Family-Friendly Attractions in Kure Beach, NC
Plan a successful family vacation, where the kids are kept engaged and entertained with family-friendly attractions and activities. When it comes to the East Coast, Kure Beach is one of those magical places where kids can be kids with less crowds and commercialism. Below are a few classic kid-friendly finds that keep families coming back to this beach year after year.
A Water Wonderland Perfect for Kids
Travel Channel recognized the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher as one of the Best Aquariums in the U.S. and kids will find that this educational mecca has plenty of entertaining exhibits, events and activities designed with them in mind. Experience Otters on the Edge, a freshwater habitat where kids can get up close with a family of Asian small-clawed otters. Other highlights include behind the scenes tours, summer camps, the touch tank where kids can feel a live bamboo shark, the Megalodon photo opportunity and the chance to hang out with Luna, the Aquarium’s beloved albino alligator. Kids will also be able to work off any excess energy at Adventure Reef, an outdoor interactive play area.
Play at Ocean Front Park
Kure Beach is home to Ocean Front Park, a public seaside green space featuring a boardwalk, playground, swings, oceanfront benches and public restrooms. Kids ages three to six will want to check out the “tot lot” playground where they can let their imaginations run wild while playing on a giant pirate ship, fish and turtle. The park also has free summer programming including events like Turtle Talks, Stories by the Sea and a Boogie in the Park concert series.
Where the Young Appreciate the Old
Built in 1923, the Kure Beach Fishing Pier may be one of the oldest piers on the Atlantic coast, but it also appeals to a much younger crowd. This no-alcohol-allowed pier features outstanding fishing and gives kids the chance to see miles of coastline without having to perch atop mom or dad’s shoulders. The pier also has an arcade with classic games, and for the little ones who deserve a sweet treat on a hot day, ice cream is easy to find.
Sun & Fun at the Fort
With miles of unspoiled beach, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is the perfect place for kids to comb the sand for shells, sea urchins, fossils and starfish. When the time comes to cool off in the waves, kids can splash and play in the designated swimming area staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Kids will also want to explore the largest earthen fort in the south at Fort Fisher State Historic Site, where they’ll find a fully functional replica of a seacoast cannon and be curious about the underground bunkers they encounter on the .25-mile walking loop.
Par for the Kids
Kure Beach offers a registered PDGA 18-hole disc golf course where kids can be competitive without having to lug around clubs or beg mom and dad to pay a greens fee. The course is located in Joe Eakes Park, which is also home to a playground, basketball courts, tennis courts and bocce ball courts.
