Caribbe Inn

Caribbe Inn looks like a place that could easily host a beach-themed party, and draws a mix of couples and families with kids. The hotel is washed in pink and blue on the outside, and animals such as parrots, flamingos, lizards, and butterflies show up in murals and decor throughout the two-story, motel-style property. Guests can sit on red, blue, or pink Adirondack chairs, laze on the wooden porch swing, or nap in the rainbow-colored hammock in the small yard while enjoying views of the waterway. There’s a worn wooden dock with a bright blue railing and a spotlight that's convenient for nighttime fishing sessions. A picnic area with palm trees and tropical plants offers more multicolor seating, tables shaded by thatched umbrellas, and barbecue grills. The fun vibe continues in the lobby, where one window is covered with fish netting strewn with seashells, visors, sunglasses, and Hawaiian-style leis. Underneath the glass top of the front desk are pictures of past guests proudly holding up their big fish catches. 

The hotel is located about an hour east of Jacksonville, North Carolina, on a highway and near a gas station and convenience store. Atlantic Beach is two blocks away, and there are plenty of waterfront restaurants and bars within a 10-minute walk or less. Atlantic Beach is on Bogue Banks, a barrier island bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound. The property's dock extends over a pretty inlet of Money Island Bay. 

Some kids get a kick out of rooms at Caribbe Inn, as the walls are covered in vibrant murals depicting sea creatures, like turtles, stingrays, and dolphins. Each mural is unique, and was painted by a local high school student. The theme continues on the bedding, which is decorated with fish and coral, and even extends to the seashell-shaped dresser knobs. Rooms have colorful ceilings and sitting areas with pink or blue tables, with the only drab feature being the dark brown carpeting. Bathrooms are small with shower/tub combinations and playful ocean-motif curtains. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee/tea facilities. The Wi-Fi can be spotty, and some rooms have a slight damp smell. The largest room, a Studio Efficiency, has a full kitchen and bunk beds, and can fit up to six guests.

Caribbe Inn has a colorful waterfront picnic area with barbecue grills, chairs, and a table under an umbrella. The hotel has floating boat slips, a dock, and a fish-cleaning station. Beach chairs and toys are available for guests to borrow. There’s also a small library of books to lend to guests. Pet-friendly rooms are available.