Wilmington-area beach among USA TODAY’s picks for affordable trips

Summer travel isn’t cheap -- especially this year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of July, the consumer price index for plane tickets had risen 25% in the past year, and prices at the gas pump have stayed high into August 2026. Despite the cost, for some families, summer is whe

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What is the story about?

Summer travel isn’t cheap -- especially this year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of July, the consumer price index for plane tickets had risen 25% in the past year, and prices at the gas pump have stayed high into August 2026.

Despite the cost, for some families, summer is when traveling just makes the most sense. Schools are out of session, and the weather is conducive to making the most out of a vacation.

While traveling -- especially to the beach -- might never be cheap, there are some destinations that are more budget-friendly than others, including in the Wilmington area.

A recent USA TODAY column spotlighted Carolina Beach as one of the best spots for a vacation that stays affordable while still offering that classic

beach trip experience.

A trip to Carolina Beach

A USA TODAY column from travel site FamilyVacationist.com detailed eight places across the United States that were ideal budget-friendly destinations.

Carolina Beach was included, in part, because it offers a classic coastal vibe. Almost nothing says quintessential beach town like Carolina Beach Boardwalk with its colorful ice cream parlors, beachy seafood restaurants and an amusement park complete with towering Ferris wheel.

Beyond that, once you’re in Carolina Beach, there’s plenty to do that won’t cost you a dime. The town puts on live music and a free firework show every Thursday night during the summer, as well as a free movie series at the town’s Lake Park on Sunday evenings.

As for outdoor recreation beyond the beach itself, the free-to-enter Carolina Beach State Park offers miles of hiking trails, water access and views of the native Venus' flytrap.