About
When your Cape Fear vacation needs some fireworks, both metaphorically and literally, visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk.
This entertaining hotspot is a 25-minute drive south of Wilmington and is brimming with things to do!
It first came to life in 1887, starting as a narrow plank walkway across sandy dunes to reach the ocean.
Things picked up quickly once the nearby train depot opened, and visitors poured in like the sea. Soon, the boardwalk buzzed with the excitement of dance halls, ice cream stands, and waterfront eateries.
As decades rolled on, it survived hurricanes, economic slowdowns, and shifts in how folks vacationed. In the mid-1900s, arcades, games, and new shops once again revolutionized it into a favorite vacation tradition.
By the end of the twentieth century, worn wooden planks and faded storefronts bore the marks of decades of use. The community recognized it was time for a change, coming together to bring the boardwalk back to life.
A significant overhaul began in the early 2000s, blending history with new attractions. Attention to detail guided the updates, preserving the boardwalk’s vintage look while introducing everything today’s guests need.
While there’s plenty to do and see at the boardwalk, you’re also not far from other popular things to do. The Kure Beach Pier stretches 771 feet into the ocean, making it ideal for fishing. The Cape Fear Adventure Company offers outdoor adventures like kayaking, crabbing, boat charters, and camping.
Today, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a magnet for tourists seeking summer fun. Add this fun-filled attraction to your Cape Fear itinerary and find out for yourselves why it’s so popular!
Carolina Beach Boardwalk: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One aspect that keeps this iconic attraction hopping is that no matter when you visit, something is happening!
Summer brings Fireworks by the Sea, a free event featuring live music at 6:30 PM followed by sky-cracking fireworks at 9:00 PM. Free family-friendly outdoor movie nights by the lake are another reason to visit.
When vacationing in the winter, bring the little ones to enjoy Santa by the Sea and the Island of Lights Festival.
The Carolina Beach Musicfest offers family-friendly music concerts on the beach, with music ranging from reggae to “beach rockers.” This live event has been rockin’ and rollin’ for over 39 years, and is the only concert in North Carolina that’s actually on the beach!
Along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, you’ll find street food, carnival games, and amusement rides. Hitch a ride on the colorful carousel or sail high over the beach in the Ferris wheel. Classic rides like bumper cars and arcade games will entertain for hours!
These attractions operate from Memorial Day into September, placing unforgettable moments right on the beachfront.
Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, no trip is complete without a visit to Britt’s Donut Shop. This local staple opened in 1939 and focuses on one thing: glazed donuts, hot and fresh from the fryer. Guests often wait in line, but most would say it’s worth it.
When you’re craving cuisine that’s more substantial, there are plenty of options nearby. Cape Fear Boil Company is your go-to for Lowcountry-style seafood, while Sunny Daze Smokehouse will satisfy your hunger for low and slow-style BBQ.
A visit to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk brings together the best of a Wilmington getaway: sun, sand, and exciting events. Visit and discover old-fashioned fun that keeps guests coming back year after year.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Carolina Beach Boardwalk from Wilmington:
- Take US-421 S/Carolina Beach Road out of Wilmington.
- Continue to follow US-421 S for 10 miles.
- As you enter Carolina Beach, US-421 S becomes N Lake Park Blvd.
- Continue on N Lake Park Blvd for 1.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Cape Fear Blvd.
- Follow until you reach the boardwalk area.
- Address: Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Cost
The best part is that visiting and walking on the boardwalk is free!
Local Tips
- The Boardwalk is open year-round, but attractions, amenities, and events are seasonal.
- Parking fills up quickly; plan accordingly.
- Public restrooms, outdoor showers, and foot-rinse stations are available at the beach.
- Check the website for the calendar of events and specials.
