The Best Carolina Beach Bars

A trip to North Carolina has many options for fun and relaxation. Visitors often visit the state for its beaches, mountains, and big cities. Of course, the Outer Banks are a huge draw.

However, many hidden gems in North Carolina are worth a visit. One of these is Carolina Beach, a small town located on the Atlantic coast. Carolina Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean views. The town also has a variety of bars that offer a perfect place to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. Carolina Beach is not complete without spending some time at one of the area's many watering holes. Many spots have ocean views, live music, outdoor seating, full menus, and other activities. Whether you are looking for a place to grab a quick drink or spend the entire night, there is a bar for you. 

Here are some of the best bars in Carolina Beach where you can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a refreshing beverage. 

The Fat Pelican

Price Range: $

Address: 8 S Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Dive Bar

This bar is a local favorite and has been serving up cold drinks for over 50 years. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. The Fat Pelican is known for their frozen drinks, including their famous Pina Coladas. If you are looking for a place to dance, this is not the spot for you. This is a laid-back bar where you can relax and enjoy the company of others. 

It was voted as one of "The 32 Diviest Dive Bars in America" by impulcity.com

Nollie's Taco Joint

Price Range: $

Address: 3 Pelican Lane, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Pub & Bar

People have been flocking here for tacos since 2017, but the bar is what keeps people coming back. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their drinks. They have a wide selection of beers, including local brews, and a full liquor bar. The menu features traditional Mexican dishes with a twist.

If you are vegan or vegetarian, you won't have a problem finding something to eat here. They have a variety of options for everyone.

The Last Resort

Price Range: $

Address: 600 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Local Haunt

This local bar is a cozy hole in the wall that has been serving up drinks since the 1970s. It is a great place to go for cheap beers and mixed drinks. The locals love this spot for its dive bar atmosphere and friendly bartenders. If one of the 14 seats inside is taken, you have plenty of outdoor seating.

If you are looking for a place to play pool or darts, this is the spot for you. There are several TVs if you want to catch the game. 

Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar

Price Range: $$

Address: 1211 S Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Tiki Bar

Come here to feast on tasty traditional American food and seafood including their Oyster sandwich or fried shrimp tacos. This place was named one of "America's Best Beach Bars" by Thrillest.com. It is the perfect place to enjoy a tropical drink while listening to live music. If you are not into music, you can always sit back and listen to the waves as you enjoy the oceanfront location. 

SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar

Price Range: $$

Address: 227 Carolina Beach Ave N, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

This Pleasure Island spot is open until midnight on the weekends. Come here to host corporate events, birthday parties, and other events at this entertainment venue that doubles as a tiki bar. The place is family and pet-friendly and ideal for casual dining. 

It is also a great place to enjoy nightlife due to the full production of musical performances.

Hurricane Alley's 

Price Range: $$

Address: 5 Boardwalk, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Pub & Bar

This popular spot on Carolina Beach Boardwalk has live music every summer weekend and several nights a week throughout the year. If you enjoy seafood, this is the place to go. The menu features items such as calamari, crab legs, and shrimp. This bar has a beachfront patio and a rooftop deck that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

There are a variety of beers on tap and in bottles. If you are looking for something stronger, they have a full liquor bar. 

High Tide Lounge & Tiki Bar

Price Range: $

Address: 1800 Carolina Beach Ave N, Carolina Beach, 28428

Bar Vibe: Local Haunt

Come here for the scenic view of the Carolina Beach Inlet and to enjoy a cold drink. This bar has lots of beer specials and is dog-friendly. So bring your pup and enjoy an ice-cold beer. The full menu includes their popular cheeseburger. There is parking nearby under the pier.

Silver Dollar

Price Range: $$

Address: 3 Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Dive Bar

One of the best seafood restaurants in the area is the Silver Dollar. Customers love the peel and eat shrimp, crab legs, and crab dip. The boardwalk bar is open late until 2am. It is a great place to socialize with friends or make new ones. You can enjoy outdoor seating and buy a t-shirt as a souvenir. 

Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill

Price Range: $$

Address: 701 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Sports Bar

This dive bar has tons of games and entertainment for everyone as you enjoy burgers, seafood, appetizers, and sandwiches. You can play darts, pool, or video games. Come with family or friends for a fun night out. 

Live music is featured on the weekends. 

Crush And Grind

Price Range: $$

Address: 7 Harper Ave, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Bar Vibe: Cafe & Bar

If you can't decide between alcohol and caffeine during your outing, this is the place for you. Since 2017, Crush and Grind has been serving craft beer, wine, and coffee from the finest Ethiopian beans. The owners are passionate about each drink and take the time to educate customers about their products.

The menu includes small plates and snacks. Cold brew lovers can sip on their signature 30-hour cold brew. The wine list has very solid selections, so you can enjoy fine drinks of all varieties here.

Enjoy Drinks On Carolina Beach

North Carolina's Carolina Beach offers a variety of bars that provide the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a cold drink while overlooking the beautiful ocean. From dive bars to upscale bars, there is something for everyone. 

So, whether you are looking for a place to watch the game or listen to live music, these Carolina Beach bars have you covered. If you are in nearby Kure Beach or Wrightsville Beach, make sure to add these Carolina Beach bars to your list.