Carolina Beach (Brunswick, Bald Head Island: homes, movies, price)

[michellelf]

My family and I are searching for a nice place to vacation this summer. We were considering Bald Head Island but the homes are pricey and on top of that you have to pay a Ferry fee every time you wanted to go off the island.

Another place that looks interesting is Carolina Beach. Is this a nice place to visit? Looks like there are lots of family activities. What is the Boardwalk like?

Thanks!

[mattbward]

The Boardwalk area is still undergoing alot of rennovations. It's kinda been haulted a bit due to the economic slow down. It eventually is going to have a aquarium pier attached to it according to their plans. Many people bring families down here for vacation. Every Thursday night during season they have fireworks on the beach in front of the boardwalk and movies on the lake just down the street, kinda like a drive in but free and just for people to walk up and enjoy.

[michellelf]

So it is more of a family friendly atmosphere rather than a crazy party atmosphere? Do the beaches get very crowded?

[seashellbelle]

Originally Posted by michellelf

So it is more of a family friendly atmosphere rather than a crazy party atmosphere? Do the beaches get very crowded?

Our beaches at Carolina Beach and for the most part in SE North Carolina, mainly Brunswick County, and parts of New Hanover county are expansive and wide, unlike those in DE or NJ. I do not know the reason we have suffered less beach erosion here, it may have something to do with our beaches facing south, or the currents. Maybe someone else on this forum can explain this. I have heard some areas are more affected than others, but nothing like what I have seen up North. So to answer your question, there is plenty of room on the Beach at Carolina Beach.

Carolina Beach offers a variety of things to do for "all" members of the family. I would not consider it a party town in the least, unlike Dewey Beach in DE which has attracted over the years the partiers from DC area. Nothing wrong with that, DC is a party town, and Dewey Beach is their summer "sand box".
The thing I like most about Carolina Beach is it is laid back, there are bars and such to go to, however, they are not intrusive on those who just wish to enjoy the beach and have tranquil days.
Hope this helps, and do plan to come for a visit, so you can experience it yourself.

[michellelf]

Do people drive their cars on the beaches?

[BeachLiving]

There are two beaches on the island where you can drive your 4x4 vehicle.

Here are some pics from last weekend at the south end beach (Fort Fisher):
Carolina Beach Today: An Afternoon at the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area