Hotel Overview

Are you dreaming of a beach getaway where you’re right in the heart of the action with a balcony view of the ocean?

Yes? The Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach might just be what you’re looking for.

Nestled right on the oceanfront, this hotel offers more than just a place to rest your head—it delivers an experience.

From its unbeatable location steps away from the iconic Carolina Beach Boardwalk to its comfortable rooms boasting ocean views, this property has much to offer.

Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, explore the local dining and nightlife, or simply relax by the pool, the Courtyard makes it easy to create the perfect coastal retreat.

Let’s dive into the details of what makes this spot a standout choice—and where it could improve.

A view of the Courtyard Showing Ocean View Balconies for every room
Disclaimer

Courtyard Marriott, Carolina Beach Pros

When it comes to the Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach, let’s just say they’ve nailed the prime real estate game.

As a North Carolina local and a travel professional, I’ve seen my fair share of oceanfront properties, but this one’s location is practically the gold medalist in the beachfront Olympics.

Here’s what makes this property shine:

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
outdoor pool at the Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach with an ocean view and the boardwalk in the background
Pool at the Courtyard Marriott, Carolina Beach
  • Unbeatable Location: Right on the Atlantic Ocean and steps from the iconic Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Morning coffee to Britt’s Donut just steps away from the hotel? Yes, please.
  • Private Balconies: Every room features a balcony, perfect for soaking in sunrise views or snapping that insta-worthy ocean shot.
  • Onsite Perks: Starbucks for your caffeine fix, an onsite restaurant for easy dining, and indoor and outdoor pools—because a little rain shouldn’t ruin your beach day.
  • Accessibility: A beach-accessible wheelchair ensures inclusivity, so everyone can enjoy the shoreline.
  • Adventure at Your Doorstep: Kayak, surfboard, and bike rentals within walking distance.
  • Nearby Attractions: Fort Fisher Aquarium and the historic site are just a short drive away. Plus, Wilmington’s vibrant arts scene, restaurants, and shops are practically around the corner.

Honestly, if you’re looking for a place where location meets convenience with a side of seaside charm, the Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach is a solid choice.

Keep reading, though, I’ll give you the lowdown on the areas where this spot could use a little polish. Because let’s face it, even oceanfront paradise has its quirks.

Rooms

King Room with Sofa at the Courtyard Marriott, Carolina Beach

Cozy Coastal Comfort

The rooms at the Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach are all about blending comfort with coastal charm.

  • Beachy Vibes: Decorated in soothing greens and tans, the rooms has a relaxed, seaside feel perfect for unwinding.
  • Balcony Perks: Every room has an ocean view and a private balcony—ideal for morning coffee or catching a sunset.
  • Marriott Comfort: Known for their ultra-comfy pillows, the beds here are a dream. There’s nothing I love more than cuddling up in a nest of Marriott pillows after a day of beachside fun.
  • Flexible Options: King rooms with a sofa bed sleep up to 3 guests, two queen rooms accommodate up to 4, and the one-bedroom suite is perfect for families or groups, sleeping up to 5.
  • In Room Refrigerator to keep things cold.

Amenities

What You Need and More!

Smoke-Free Property: For a fresher, cleaner stay.

2 Pools: Enjoy both an indoor and outdoor pool, so you’re covered no matter the weather.

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
Indoor pool

Connectivity & Convenience: Free Wi-Fi throughout the property and a small market offering drinks, snacks, and sundry items.

Relaxation & Fitness: A bar for unwinding and a gym for staying active.

Group-Friendly: Ample conference space makes this a great spot for group trips or events.

Dining Options: The Bistro Restaurant serves up tasty meals. I enjoyed their avacado toast for breakfast and recommend their margherita flatbread for later in the day.

Margerita flatbread from the Bistro

And there’s a Starbucks onsite for your coffee cravings.

Best Feature

Hands down, the best feature of this property is its unbeatable location.

You can see the Courtyard from the rooftop deck at Sunny Daze Smokehouse

Between the gorgeous ocean views from my balcony and the ability to walk to restaurants and shops, it’s the kind of spot where you can park your car and forget about it for the rest of your stay.

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, shopping for beachy souvenirs, or simply strolling along the boardwalk, everything you need is just steps away.

I could easily spend an entire vacation here without ever having to step back into my car—unless, of course, I wanted to explore even more of what the area has to offer like:

the Aquarium

the Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Carolina Beach State Park

or nearby Wilmington.

Honestly, if you’re looking for a place where location meets convenience with a side of seaside charm, the Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach is a solid choice.

What’s in the Surrounding Area

The location of the Courtyard by Marriott isn’t just about convenience—it’s a gateway to everything Carolina Beach has to offer.

