What’s New
If you are interested in what’s new in Kure Beach, read about recent updates here. Sign up for our e-newsletter to get the scoop on all things Kure Beach including what’s coming, events, seasonal trip ideas and more.
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Say hello to Aleta and Pico, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s two newest ambassadors in the loggerhead sea turtle conversation habitat. Rescued during nest excavations in Kure Beach, the two hatchlings are now a part of the aquarium family. The sea turtles will be on display one at a time and will help visitors learn the importance of these special sea creatures and ways to protect them for future generations. Pip and Scout, two loggerhead sea turtle ambassadors found last year at a nest excavation will soon be making their way into the ocean!
In January 2023, the aquarium welcomed three more Asian small-clawed otter pups to their growing otter family! The three pups, named Gemma, Kai and Ren, have recently joined the rest of the otter family in the Otters on the Edge exhibit including parents, Leia and Quincy and siblings, Stella, Mae and Selene, who were born May 2022.
Check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher's newest exhibit, Caribbean Corals. Featuring colorful corals and striking fish species, the new exhibit allows visitors to catch a glimpse of an underwater ecosystem that plays a vital component for the ocean's health. Some fish species include the sharpnose puffer, clown wrasses, blue chromis and more.
Pets on the Beach
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach April 1 – Sept. 20 between 5 p.m. - 9 a.m. For more information about pets on the beach, check out our FAQ page.
Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Fort Fisher State Historic Site is currently undergoing renovations to upgrade and expand the visitors center. Upgrades to the center include a new 24,000-square-foot building featuring a multi-purpose room, new auditorium and additional exhibit space. The Underwater Archaeology Branch of North Carolina, which is located on the premises, will also get a new conservation lab with state-of-the-art equipment and amenities. The original visitors center, site grounds and restrooms are still open and accessible during the expansion. The new visitors center is slated to open April 2024.
Did You Know?
The Kure Beach Fishing Pier celebrates 100 years in 2023! More than 700-feet long, the pier is a popular place for fishing, photography and miles of ocean views. Stop inside the pier’s main entrance and find a gift shop, arcade and bait and tackle supplies.
Season two of Amazon Studio series drama, “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” recently filmed at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and nearby Carolina Beach. Seasons one and two are now streaming on Prime Video.
