Relaxed beach community on North Carolina’s Pleasure Island
One term is commonly used to describe Carolina Beach: laid-back. And there’s an unofficial uniform to match. “You wouldn’t know a billionaire from someone who lives paycheck to paycheck because everyone is in shorts and a T-shirt,” says Kristen Dunn, a Realtor with BlueCoast Realty Corporation. Established in the 1800s by Captain John Harper, Carolina Beach remains a steadily growing vacation destination, with approximately 6,500 full-time residents ranging from young families and surfers to retirees. But instead of boarding a steamer and then a train to reach this coastal town, people today simply drive over the Snow’s Cut Bridge. “When you come over the bridge, your stress level goes down,” Dunn says, who’s been a resident for nearly 20 years. “A term here is OTB or ‘over the bridge.’ Nobody wants to do anything over the bridge. You can go to the grocery store here and go to school here. Locals really don’t leave,” she says.
There’s a noticeable shift in vibe when tourists, ready to hit the beach and boardwalk, arrive in droves for the summer. “People are everywhere. You can drive down the street with your windows down and hear live music from all the different places,” Dunn says. “Locals know to go grocery shopping on Thursday and to go out on weeknights.” Tourism is the biggest industry here, with retail, hospitality, and food service being some of the most common jobs, in addition to health care and social assistance. If not working in town, people commute to Wilmington.
Carolina Beach’s population continues to rise by 1.3% each year. Amid this growth, more than $70 million worth of projects are on the books as part of the CB2045 Infrastructure Plan, including a new water treatment facility, upgrading water storage and improving stormwater infrastructure.
Carolina Beach is a laid back beach town for visitors and full-time residents.
Carolina Beach’s population continues to rise by 1.3% each year.
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Oceanfront condos and coastal single-family homes
In Carolina Beach, condos, townhouses and detached homes in coastal colors sit along tightly packed gridded streets. Properties near the shore are often built on stilts and typically have two or more stories with balconies offering views of the Atlantic Ocean. Some homes have private boardwalks, accessible the beach, while some properties around Myrtle Grove Sound feature docks and boat slips. In the Carolina Sands neighborhood, tall Charleston-style homes sit next to smaller cottages and ranch-style homes. Seagrove features Craftsman bungalows and transitional two-story designs on highly manicured lots.
Home prices rose 4% from 2023 to 2024. Currently, the median home price is $870,000, nearly double the national median. Prices range from $307,000 for a one-bedroom condo to nearly $2.5 million for a seven-bedroom with an ocean view. On average, properties sell after 67 days on the market, which is above the national average of 44 days. While there are plenty of permanent residents, investment properties are popular. “Vacationers stay for a week, and then they want a condo,” says Derek Criscitiello, an agent with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.
Prices range from $307,000 to $2.5 million with an ocean view along Carolina Beach.
The median price of homes in Carolina Beach is $870,000.
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From the Atlantic Ocean to the Cape Fear River
With several miles of public shoreline, lounging on the beach, swimming and surfing are a part of daily life. Beyond the northern pier, Canal Drive suddenly switches from pavement to sand at the entrance of Freeman Park. “Back your car or truck right up to the ocean, put down the tailgate, bring out the grill and have a good time,” says Criscitiello, who has camped at the park with friends. On the island's western side is Carolina Beach State Park. The park has over 700 acres of forest hugged by marshland and dunes, complete with tree-shaded campsites and a marina along the Cape Fear River. Sandy hiking trails weave through oak and pine trees, offering the chance to spot the park’s many flora and fauna, like the Venus flytrap and the eastern fox squirrel. With ballfields and courts, Mike Chappell Park hosts several athletic leagues, including Pleasure Island Youth Baseball.
The town is continually updating and adding to its park system. In May of 2024, the newly expanded Ben Wingrove Carolina Beach Skate Park opened, and there are plans to build a new volleyball court on Cape Fear Boulevard.
Carolina Beach is a boat lovers dream, with easy access to the Cape Fear River.
Mike Chappell Park in Carolina Beach has as a skate park, playground & dog park, and fields.
