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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Sarah Smith,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Carolina Beach, NC sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Carolina Beach, NC over the last 12 months is $685,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 408 Goldsboro Avenue, a beautifully appointed coastal home situated on an oversized 50' x 150' deep lot in the heart of Carolina Beach. Designed for both everyday comfort and effortless entertaining, this property offers a rare combination of indoor luxury and exceptional outdoor living. The backyard retreat features a heated and chilled pool, hot tub, and a powered shed, creating the
With over $150k in renovations and upgrades, this stunning Townhome in Carolina Beach Village is a must see! With no finish left untouched, Wilkins and Wilkins General Contracting spared no expense when recently renovating this masterpiece. From the custom dovetail Ash wood cabinetry with built ins, to the decorative tile and woodwork throughout, this island townhome is like no other you have
Your turnkey coastal retreat is ready. This beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom condo is a Carolina Beach dream, just steps to the ocean. With an open-concept living and kitchen area, offering soaring vaulted ceilings, alongside space for everyone inside and outside, this unit has it all. Sunlight pours into the main living spaces, while two covered decks provide the perfect spots to relax
Danielle PuleoBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties
This coastal home truly stands out, offering incredible ocean views from multiple decks and a design that maximizes both light and livability. With 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 2 half baths, there's plenty of space for hosting, relaxing, or generating rental income. The kitchen is thoughtfully finished with granite countertops, a detailed backsplash, an oversized island, and high-end Bosch
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 408 Goldsboro Avenue, a beautifully appointed coastal home situated on an oversized 50' x 150' deep lot in the heart of Carolina Beach. Designed for both everyday comfort and effortless entertaining, this property offers a rare combination of indoor luxury and exceptional outdoor living. The backyard retreat features a heated and chilled pool, hot tub, and a powered shed, creating the
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. NEW HVAC system June 2026. Featuring luxury vinyl flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances, and a modern kitchen with shaker cabinets, a butcher block counter/bar, and industrial pipe shelving.
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
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
This is ''The Spot'' located on a quiet street directly across from the island Greenway. This immaculate custom built home features an ideal floor plan for a full time residence or vacation getaway with 2 bedrooms downstairs and 2 primary suites, each with baths on main living level. High end craftsman style features of moldings and trim, with beautiful LVP flooring throughout. chefs kitchen with
Step into Atlantic Towers and the ocean does the rest. Unit 709 offers a front-row seat to Carolina Beach's coastline, with the kind of everyday routine most people only get on vacation.Spend your mornings by the water and your afternoons however you like -- stretched out at the outdoor pool, cooling off in the heated indoor pool, or grilling at the oceanfront gazebo as the sun goes down.
Located in the quiet, waterfront community of Otter Creek Landing, this condo is surrounded by beautiful live oaks and offers peaceful sound views that truly stand out. The covered porch is the perfect spot to relax, catch the breeze, and take it all in. Inside, the bright open layout is ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The spacious primary suite features an en-suite bath and direct
*Over $30,000 of rental income on the books for 2026! Located in the heart of Carolina Beach, this fully furnished condo offers easy access to the beach, ocean views, and a community pool. Whether you're searching for a vacation home, rental property, or full-time residence, this unit offers flexibility with a strong rental history already in place. HOA dues cover electric, water, cable, and
Imagine waking each morning to the rhythmic sound of crashing waves, watching the sun rise over the Atlantic, and ending your day with a stroll along one of North Carolina's most beautiful stretches of coastline. Welcome to your oceanfront escape on the highly coveted North End of Carolina Beach.This beautifully appointed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath oceanfront condo offers breathtaking, unobstructed
Experience elevated coastal living at Proximity Carolina Beach, where modern luxury meets the relaxed charm of the North Carolina coast. Just minutes from the beach, this vibrant community offers thoughtfully designed apartment homes, resort-style amenities, lush outdoor spaces, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. Creating the perfect place to live, work, and unwind.
The advertised rate of $2,831/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 9, 2027.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
The advertised rate of $2,607/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 8, 2027.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
The advertised rate of $2,492/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 4, 2027.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
LONG-TERM LEASE AVAILABLE FULLY FURNISHED COASTAL HOME IN CAROLINA SANDSEnjoy the coastal lifestyle in this beautifully maintained, fully furnished 4-bedroom, 3-bath home located in the highly desirable Carolina Sands community in Carolina Beach. With 2,004 sq. ft. of living space and private beach access, this move-in-ready home offers comfort, convenience, and resort-style amenities.The
Just a few blocks to the boardwalk and ocean, this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom log cabin on a large lot is the slice of paradise that you were looking for. It features one level living all on the first floor, with just a few steps or a ramp to get to the doors. There is a large fenced in backyard with a fire pit and lots of room for your furry friend. Off of the kitchen, you will find a spacious
alexis royNest Realty
$4,100 per month
MULTI-LEVEL TOWNHOUSE NOW AVAILABLE FOR OFF-SEASON MONTHLY RENTAL
ESCAPE TO YOUR COASTAL SANCTUARY: FULLY FURNISHED MULTI-LEVEL TOWNHOUSE NOW AVAILABLE FOR MONTHLY OFF-SEASON RENTAL IN CAROLINA BEACH!INTERIOR FEATURES:*Four spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms*Two primary suites on 3rd level featuring king beds, smart TVs, and private walk-in showers*2nd level has guest rooms including a queen bedroom and a kid-friendly room with two
As you pull into the house you will find space for 4 full sized cars as well as room for a golf cart if you choose! The outdoor space has a stainless steel grill, porch swing and shared backyard with a picnic table. The first floor of this home offers two spacious queen sized bedrooms with access to the Ocean side decks. This level also has a full sized bathroom and laundry, comfortable seating
Discover comfortable living in this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residential condo at 120 North Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach, NC. Offering 1,800 sq ft of thoughtfully designed space, this unit features modern hardwood and tile flooring, hard surface countertops, and abundant natural light. Enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, range, refrigerator, disposal, and
Carolina Sunrise is newly renovated and better than ever for your next getaway. This condo features fresh painting throughout the unit, new flooring, brand new furniture as well as new kitchen and bathroom updates. This 2 bedroom/2 bath is the perfect location for quality time at the beach. It offers a community swimming pool as well as easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. The deck is absolutely
ESCAPE TO CAROLINA BEACH! MONTHLY OFF-SEASON RENTAL AVAILABLE – FURNISHED AND READY FOR YOU TO ENJOY BEACH LIFE! THIS UNIT ALWAYS GOES FAST!INTERIOR FEATURES:* Two bedrooms both with ensuite bathrooms* Oceanfront living room with unbeatable views* Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator and range (no dishwasher)* One-story condo* Elevator in complex* Washer and
The Low Tide Luxe is a beach cottage that features a modern charm. This is a 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home located on Florida Ave. You're just two blocks from the beach access and minutes from the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, local eats, and all the laid-back coastal vibes. The north end of Carolina beach is definitely more private and laid back. Available from October 1st through March 31st. THIS IS A
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
