| Cover | Oct. 24, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 24, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-10897 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CAROLINA FINANCIAL CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000870385 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 57-1039673 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 288 Meeting Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Charleston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | SC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 29401 |
| City Area Code | (843) |
| Local Phone Number | 723-7700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common |
| Trading Symbol | CARO |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not Applicable |
