Discover the Best Attractions near Kure Beach NC

Here’s a list of the best things to do to fully enjoy the beautiful weather in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach

Along with Carolina Beach, Kure Beach is home to some of the best beaches in North Carolina. Located on Pleasure Island, this small coastal town offers much more than just miles of pristine shoreline and laid-back vibes.

With incredible outdoor activities, historical sites, vibrant events, and a superb culinary scene, Kure Beach’s attractions will make you understand the island’s fitting name.

In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best things to do in town, along with attractions near Kure Beach, NC to help you make the most of your visit.

Before We Start, Here’s a Little About Us…

At Carolina Beach Realty, we’ve got a range of fantastic rentals. 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. Our blog is packed with articles and local insights to help you make the most of your stay.

Are you ready to unlock the magic of this North Carolina coastal gem?

1. Hit the Beaches

When visiting Kure Beach, the top attraction on your bucket list should be its miles of pristine shoreline. At the heart of the beach experience is Kure Beach Oceanfront, the main beach area along Atlantic Avenue, offering several access points to its stretch of white sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s less crowded compared to nearby beaches, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, unwinding, or enjoying beach sports. This is also home to the iconic Kure Beach Pier, where the sunsets are nothing short of epic. If you’d prefer to stay sand-free, take advantage of the oceanfront sidewalks. You can relax on a bench while admiring the sea, enjoy an ice cream, take a leisurely stroll, or even fly kites.

For more stunning natural beauty in NC, don’t miss the Fort Fisher Recreation Area at the southern end of Kure Beach. This peaceful and scenic stretch of beach offers a quieter, less developed experience compared to the more touristy spots. Beyond the turquoise waters, you’ll find beautiful sand dunes and trails that wind through coastal marshlands and maritime forests — perfect for wildlife viewing.

2. Fish from the Kure Beach Fishing Pier 

How about trying your hand at fishing from one of the oldest piers on the Atlantic Coast? The Kure Beach Fishing Pier, built in 1923 and extending 711 feet into the ocean, offers not only breathtaking sunsets but also great fishing opportunities for a small fee.

Open around the clock from April through November, the pier offers fishing passes that include a fishing license. You might reel in flounder, king mackerel, or Spanish mackerel, but even if you don’t, the stunning coastal views make the visit worthwhile.

The pier is home to a well-equipped tackle shop where you can rent or buy gear and pick up some local fishing tips. Non-fishers can enjoy free admission for sightseeing. Be sure to catch a glimpse of dolphins or, once again, experience a sunset at this historic site.

3. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts. The aquarium is home to over 2,500 animals representing 300 species, and some of its highlights include the two-story, 235,000-gallon Cape Fear Shoals tank, which houses sharks, rays, and a rare green moray eel.

A must-try activity is getting up close with some captivating creatures in the touch tanks, where you can interact with stingrays and horseshoe crabs. Also, be sure to say hi to Luna, the albino alligator, a rare sight in the wild.

For additional fun, the aquarium features outdoor gardens with native plants, a butterfly house, educational programs, feeding shows throughout the day, and a behind-the-scenes tour offering insights into marine conservation.

4. Explore the Fort Fisher Historic Site and Museum

This significant historical landmark offers a deep dive into Civil War history, perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike. In the Fort Fisher museum, you can explore an impressive collection of Civil War-era artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items that once belonged to soldiers, bringing the fort’s history to life.

However, the highlight of any visit to Fort Fisher is its outdoor areas, where you can explore the well-preserved remains of one of the largest earthen fortifications of the Confederacy. Visitors can walk along the preserved earthworks and follow a scenic trail that winds through dunes and coastal landscapes. The area also offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk, picnic, or quiet reflection.

5. Dine at Local Restaurants

Whether you’re in the mood for casual beachside eats or a refined dining experience, the local restaurant scene has something to satisfy every palate. From laid-back beachside fare to international cuisine, Kure Beach offers an unforgettable dining experience. Here are our top three restaurants in town:

• Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill: A popular seafood restaurant known for its laid-back atmosphere and Caribbean-inspired dishes. It offers a variety of fresh seafood, steaks, and tropical cocktails, making it a great spot for a relaxed dining experience near the beach.
  
  
• Freddie’s: A family-owned Italian restaurant in Kure Beach, known for its signature pork chops. It also offers a range of classic Italian dishes and an extensive wine selection, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
  
  
• Big Daddy’s Seafood Restaurant: A long-standing local favorite known for a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a great spot for enjoying casual coastal dining while feeling the sea breeze.
  
  
  

6. Enjoy an Exciting Local Event

To make the most of your visit, plan your trip around one of the many annual events in Kure Beach. Festivals and events bring extra energy to any trip, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. Here are the most famous events in Kure Beach: 

• Pleasure Island Jeep Jam: A 3-day event usually happening in May where Jeep lovers come together to show off their vehicles and enjoy good music and food over the weekend across multiple locations within Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Fort Fisher.

• Farewell Summer Jazz: Every October, Kure Beach hosts a jazz funeral to mark the end of summer. The event features a procession led by a jazz band, with participants dressed in festive attire, along with concerts, food trucks serving delicious bites, and a lively atmosphere where you can mingle with the locals.

• Cape Fear Kite Festival: The first weekend of November brings the Cape Fear Kite Festival to Kure Beach, where the coastline at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area becomes a canvas for an array of colorful kites in different styles and sizes, creating a captivating scene for all to enjoy.

• Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty: This annual Grinch-themed holiday celebration kicks off with a screening of the 2000 film “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Throughout the event, attendees can enjoy face painting, Grinch-themed crafts, cookie decorating, and photo ops with the Grinch himself, all taking place at Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion.

7. Take a Ferry Ride to Southport

For a scenic adventure, catch the Fort Fisher-Southport Ferry just south of Kure Beach. The ferry takes you across the Cape Fear River to the charming town of Southport.

The ferry departs from the Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal, located at the southern tip of Kure Beach, just a short drive from the town center. The 35-minute ride offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding marshlands. Once in Southport, you can explore its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and quaint shops, all reflecting its deep maritime and Civil War history.

8. Bike or Walk the Kure Beach Greenway

The Kure Beach Greenway is a scenic path perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or simply soaking in the town’s laid-back vibes.

It winds through Kure Beach, offering views of the beach, local wildlife, and native plants. The paths connect various parts of the town, making it easy to move between popular destinations like the beach, parks, and other attractions. It’s also a family-friendly activity, with its easy terrain making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Beyond recreation, the Kure Beach Greenway is a key part of the town’s efforts to promote sustainability and outdoor living, encouraging both locals and visitors to explore the area in an eco-conscious way.

Wondering Where to Stay in Kure Beach, NC?

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.