8 South Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach
The Fat Pelican
Visit one of the "Most Diviest Bars in America" right here in Carolina Beach
One such gem sits tucked away on a sandy strip of Carolina Beach alongside locally owned coffee shops and eateries. The Fat Pelican in Carolina Beach, just minutes from the center of town, has demonstrated once again why Wilmington creates one of the most memorable and enjoyable vacation destinations. Earning a spot on the list of “Most Diviest Bars in America” The Fat P, as locals call it, was voted number 25. Ram shackled and sagging, the Fat P transports you to a place in which the locals consider home. Outside there is always an array of bicycles from locals making the daily ride on their tiny island to this favorite spot. Brick and wooden floors spread through the winding rooms that squish together to make the many nooks and crannies where patrons can relax with a beer on mismatched chairs, couches and stools. During the winter months you’ll often find a couple sitting in the back left by the open fire place warming up and playing a game of checkers. Feel free to write on the walls of The Fat Pelican as the establishment is covered in memories of patrons' past. Old surfboards with dents and water spots decorate the walls and ceiling while beer signs and lights dapple the table tops and doorways.
Stepping outside into Fat P’s backyard is like being at a real beach party on the sand. With tables and tiki lights, patrons can kick their shoes off and enjoy a brew with friends while their toes are in the sand. A wooden boat sits with a shipwrecked look providing a nook and bar to hang out around, giving this experience a true beach vibe. The architecture is not the only unique part about The Fat Pelican though, its walk-in cooler provides an enormous beer selection, so you can take your time in choosing just the right one. Walking through the plastic curtain you get a rush of excitement as you peruse over anything from a strong, hoppy IPA, to a light cider, or a good old domestic bottle.