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All-day fun at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Seagulls squawk overhead as a light breeze carries the salty scent of the ocean to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, an iconic landmark known for its amusement rides, live music and endless shopping and dining. Narrow alleyways are lined with colorful boutiques, surf shops, bars and eateries, mostly locally owned. Britt’s Donuts is a mainstay dating to 1939. It’s nationally recognized for its glazed donuts. While no restaurants are truly on the water, Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar has a long pier stretching over the sand. Dunn says there is a huge crowd on Thursday nights for the weekly fireworks show held throughout the summer.
Colorful murals, often with a beach theme, are sprinkled around the city, adding swaths of color to walls and alleyways. All of this public art is thanks to The Carolina Beach Mural Project. “We find a wall, get in contact with the owner, and then we raise money and hire artists to create something historical or something that has special meaning to Carolina Beach,” explains Dunn, a former member of the organization’s Board of Directors. According to Dunn, there are nearly 20 murals displayed in the city.
From beach music festivals to Flamingo Bingo nights, community events are held year-round. Dunn says the year's biggest event is the Parade of Lights, held on the first Friday in December along Lake Park Boulevard. This annual Christmas Parade with a beachy twist features traditional floats, decorated golf carts and boats, marching bands, car clubs and Santa as the finale. “The streets are packed several people deep. It’s really old-timey Americana,” Dunn says.
The ferris wheel at Carolina Beach is popular amongst residents and visitors.
You can enjoy the boardwalk when you visit Carolina Beach.
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Biking down the Island Greenway
U.S. Route 421 is the main road through Carolina Beach and the only road off the island. It connects to Wilmington, about 15 miles north, and can get congested around Snow’s Cut Bridge during beach season. Residents walk, bike and drive to get around Carolina Beach. However, golf carts are another favored and accepted way to traverse the city. There are even dedicated golf cart parking spots. A popular route for walkers and cyclists is the Island Greenway, a trail system that includes a 1.2-mile stretch starting at Mike Chappel Park. “It’s like a highway with so many people walking and biking,” Dunn says. In partnership with Kure Beach, plans are underway to extend the greenway southward to Fort Fisher. Wilmington International Airport is about 18 miles away for a quick getaway or extended vacation.
Golf cart is one of the popular modes of transportation near Carolina Beach.
Residents walk, bike and drive to get around Carolina Beach.
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Arriving at Carolina Beach Elementary in a golf cart
New Hanover County Schools receives an A-minus grade from Niche and serves 25,000 students, including those on Pleasure Island. Sitting next to the 11-acre Carolina Lake is Carolina Beach Elementary School. Earning an A-minus from Niche, the school has a unique morning tradition. “There’s a whole bunch of bikers and walkers, but the car line is mostly golf carts,” Dunn says. “Everybody knows everybody, and everyone knows your kids. I don’t know if it's the salt in the air, but people are just so friendly,” she says. Students take the bus “OTB” to Charles P. Murray Middle School, which has an A-minus grade. Next door is the B-rated Eugene Ashley High School, which offers college-level courses for students in the Marine Science Academy. While no private schools are on the island, Coastal Christian High School, with a B-plus, and the unrated Innovative Academy are about 7 miles away.
A reduction in crime
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Carolina Beach Department reports that all violent offenses decreased from 131 in 2020 to 86 in 2023.
The Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project and the chance for storms
Winters are mild, but the summers are hot and come with the risk of hurricanes and flooding. “Canal Drive floods monthly with the king tides, meaning high tides with full moons,” Dunn says. “After a hurricane, people help each other clean up. You see the best of humanity after a storm.” Combatting beach erosion is an ongoing effort. Wilmington’s Army Corps of Engineers routinely adds sand back to the shoreline.
Carolina Beach also protects endangered sea turtles during nesting season. May through August, volunteers with the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project walk up and down the beach looking for nesting turtles and noting their location. The team also fixes damaged nests, builds sand berms for storm and tide protection and educates the public.
Helping heal sea turtles at the Karen Beasley Rescue Center.
Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project walk up and down the beach looking for nesting turtles.
