Our Favorite Spots in Carolina Beach
We've spent a lot of time exploring Carolina Beach, and these are the places we find ourselves coming back to again and again. We hope you love them as much as we do!
🦐 Seafood & Dinner
The Sandspur ⭐ Our favorite!
A newer addition to the island serving fresh seafood and elevated beach fare. If you only have time for one dinner out, this would be our pick.
Salt Fish
A must for a special night out. Be sure to make a reservation, especially during the summer. We highly recommend the coconut shrimp!
Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar
Just a short walk from Good Juju and one of our favorite places to relax with dinner and drinks. Enjoy oceanfront views and two hours of free parking. Closed for part of the winter, typically January through February. Very kid friendly!
Shuckin' Shack
A laid back oyster bar with a fun, beachy atmosphere. Great seafood and cold drinks.
🍔 Casual Favorites
Island Burgers & Bites
Famous for burgers that earned second place in the Wilmington Best Burger Contest. They've recently moved into a new location and are better than ever.
The Spot
Just around the corner from the house. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, especially if you're craving wings.
Hang Ten Grill
Classic beach bar food with a relaxed atmosphere.
Riko's Thin Crust
One of the newest restaurants on the island. Excellent thin crust pizza, delicious appetizers, and a great space for families or groups.
CB Market & Deli
This spot just reopened and the sandwiches are amazing! Highly reccomend the BLT, they also have a coffee bar and ice cream!
🌮 Breakfast & Coffee
Island Taqueria
A new favorite serving fantastic breakfast burritos and Mexican classics. A great grab and go option.
Drift Coffee + Kitchen
One of our favorite coffee stops. Great coffee, beautiful space, and a fun atmosphere.
Malama Café
Excellent coffee and breakfast. Don't miss the BLT toast!
The Southerly
Known for incredible biscuit sandwiches and Southern breakfast favorites.
Majik Beans Coffee
Great coffee with an awesome outdoor play area if you're traveling with little ones.
🍩 Sweet Treats
Britt's Donuts
An island tradition and one of the most famous donut shops in North Carolina. Open seasonally from late May through early September.
Fun-Time Ice Cream
Soft serve, funnel cakes, and all the classic beach treats. We stop here multiple times every trip!
Wake 'N Bake Donuts
Award winning specialty donuts located in the same shopping center as Food Lion.
🍷 Drinks & Nightlife
The Fat Pelican
An iconic Carolina Beach dive bar with an incredible beer selection and unforgettable atmosphere. Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty may recognize it from the show.
Neapolitan Wine Bar
A wonderful local wine shop with knowledgeable owners, tasting flights, and a thoughtfully curated selection.
🛒 Grocery Stop
The Veggie Wagon
A charming specialty market with fresh produce, local goods, craft beer, and build your own ice cream sandwiches. It's perfect for grabbing snacks and a few essentials, though you'll probably want Food Lion or Publix for a full grocery run.
Shopping
Whether you're picking up beach essentials, browsing local boutiques, or stocking the fridge for your stay, these are some of our favorite spots around Carolina Beach.
🏄 Beach Shops & Boutiques
CB Surf Shop
A longtime local favorite for surf gear, beach essentials, apparel, and souvenirs.
Carolina Surf Brand
Locally designed apparel and beach-inspired clothing with a coastal Carolina vibe.
Somethin' Beachy
A fun boutique filled with home décor, gifts, jewelry, and unique beach finds.
Bert's Surf Shop
Another great stop for surfboards, beach gear, clothing, and souvenirs.
Things to Do
Whether you're looking for family adventures or a relaxing afternoon, there's plenty to enjoy just minutes from Good Juju.
🐠 Family Favorites
Fort Fisher Aquarium
One of our favorite rainy day (or any day!) activities. Home to sharks, sea turtles, otters, and plenty of interactive exhibits. (SADLY THIS IS CLOSED UNTIL 2028 for remodeling)
Mike Chappell Park
A fantastic park featuring a large playground, skate park, dog park, tennis courts, basketball courts, walking trails, and open green space.
Surf's Up Mini Golf
Classic beach vacation fun for all ages.
🌊 Explore the Island
Carolina Beach Pier
Take a walk on the historic pier, enjoy the ocean views, or grab a bite at the High Tide Lounge.
Carolina Beach State Park & Island Greenway
Miles of scenic hiking and biking trails through coastal forests and marshes. Keep an eye out for the famous Venus flytraps that grow naturally here!
🎉 Seasonal Events
Saturday Morning Farmers Market (May–September)
Browse fresh produce, baked goods, local art, flowers, and live music.
Thursday Night Fireworks (Summer)
Every Thursday evening during the summer, enjoy fireworks over the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Bring a blanket and arrive a little early for a great spot!