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
Hurricane Alley's as seen from my balcony
Hurricane Alley’s as seen from my balcony from the Courtyard at Carolina Beach
  • Behind the Hotel: The gorgeous beach and the iconic Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Hurricane Alley’s are just steps away, offering a lively atmosphere for fun and relaxation.
  • To One Side: You’ll find amazing restaurants like Sunny Daze Smokehouse, The Tropical, Malama Cafe, and Buzz’s Roost. There are also shops, nightlife, an arcade, and plenty of other activities to keep you entertained.
  • To the Other Side: Explore smaller shops like Sea Creature Supplies and Rare Goods, a locally owned gem featuring beverages, eco-friendly products, and locally crafted items. This side is also where you can rent kayaks, bikes, and even book surfing lessons.
  • In Front of the Hotel: More shops and restaurants await, including favorites like The Sandspur and Kate’s Pancake House, perfect for a hearty breakfast or a laid-back meal.
Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
Kates Pancake House

Hotel Cons

While the Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach offers plenty to love, there are a few areas that are less than perfect:

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
2 treadmills, one elyptical machine, hand weights and and weight bench and a green athletic ball
  • Gym Accessibility: The gym policy limits access to one person or one family at a time, which sounds good in theory but can be a challenge. During my stay in the off-season, I often found myself waiting to use the gym. I can only imagine how much more frustrating this might be during peak season. Patience and flexibility are essential if you plan to work out here.
  • Noise Levels: Being located next to the lively boardwalk and nightlife means there’s bound to be some noise. Even in the winter, I could hear faint music from nearby bars and restaurants. Light sleepers, consider packing earplugs for extra peace of mind.
  • Room Amenities: While the rooms come equipped with refrigerators, there are no microwaves. A shared microwave is available on the property, but it’s not as convenient as having one in your room.
  • Crowd Dynamics: The location’s popularity is both a blessing and a curse. While it’s amazing to have so much within walking distance, the area can get crowded, especially during high season, which might detract from the relaxed vibe some guests are looking for. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit in the off season.

These quirks don’t overshadow the overall experience, but they’re worth considering if any of these factors might affect your stay.

Who is it good for? Who is it not?

The Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach is a fantastic choice for certain travelers, but it might not suit everyone. Here’s a quick breakdown:

my fave waterproof crocs sandals on Carolina Beach the perfect beach shoe!

Perfect For:

  • Beach Lovers: If waking up to ocean views and walking to the beach is your idea of heaven, this property delivers.
  • Foodies and Night Owls: With restaurants, bars, and nightlife right outside your door, you’ll never run out of dining or entertainment options.
  • Families and Groups: The room options, including suites, make it a great fit for families or small groups. The onsite pools and proximity to attractions like the aquarium add extra appeal.
  • Event Planners: With conference space and group-friendly amenities, it’s ideal for hosting events or group getaways.
  • Wheelchair Accessible Needs: Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach offers many thoughtful amenities for those needing accessibility.
Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
beach access wheelchair

Not Ideal For:

  • Light Sleepers: The lively boardwalk and nearby nightlife can lead to noise, even in the off-season. If you’re sensitive to sound, this might not be the best fit.
  • Gym Enthusiasts: If a daily workout is a must, the limited gym access might be frustrating.
  • Travelers Needing In-Room Microwaves: While there’s a shared microwave on the property, the lack of in-room convenience might be a downside for some.
  • Crowd-Averse Guests: If you’re seeking a quiet, secluded retreat, the bustling location might feel overwhelming, especially during peak seasons.

Ultimately, this property shines for its location, amenities, and charm, but it’s worth weighing these factors to determine if it’s the right fit for your travel style.

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
view from the boardwalk

My Rating of Courtyard Marriott

Tripadvisor gives the Courtyard By Marriott at Carolina Beach a 4 out of 5 rating and I have to agree.

My Breakdown of Ratings at a Glance

  • Location: 5 – If you want to be in the heart of the action, it simply can’t be beat.
  • Character: 3.5 – While most of the hotel has a standard mid-range feel, the beachy vibe and decor add a nice personal touch.
  • Price: Off-season 5 / Summer 3 – A seaside hotel with balconies for around $100+ a night off-season is a steal, but summer rates are steep.
  • Cleanliness: 4 – Despite being a beachside property prone to sand and mess, the hotel is impressively clean.
  • Attention to Detail: 4 – From helpful guest services to thoughtful decor, there’s a lot to appreciate here. They were prompt and friendly when I asked for extra coffee supplies. I appreciate that.
  • Amenities: 3 – Standard offerings for this hotel chain, but nothing stands out as exceptional.
Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
avacado toast and coffee for breakfast on my balcony at the Courtyard Carolina Beach
Breakfast on the Balcony at Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach

Would I Stay at the Courtyard Marriott, Carolina Beach Again?

The answer is absolutely yes! I’d love to come back, and even though I tend to avoid crowds, this place makes me want to come in the summer to see what the fun is all about. It looks like a blast!

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
outdoor pool

Review Recap

Courtyard by Marriott in Carolina Beach offers: an unbeatable location, comfortable rooms with ocean views, and amenities that make for a relaxing stay.

While there are a few minor quirks—like gym access and noise levels—the overall experience is hard to beat.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic weekend, or a group trip, this property is a great choice that puts you right in the heart of all the action.

I’ll definitely be back!

Other Things to Know

Carolina Beach Oceanfront Hotels with Balcony/ Courtyard Marriott
a white rainbow over Carolina Beach in December

Street Parking in Carolina Beach in General is free between November 1st – The last day of February. Between March 1st – October 31st it’s $5 for 2 hours.

If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact the property with your request using the information on the reservation confirmation that you get after booking.

Not all shops and restaurants keep regular hours, especially in the off-season. Please check with the specific shop, restaurant or attraction to confirm that they will be open.

If you are granted a request for a late check out, they will give you 1 hour at no extra charge. If you need longer than that they charge $50 an hour.

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