There’s no shortage of scenic sites to explore around Kure Beach. From outdoor escapes to under-the-sea adventures, snap and share shots of your next trip on Instagram to give your friends and family a serious case of vacation envy.
Read on to discover six of Kure Beach’s most Insta-worthy spots:
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Go under the sea to discover a photographer’s dream at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Head to the aquarium to see sharks, rays, eels, a rare albino alligator and more up close and personal. Be sure to snap a pic inside the jaw of a Megalodon Shark or get creative with a boomerang shot of the mesmerizing jellyfish. And don’t forget about the aquarium’s family of Asian small-clawed otters. Try your best to capture a shot of the whole fam!
Kure Beach Fishing Pier
Whether you’re an avid angler or simply enjoy a good view, the Kure Beach Fishing Pier is the spot for you. Stroll to the end of the 711-foot pier – one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast – and switch your camera to panoramic mode to capture sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Or, cast your line and reel in a big one to show off your catch of the day.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is an Instagram-lover’s paradise, offering plenty of opportunities to snap your next shot. Capture waterfront views as you explore six miles of protected shoreline spanning from ocean to river, or embark on the Basin Trail to weave in and out of a maritime forest and capture stunning views of the Cape Fear River. The trail even winds past a WWII bunker!
Ocean Front Park & Pavilion
Located in the heart of town, Ocean Front Park & Pavilion is Kure Beach’s largest public green space. With an open-air pavilion, walking path and play area for children all offering gorgeous ocean views, the park is the perfect place to relax and snap a few photos while sipping a fresh kombucha or Pier Side Nitro Cold Brew from nearby Happy Hippies Java Hut.
Live Oaks
Drive all the way to where Kure Beach meets the sea to discover Fort Fisher State Historic Site, home of the Civil War’s largest amphibious battle. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you catch a glimpse of the beautiful live oak trees lining both sides of the street. Snap a pic of the scenery or pose beneath one of the trees. Or, head out along the walking trail, shaded by the gnarled live oaks, to discover the giant Fort Fisher earthworks and the remains of the fort.
Coquina Rock Formation
Head out to the shoreline near the Ocean Dunes Condos right before you reach Fort Fisher in time for low tide to sneak a shot of the rare coquina rock formation. Dating back more than 12,000 years, the unique rock formation is home to a rare mossy hard rock outcrop cemented together with seashells and coral. Take a close look at the shells to spot marine life like sea stars, hermit crabs and conchs.
No matter where you choose to strike a pose, Kure Beach’s pure and natural playground is the perfect place to snap your next Insta-worthy image.
