“I’m a Carolina Beach local through and through”
Oral history of surf champion and tourism entrepreneur Tony Silvagni North Carolina is home to countless vacation possibilities, each offering their own unique experience. But when looking for beach getaway, you’re guaranteed to find charming beach towns sprinkled along the eastern coast. Tucked behind the coastal hub of Wilmington is Pleasure Island, home to Carolina Beach. Depending on the time of year, visitors will either encounter a quaint town just for locals, or beginning in early spring, a vibrant, bustling tourist destination. Blending in among the many local faces is professional surfer and Carolina Beach native, Tony Silvagni. When he is not traveling for competitions, you’ll likely see him somewhere on the island running his thriving local business, the Tony Silvagni Surf School ( www.surfschoolnc.com/ ). Though he started teaching lessons himself with just two soft top boards in 2008, the business has grown exponentially over the last 11 years. Now, he offers a v