boats leave from marinas along the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Why it’s Unique:
- Carolina Beach hosts fishing tournaments that attract anglers from all over the region.
- You can try a variety of fishing styles, including surf fishing right from the beach or deep-sea fishing for larger species.
6. Scuba Diving
Carolina Beach offers an exciting opportunity for scuba diving enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to numerous shipwrecks off the coast. These wrecks, part of North Carolina’s “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” offer thrilling underwater exploration for experienced divers. You can explore historic wrecks, artificial reefs, and even spot marine life like sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Key Locations:
- Offshore wrecks like the “Blockade Runner” and the “USS Schurz” offer unique dive sites.
- Local dive shops provide guided trips to these underwater attractions.
Why it’s Unique:
- The “Graveyard of the Atlantic” is home to hundreds of shipwrecks, offering one of the most unique scuba diving experiences in the U.S.
- Artificial reefs attract a wide range of marine life, making each dive a fascinating experience.
7. Wakeboarding
For thrill-seekers, wakeboarding is a must-try activity. Carolina Beach’s calm waters, particularly in the Intracoastal Waterway, make it an ideal location for wakeboarding. Several companies offer boat rentals or wakeboarding lessons, allowing both beginners and seasoned pros to enjoy the sport. Skimming across the water at high speeds while performing tricks is a guaranteed adrenaline rush.
Key Locations:
- The Intracoastal Waterway offers calm conditions, perfect for wakeboarding.
- Some areas around Snow’s Cut also provide a great environment for the sport.
Why it’s Unique:
- The variety of waterways around Carolina Beach offers options for both beginners and experienced wakeboarders.
- Wakeboarding schools in the area provide top-notch instruction, making it easy for newcomers to get started.
8. Boating
Boating is one of the best ways to experience the waters of Carolina Beach. Whether you own a boat or rent one, exploring the area by water offers unique views of the coastline and access to secluded spots that you can’t reach by land. There are options for motorboats, sailboats, or even pontoon rentals for a relaxing day out on the water. Fishing, private guides, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the breeze make boating a must-do activity.
Key Locations:
- The Cape Fear River, Intracoastal Waterway, and Atlantic Ocean provide vast areas to explore by boat.
- Freeman Park and Masonboro Island are great boating destinations where you can anchor on the sound side and enjoy a day at the beach.
Why it’s Unique:
- Carolina Beach has numerous marinas and boat ramps, making it easy to get on the water.
- Boating allows you to explore hidden coves, islands, and inlets that are otherwise inaccessible.
9. Sailing
Sailing in Carolina Beach is a tranquil yet exciting way to explore the area’s waterways. With the steady ocean breeze, both experienced sailors and beginners can enjoy a day on the water. Sailing charters offer an intimate way to experience the ocean, while some companies provide sailing lessons for those looking to learn. Sailing along the Intracoastal Waterway or into the open Atlantic can be both relaxing and adventurous.
Key Locations:
- The Intracoastal Waterway offers calm conditions for leisurely sailing.
- The open Atlantic provides more challenging waters for seasoned sailors.
Why it’s Unique:
- Carolina Beach offers sunset sailing tours, allowing you to experience the magic of the coast as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Sailing combines both skill and relaxation, offering a unique way to experience the coastal waters.
10. Kiteboarding
For extreme sports enthusiasts, kiteboarding combines elements of surfing, skimboarding, wakeboarding, and paragliding, offering a thrilling experience on the water. Carolina Beach’s coastal winds and wide-open spaces make it an ideal spot for kiteboarding. Lessons and equipment rentals are available for those new to the sport, while experienced kiteboarders can take advantage of the windy conditions to perform aerial tricks and jumps.
Key Locations:
- The north end of Carolina Beach offers plenty of space for kiteboarding. So does Fort Fisher, a well-known kiteboarding spot.
- The ocean provides ideal wind conditions for this adrenaline-pumping sport.
Why it’s Unique:
- Carolina Beach is becoming a kiteboarding hotspot due to its perfect wind conditions and spacious beaches.
- The combination of water and air sports makes kiteboarding a unique and exhilarating way to explore the coast.
Carolina Beach Has a Water Activity For Everyone
Carolina Beach, NC, is a paradise for water lovers, offering activities for every level of adventure and skill. Whether you prefer the thrill of surfing and jet skiing or the tranquility of kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, winding waterways, and a range of outdoor water activities, Carolina Beach provides countless opportunities for unforgettable experiences on the water. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone who just wants to relax, these top 10 water activities in Carolina Beach will ensure you make the most of your coastal adventure.