Island Info
Kure Beach is a little off the beaten path and filled with a lot of what you're hoping to find: clean, expansive beach; beautiful, natural surroundings with vistas of the ocean and the river; a state aquarium and park; relaxed people enjoying a small-town atmosphere; and the kind of local character that seems to have all but disappeared from coastal towns.
There's always plenty to do around here - you can cast a line from the 700-foot long fishing pier, or explore the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, the last stronghold of the Confederacy. Gaze in awe at the 230,000-gallon saltwater tank at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, or hike along the six-mile stretch of undeveloped beach in the state recreation area. Even hop a ferry for a breathtaking view on a trip to the mainland.
There's plenty of everything to do under the sun or nothing at all – unplug and reconnect at Kure Beach
Neighboring Carolina Beach
Nearby on the island, Carolina Beach offers an authentic North Carolina beach experience from the past with a fun, family-friendly spin for today. With a scenic boardwalk, a state park, miles of pristine beach and one-of-a-kind events, there's something for everyone.
Find these things to do: Hike through miles of maritime forest trails, explore the waterways with an eco-guided kayak tour or cast a line at Carolina Beach State Park; the Boardwalk, perfect for evening strolls, dining, ice cream cones and miniature golf; and Carolina Lake Beach Park with its picnic tables and walking trail all near the action.
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.