Valentine’s Day in Kure Beach is perfect for a pet-friendly escape, a relaxing couples getaway or a weekend touring romantic filming locations. Pup parents can hike or kayak at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, while couples can tour Zeke’s Island Reserve at sunrise and ride fat bikes along the beach. You’ll also find spots frequented by iconic on-screen couples, from Katie and Alex in “Safe Haven” to Belly and Conrad in “The Summer I Turned Pretty.”
Keep reading to discover all the ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day in Kure Beach, whether you’re bringing your pup, planning a romantic escape or retracing your favorite on-screen romances.
For You and Your Fur-Ever Valentine
Start the morning with your four-legged bestie at Joe Eakes Park, where the fenced Gurney Hood Barking Lot offers a chance to run off-leash. From there, take advantage of seasonal beach rules that allow leashed dogs on the shoreline all day between October and March.
For a longer walk, head to Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and hike the Basin Trail, a 1.1-mile one-way route that ends at an observation deck overlooking the Cape Fear River. There’s lots for you to see, and lots for your pup to smell!
If your furry friend loves the water, rent a kayak from Kayak Carolina (or a stand-up paddleboard from Pleasure Island Rentals) and paddle to Zeke’s Island Reserve, a protected shorebird habitat with salt marshes and beaches to explore. Leashed dogs are allowed on the island – just steer clear of nesting birds and other wildlife.
Alfresco Dining and Drinks
Plan a picnic at Fort Fisher State Historic Site or Ocean Front Park & Pavilion. Stock up on human food (and a few doggie treats) at Carolina Beach Market & Deli in nearby Carolina Beach. If you’re in the mood for a coffee drink or a sweet treat, Happy Hippies Java Hut is known for creative drinks like the Mermaid Magic cold brew and also offers pup cups.
For dinner, Jack Mackerel's Island Grill has a dog-friendly patio and a seafood-focused menu. The Jack’s Platter – featuring flounder, shrimp, oysters and scallops – is so good, your pup might try to steal a bite!
Later, stop by Bud & Joes Sandbar for a laid-back drink. Dogs are welcome on the patio, where you can grab a picnic table and swap stories with friendly locals.
Pet-Friendly Stays
Seabirds Kure Beach is a great option for pet-friendly lodging, with no breed or weight restrictions. Rooms are individually styled, and there’s a private fenced dog park on-site. For more space or longer stays, a vacation rental like Victory Beach Vacations offers flexibility while keeping you close to trails, parks and the beach.
For more ways to pamper your pet in Kure Beach, check out this blog.
For the Nature-Loving Lovebirds
Take your special someone on a romantic sunrise paddle to Zeke’s Island Reserve. Kayak Carolina offers guided tours departing around 6:15 a.m. – and trust us, the early wakeup time is worth it. You’ll paddle through calm water between Fort Fisher and Bald Head Island as the sun rises, often with wildlife sightings along the way.
Later in the morning, rent fat bikes from Pleasure Island Rentals and ride along the beach at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. Or, bring your own pickleball paddles for a match at Joe Eakes Park.
If you’re looking for more downtime or something indoors, check out activities in nearby Carolina Beach. Book a couples massage at Island Massage & Spa, or visit iEscape Rooms for a fun, team-focused challenge.
Dining and Drinks
For lunch, keep things simple and intimate with a beachside picnic, or head to Ocean View Restaurant, a cozy spot known for comfort food and generous portions to share. You won’t want to miss the legendary chicken and waffles!
In the evening, Freddie's Restaurant offers a classic date-night setting without feeling too formal. Share a bottle of wine and order from the special Valentine’s Day menu, featuring a charcuterie board for two, entrees like grilled grouper and wild mushroom risotto and festive dessert options.
Romantic Accommodations
Book a room at Kure Lighthouse Inn, offering apartment-style suites just steps from the ocean. Each room has an ocean view, and shared amenities like the outdoor firepit make it easy to wind down at the end of the day.
Find even more romantic adventures in this Kure Beach blog.
For the Film Fanatics
If you bond over TV shows and movies, Kure Beach is home to several recognizable (and romantic) filming locations. Start with a walk along Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, where Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough filmed scenes for “Safe Haven,” and where Belly and Conrad shared a snowy beach moment in “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The area has also appeared in “Dawson’s Creek” and the on-screen adaptation of “The Choice.” From there, a short stroll to the south end of Fort Fisher takes you to the spot where Nathan and Haley were married in “One Tree Hill.” Walking this stretch of beach gives you a chance to relive the scene or simply enjoy a romantic moment with your own Valentine.
For a slightly more active stop, rent bikes from Coastal-EBike Company and follow the paved trail near Fort Fisher State Historic Site, another filming location from “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The trail runs along the water and includes quiet spots to pause and enjoy the view.
Later, head to Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, which served as a filming location for the 2025 Amazon Prime rom-com “Merv.” Take a slow walk along the wooden walkway or relax together on a waterfront bench.
On-Screen Eats
For a casual bite or drink, head to Hurricane Alley’s in nearby Carolina Beach, recently featured in “Merv.” With oceanfront seating and a rooftop deck, it’s easy to recreate a relaxed, on-screen date while enjoying local brews or light snacks.
Where to Stay
Admiral's Quarters offers oceanfront rooms just a short drive from the beaches in your favorite romantic scenes. Just across the street, Seven Seas Inn puts you steps from Ocean Front Park, with oceanview rooms and suites close to the water.
For more filming locations in Wilmington and its island beaches, check out this three-day itinerary.
