Step back in time as you tour Fort Fisher State Historic Site, the location of the largest land-sea battle of the Civil War. Come face-to-face with underwater wonders at the award-winning North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Roam tranquil maritime forest trails and a 6-mile stretch of protected beach at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, which allows four-wheel-drive vehicles on the beach with the required permit.
Take a stroll or try your hand at angling along the century-old Kure Beach Fishing Pier. Enjoy the sea breeze from a swing bench at Ocean Front Park while little ones’ imaginations run wild on the play area’s pirate ship. Board a ferry for a breathtaking view on a trip to the mainland.
Kure Beach is the epitome of nature’s playground, providing plenty of ways to tap into childlike wonder and embrace life’s simple pleasures.
Neighboring Carolina Beach
Nearby on the island, free-spirited Carolina Beach offers an authentic North Carolina beach experience from the past with a fun-living, family-friendly spin for today. With a vintage seaside boardwalk, outdoor adventures and original events like summer fireworks shows and an annual beach music festival, good times await in this laid-back beach town.
At Carolina Beach State Park, observe the rare, indigenous Venus flytrap and paddle through the waterways on a guided kayak eco-tour. Head to the bustling Carolina Beach Boardwalk for famous glazed donuts and summer amusement rides. Gather for a family walk or picnic at Carolina Lake Beach Park, located just a few blocks from the shore. Find fishing charters and public docking at the nearby Carolina Beach Fishing Center and Marina.
In addition to its nostalgic charm, Carolina Beach also boasts an active charter boat basin - home to offshore fishing excursions, locally owned restaurants, and shopping for everything from sunglasses to surfboards to area souvenirs.
