Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a new home away from home, explore Kure Beach’s hidden gems to truly get away. Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings as you discover breathtaking sites and exciting explorations.

Explore Nature’s Beauty 

Rent a kayak or sign up for a guided tour by Kayak Carolina and paddle out to Zeke’s Island Reserve to explore several different habitats, including tidal flats, salt marshes, dunes and ocean beaches. An important shorebird sanctuary, the estuarine reserve is home to a number of bird species such as dunlin, black-bellied plovers, short-billed dowitchers, white ibis and great blue herons.  Or, head to Shark Tooth Island to search for coveted sharks’ teeth along the shore.

Stroll along six miles of undeveloped shoreline at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area to discover undisturbed marine wildlife in its natural habitat. Sixteen threatened and endangered coastal creatures call this stretch of shoreline home, including Loggerhead sea turtles and pelicans. Only visible during low tide, Fort Fisher’s unique coquina rock formation can also be found here. Host to a rare mossy hard rock outcrop cemented together by seashells and coral, this is a true natural wonder that remains the only coquina rock outcrop on the coast of North Carolina.

 

Under the Stars

History lovers will enjoy spending the day exploring Fort Fisher State Historic Site, home of the largest earthen Civil War fort in the South. Take the scenic trail under the shade of beautiful live oaks to see the remaining portion of the gigantic Fort Fisher earthworks. You can also explore exhibits featuring artifacts recovered from sunken ships.

Fort Fisher State Historic Site is also one of the best spots around to take in a sunset. Pack a blanket and some snacks to watch the sun sink down over the river.

 

Home to scenic hideaways and oceanside explorations, Kure Beach is known as North Carolina’s small wonder for a reason.