Carolina Beach sees holiday crowds as centennial summer begins

May 25, 2025

Ava Dorn,

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Carolina Beach saw busy crowds over Memorial Day weekend as the summer tourist season began. This year is special because the town is celebrating its 100th birthday.

Town Council Member Jay Healy said the large crowds happen every year. “We go from 6,900 residents to to 25 to 30 thousand overnight so it’s good,” he said.

At Carolina Beach Lake Park, vendors nearly doubled in number. There were 150 vendors this weekend compared to the usual 90. “Businesses are extremely happy.. they are and we have new businesses we opened up thirty businesses last year which is amazing,” Healy said.

The boardwalk showed signs of a busy summer. Sierra Hunt, manager at Beach Bunny Ice Cream, said the carnival opening brought many people. “The carnival opened on Thursday so that brings a lot of people down here and it’s been a lot busier so it’s been fun. I think everyone is excited it’s summertime they’ve made it down to the beach and we are right across from Britt’s we are in a great location so everyone is just excited to get their donuts and their ice cream and everyone is just having a good time,” Hunt said.

Employees at King’s Beachwear said the fireworks on Thursday night brought more visitors. “Last night was a good start but I know it’s going to get crazier,” said Katlyn Elliott. “During the summer we usually start closing at like 11-12. I got out of here at 12 last night so when the fireworks happen people just come in all throughout the night and then we’ve got to clean up…” said Addi Fitzpatrick. “Especially now that Britt’s is open but yeah definitely people coming down and visiting. Tourists love coming and buying Carolina Beach themed items especially with the sale,” Elliott said.

Councilman Healy expects more traffic and crowds this summer. He shared a phrase from Mayor Lynn Barbee that explains the town’s appeal. “A great place to live is a great place to visit. You know you ask anybody that’s been here for a couple years or even years their whole life Carolina Beach is a special place,” Healy said.

Carolina Beach plans to host events throughout the year to celebrate its 100th anniversary.