Carolina Beach State Park is one of Pleasure Island's loveliest natural getaways, offering a respite from the nearby hustle and bustle of the attractions of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The 761-acre park, which is located 10 miles north of the city of Wilmington, is located along the Intracoastal Waterway and the Cape Fear River and is jointly operated by the State of North Carolina and the Department of the Army. It is designated to protect the island's pocosin wetland habitats, which support a plethora of rare carnivorous plant species, including famed Venus flytraps, butterworts, bladderworts, and pitcher plants. Park visitors can explore more than six miles of hiking trails or peruse the park's visitor center, which showcases natural history exhibits on the region's unique ecosystems. A marina is also available for visitor use, along with overnight campgrounds and day-use picnic sites.
1010 State Park Road, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, Phone: 910-458-8206
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.