Thanksgiving at the beach is all about slowing down — sunrise coffee on the balcony, peaceful beach walks, fresh seafood, and just the right amount of holiday sparkle. If you’re staying at Atlantic Towers, you’re steps from the ocean and close to every holiday happening around the island.
Here’s your laid-back 3-day Thanksgiving guide, packed with local flavors, festive events, and plenty of ways to unwind by the sea.
Day 1: Arrive, Unwind & Explore the Island
Check-In: Atlantic Towers
Drop your bags, breathe in the ocean air, and settle into your home for the holiday. Whether you head straight to the beach or relax on your private balcony, this is the perfect moment to shift into vacation mode.
Bonus: Your stay includes one free Carolina Beach activity per day — from boat tours to amusements — plus discounts on even more local experiences.
Afternoon: Beach Time + Boardwalk Stroll
Ease into the weekend with a gentle beach walk or a dip in the pool. Then head over to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for seaside views, small shops, and an easy island vibe.
Dinner: Michael’s Seafood Restaurant
A beloved local spot serving award-winning chowder and seafood comforts. Perfect for your first night on the island.
Thanksgiving Special at Atlantic Towers (Nov 26–30)
Planning a Thanksgiving escape? When you stay two nights or longer, we’ll welcome you with a festive Atlantic Towers Swag Bag, complete with a complimentary bottle of champagne to toast your oceanfront holiday. It’s the perfect touch of sparkle for your beachside Thanksgiving.
Day 2: Thanksgiving Day by the Sea
Morning: Sunrise + Water Aerobics
Start your Thanksgiving with an Atlantic Towers classic — enjoy a peaceful sunrise from your balcony, then head to the pool for morning water aerobics. It’s fun, lighthearted, and a refreshing way to begin the holiday.
Mid-Morning: Carolina Beach State Park
Walk the Sugarloaf or Snow’s Cut Trail for quiet forest views, river overlooks, and a peaceful start to your Thanksgiving morning.
Thanksgiving Dining Options
Whether you prefer to dine out or enjoy a cozy meal in your condo, here are nearby choices:
Dine-In Options
• Michael’s Seafood Restaurant — Carolina Beach (≈ 5 minutes from Atlantic Towers)
A long-time local favorite known for its cozy, casual atmosphere and award-winning chowder. If offering a Thanksgiving menu, this is one of the most convenient dine-in choices for guests staying on the island.
• Southerly Biscuit & Pie — Carolina Beach (≈ 3 minutes away)
A cozy Southern-style spot known for biscuits, comfort dishes, and holiday pies.Available online starting November 13, 2025, with pickup on November 26, 2025 — perfect for adding to your Thanksgiving table at Atlantic Towers.
Additional Dine-In Options (Short Drive from Atlantic Towers)
• SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar (Located in close-by coastal area — short drive)
Upscale, cozy, and ideal for a more elevated Thanksgiving dining experience. Expect a warm atmosphere, a strong wine selection, and chef-inspired dishes.
• SOHO Main Street Grille (Short drive — Wilmington area)
Comfort food classics and hearty plates, great for larger groups or guests wanting a traditional family meal with a casual feel.
These options are not in Carolina Beach proper, but may be worth the drive if you’re looking for a wider range of Thanksgiving menus or elevated holiday dining.
Take-Out Option
• Biggers Market (Short drive — Wilmington)
A popular pick for pre-ordered Thanksgiving meals. Grab a fully prepared meal — sides, mains, desserts — and enjoy a cozy Thanksgiving dinner from the comfort of your oceanfront condo at Atlantic Towers.
Evening: Beach Sunset + Relaxation
After your holiday feast, take a slow walk on the beach as the sun sets. Thanksgiving at the ocean just hits differently — peaceful, soft, and full of those “this is exactly what we needed” moments.
Day 3: Holiday Shopping + Seasonal Magic
Morning: Crush & Grind Coffee
Grab a small-batch coffee, pastry, or specialty latte and enjoy a crisp morning on the boardwalk.
Holiday Shopping: Small Business Saturday
Explore island boutiques and local shops for coastal gifts, art, apparel, ornaments, and handmade holiday treasures.
Kure Beach Holiday Market
Nov 22 & Nov 29, 2025 — 9 AM–3 PM
Pick up unique gifts, coastal crafts, and seasonal goodies at the open-air market by the ocean at Kure Beach Oceanfront Park.
Afternoon: Free Activity Adventure
Use your free daily Atlantic Towers activity — which may include water experiences, amusements, or other local favorites. Or opt for a relaxing pontoon ride or scenic kayak tour around the island.
Evening Holiday Event:
Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake
Friday, Nov 28, 2025 • 5:30–7:30 PM
Gather at Carolina Beach Lake Park as thousands of holiday lights turn on for the first time. Bring a warm drink, a cozy sweater, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Holiday Events Happening Throughout the Season
Even if you’re not here the exact day, these events help guests planning extended stays or return visits:
Carolina Beach Christmas Parade
Dec 5, 2025 — 7 PM
A cheerful parade along Lake Park Blvd with floats, marching bands, and Santa.
Island of Lights Flotilla
Dec 6, 2025
Watch beautifully decorated boats parade along the waterway — a magical holiday tradition.
Christmas Palm Tree Lighting
Dec 7, 2025
A beachy twist on a tree lighting, complete with tropical holiday vibes.
Practical Tips for Your Thanksgiving Trip
Thanksgiving at Carolina Beach is all about relaxation, connection, and a little holiday sparkle — and staying at Atlantic Towers places you right where the ocean meets comfort. From sunrise walks and holiday markets to festive lights and cozy meals, it’s the perfect coastal escape for making new memories this season.
Ready to Book Your Holiday Stay?
Make this Thanksgiving one to remember. When you stay with us November 26–30 for a minimum of two nights, you’ll receive a festive Atlantic Towers Swag Bag complete with a complimentary bottle of champagne to toast your oceanfront holiday.
It’s our way of adding a little sparkle to your coastal getaway.
Book direct at Atlantic-Towers.com to secure your Thanksgiving stay today.