All About: Kure Beach Attractions & Vacation Rentals
Thinking of visiting Pleasure Island on your next trip? Here’s a lowdown on things to do in Kure Beach and why picking a vacation rental in town is a great choice.
Kure Beach is considered one of the best beaches not just on Pleasure Island but in the whole of North Carolina, a destination perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a quiet atmosphere, natural beauty, and incredible outdoor activities. Kure Beach attractions provide everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.
But there’s something more you should consider to make your time in this NC treasure even more special: staying in a vacation rental. By staying like a local, with all the comfort, convenience, and privacy you deserve, you’ll transform your days in Kure Beach from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this blog, we’ll highlight all the benefits of staying in a beach rental instead of a hotel, as well as share some things to do in Kure Beach and provide quick information about this fantastic destination.
Before We Start…
At Carolina Beach Realty, we’ve got a range of fantastic rentals in Pleasure Island. Whether you’re into cozy oceanfront condos or big beachfront houses, we’ve got something for everyone. Want to enjoy the area like a local? Check out our destination blog!
We’ve got the scoop on the best time of the year for fishing, lots of pet travel tips, and what it’s like to call these beach towns home. We’ve also got you covered with the top Kure Beach attractions to help you explore the region even further. Our blog is packed with articles and local insights to help you make the most of your stay.
Ready for some Kure Beach magic? Let’s jump straight into it!
Quick Facts about Kure Beach
Location
Kure Beach is located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, in New Hanover County. It sits along the Atlantic Ocean and is positioned about 15 miles south of Wilmington, NC. This charming beach town is part of the Greater Wilmington Area, making it easily accessible yet offering a more tranquil and less crowded atmosphere compared to its busier neighbors like Wrightsville Beach.
Kure Beach is also conveniently located near other amazing destinations like Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach to the east (about 45 miles away). Superb attractions such as the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and the Fort Fisher Historic Site are also just a few miles away.
Kure Beach Attractions
- Kure Beach Pier: Ideal for fishing and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: A coastal park with beaches, hiking trails, and historical sites, including the Civil War-era Fort Fisher.
- North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher: A family-friendly aquarium showcasing marine life from the Cape Fear region.
- Kure Beach Oceanfront Park: A peaceful park offering beach access, picnic tables, and scenic views.
- Historic Sites: Fort Fisher State Historic Site, offering tours and exhibits on the Civil War.
Peak Seasons
- Summer (June to August): The busiest season with warm weather, perfect for beach activities, though it can be crowded.
- Spring & Fall (April to October): Ideal for visiting, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it great for outdoor activities.
Type of Vacationers It Attracts
- Families: The beach, aquarium, and parks make Kure Beach a very family-friendly destination.
- Couples: Its quieter atmosphere is perfect for couples seeking a relaxed and romantic beach getaway.
- Nature Lovers: Those interested in nature, wildlife, and outdoor activities enjoy the parks and natural beauty of the area.
- Beachgoers and Fishermen: The pier and access to the ocean make it popular for those who want to enjoy the water and fishing.
Vibe
- Quieter & Relaxed: Kure Beach offers a more laid-back, small-town atmosphere compared to the nearby busier beaches like Wrightsville Beach.
- Old-School Charm: It maintains a nostalgic, low-key charm with local eateries, beach cottages, and small shops.
Accessibility
- Transportation: Accessible via car, with public parking near the beach and pier. It’s also a short drive from Wilmington, which is served by Wilmington International Airport.
Ideal for
- Relaxing Beach Vacations: Those seeking a peaceful, uncrowded beach experience.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in the surrounding parks and natural areas.
Why Choose Kure Beach Rentals for Your Vacation
Staying in a vacation rental in Kure Beach gives you more control over your vacation experience, with added space, flexibility, and privacy. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who values comfort, convenience, and a more personalized experience compared to a hotel stay.
Here are some reasons why vacationing in Kure Beach rentals is a great choice:
More Space and Comfort
Vacation rentals in Kure Beach offer more space than most hotel rooms in the region. With separate living areas, multiple bedrooms, and often private outdoor spaces, you’ll have more freedom to relax, spread out, and enjoy your vacation with family or friends.
Privacy
In a vacation rental, you’ll have much more privacy than in a hotel. There’s no sharing walls with neighbors or crowded hallways, and you can enjoy your own space without the interruptions of hotel staff or other guests.
Cost-Effective for Groups or Families
For larger groups or families, vacation rentals are often more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. You can stay together, split the cost, and save money by cooking meals in your rental’s fully equipped kitchen instead of dining out for every meal.
Home-Like Amenities
Vacation rentals typically come with home-like amenities, such as full kitchens, laundry facilities, and living areas. This allows you to prepare your own meals, do laundry, and enjoy the comforts of home, making your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Better Location Options
Many beach rentals in Kure Beach are located in residential or quieter areas, offering you more direct access to the beach and local attractions. You can often find rentals that are just steps away from the ocean, away from the busier hotel districts.
