Spring Things to Do
IN KURE BEACH, NC
Springtime Meets Playtime
Kure Beach is the perfect seaside spring retreat for getting outside and enjoying all nature has to offer. From tandem bike rides to underwater explorations, there are many unique activities to experience on the beach and beyond this spring at Kure Beach.
Seasonal Events
Visit Fort Fisher State Recreation Area for a family-friendly Spring Festival March 24 featuring educational booths, free games and prizes, a magic show, bounce house and more. Cast a line at the Pleasure Island Spring Surf Fishing Challenge for a chance to win cash and prizes April 13-14. Lace up your running shoes and race through scenic Fort Fisher at the aquarium’s Race for the Planet April 21. Bring the kids to Ocean Front Park for an outdoor viewing of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series during Ocean Front Pirate Flicks every Friday, April 26 – May 10. Put on your dancing shoes at Boogie in the Park Concert Series every first and third Sunday beginning May 5 at Ocean Front Park. The Pleasure Island Jeep Jam returns to the island May 17-18 with food trucks, live bands, family-friendly activities and more. Be a part of the surfing fun with your furry best friend during the Surf Dog Experience in nearby Carolina Beach May 18.
Featured Events
Monthly Bird Walk
Carolina Beach State Park Marina at Snows Cut Trail
Turtle-y Awesome Egg Hunt
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Spring Festival
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Places to Explore
For unforgettable sunset views, purchase a day permit at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and take your own four-wheel-drive vehicle out for a cruise along the beach strand. Enjoy a quiet picnic or relax by the sea at Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, featuring a boardwalk and a play area for kids. Try your hand at a round of disc golf at the PDGA-certified course in Joe Eakes Park or let your four-legged friends run and play at the dog park. Have a ball at one of the park’s recreational fields, perfect for some light activity or serious competition. In nearby Carolina Beach, hike the nine trails in Carolina Beach State Park and look for seasonal flora and fauna like the native Venus flytrap.
Small Wonders
Explore the wonders of aquatic environments at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher by purchasing tickets for a behind the scenes tour to get a sneak peek inside the aquarium’s backstage access. Charter a dive with a local scuba outfitter to one of the area’s historic shipwrecks including The Condor, North Carolina’s first Heritage Dive Site and one of the best-preserved shipwrecks on the North Carolina coast. Visitors can also learn about the ship’s history on land at Fort Fisher State Historic Site and hear about its new visitors center opening summer. Cast your line at the century-old Kure Beach Fishing Pier, a popular spot for off-shore fishing, scenic views and catching the sunrise. Embark on a kayak adventure to Shark Tooth Island or Zeke's Island Reserve to find much-coveted shark teeth, seashells, fossils and more. During low tide, discover the coquina outcrop, a natural wonder comprised of crushed fossils, rocks and more near Fort Fisher.
LOCAL EATS
Fill your getaway with beach-favorite restaurants and take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean on a walk afterward. Dive into the island’s rich history while tasting local flavors with Tasting History Tours. Fuel up at Happy Hippies Java Hut with their signature Mermaid Magic, an organic cold brew featuring protein and caffeine boosts. Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Freddie’s Restaurant and enjoy the popular braised pork chops served eight different ways, or taste unique Caribbean flavors on the laid-back patio at Jack Mackerel's Island Grill. Savor river views on the dog-friendly patio and fresh seafood at Riverview Restaurant, which reopens for the season May 12.
Featured Spring Blogs
Guided Excursions and Adventures in Kure Beach
Whether exploring the past and learning about life in the deep sea or paddling through calm waters and hidden sanctuaries, discover the natural beauty...
3 min read