Mike Chappell Park
A Local Favorite for Parks, Pups & Outdoor Fun
Need a change of scenery after a few days on the sand? Mike Chappell Park is one of Carolina Beach's best spots for getting outside beyond the beach. Tucked just off Dow Road, this spacious community park has something for just about everyone, playgrounds for the kids, courts and fields for a little friendly competition, a fenced dog park, a skate park, and easy access to the Island Greenway.
It's a favorite with Carolina Beach locals and an easy addition to your stay when you want to get moving, let the kids burn off some energy, or give your four-legged travel companion some room to run.
Location: 501 Dow Road South, Carolina Beach
Hours: Sunrise–11 PM, 7 days a week
Something for Everyone
Mike Chappell Park is one of those places that's genuinely useful when you're traveling with a group.
Families can head to the playground while older kids check out the skate park or basketball courts. Bring your rackets for tennis or pickleball, toss a football around on the open lawn, or pack lunch and enjoy some time outside away from the busier beachfront areas.
The open layout and variety of amenities also make it an easy option when everyone in the group has a slightly different idea of what "fun" looks like.
Park Amenities
Tennis courts
Pickleball courts
Basketball court and youth basketball area
Baseball and softball fields
Soccer field
Playground
Open green space
Fenced dog park
8,000-square-foot skate park with ramps, rails and bowls
Access to the Island Greenway
Traveling With Your Pup?
This is an especially good one to bookmark if you're bringing your dog to Carolina Beach.
The fenced dog park gives pups a chance to run, play, and make a few vacation friends of their own, particularly helpful after spending time in the car or when you want an alternative to a beach walk.
Pair your park visit with a walk along the nearby Island Greenway for an easy way to explore another side of Carolina Beach.
Seasonal Events & Local Traditions
Mike Chappell Park isn't just for everyday recreation. Throughout the year, the park also serves as a gathering place for community events and seasonal celebrations.
Annual favorites have included the Easter Egg Hunt, featuring family activities, crafts and a visit from the Easter Bunny; a Halloween Carnival with costumes, games, music and activities; and Santa Paws, when even Carolina Beach's four-legged residents get their chance for a holiday photo with Santa.
Event dates and programming can change each year, so check the current local events calendar during your stay.
Vesta Tip
Save this one for a cloudy morning, an active afternoon, or when the kids have officially had enough beach time.
If you're traveling with a dog, it's also a great stop to combine with a walk on the Island Greenway. Bring water, sunscreen, and any sports gear you want to use, then grab lunch or a treat in Carolina Beach afterward.
Sometimes the best beach days aren't spent entirely on the beach.
