Carolina Lakes
Carolina Lakes is a golfing community off Buffalo Lakes Rd. We have 7 lakes of all sizes. The biggest one is perfect for boating and jet skiing, while the smaller ones are better for paddle boarding and kayaking. Carolina Lakes has approximately 1700 houses and is governed by HOA. Rules and regulations can be found in the guide book and must be followed by owners and their guests alike. We have hiking, walking, and biking trails. Our pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but is for residents only. You may use the lake at your convenience. There are public bathrooms at the marina.
Carolina Lakes is off of HWY 24/87 and Buffalo Lakes Road. It is a golf course community, but you don't have to be a member to play a round of golf. There are 7 lakes in total, but only the main lake and Sapphire lake have public access. You may fish with a valid NC fishing license and enjoy the beach on the main lake. There you have the opportunity to BBQ, but you must clean up after yourself. Bottles are NOT permitted at the beach and neither are dogs. You may paddle board or swim at your convenience. Park in the designated spots and please keep the public bathrooms clean. Walking and biking is something many of our residents do regularly. Our home is approximately 8 minutes from the front gate -- by car. We strongly recommend you have your own transportation and do not rely on Uber or Lyft as you will likely have to take a 45 minute walk to the front gate for pick-up.
6 locals recommend
Sanford
Carolina Lakes is off of HWY 24/87 and Buffalo Lakes Road. It is a golf course community, but you don't have to be a member to play a round of golf. There are 7 lakes in total, but only the main lake and Sapphire lake have public access. You may fish with a valid NC fishing license and enjoy the beach on the main lake. There you have the opportunity to BBQ, but you must clean up after yourself. Bottles are NOT permitted at the beach and neither are dogs. You may paddle board or swim at your convenience. Park in the designated spots and please keep the public bathrooms clean. Walking and biking is something many of our residents do regularly. Our home is approximately 8 minutes from the front gate -- by car. We strongly recommend you have your own transportation and do not rely on Uber or Lyft as you will likely have to take a 45 minute walk to the front gate for pick-up.
Food scene
Tacos el Primo has been in Sanford for 25 years. It is probably the closest Mexican food you'll find here in the area.
Tacos El Primo
916 South Horner BoulevardTacos el Primo has been in Sanford for 25 years. It is probably the closest Mexican food you'll find here in the area.
Jersey Mike's Subs
1624 North Carolina 24Sandwich place close by
Biscuitville
2529 South Horner BoulevardBreakfast for champions southern style
Frostings Cakeshop
3350 Footbridge LnCupcakes and more featured on Netflix’ Cupcake Wars
Mexican
Fonda Lupita
1952 South Horner BoulevardSmall Authentic Mexican restaurant with great choice of tacos
Homemade ice cream and more
Hole in the wall place with great ice cream and local food
Yarborough's Homemade Ice Cream & Grill
132 McIver StWine and beer
Wine and beer shop that offers tastings and more
Grapes & Hops II
1550 NC-24Traveler advice
Don't miss
Sandhills Farmer's Market at the clubhouse
From April to October there is a farmer's market at the clubhouse. You can enjoy it on the first, third and fifth Friday. Come early because it can be crowded; especially if you want to eat. The food trucks have change each week, but the lines can get quite long. However, there's usually a beer truck nearby and many vendors to help you pass the time.
What to pack
Bring your own beach towels and chairs
If you plan on using the beach, we strongly recommend bringing your own beach equipment, chairs, and towels. We do not permit taking our towels to the beach. Thank you for understanding.
Customs and culture
Traveling with children
We love children and there are many children in our cul-de-sac; however, you must supervise your child/children at all times. Our property is near two lakes and we do not take responsibility for any accidents. Thank you for understanding.
Don't miss
Fort Bragg
Carolina Lakes is near Fort Bragg. The Special Forces and Airborne museum downtown Fayetteville as well as the memorial park is a good pastime -- best part -- it's next to the baseball stadium, so you may go catch a game and eat a hotdog as well.
Getting around
Car strongly recommended
We are in a rural are without public transportation or sidewalks. It would behoove you to have a car or car access. Uber and Lyft drivers are not readily available and need a gatepass to access Carolina Lakes.