Carolina Beach is a fantastic spot for exploring by land and sea, thanks to its picturesque waterways, lively shoreline, and friendly community. It’s a place where you can easily combine relaxation with active adventures. Among the options, we particularly like the Private Boat Charter for Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach, which offers an intimate and customizable way to experience the area’s stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re fishing, lounging, or exploring secret spots, this trip showcases why the Intracoastal Waterway is a highlight here. And for a more playful, interactive experience, the Cheeky Carolina Beach Scavenger Hunt makes for a fun afternoon solving puzzles and discovering hidden corners of the town.
If you’re looking for an active way to learn about local history, the Cycle-logical Tours Guided eBike History Tour of Oak Island combines scenic riding with insightful storytelling. Thinking of a family-friendly or social activity? The Outstanding Oak Island Scavenger Hunt keeps everyone engaged with creative challenges. And for a relaxed water outing, the Carolina Beach 3 Hours Boat Charter offers a flexible and comfortable way to enjoy the coast, especially if you love the idea of a sunset cruise. For those eager to try something sporty, the Experience the Exciting Fun of Surf Fishing combines learning with catching your own fish. Here’s the full scoop.
1. Private Boat Charter for Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach
This private boat charter is designed for those who want a personalized coastal experience. You’ll set sail on a 31ft Chaparral Signature, which comfortably accommodates up to six people for about five hours. The trip includes a cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, passing stunning views that look like they belong on a postcard. But the real highlight is Masonboro Island Reserve — a pristine, barrier island perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in the sun.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizability. Captain Reggie and his boat are prepared with amenities like a restroom, sinks, stereo system, and space for snacks and beverages, making it a truly comfortable outing. The itinerary is flexible: you can explore the scenic waterways of Wrightsville Beach, cruise through Banks Channel, or anchor at Masonboro to enjoy the beaches or have a picnic. The reviews emphasize the professionalism of the captain and the personal touch — “Reggie was outstanding,” says one traveler, who appreciated the weather updates and flexibility.
Bottom line: If you want a private, relaxed, and scenic day on the water with tailored options, this charter offers excellent value at $900 for six people. Perfect for families and groups wanting a memorable, customized experience.
2. Cheeky Carolina Beach Scavenger Hunt
For something a little different, the Cheeky Carolina Beach Scavenger Hunt provides an engaging, interactive adventure that combines discovery with creativity. This live, remote-guided scavenger hunt is designed to be played on your phone, with a friendly host guiding you through challenges and clues as you explore the town.
Priced at just $27 per person, it’s an affordable way to see the town through a fun detective lens. It lasts about two hours, making it ideal for a quick afternoon activity — whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a family. This experience shines because it’s not just a tour; it’s a social challenge that encourages teamwork, puzzle-solving, and photo-taking at your own pace. Reviews mention how “fantastic” it was for families and all ages, with the chance to extend or adapt the activity.
Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers who want a playful, social outing that reveals Carolina Beach’s hidden corners. It’s a budget-friendly, flexible choice for a memorable afternoon.
3. Cycle-logical Tours Guided eBike History Tour of Oak Island
If you prefer active exploration, the Cycle-logical Tours Guided eBike History Tour is a fantastic way to learn about local lore while covering ground comfortably. For around $90 per person, you’ll spend about two and a half hours pedaling along scenic coastal roads with a knowledgeable guide. The tour focuses on Oak Island’s centuries-old secrets, including shipwreck sites, historic piers, and the iconic lighthouse.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of history, scenery, and e-biking. The bikes are easy to ride, with an upgrade option for premium electric bikes, making it accessible to travelers of different fitness levels. The stops include the Oak Island Pier, with sweeping ocean vistas, and the lighthouse, which is a photo-worthy landmark since 1958. Reviewers praise the guides for their storytelling and the fun of riding e-bikes, creating a relaxed but informative experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for active travelers interested in history and scenery, especially those comfortable on a bike. It’s a good value given its depth of storytelling and scenic stops.
4. Outstanding Oak Island Scavenger Hunt
For a family-friendly, engaging activity, the Outstanding Oak Island Scavenger Hunt offers a lively two-hour adventure that combines sightseeing with fun challenges. For $21.60 per person, you’ll be guided remotely by a live host, who provides clues and tasks as you explore Oak Island’s streets and beaches.
This activity is perfect for all ages, especially if you enjoy friendly competition. Participants form teams, solve puzzles, and capture photos to complete challenges within the time limit. Reviewers highlight how much fun they had “making two teams — boys against girls,” and how the activity worked rain or shine, making it flexible for different weather conditions.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a lively, social way to discover Oak Island and keep everyone entertained, this scavenger hunt is a smart choice at a reasonable price.
5. Carolina Beach 3 Hours Boat Charter
The Carolina Beach 3 Hours Boat Charter provides a comfortable, no-fuss way to explore the intracoastal waterway aboard a luxurious Chaparral Signature 290. For $525 per group, up to six people can enjoy a private cruise that lasts around three hours. The boat features ample seating, a large swim platform, and private slip parking, making it easy to access and relax.
Whether you’re planning a sunset cruise or just want to spend time on the water, this charter is flexible. You can bring your own drinks and snacks, making it perfect for a laid-back, personal experience. The reviews are sparse but positive, emphasizing the boat’s comfort and the private nature of the trip.
Bottom line: This option suits travelers who want a private, leisurely cruise with the flexibility to customize your time on the water. It’s especially appealing for romantic evenings or small groups celebrating special occasions.
$525.00 per group (up to 6)
6. Experience the Exciting Fun of Surf Fishing
For those who love outdoor sports and learning new skills, Experience the Exciting Fun of Surf Fishing offers a two-and-a-half-hour lesson in casting, baiting, and landing fish directly from the surf. Priced at $165 for up to three people, this tour emphasizes success and fun over technical mastery.
The guide focuses on understanding the underwater terrain, bait selection, and optimal tidal times, ensuring you’ll catch fish and enjoy your time. It’s ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting to try their hand at surf fishing with expert help. While reviews are not available, the description promises a mix of education and enjoyment, with plenty of hands-on practice.
Bottom line: Great for active, outdoorsy travelers wanting a hands-on fishing experience that’s easy to fit into a day of beach activities.
$165.00 per group (up to 3)
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting your ideal tour in Carolina Beach, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a private, customized experience, the Private Boat Charter offers unmatched flexibility and comfort. If you’re traveling with family or friends and love puzzles, the Oak Island scavenger hunts or Carolina Beach scavenger hunt are excellent options.
Active personalities might gravitate toward the eBike tour for scenic learning, while those wanting a relaxing water experience could opt for the boat charters. For adventure on the water with a sporty twist, surf fishing is a solid pick. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular private charters or during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Carolina Beach offers a wide range of tours to suit different interests and energy levels. Whether you’re after a peaceful cruise, an active eBike ride, or a fun scavenger hunt, there’s something here to make your trip memorable. We recommend booking private charters for special occasions, trying an interactive scavenger hunt to explore more intimately, or renting an eBike if you love history and scenery. Whatever you choose, early planning gets you the best options. Enjoy your adventure in Carolina Beach!