Why We Love Carolina Beach State Park

If the beaches are crowded, Carolina Beach State Park is a great detour. It’s on the Cape Fear River so the water is not wavy or blue but there is plenty of beachy areas surrounded by trees and fun hiking trails. Great place to chase fiddler crabs and you can hike and then relax with a picnic.

Located in New Hanover County 12 miles south of Wilmington, Carolina Beach State Park is home to the Venus flytrap, a unique carnivorous plant. The park is known for habitats like Sugarloaf Dune, a 50-foot dune that once served as a navigational marker for river pilots, as well as three limesink ponds that each feature a unique plant community. The park's marina provides access to the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway, making the area popular for boaters and anglers. HERE is a link to the trails.

If you plan to visit, here is a list of items you may want to bring.

Bug spray - We are in nature. They were here before us and we are just living in their world. This OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol has 20% Picaridin, Long-Lasting DEET-Free Protection from Mosquitoes, Fragrance-Free Pest Control For Ticks & Flies

Sunscreen - This Coppertone sunscreen is heat, sweat and waterproof in a spray for easy application.

Day Pack - This day pack is lightweight, foldable, easily stored. Enough space to pack a towel, snacks, dry clothes and all your essentials.