There’s way more to Kure Beach than just the shoreline. Around town and just beyond it, a mix of state and local parks gives you space to walk, play and relax.Whether you’re hiking trails at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, playing pickleball at Joe Eakes Park or relaxing on a swing at Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, there’s plenty to see and explore.

 

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area covers 6 miles of protected shoreline and more than 288 acres of coastal land, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River. Walk the beach while keeping an eye out for wildlife like loggerhead turtles and piping plovers, or rent a fat bike from Pleasure Island Rentals and ride along the sand. Low tide is a great time to visit if you want to spot rare coquina rocks made from ancient shells and coral.

Fishing is popular here, too. Make sure your license is up to date, and cast a line for flounder, speckled trout and other local species. Or, if you’re in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, pick up a permit at the visitor center (open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to explore designated sections of beach.

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Kayak Carolina or Paddle NC to visit nearby Zeke’s Island Reserve, a prime spot for shorebirds such as white ibis and great blue herons. Or, join Mahanaim Adventures for a three-hour guided kayak tour of the Fort Fisher Basin. This route is a bit more challenging, with the difficulty level depending on the tides and winds.

Head inland to hike the Basin Trail, a flat 2.2-mile out-and-back path through salt marshes and maritime forest. Along the way, you’ll pass a historic World War II bunker tucked in the dunes before reaching an observation deck with views of the Cape Fear River and Zeke’s Island Reserve. Leashed dogs are welcome year-round, but steer clear of nesting turtles and shorebirds

Joe Eakes Park

Joe Eakes Park is a great spot to get moving or join a pickup game. Play baseball, basketball, tennis, pickleball or bocce ball, or check out the 18-hole disc golf course. Families will enjoy the playground and nearby picnic tables, while dog owners can let pups burn off energy at the Gurney Hood Barking Lot, Kure Beach’s only off-leash dog park. The fenced park has separate areas for small and large dogs, doggie drinking fountains and frisbees for extra fun.

Ocean Front Park & Pavilion

Located in the heart of town, Ocean Front Park & Pavilion is the largest public green space in Kure Beach. Relax on the waterfront swings, stroll the wooden walkway or grab take-out from Jack Mackerel's Island Grill for an afternoon picnic.

Even More to Explore

Just up the island in Carolina Beach, you’ll find more parks to explore:

  • Carolina Beach State Park has 761 acres of trails, fishing spots and camping areas. Walk the Flytrap Trail to see native Venus flytraps in bloom during the spring and summer. Or, take the Sugarloaf Trail to reach Sugarloaf Dune, a 50-foot forested sand dune with Civil War history.
  • Carolina Beach Lake Park is just two blocks from the ocean and perfect for a stroll or jog around the lake loop.
  • Freeman Park Recreation Area offers quiet beaches, great surf fishing and four-wheel-drive access with a permit.
  • Joseph Ryder Lewis Jr. Park features restored Civil War earthworks and trails over local marshes.
  • Mike Chappell Park has sports facilities, a playground and an 8,000-square-foot skate park.
  • McDonald Park is a small neighborhood spot with a playground, picnic tables and grills for an afternoon cook-out.
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From trails and beaches to playgrounds and sports facilities, Kure Beach’s parks have something for everyone. Hike, fish, play or just take in the fresh air and coastal views.