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Written By
DeeVa Payne
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
Emily McNamara
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Morgan Beatty Group,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Carolina Beach, NC sell after 88 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Carolina Beach, NC over the last 12 months is $635,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Oceanfront Bliss - LUCRATIVE INVESTMENT PROPERTY OPPORTUNITY. NO RENTAL RESTRICTIONS. FULLY FURNISHED.Wake up to the soothing rhythm of waves and endless Atlantic views in this spacious 2,540 sq ft 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath oceanfront coastal retreat designed for family living at its best. Perfectly perched along the shoreline in the heart of Carolina Beach, NC. This furnished top floor 2-level
Location! Location! Location! Updated, furnished luxury corner unit with ocean and lake views. Located in Waterview Condominiums, a newly painted gated community in the heart of family friendly Carolina Beach offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and oversized single car garage with ample storage, new ceiling fans, bar and shiplap. This condo features a private elevator (serviced annually), hardwood
Welcome to your coastal escape in the heart of Carolina Beach! This bright and breezy third-floor end unit condo offers the perfect mix of beachy comfort, modern updates, and location—just a short distance from Freeman Park and the Carolina Beach Pier. With 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths, an open airy layout and thoughtful touches like the stocked coffee bar, this fully furnished unit is ready to enjoy or
Located on a double corner lot in the Seagrove community, this home offers a layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. Just steps from the community pool and close to everything Carolina Beach has to offer, the setting is hard to beat. Inside, the home features Brazilian Cumaru hardwood flooring, open living spaces, and a kitchen centered around an oversized quartzite island. A
Perfect coastal dream retreat at charming Carolina Beach! This super cute 1-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom condo is the ideal vacation spot for families and couples seeking a relaxing ocean escape with spacious accommodations. Comfortably sleeps up to 6 guests with a cozy queen bed, a convenient hideaway bed, and a pull-out sofa, making it perfect for family getaways or group vacation. Enjoy captivating
Welcome to Atlantic Towers—where oceanfront living meets everyday ease. This first-floor condo offers direct access to the community's lush lawn, the perfect place to enjoy coffee at sunrise or relax after a day at the beach. Inside, you'll find a comfortable, move-in-ready space that also gives you the freedom to add your own updates and make it truly yours. Atlantic Towers provides resort-style
Downtown Carolina Beach Living at Its Best — Stunning 2BR/2BA Condo, with dual owners suits, unbelievable ocean views and strong rental history. Welcome to this beautifully furnished, turn-key coastal retreat with breathtaking views from every window. Located in the newly built TownePlace Complex, this modern end-unit condo sits just one block from the beach and steps from the boardwalk,
Welcome to Piper's Point unit A4! This is a fully furnished 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo offering 1,320 square feet in an intimate, eight-unit community just steps from the beach. Thoughtfully maintained and move-in ready, the home includes two refrigerators, a washer and dryer, and an oversized two-car garage complete with new beach gear. Enjoy both front and rear balconies - ideal for morning
Beautifully updated and fully furnished condo just steps away from the ocean, the Carolina Beach pier, and Freeman Park. This property is ideal for use as an investment opportunity or a second home. Featuring luxury vinyl flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances, and a modern kitchen with shaker cabinets, a butcher block counter/bar, and industrial pipe shelving. The living area is
Stunning Atlantic views define this top-floor oceanfront one-bedroom condo in Sea Colony. With no overhead neighbors and sold fully furnished, the unit presents a turnkey opportunity with strong rental appeal. The open living and dining area flows directly to a private balcony overlooking the dunes and shoreline, creating seamless indoor-outdoor connection. The kitchen offers efficient workspace
Located in the heart of Carolina Beach, just two blocks from the Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar, this 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath townhome offers over 2,200 square feet of living space across three levels. Designed for entertaining, the home features multiple outdoor areas, including a rooftop deck with ocean views. The main level includes two bedrooms and a full bath. An elevator provides access to the second
