Kure Beach North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kure Beach, North Carolina.
1. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY CENTER
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher features a 235,000-gallon saltwater tank where visitors can marvel at sharks, eels, and rays. Visitors can enjoy interactive marine exhibits including the opportunity to touch live horseshoe crabs and explore the Adventure Reef outdoor play area. The family-friendly aquarium also includes educational displays, a snack area, and a nature walk for a complete day of ocean exploration.
2. Fort Fisher State Historic Site
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Fort Fisher State Historic Site preserves the location of the Civil War's largest land-sea battle. Visitors can walk the trail encircling this historic Civil War fort and bring history lessons to life through guided tours. The site offers an educational experience about this crucial Confederate stronghold that fell in 1865, effectively cutting off one of the Confederacy's last supply routes.
3. Kure Beach Fishing Pier
HISTORIC OCEANFRONT LANDMARK
Kure Beach Fishing Pier stretches 711 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and holds the distinction of being the oldest pier on the East Coast, established in 1923. Open 24 hours from Good Friday through Thanksgiving Sunday, it offers excellent fishing opportunities and spectacular views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The pier has become a favorite spot for anglers, sunset seekers, and photographers looking to capture stunning ocean vistas.
4. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
PRISTINE COASTAL PRESERVE
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing, kayaking, surfing, sailing, and dolphin-watching opportunities. The recreation area offers pristine beaches and natural coastal landscapes perfect for exploring the breathtaking coastline. Visitors can enjoy the diverse ecosystem while taking in the scenic beauty of this protected shoreline.
5. Coquina Outcrop
NATURAL GEOLOGICAL WONDER
The Coquina Outcrop is a unique geological formation along the Kure Beach shoreline, formed from ancient shell fragments cemented together over time. This rare exposed coquina rock formation provides an interesting contrast to the sandy beaches and offers visitors a glimpse into the geological history of the area. Nature enthusiasts and photographers find this natural landmark particularly fascinating during low tide when more of the formation is visible.
6. Ocean Front Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACHSIDE PARK
Ocean Front Park offers a beautiful beachside playground and pavilion where families can relax and children can play. The park features regular storytimes and community events throughout the year, making it a social hub for locals and visitors alike. With its oceanfront location, the park provides the perfect setting to enjoy the coastal atmosphere while children explore the play structures.
7. North Carolina Military History Museum
HERITAGE THROUGH ARTIFACTS
The North Carolina Military History Museum showcases the state's rich military heritage through carefully curated exhibits and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore displays highlighting various conflicts and the contributions of North Carolina's service members throughout American history. The museum provides an educational experience that honors the sacrifice and service of military personnel connected to the state.
8. Boho Beach Picnics
CURATED SEASIDE EXPERIENCES
Boho Beach Picnics offers stylish, pre-arranged picnic experiences on the beautiful shores of Kure Beach. Guests can enjoy elegantly designed setups complete with comfortable seating, decorative elements, and often catered food options. This unique service allows visitors to enjoy a hassle-free, Instagram-worthy beach day without the typical preparation and cleanup.
9. Carolina Beach Boardwalk
VINTAGE ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Carolina Beach Boardwalk has been named one of America's Most Awesome Boardwalks and offers a vibrant hub of entertainment just minutes from Kure Beach. Visitors can enjoy amusement rides, arcades, live music, and weekly fireworks during the summer months. This slice of Americana provides a nostalgic experience perfect for families or date nights, with iconic food spots adding to its appeal.
10. Britt's Donuts
ICONIC SWEET TRADITION
Britt's Donuts has been a local institution since 1939, serving their famous glazed donuts on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. This legendary establishment offers a simple menu focused on perfecting one item: hot, fresh donuts made from a closely guarded secret recipe. Visitors often line up for these melt-in-your-mouth treats that have developed a cult following among locals and tourists alike.
11. Federal Point History Center
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Federal Point History Center preserves and displays the rich history of the Federal Point peninsula, including Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this coastal region from its early days to present times. Visitors can learn about local maritime history, Civil War connections, and the development of these beach communities through engaging displays.
12. Freeman Park
4X4 BEACH ADVENTURE
Freeman Park offers a unique beach experience where visitors can drive 4x4 vehicles directly onto the sand with proper permits. Located at the northern end of Carolina Beach, this recreational area provides camping opportunities right on the beach with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park is popular for fishing, swimming, and enjoying coastal wildlife in a less developed setting.
13. Carolina Beach State Park
NATURAL COASTAL WILDERNESS
Carolina Beach State Park encompasses 761 acres of coastal ecosystem featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, and a marina on the Cape Fear River. The park is renowned for the rare Venus flytrap, which grows naturally only within a 75-mile radius of Wilmington, North Carolina. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, educational programs at the visitor center, and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
14. The Fat Pelican
QUIRKY BEACH DIVE BAR
The Fat Pelican is a beloved local dive bar known for its eclectic décor and walk-in cooler where patrons select their own beverages. This quirky establishment features indoor and outdoor seating areas filled with an assortment of unusual artifacts, beach finds, and memorabilia collected over decades. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and the unique experience of this authentic beach bar that has been featured on numerous 'best of' lists.
15. Pleasure Island Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Pleasure Island Farmers Market brings together local vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items every Saturday morning during the season. Visitors can browse stalls offering everything from locally grown vegetables and baked goods to handmade jewelry and artwork. The market creates a community gathering space where tourists and locals alike can experience the flavors and craftsmanship of the region while supporting small businesses.