Parks and Nature
in Kure Beach, NC

State Park Adventures

Venture to Fort Fisher State Recreation Area to enjoy nearly 300 acres of unspoiled beauty, including a 6-mile span of protected shoreline. Hike along the Basin Trail through a maritime forest to spot diverse flora and fauna. From the state park, walk down the beach at low tide to discover a true natural wonder: the rare, mossy coquina rock formation. Purchase the required day-permit to access the recreation area’s four-wheel-drive beach, where you’ll find spacious, peaceful spots for surf fishing.

The recreation area is a birdwatcher’s dream. Stroll through several habitats, including a maritime forest, where you may encounter warblers, Loggerhead Shrike, the mockingbird-sized shrike and the world’s fastest bird. On the ocean side, Red-throated Loons, brightly-billed Surf Scoters and American Oystercatchers – one of the only birds that feed primarily on shellfish – are among the most common species. In addition, nearby Carolina Beach State Park hosts guided monthly bird walks. Check the park’s website for dates and details.

Pure Family Fun

Situated along the oceanfront in the heart of Kure Beach, Ocean Front Park is the town’s largest public green space. Stroll along the park’s seaside boardwalk, which is lined with waterfront bench swings that invite visitors to relax and savor the view. Children love to play pretend on the playground’s giant pirate ship. The park’s open-air pavilion provides a scenic venue for family-friendly events such as the Boogie in the Park concert series and Story Time by the Sea. Head to Joe Eakes Park for a game of disc golf, bocce ball, tennis or basketball. Kids can play, swing, slide and climb around at the large playground. The park’s Gurney Hood Barking Lot allows four-legged friends to run and play off-leash.

Sea Turtles

Learn about different species of sea turtles from Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project volunteers during weekly Turtle Talks. Volunteers patrol Kure Beach and nearby Carolina Beach during nesting season and aim to keep sea turtles safe after hatching. If you’re interested in their work, summer Turtle Talks take place every Monday night at Kure Beach’s Ocean Front Park.

Scenic Paddling Spots

Take a boat or a guided Kayak Carolina tour to reach Zeke’s Island Reserve and explore the lagoon-like habitat, a sanctuary for protected shorebirds and other coastal wildlife. The estuarine reserve, made up of a collection of isolated islands, covers miles of pristine shoreline. Featuring several different habitats, including tidal flats, salt marshes, shrub thicket, maritime forest, sand dunes and ocean beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, hiking, fishing and birdwatching. Embark on a self-led or guided excursion to Shark Tooth Island to search for seashells and coveted shark teeth. Kayak tours and rentals are also offered through local outfitters like Pleasure Island Rentals and Paddle NC.