Tucked between the ocean and quiet coastal streets, Kure Beach’s playgrounds offer a calm, close‑to‑the‑water break from the beach. Here, kids can climb coastal-inspired structures at Ocean Front Park or swing over soft sandy ground at Joe Eakes Park. Check out this guide for all the insider scoop about playtime in Kure Beach, plus even more playgrounds to explore in nearby Carolina Beach.
Ocean Front Park & Pavilion
Seaside Playtime
Run around on a brand-new, ocean-themed playground with slides, interactive elements and rubber flooring. Then, play tag or kick a ball around on the lawn area – a.k.a. Kure Beach’s largest public green space.
Since the park sits right by Kure Beach Fishing Pier, jump from the playground to the beach for seashell hunting and shoreline exploration. Or, take in the peaceful view from one of the oceanfront swings.
Insider tip: Public restrooms and parking are available, with paid parking in effect during peak season – read this guide for more info.
Seasonal Events
Ocean Front Park hosts community events throughout the year, including the Kure Community Fest each April, when the park fills with live music, food trucks and activities for all ages.
Find even more family-friendly activities in the summer. On select Sundays from May through October, dance and sing along at the kid-friendly Boogie in the Park Concert Series. Attend Turtle Talks on Wednesday evenings from June to mid-August, where volunteers with the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project lead hands-on activities about sea turtle conservation. On Wednesday mornings from mid-June to mid-August (plus some special holiday dates), see popular princess characters – such as Aurora from “Sleeping Beauty” and Anna from “Frozen” – at Story Time by the Sea.
For the most up-to-date info (and details about other upcoming events), visit the Town of Kure Beach website.
Joe Eakes Park
Sandy Play and Adventure
Just under a half-mile from the ocean, Joe Eakes Park offers a sandy play area with triangle monkey bars, slides and swings. Relax at the park’s shaded picnic tables and benches while the kids burn off energy. Insider tip: When it’s time for lunch, head to Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill, Ocean View Restaurant, Big Daddy’s Restaurant (seasonal) or Beach House Burgers (seasonal) – all about a 10-minute walk toward the shore along K Avenue.
Active Park Fun
Beyond the playground, there are lots of other ways to stay active and have a good time. Shoot hoops on the basketball court, practice batting on the regulation baseball field, and rally on tennis and pickleball courts. Or, teach everyone a new game on the 18-hole disc golf course or bocce courts. You can also bring your furry friend to the Gurney Hood Barking Lot, the only public area in Kure Beach where dogs can play off leash.
Playgrounds in nearby Carolina Beach
Find more unique playgrounds in Carolina Beach, just a short drive away:
- Brandy Myers Memorial Playground: Located two blocks from the ocean at Carolina Beach Lake Park, this inclusive playground welcomes kids of all abilities. The coastal-themed equipment includes climbing nets, slides, a saucer swing, seesaw and more. Insider tip: Visit the Town of Carolina Beach website for upcoming events at the park, including movie nights and markets.
- Mike Chappell Park: Slide, swing and climb on a rock wall. After playtime, stroll or bike along the nearby Island Greenway, a wide, paved, 1.2-mile path that winds through town. Insider tip: A variety of kid-friendly bike options – including baby buggies and training bikes – are available for rent from Pleasure Island Rentals.
- McDonald Park: With swings, a climbing net, two slides and a nearby gazebo, this smaller neighborhood playground is great for a quick play stop.
