A favorite for all ages is the Touch Tank, where the brave can pick up and learn about hermit crabs and other crawling marine life. Weekend workshops, shows, films, and day camps are held year round. Keep heading south until the road runs out, and you will enjoy the novelty of driving the car onto the Ft. You can also ride as a pedestrian or cyclist, while watching for dolphins or maybe a rare manatee. Once across, tour historic Southport and Brunswick Town, or eat at one of its great waterside restaurants.
Children can throw up leftover crumbs to the sea birds on the way back.
The famous boardwalk in downtown Carolina Beach has a tinge of nostalgia, and is another fun landmark with kids. Arcades, stores, bumper cars and amusements provide old-fashioned fun. Early summer evenings can be enjoyed with live entertainment at the gazebo, followed by ice cream cones, skeeball, and walking the walk. After the ice cream or cotton candy, load up and head out for a cruise on one of the party boats at the Carolina Beach docks. The early evening cruises are generally more family oriented, and your kid's will be in for a memorable night-time ride.