In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s important to give yourself permission to unplug. Disconnecting from work and the digital distractions of everyday life in small town Kure Beach is the perfect opportunity to trade in those blue-light glasses for sunglasses, as active adventures and serene landscapes abound. As you plot out your daily activities, plan to leave the devices behind to reconnect with family, friends, yourself and the world around you.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Untether yourself from the pull of infinite scrolling by setting intentional, tech-free time in the great outdoors. Touted as North Carolina’s Small Wonder, Kure Beach’s arresting seaside views and natural surroundings make it easy to ditch the devices and stay in the present.
With six miles of undeveloped shoreline spanning the Cape Fear River to the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers a myriad of activities and relaxing distractions. Spend the day strolling the several miles of scenic trails through beaches, marshes and maritime forest, observing local wildlife from loggerhead sea turtles to the Peregrine Falcon. While exploring all the beauty of Fort Fisher, discover the coquina rock formation that is a true natural wonder only visible during low tide and remains the only one of its kind on the coast of North Carolina. If you are bold enough, try the 17.6-mile out-and-back trail that takes you from Fort Fisher to Bald Head Island. This trail is excellent for disconnecting through fishing, hiking and birding. It is unlikely that you'll encounter many other people on your journey, making it the perfect time to reconnect with your hiking buddy or enjoy some solo time.
Head north to explore the Civil War-era Fort Fisher State Historic Site, boasting gigantic earthworks, an impressive seacoast gun and a restored palisade fence. Just beyond the Historic Site, the area is also home to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, where the whole family will enjoy stunning exhibits and using their device-free hands to feel the stingrays in the touch tank. Say hello to the new Asian small-clawed otter pups and snap an otterly adorable group pic!
Recharge your mind and body and get up close and personal with the calming waters just off Kure Beach’s shores. Embark on a kayak adventure to the uninhabited Shark Tooth Island to scavenge for fossils and highly-coveted shark teeth, or explore the unusual salt marshes of Zeke’s Island Reserve, one of the East Coast’s most important feeding habitats for shorebirds. Daytime and evening tours are available with Kayak Carolina’s expert teachers, who will guide you through calm, glistening waters as you become one with nature.
Melt away the struggles and challenges of everyday life by casting a line from the Kure Beach Fishing Pier. Focus the mind on the thrill of the catch and the tranquil, panoramic ocean views from the 711-foot pier. With no fishing license required (just a minimal fee) and supplies available at the Bait Shop and Store, fishing from the pier is a well-deserved breath of fresh air. Or, instead of casting a line, cast your worries away with Kure Beach Yoga. Classes take place on the beach near the pier offering a serene setting for a much-needed reset.
A Taste of Quality Time
One of the best ways to reconnect with the people we are closest to is by spending quality time together. Disconnecting from work and screen time allows you to be present when it matters most – for instance, over a shared meal at one of the locally owned restaurants in Kure Beach.
Right next to the Kure Beach Pier, fuel up for a day absent of digital distractions at Ocean View Restaurant. This friendly neighborhood staple offers sweet and savory homestyle breakfast options including omelets in a variety of flavors as well as their legendary fried chicken.
Bond over the dazzling ocean views and sunsets at Big Daddy’s Restaurant, a seasonal favorite where families and friends have been gathering since 1965 for the freshest catch of the day. Unwind on the banks of the Cape Fear River at Riverview Restaurant, where you can indulge in local, wild-caught seafood items alongside craft cocktails and local brews. For local dishes inspired by the Caribbean, head to Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill, where the whole family will be captivated by colorful, flavorful ingredients and a distinctive island vibe.
While unplugging from the daily distractions of the digital world is often easier said than done, allowing yourself the opportunity to disconnect is well worth it. Ditching devices on your trip to Kure Beach will create shared experiences that prove you don’t need a screen to be memorable.