This is the one you have been waiting for! A true townhome across the street from the ocean, with ocean view and a peekaboo canal view with an easy walk to the Carolina Beach boardwalk where you can enjoy restaurants, rides, live music without the hassle of paying to park! Some of the lowest dues on the island at 150/month covers the grounds maintenance and the pool. This beautifully updated 3
The Harris Group is excited to present this fully remodeled and furnished turn-key 4-Unit Ocean-Access Quadplex located on the Texas Ave beach access in Carolina Beach. Located adjacent to the CB/KB pipeline, ''Surf Station'' is built on one of the most popular beach access surfing locations on the island. This opportunity is perfect for a 1031 exchange, investor looking to capture Bonus
Welcome to Atlantic Towers - oceanfront living at its finest! This premier first-floor unit offers easy access to a spacious green lawn, perfect for morning coffee or a relaxing afternoon unwind. Inside, enjoy modern updates throughout, including newer appliances, cabinets, and flooring that create a fresh, coastal vibe. Plus, with the HVAC and hot water heater already updated, this unit is truly
One of two remaining BUILD READY lots to build your custom coastal dream home in the highly anticipated Fisher's Reserve Community in Carolina Beach. This 70' x 118' homesite offers the perfect footprint for a thoughtfully designed residence with space for a private pool, outdoor living, and generous parking -- all just minutes from the beach, greenway, and vibrant island dining. This is a
The best of Carolina Beach - the boardwalk, the beach, the marina, and the shops and restaurants - are just a few blocks from one of the newest residential apartments in town. This unit lives more like a condominium or loft. It features a designer kitchen, luxury bathrooms, and lots of natural light across southern facing and western facing windows. Rather than living in a crowded complex, this
Clinton HowlettBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties
The advertised rate of $1,934/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of March 25, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
6 Blocks from the Beach! Carolina Beach Property! Annual Lease! This is a 2-bedroom 2-bathroom apartment on Carolian Beach with a private courtyard just 6 blocks from the beach. The unit includes a washer and dryer. Pets are negotiable. Easy access with no steps. Includes a fenced courtyard. Monthly HVAC filters, and Lawn is included. One other long term rental unit by Bryant on site that is
The advertised rate of $1,910/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 8, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Fully furnished 2 Bed 2 Bath in Paradise Cove! This quaint 2nd floor modern beach condo has a screened in porch with a view of the palm trees reminding you, that you are ALWAYS on vacation. This unit offers stainless steel appliances, a farm sink, faux quartz counter tops, washer/dryer in unit, and coastal furniture to keep you on Island time. The master bedroom & bath have a sizeable closet, a
The advertised rate of $1,942/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 7, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Boat lovers, here is your next home. This updated condo that sits on the harbor with a boat slip will not last long. This condo offers an open concept with 2 nice size bedrooms and is ready for you to move right in. Beautiful water view and sunsets over the canal. Includes water, trash, & sewer, and WIFI. Tenant will be responsible for electricity. Boat slip will accommodate a boat under 30 feet,
Island Time is an awesome private Carolina Beach 1 bedroom apartment- that was beautifully renovated for your enjoyment and relaxation! Take advantage of all the cool things the CB area has to offer: fishing, boating, biking, surfing, kayaking, and deep sea charters! Take a stroll on the boardwalk while enjoying dinner, famous Brit's donuts, coffee shops, shopping & more BUT the best days are
This custom coastal residence offers a rare opportunity for a Summer seasonal stay in Carolina Beach, NC. Fully furnished and thoughtfully designed, the 2,476 sq ft home features Serena & Lily inspired interiors, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a private elevator, and a 360 rooftop lounge with sweeping ocean views. A bright open-concept floor plan connects the main living areas, complemented by a private
Here's a private Carolina Beach 3 bedroom 1 bathroom unit, just a short block from a public beach access and on the intracoastal waterway. It's beautifully decorated with access to lots of comfy outdoor space! Enjoy the bright and airy living room and open kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances and a large dining table. The balcony boasts panoramic views of the beautiful intracoastal
You will be close to everything when you stay at this centrally-located townhome. Keep it simple at this quaint 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom duplex located across from the beach and right on the CB Lake, making this vacation home close to all things that makes ''Pleasure Island'' special! Centrally located to the famous CB Boardwalk, restaurants, coffee shops and cool drinking holes! This unit is PET
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