Local Experience
Staying in a vacation rental gives you a more authentic local experience. You’ll likely interact more with the surrounding community, visit neighborhood spots, and have a better sense of the area’s charm compared to the often commercial feel of a hotel.
Pet-Friendly Options
What about including your four-legged pal in your vacation? In Kure Beach, many rental properties allow pets, so if you’re traveling with a furry friend, this can be a huge advantage over hotels, which often have strict pet policies.
Outdoor Enjoyment & Amenities
Outdoor amenities like decks, patios, private pools, and hot tubs are major draws in vacation rentals. You’ll have your own outdoor playground to enjoy whenever you want. Another key amenity that plays a significant role when deciding between rental properties and hotels is a well-equipped kitchen. Not only can you create beautiful moments with your loved ones while cooking a special dinner, but it can also save you money since you don’t necessarily need to eat out every day.
Choosing the Right Rental Type for Your Group
Kure Beach has a diverse variety of vacation rentals catering to different preferences. From oceanfront condos to beach houses, you’ll find properties of various sizes, offering incredible amenities, and fitting every budget. Below are some of the most popular types of rentals available in town.
Oceanfront Condos
Oceanfront condos are perfect for those who want to be close to the ocean without the upkeep of a larger property. Offering access to shared amenities like pools, fitness centers, and beach equipment, these condos provide a relaxed and well-equipped stay. They’re ideal for smaller families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an easy and enjoyable beach retreat in Kure Beach.
Beachfront Homes
If you’re seeking more space or vacationing with a larger group, beachfront homes are the way to go. With plenty of room to spread out, these homes often offer private pools, large decks, and kitchens perfect for group meals. Many even provide direct beach access, making it easy to step out onto the sand. A house rental also offers additional privacy, and for families with kids, the outdoor area and private pool make it even more enjoyable.
Townhouses
Many townhouses are just a short walk from the beach, providing easy access without the higher cost of beachfront properties. They typically offer more space than hotel rooms, with multiple levels and community amenities like pools and gyms. Townhouses also offer a good balance of privacy, being part of a community but with fewer shared walls and outdoor spaces, making them a comfortable, low-maintenance choice for a beach vacation.
Pet-friendly Properties
As we mentioned earlier, pet-friendly vacation rentals are a great option for travelers who want to bring their furry friends along. Many rentals in the area offer pet-friendly amenities, including fenced yards, nearby parks, and easy beach access, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors with your pet. With fewer restrictions than hotels, these rentals provide a more comfortable and relaxed environment for both pets and their owners. Besides that, being able to cook your own meals and have a home-like atmosphere enhances the overall vacation experience for families or couples traveling with pets.
Extra Tips on Choosing Kure Beach Rentals
- Consider proximity to the beach: Decide how close you want to be to the ocean. If you want easy beach access, look for properties that are either beachfront or within walking distance. For a more private experience, a rental slightly further from the beach might be ideal.
- Assess the size and layout: Consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms needed based on your group size. Single-family homes tend to offer more space, while condos or townhouses may be more compact but still comfortable for smaller groups.
- Look for amenities: Check for amenities that can enhance your stay, such as a private pool, hot tub, fully equipped kitchen, and outdoor spaces like a deck or patio. Some rentals also offer access to community amenities like pools or fitness centers.
- Read reviews: Look for properties with positive reviews from past guests, particularly those who stayed in similar situations (families, couples, etc.). Reviews can provide valuable insights into the property’s condition, the quality of amenities, and the host’s responsiveness.
- Consider the season: If you’re visiting during peak seasons (summer or fall), book early to secure the best rental. Rates may be higher during busy months, so if you’re flexible, consider off-season dates for better deals.
- Check for accessibility: If you have guests with mobility issues, look for rentals that are accessible, with features like ramps or elevators. Some properties may also have fewer stairs or wide hallways, making them more comfortable for everyone.
- Ensure privacy: Depending on your preferences, you might want a rental that offers more privacy, such as a single-family home or townhouse, compared to a condo that might have more shared spaces with other guests.
- Understand the policies: Be sure to review the rental’s cancellation, refund, and damage policies. Some properties may offer flexible cancellation policies or additional insurance options for peace of mind during your stay.
Ready to Pick Your Kure Beach Rental?
Stay like a local by booking one of our Carolina Beach Realty rentals, including many options for pet-friendly stays. Our rentals are primarily in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, ranging from small oceanfront condos to large beachfront homes.
Carolina Beach Realty is a family-owned and operated full-service property management and vacation rental company. We pride ourselves on keeping it local and supporting the surrounding community.