10 Tips for a Perfect Pleasure Island Beach Day
The Weather in Carolina Beach & Kure Beach is Ideal for the Beach – Here’s How to Make the Most of Your Day
A trip to Pleasure Island, North Carolina promises beautiful stretches of sandy shoreline, warm Atlantic waves, and stunning views to create unforgettable beach memories. With three main destinations — Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Fort Fisher — each offering its unique charm, you have everything you need for a fantastic day in the sun.
But a little planning can turn a great beach day into a spectacular one. In this blog, we will bring you 10 great tips to make your beach day perfect!
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 sun-kissed bliss on Pleasure Island?
1. Start with a Hearty Breakfast
When it comes to fueling your body for a full day of beachside activities, breakfast is crucial. A nutritious, filling breakfast is more than a tasty start; it sets you up with sustained energy for hours of fun under the sun.
With the prospect of swimming, walking along the shore, exploring local attractions, or trying out water sports, a good breakfast will prevent those midday slumps that can sneak up on you after an active morning.
Local Breakfast Gems on Pleasure Island
Kate’s Pancake House
Kate’s is a favorite spot for breakfast lovers on Pleasure Island. Known for its fluffy pancakes and legendary Crab Benedict, this spot offers something for everyone—including vegan options. The combination of protein and carbs in their breakfast dishes gives you the fuel to make the most of your day.
Gulfstream Restaurant
At Gulfstream, the cozy atmosphere is just the beginning. Their homemade biscuits and bottomless coffee are perfect to start your day. Portions are generous, so you’ll leave satisfied and ready for the beach.
Granny’s Country Kitchen
For those craving home-cooked flavors, Granny’s Country Kitchen offers customizable breakfast options to suit every taste. From veggie-packed omelets to classic bacon and cheese combos, you can build a breakfast that suits your needs for an active day outdoors.
2. Pack Your Essentials (and a Few Extras)
Packing the right gear makes a huge difference. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need:
Essentials
- Sun Protection: The Carolina sun can be intense! Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re planning on hours of sunbathing or swimming. Bring a refillable water bottle to keep cool and avoid the beach vendor prices.
Fun Boosters
- Cooler: A good cooler is your best friend on hot Carolina beach days, keeping your drinks chilled and snacks fresh. Packing your own food also saves you from overpriced beach vendors.
- Waterproof Phone Pouch: This small addition lets you capture all your favorite moments without worrying about sand or water damage.
- Beach Beats: A waterproof Bluetooth speaker sets the mood, but remember to keep the volume respectful.
- Comfy Seating: Portable beach chairs provide a comfy spot to relax after a swim.
3. Check the Weather & Plan Ahead
Clear skies and calm seas make the best beach days, so check the forecast for weather Carolina Beach and Kure Beach weather before heading out. In addition to sunny weather, check the wind speeds if you’re planning on using a beach tent or umbrella.
Educate your group on beach safety, including rip currents, and plan to swim near lifeguard stands for added security. Pleasure Island has over 44 public beach access points, so finding one with the right amenities—like showers, bathhouses, or handicapped parking — is easy.
4. Choose the Perfect Spot in the Sun
Pleasure Island offers distinct beach experiences depending on where you go. Here’s a breakdown of the best spots for soaking up the sun:
Carolina Beach
For a lively, bustling vibe, head to Carolina Beach at the island’s northern end. Here, you’ll find a retro-style boardwalk lined with arcades, shops, and restaurants—perfect for those who love a bit of excitement. Carolina Beach also features the Carolina Beach Lake, a unique freshwater lake just 200 yards from the ocean, where you can enjoy a quick picnic or take a paddle boat ride.
Kure Beach
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Kure Beach offers expansive, clean shorelines and a small-town feel. The Kure Beach Fishing Pier stretches over 700 feet into the ocean and is ideal for fishing or simply enjoying the view. Kure Beach’s wooden boardwalk with benches and oceanfront swings makes it a peaceful spot for families or anyone looking to unwind by the water.
Fort Fisher
If you’re craving untouched natural beauty, Fort Fisher at the southern tip of Pleasure Island is the place to be. Known for its undeveloped beaches and preserved wildlife, Fort Fisher provides four-wheel drive beach access (with permits) and is a popular spot for observing sea turtle nesting grounds. The Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers trails for hiking and a chance to spot native birds and other wildlife.
5. Dive Into Beach Adventures
Beyond sunbathing, Pleasure Island is packed with exciting activities for water lovers and adventure seekers alike:
Captain for a Day
Rent a pontoon or join a narrated catamaran trip down the Intracoastal Waterway to see Pleasure Island from a different angle. Along the way, you may spot dolphins and enjoy a peaceful ride with stunning coastal views.
Kayaking
The calm waters around Carolina Beach State Park make it an ideal kayaking destination. Rentals and guided tours are available, allowing you to explore the park’s natural beauty and tranquil waters.
Fishing
Known for some of North Carolina’s best fishing, Pleasure Island offers options from pier fishing to private charters. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, you’re sure to have a memorable time casting a line.
6. Plan for Sand Games and Friendly Beach Fun
Add a playful edge to your Pleasure Island beach day with some classic sand games. Cornhole, for one, is laid-back and suits all ages, while bocce ball offers a relaxed, slow-paced competition perfect for a leisurely beach day.
For those craving a bit more action, spike ball blends volleyball and handball, challenging players to keep a small ball bouncing off a net without touching the sand—a fun twist for the more active crowd.
What’s more, nothing says “beach day” like building sandcastles. Whether it’s a towering castle or an intricate sea creature, sand-building brings out the artist in everyone. Local shops on Pleasure Island offer sandcastle-building kits with molds, shovels, and buckets to help you craft your sandy masterpiece. Decorate with driftwood, shells, and stones found along the shore for a unique, artistic touch.
7. Discover Local Wildlife and Nature
Pleasure Island’s natural beauty and wildlife offer a unique aspect to any beach day. Visit Carolina Beach State Park to see the Venus flytrap, which grows wild only in this area. The park’s trails offer a scenic look at marshlands and coastal wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
If you’re eager for a closer look at the island’s marine life, book a guided eco-tour with a local outfitter. These tours provide an opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even a manatee or two.
8. Try a Beachside Yoga or Meditation Session
The rhythmic sounds of the waves create the perfect backdrop for yoga or meditation on the beach. Many local instructors offer beach yoga classes in Carolina Beach, ideal for beginners or seasoned yogis looking for a new experience. Or, if you prefer solitude, bring your mat and set up your own session at sunrise or sunset to enjoy a peaceful moment with the sea.
9. Rent a Beach Cruiser for a Scenic Ride
If you want to see more of the island without needing a car, renting a beach cruiser bicycle is the perfect solution. Many rental shops offer these classic bikes by the hour or day, allowing you to leisurely explore the paths connecting Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Pedal past beach cottages, local shops, and scenic viewpoints along the way.
10. Cap Off the Day at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk
As the sun sets and the golden light fades, head to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk—the perfect place to wind down and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Pleasure Island. This vintage-style boardwalk, filled with nostalgic charm, is alive with games, rides, and food vendors that make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Walking down the boardwalk, you’ll pass by arcades, ice cream stands, and fun carnival games, bringing out the kid in everyone.
The boardwalk also offers a front-row seat for people-watching, where you can catch glimpses of families, beachgoers, and street performers. On select nights, you’ll find live music that fills the air, adding a lively soundtrack as you explore.
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is more than just a fun stop; it’s a chance to experience the island’s friendly, laid-back vibe one last time before you head home.
Wondering Where to Stay in Pleasure Island, 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.