Providing an ideal retreat for and reconnecting with family, Kure Beach offers a relaxed pace ideal for recharging. Learn about the area’s historical significance, explore the underwater world and visit local parks and landmarks to build the perfect beach trip in Kure Beach.
Soaking up the Sun
Enjoy a fun-filled day along Kure Beach’s sandy shore. Grab all the necessary gear for a relaxing beach day from nearby Pleasure Island Rentals. It offers the largest selection of beach essentials, from chairs, umbrellas and coolers to fun accessories like beach games, boogie boards and more. Find a nearby public beach access to set up your perfect beach spot for building sandcastles, playing games or relaxing with your favorite beach read.
Serene Eco Settings
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers 6 miles of undeveloped shoreline from the Atlantic Ocean to the Cape Fear River, making it a serene spot to breathe in the salty air and enjoy the coastal views. Stroll along the shore to collect shells, relax on the beach or obtain a permit ahead of time for a four-wheel-drive vehicle and drive on the beach (seasonal). Take a break from the sun and discover shaded pathways that wind through the state park, including the Basin Trail, which travels through coastal habitats, passing a WWII-era bunker once home to the Fort Fisher Hermit. At low tide, visit the coquina rocks, a unique formation located near the park's entrance, where hard rock outcrops have been cemented together by seashells and coral over thousands of years.
Satisfy curious minds with a paddle adventure through the surrounding salt marshes guided by Kayak Carolina. Sunrise, sunset and eco-adventure tours launch from the Fort Fisher River Basin and lead to Zeke's Island Reserve, an undisturbed shoreline and intertidal complex accessible only by boat. Once you reach Zeke's, you'll find a unique spot to explore the local ecological wonders and tranquil atmosphere.
Enjoy the quiet morning hours with Kure Beach Yoga's beginner-friendly sunrise sessions, held directly on the beach. Let the crashing waves provide the perfect soundtrack as you find your zen.
Coastal Classrooms
Fort Fisher State Historic Site, the location of one of the most influential battles of the Civil War and the war’s largest land and sea battle, now stands as the South's largest earthen fort. At designated times throughout the year, costumed guides lead tours through the site, sharing stories from the past and demonstrating firing drills. The site's Tour Trail encircles the remains of the earthenworks, with historical markers guiding visitors along the path.
Dive deeper into the underwater world at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Learn more about mesmerizing marine life and their habitats, including a playful family of Asian small-clawed otters and Luna, the rare albino alligator. The Aquarium offers a behind-the-scenes tour, providing a unique look at the support systems and exhibits from behind the curtain.
Local Landmarks
Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, Kure Beach's largest public green space, is a blend of natural settings and playful attractions. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers a boardwalk for leisurely strolls, waterfront bench swings for relaxation and a giant pirate ship playground where childlike wonder comes to life. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events, from the Kure Beach Market to Storytime by the Sea and the Boogie in the Park concert series.
The 711-foot Kure Beach Fishing Pier offers breathtaking views of the shoreline. For an unforgettable early-bird experience, head to the pier to catch the first rays of the sun rising over the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll along the entire length of the pier for free, or for a small fee, try fishing alongside other anglers.
Enjoy a friendly game of basketball, volleyball or pickleball at Joe Eakes Park, which also features an 18-hole disc golf course registered with the Professional Disc Golf Association. Furry friends can run off-leash in the Gurney Hood Barking Lot, a fenced-in dog park, and kids can have fun on the playground.
Flavors to Savor
Start your day with a coffee creation from Happy Hippies Java Hut, easily recognizable by its purple storefront. This local favorite offers a wide selection of hot and iced coffees, including its signature Mermaid Magic, a secret blend of espresso and hazelnut flavors.
For a Caribbean twist on seafood, visit Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill and try their Honey Sriracha Lime Shrimp. If you're in the mood for traditional seafood, Big Daddy's Restaurant has been serving a variety of dishes since 1970. Freddie's, known for its pork chops, steak, seafood and pasta, has been a beloved Kure Beach staple for more than 25 years. For a picturesque dining experience, Riverview Restaurant offers a riverside location, with two patios perfect for unwinding and watching the sunset.
Homes and Hideaways
Discover the perfect accommodation, from charming cottage-style stays to spacious homes, when building your best Kure Beach getaway. Palm Air Realty and Sea Coast Rentals offer a diverse selection of vacation rentals and amenities.
Situated along the oceanfront in the heart of Kure Beach, the Kure Lighthouse Inn offers a variety of room options, including suites that can accommodate up to six guests. After a successful day of adventures, enjoy spectacular views from each room or lounge in comfortable outdoor seating around the fire pit.
Plan your ideal Kure Beach trip complete with relaxing beach time, nature explorations, signature attractions and local favorite spots.
