An escape to the beach doesn’t have to mean leaving your four-legged companions behind. With pet-friendly options for dining, lodging and adventure, peaceful Kure Beach invites you and your dog to unwind and discover nature’s playground together.
Barks and Recreation
It doesn't get much better than a day of beach fun alongside your canine companion. From October to March, leashed dogs are welcome to frolic on the beach strand any time of day. During peak season, April through September, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
For activities the whole family will enjoy, including your pup, venture to Joe Eakes Park and play a round of disc golf or challenge your family to a game of bocce ball, tennis or basketball. Kids can enjoy the playground’s swings, slides and climbing spots. When it’s time for your pup to stretch their legs, let them off the leash at the Gurney Hood Barking Lot, a dog park within Joe Eakes Park where they can play and run free.
Venture through tranquil waters, wildlife-filled marshes and secluded sandy beaches with a pet-friendly guided tour or rental from Kayak Carolina. No experience is necessary to enjoy this paddling experience. Or, if you and your furry sidekick are feeling adventurous, grab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Pleasure Island Rentals to create your own self-guided journey.
On dry land, explore Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, where leashed dogs are always welcome for some fun in the sun and sand. Savor the beautiful natural surroundings on a hike along the Basin Trail where you’ll spot a WWII bunker that was once home to the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit.
Nearby on the island, Pets in the Park rolls around every October to celebrate pets, their owners and pet-friendly businesses. This year’s events include costume and trick contests, face painting and more. All well-behaved pets are invited to join the festivities.
Bone Appétit!
Thanks to Kure Beach restaurants offering pet-friendly dining options, there is no need to leave your favorite canine companion behind. Start your morning at Happy Hippies Java Hut and order a pup cup to treat your furry friend and a one-of-a-kind coffee potion, Mermaid Magic, for yourself. The seasonal Riverview Restaurant is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset and enjoy fresh seafood alongside your pet on an outdoor deck. Stroll to the seasonal walk-up window at Beach House Burgers and enjoy one of their signature made-to-order burgers. Be sure to save room for their soft-serve ice cream…we won’t tell if you share a little with your pup.
Barkingham Palace
Stay in style with your pup at the pet-friendly Seabirds, located in the heart of Kure Beach. The coastal luxury-themed accommodations allow you and your furry friend to reconnect and relax while feeling right at home. Seabirds welcomes all friendly dogs, cats and birds; dogs can even stretch their legs in the property's fenced-in dog run.
Enjoy the freedom of staying at a pet-friendly vacation rental with options from companies like Victory Beach Vacations, or pack your pet’s favorite toys and bed for a relaxing stay at one of Carolina Beach Realty’s Kure Beach properties. Many of the island’s vacation homes feature grassy areas for pets, outdoor showers for rinsing off sandy paws and spacious interiors for unwinding together.
Kure Beach offers plenty of ways to include your pets in the family fun, so pack up the leash and set off for a Kure Beach retreat that will leave everyone recharged and refreshed.
