Carolina Beach Car Tours: Top 5 Can’t-Miss Drives

Carolina Beach, now this little coastal treasure in North Carolina, is absolutely bursting with sunlight, salty air, and a super laid-back vibe, which really just begs you to hop in your car and begin exploring. Instead of being stuck with crowded sidewalks, get yourself set for some of the prettiest drives that showcase the natural beauty and local charm. This list features five fab car tours you should totally check out around Carolina Beach. We are sure you’ll discover hidden spots and stunning views that even some locals haven’t found yet!

1. The Scenic Fort Fisher Boulevard Route

Fort Fisher Boulevard, it’s almost certainly a super popular pick, and for all the best reasons. It follows the coastline south from Carolina Beach all the way down to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Along this stretch, the Atlantic Ocean is actually on one side, and the pretty marshlands on the other; it is a landscape providing, actually, a delightful contrast. It’s definitely a great chance for those snapshot-worthy moments, so too it’s a perfect route for anyone who loves soaking up that unique coastal vibe. Keep your windows down and simply let the breeze take you!

Along this trip, now be sure to stop at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which does feature the remains of a Confederate fort, by the way. If history sparks your interest, this may become a fab opportunity for you to take a step back in time. Also, it gives everyone more breathtaking ocean views. Plus, hey, if you’re kinda wanting to learn some important history lessons about the area, then the informational exhibits and tours, I’m sure, could very easily fill a little afternoon. Just be sure to make some time to experience this very iconic location.

For more information about this destination, be sure to check out Fort Fisher State Historic Site full review and details (Fort Fisher State Historic Site Full Review and Details). Consider viewing prices, availability & reserve now (Fort Fisher State Historic Site).

2. Pleasure Island Loop: Carolina Beach to Kure Beach

This loop starts in Carolina Beach and, you know, circles around the entire Pleasure Island. Head south towards Kure Beach for super attractive views. At the end of the loop, just head back to Carolina Beach. This path only takes a couple of hours if you aren’t planning on stopping, and the vibe is super relaxing! And since it covers a few destinations, I bet you’re going to catch sight of some super cool places!

In Kure Beach, you’ll find the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, which has a ton of cool exhibits featuring sea life from North Carolina and other places. When you finish learning more about ocean life, feel free to check out some awesome views of the Atlantic when you visit the Kure Beach Pier. On the north side, stop by the Carolina Beach Boardwalk if you want those quintessential seaside thrills. And of course, feel free to pause a moment to walk down the beach itself. Be sure to simply check for parking updates and traffic, especially in high season!

For more information about this destination, be sure to check out Carolina Beach to Kure Beach full review and details (Carolina Beach to Kure Beach Full Review and Details). Consider viewing prices, availability & reserve now (Carolina Beach to Kure Beach).

3. River Road Scenic Byway

If you kinda need a break from the constant ocean views (is that even possible?), River Road Scenic Byway gives a more inland escape, so too it’s still incredibly breathtaking. This road will very easily lead you along the Cape Fear River, and I do think it takes you through a very peaceful setting filled with ancient trees and historical sites. Plus, if you like seeing historic architecture and plantation homes, River Road Scenic Byway might become the perfect day trip!

Just a little north of Carolina Beach, Poplar Grove Plantation may be a worthwhile visit. This former plantation offers a look into the agricultural history of the area. History lovers are certain to treasure this place. After that, continue north and maybe take a stop in Wilmington, North Carolina, and just sort of pause for a walk along the Riverwalk. And so, I’m sure it’ll just fill up an afternoon or so as well as be a very pleasing detour to an otherwise beach-focused vacation. Be aware that hours vary depending on seasonality!

For more information about this destination, be sure to check out River Road Scenic Byway full review and details (River Road Scenic Byway Full Review and Details). Consider viewing prices, availability & reserve now (River Road Scenic Byway).

4. Carolina Beach to Snow’s Cut Bridge Route

Looking for an adventure only lasting an hour? Carolina Beach, as a matter of fact, has a super easy path to the Snow’s Cut Bridge. Going north on this path gives you awesome sights of the Intracoastal Waterway. It almost creates a perfect scenic pause! Snow’s Cut is interesting, seeing as it connects the Cape Fear River with the waterway.

Start your mini road adventure near Carolina Beach and drive up north. As a matter of fact, the drive provides some great waterside vistas that shouldn’t take too long. Then turn around to soak them in all over again. Because it is short, perhaps stop for an extra bit to see wildlife on the edge of the beach. Take the time for some food as well to just support some of the many awesome nearby Carolina Beach restaurants. This path offers some nice quiet. And I am sure you will want to experience it more than once!

For more information about this destination, be sure to check out Carolina Beach to Snow’s Cut Bridge Route full review and details (Carolina Beach to Snow’s Cut Bridge Route Full Review and Details). Consider viewing prices, availability & reserve now (Carolina Beach to Snow’s Cut Bridge Route).

5. The Backroad to Southport

To venture a little farther, now take a trip along the backroads towards Southport. Although a bit of a drive, this definitely charming coastal town has lots of lovely things for a relaxed day trip, and seeing it by car is a neat idea. As you move a little farther out, that small beachy vibe of Carolina Beach just seems to slowly switch into a classic, charming maritime vibe that certainly sets this location apart from the others mentioned. I’m sure the trip is every bit as cool as Southport!

Make certain that you don’t simply skip exploring the waterfront! You can take some peaceful walks by the water, now watch fishing boats, and maybe shop a bit. And if that’s not your thing, the Southport Maritime Museum has a handful of treasures about local sea history and culture. I’m sure those travelers will love taking time to absorb this important, preserved story! To recharge, just pick a great spot for lunch at a waterside diner and just enjoy the local catches. Be mindful to view open times before venturing to a store!

For more information about this destination, be sure to check out The Backroad to Southport full review and details (The Backroad to Southport Full Review and Details). Consider viewing prices, availability & reserve now (The Backroad to Southport).