From the Carolina Beach Boardwalk to its warm sandy beaches, the vibrant town of Carolina Beach, NC is a favorite summer vacation spot for tourists and residents alike. However, many locals actually prefer the area during the off-season.
The town and surrounding areas have a wide variety of unique features, events, and activities open to the public during fall, winter, and early spring.
Here are just a few of our favorite off-season Carolina Beach activities…
1) Explore Fort Fisher
Fort Fisher – the site of the largest sea battle in the Civil War – is a superb place to visit in chillier months. During the war, the fort served as a key supply route for inland Confederate armies. We suggest spending time walking through the indoor and outdoor exhibits of the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, learning the history of the battle. Every January, the fort celebrates the anniversary of The Battle of Fort Fisher, putting on a free reenactment of the battle for the public.
2) Take a Hike at Carolina Beach State Park
The off-season in Carolina Beach never gets too cold. The mild temperatures are perfect for a scenic hike along the seven miles of beautiful wooded trails at Carolina Beach State Park. The park is also an ideal spot for camping or a picnic along the Intracoastal Waterway.
3) Visit the Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Another local favorite, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher makes for an exciting trip for the whole family. At the aquarium, you can expect to encounter eels, sharks, albino alligators, a growing otter family, baby sea turtles, and even feel the smooth skin of a stingray. And the aquarium gets even better during the holidays. During the annual Cape Fear Festival of Trees, visitors can not only admire the sea life, but they can also enjoy the beautiful Christmas trees decorated by local businesses and artists and interspersed throughout the aquarium.
4) Attend Local Holiday Events
In addition the the major holiday events at Fort Fisher and the aquarium, Carolina Beach features a variety of other unique coastal holiday traditions – most prominent of which is the Island of Lights Festival. An entire week full of holiday fun, the festival consists of a holiday light display at Carolina Beach Lake Park, a Christmas By the Sea tour with Santa Claus, a Christmas Parade, an Island of Lights Flotilla competition, and more!
5) Roast Marshmallows on a Beach Fire at Freeman Park
In the mood for s’mores on the beach? No problem! With a permit, you can set up a beach fire and roast marshmallows at Freeman Park on the north end of Carolina Beach. In fact, you can even drive your 4x4 vehicle right onto the beach and set up camp for the night. Amazing, right?
Network Real Estate | Leland, NC
Searching for a home in or around Carolina Beach, NC? Our agents are happy to help you start your home search process.Call us today at 910-395-4100.
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