Britt's Donuts is a local institution that began in 1939 and still brings people out in droves to the boardwalk every summer (the shop isn't open the rest of the year). The locally-owned favorite serves only glazed, so don't bother asking for any other variety unless you want to be pegged as a newcomer.
Located on Pleasure Island just south of Wilmington, North Carolina, the cozy community of Carolina Beach isn't nearly as scandalous as the name of the island might suggest
Britt's Donuts is a local institution that began in 1939 and still brings people out in droves to the boardwalk every summer (the shop isn't open the rest of the year). The locally-owned favorite serves only glazed, so don't bother asking for any other variety unless you want to be pegged as a newcomer.
Located on Pleasure Island just south of Wilmington, North Carolina, the cozy community of Carolina Beach isn't nearly as scandalous as the name of the island might suggest. The theory is that the name originated as the island was the summer spot for wealthy Wilmingtonians at the turn of the century and early 1900s. Today, it continues to be a popular vacation spot for locals and people from across the country. While the 2010 census put the population at 5,706 (an increase of more than 10% over the 2000 census), the area sees almost a million visitors every year, particularly in the summer. The first community after you cross Snow's Cut Bridge from Wilmington, Carolina Beach has always been the island's commercial hub with shopping centers, restaurants and a marina.
The town doesn't have any apartment complexes, but it does have plenty of privately-owned houses and condos, and duplexes that can be rented out yearly, during the off season or even month to month. Doing a rental or apartment search in Carolina Beach will begin by contacting one of the local real estate companies, or by simply driving around and looking for "For Rent" signs. You'll see plenty.
The most expensive areas will logically be oceanfront, and at the marina on the water. If your heart is set on finding an oceanfront place, but your budget would prefer an out-of-town rental, consider looking for studio apartments for rent in the form of motel rooms that have been converted into rentals. You won't be able to cook a gourmet meal here since most of them have kitchenettes instead of full kitchens, but you'll be just steps away from sinking your feet into the sand. Another option is to eschew smaller places like 1 bedroom apartments and instead focus on larger places where you can spread the rent among roommates.
Old Carolina Beach: As soon as you cross over the bridge onto the island, you'll quickly forget you're on an island. Pick up your beach supplies at Bert's Surf Shop, grab a coffee at local chain (and much-loved) Port City Java, or shop for groceries at Food Lion. A hike through the Carolina Beach State Park is an excellent opportunity to spot a Venus Flytrap. The carnivorous plant made famous in the Little Shop of Horrors only grows within a 30-mile radius of Wilmington.
Northern Carolina Beach and Marina: Several planned communities are located just off the stretch of northern Carolina Beach, but they are exclusively single-family homes. You might be able to find rental houses here, but you'll have better luck if you're willing to rent only during the off season (any time that's not summer). The marina typically has more rentals available directly from owners or through one of the local rental companies. With views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Snow's Cut and the boats moored on the docks, Joyner Marina is a popular spot and priced accordingly -- yikes!
Wilmington Beach: Annexed by Carolina Beach in 2000, Wilmington Beach connects Carolina Beach to its southern neighbor Kure Beach. The beach side boardwalk has been a popular spot for generations, but was recently renovated to knock it out of the park. With amusement rides for kids, yoga on the boardwalk for health nuts, and quaint food stands for people who eat (um, everyone), the boardwalk is teeming with visitors during warm summer evenings.
A great mixture of small-town charm and modern amenities, Carolina Beach is a friendly place that is far from ordinary. Stroll the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, which was rated as one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country by Food and Wine magazine. Don't forget to stop by Britt's Donuts for a hot glazed treat. Play a few games in the arcade, or ride the Ferris wheel or carousel. Several events throughout the year happen at the boardwalk, including the Boardwalk Blast series held weekly throughout the summer with fireworks and live entertainment. The Carolina Beach Music Festival each June will have you learning how to shag to beach music. The state's official dance was invented in Carolina Beach. The town has several bars, including Shanty's II, where you can practice the dance nightly, or even enter a shagging contest!
If you'd rather dance along the water, group or individual surf lessons will get you up to speed in no time. Any of the local surf shops can connect you with instructors. Rent a bicycle on the boardwalk to take life at a slow speed, or grab some friends and take a cruise around the waters. Cruises for dinner or partying can be arranged at the marina, while the Carolina Beach Pier has cruises specifically for fishing outings. Head to the pier to fish on your own off the 700-foot pier.
A weekly farmers market is held at Carolina Beach Lake. Even when the market is not open, the lake is a great place to rent paddle boats, or just walk around the lake for fitness. Starting right after Thanksgiving, the lake is lit up with holiday displays for the season.
