The Carolina Beach State Park offers diverse habitats, scenic hiking trails, and it’s home to the Venus Flytrap, a carnivorous plant that thrives in this coastal environment. This particular ecosystem allows hundreds of native animals to thrive. Anglers flock to its fishing spots, and boaters can access the Intracoastal Waterway and the Cape Fear River.
Hiking
The state park has 9 hiking trails that span over 8.5 miles. The Fitness Trail and the Flytrap Trail are wheelchair accessible. All trails are relatively flat and range from the 0.25 mile Track Trail for kids to the 3-mile loop Sugarloaf Trail to view the historic Sugarloaf Dune. Pets are allowed on the trails with a leash no longer than 6 feet.
There are 2 public boat ramps and a 54 slip marina where boaters may launch at the intersection of the Cape Fear River and Snow’s Cut. Fuel and supplies are available in the marina store. Paddle NC is located inside the park where they offer Kayak, SUP and Canoe rentals along with fishing, eco and sunset tours.
Fishing
One of the most popular fishing spots on the whole island is the bank of the Cape Fear River. The park also offers a wheelchair accessible fishing deck. A North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required to fish in the park.
Park Events
The state park hosts yearly events as well as monthly events to learn more about the habitat and native animals who live there.
Fourth Wednesday Bird Walk A 2-mile guided walk to learn about and watch native and visiting birds in their habitat. Make sure to bring your Birdwatching Checklist!
Carolina Beach State Park Half & 5K A timed trail race with 3.1 and 13.1 courses on New Year’s Eve. The race helps fund the non-profit, Friends of Pleasure Island State Park.
Turtle Talks Held June through August by the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project. Their volunteers help educate the community and visitors on the lifecycle of a sea turtle and how to help this endangered species survive.
