Getting there
One-way, walk-up rates start from $179 (United connecting service via Charlotte)
Stay
The Courtyard by Marriott’s “Romance” package, valid through March 24 ($159-$219; promo code ROM), includes a spa king room with a private Jacuzzi; strawberries and champagne; breakfast; Wi-Fi and late check-out. Newly renovated rooms have private balconies overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Walk to the marina, boardwalk, Carolina Beach Lake Park or chill at the indoor or outdoor pools. A convenient location to Wilmington, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach; 100 Charlotte Ave., 910-458-2030, www. courtyardcarolinabeach.com.
Eat
Circa 1922 has it all — sangria, tapas, paella, risotto, sushi, sashimi and seafood to steaks. Enjoy $3 tapas plates and $5 bar menu items every day 5-7 p.m. A la carte menu items are $6 to $18 and three-course prix fixe dinners, Sunday-Thursday, are $19.95; 8 N. Front St., Wilmington, 910-762-1922, www.circa1922.com.
Experience
A visit to the Battleship North Carolina is a must for history buffs. Commissioned in 1941, the ship earned 15 battle stars in the Pacific during World War II. Take a self-guided tour of this memorial (allow two hours or more) daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; $12 adults; $6 children age 6-11; 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, 910-251-5797, www.battleshipnc.com.
