9 Ways to Get Active in Kure Beach, NC

1. Paddle to Zeke’s Island Reserve

Rent a kayak from Kayak Carolina or a stand-up paddleboard from Pleasure Island Rentals and set out for Zeke’s Island Reserve, accessible only by water. Once you arrive, explore tidal flats, salt marshes and shoreline while keeping an eye out for shorebirds like black-bellied plovers and great blue herons.

For a guided experience, Kayak Carolina offers seasonal paddles such as the Family Adventure Tour and Salt Marsh Nature Tour, which combine time on the water with stories about the island’s ecology and history. Book your tour in advance and enjoy a calm, 2- to 3-hour morning paddle, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife along the way. Or, check out this blog to discover even more kayaking spots around the island.

2. Go Fishing

Cast a line from the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, a 711-foot pier that’s open seasonally from April 1 through Thanksgiving Sunday. The on-site Bait Shop and Store carries tackle, bait and rod-and-reel combos, and anglers often reel in larger species like red drum, black drum and flounder.

Take your skills to the next level with Coastal Life Outfitters’ Surf Fishing Academy. The day starts with a few hours of hands-on instruction – tying knots, crafting rigs, prepping bait and more – followed by a full afternoon of casting and reeling at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area.

Pro tip: Both experiences require a recreational fishing license for the dates of your trip – check out this link to learn more.

3. Bike on the Beach

Rent a fat tire bike from Pleasure Island Rentals and ride along 6 miles of protected shoreline at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. During low tide, the firm sand makes longer rides easier to manage while still giving your legs a solid workout.

4. Hike Coastal Trails

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers plenty of space to explore on foot, too. Follow the Basin Trail, a 2-mile out-and-back route that winds through salt marshes, maritime forest and a historic World War II bunker. The trail ends at an observation deck with views of the Cape Fear River and Zeke’s Island Reserve. Plan your visit around low tide to spot the coquina rocks, unique formations made from shells and coral.

Nearby, the Fort Fisher to Bald Head Island Beach Walk is a moderately challenging 17.4-mile out-and-back route, ideal for birdwatchers, anglers and long-distance walkers. The typically 5- to 6-hour journey is only accessible during low tide, so be sure to plan ahead and pack proper gear.

5. Dive Offshore

Experienced divers will find plenty to discover at North Carolina’s first Heritage Dive Site, “The Condor.” Located offshore near Fort Fisher State Historic Site, this Civil War blockade runner ran aground more than 150 years ago and remains one of the state’s best-preserved shipwrecks. Pick up rental gear from Carolina Beach Scuba, and be prepared for intermediate conditions while diving 24 feet below the surface.

6. Play Pickleball

Grab a paddle and head to Joe Eakes Park, where five pickleball courts let you rally, rotate in and get a fast-paced workout. Whether you’re playing with friends or joining a pickup match, you’ll find plenty of good competition.

7. Hit the Disc Golf Course

Joe Eakes Park is also home to a well-marked, 18-hole disc golf course registered with the Professional Disc Golf Course Association. Breezes off the coast make shots a bit trickier and keep you on your toes.

8. Explore Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion

The town’s largest public green space, Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion is perfect for light activity. Stroll the paths to see ocean views, stretch on the lawn or let kids play at the playground before your next adventure.

9. Find Your Flow with Kure Beach Yoga

Kure Beach Yoga hosts both indoor (Kure Beach Community Center) and outdoor (Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion) classes. Check the schedule for a range of class styles, from Sunrise Yoga to Reggae Yoga.