Rainy Day Activities in Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Nearby
Nestled along the coast of North Carolina, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and nearby Wilmington are prime beach holiday spots in the United States. Known for their stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor fun, these coastal gems offer an array of activities for visitors.
Is it raining cats and dogs out there? No worries! That doesn’t mean your beach dreams are dashed. Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wilmington also boast fantastic local museums, conservation centers, entertainment venues, cozy coffee shops, and eateries serving up fresh coastal flavors – perfect for escaping the weather.
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. Now, let’s talk about those rainy-day activities!
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1. Explore the Fort Fisher Historic Site and Museum (Kure Beach)
When the rain begins to fall in Kure Beach, take a step back in time at 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.
You can begin your visit at the museum, where an impressive collection of Civil War-era artifacts awaits. You’ll find weapons, uniforms, and personal items that belonged to soldiers, bringing the history of the fort to life. The preserved earthworks of the original fort allow visitors to walk through the actual battleground, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Don’t miss the Visitor Center, where a 16-minute video presentation provides a comprehensive overview of Fort Fisher’s history and its role in the Civil War. If the weather gets better, you can explore the site’s outdoor areas, including a replica 150-pound Armstrong gun and Shepherd’s Battery, a restored gun emplacement.
2. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (Kure Beach)
Rainy days are perfect for diving into the underwater world at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. This family-friendly attraction offers interactive exhibits and touch tanks that make learning about marine life a hands-on experience.
The aquarium’s highlights include the sea turtle exhibit, where you can learn about the life cycle and conservation efforts for these majestic creatures. Don’t miss the stingray touch tank, a favorite among visitors, where you can gently touch these graceful animals as they glide by. The Cape Fear Shoals, a 235,000-gallon exhibit, features sand tiger sharks, stingrays, and a green sea turtle named Shelldon.
Another must-see is the Otters on the Edge habitat. Here, you can observe a family of Asian small-clawed otters, including recently born pups. Their playful antics are sure to delight visitors of all ages. The aquarium also boasts a new Caribbean Corals exhibit, showcasing colorful fish and coral species, allowing you to observe the development of a coral ecosystem over time.
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3. Dine at Local Restaurants (Carolina Beach and Kure Beach)
Rainy days provide the perfect excuse to explore the culinary delights of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. 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.
In Carolina Beach:
- Salt Fish Restaurant and Bar: Known for its creative seafood dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
- Shuckin’ Shack: Offers some of the freshest oysters around, perfect for a laid-back vibe.
- Lake Park Steakhouse: Provides hearty meals in a cozy setting, ideal for a taste of classic American cuisine.
- Havana’s: Features a Cuban-inspired menu and inviting decor, creating a delightful dining experience.
In Kure Beach:
- Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill: Serves up delicious seafood with a tropical twist, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Freddie’s: Offers Italian cuisine with a southern flair, perfect for a comforting meal on a rainy day.
4. Enjoy Happy Hour at a Local Brewery (Carolina Beach)
When the weather takes a turn, find refuge and good cheer at Good Hops Brewery in Carolina Beach. This local gem is known for its innovative brews and community-focused atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a rainy afternoon.
Good Hops Brewery offers a relaxed taproom and a scenic outdoor beer garden, providing a comfortable gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Popular offerings include the Boardwalk Brown Ale, Donna Golden Ale, Flip Hop IPA, Good Hops Pale Ale, and Andrew’s Irish Ale. Seasonal and special releases add to the excitement, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
As you sip on your craft beer, take in the cozy ambiance and let the warmth of the brewery chase away the rainy day blues.
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5. Shipwreck Neon Mini Golf (Carolina Beach)
Rain or shine, Shipwreck Neon Mini Golf in Carolina Beach offers a unique indoor experience that’s perfect for all ages. This neon-lit mini golf course combines themed environments with vibrant lighting, creating an engaging and visually striking adventure.
The facility features two 9-hole themed courses—Pirate and Under the Sea—each designed to provide a fun and challenging mini-golf experience. Players can choose to play either 9 holes or the full 18 holes, immersing themselves in the creative and colorful settings. The neon lighting adds an extra layer of excitement, making the course come alive and providing plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
6. iEscape Rooms (Carolina Beach)
iEscape Rooms in Carolina Beach is the perfect rainy-day activity. This popular entertainment venue offers a variety of escape room experiences that challenge participants to solve puzzles and escape-themed rooms within a 60-minute time limit.
iEscape Rooms offers a range of themes, blending traditional and modern puzzle designs to create engaging and challenging scenarios. Popular rooms include DeadPool, Donor, Legend of the Tomb, and Game Show Live. Each room is meticulously designed to provide a unique and immersive experience, with puzzles that require teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity to solve.
Whether you’re new to escape rooms or a seasoned pro, the variety of themes ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Rainy Day Activities in Wilmington
Less than 20 minutes from Carolina Beach and Kure Beach is Wilmington, a treasure trove of indoor entertainment! When it’s raining, why not take a short drive to Wilmington and turn a dreary day into an adventure?
7. Museum of the Bizarre (Wilmington)
One of the best things to do in town when it rains is to delve into the weird and wonderful at the Museum of the Bizarre in Wilmington. Founded by local tattoo artist Justin LaNasa, the Museum of the Bizarre is home to a variety of intriguing exhibits.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by life-sized figures of Pinhead and Freddy Krueger, perfect for a photo op. As you navigate through the museum, you’ll encounter historical artifacts such as a lock of Alexander Hamilton’s hair, letters from infamous serial killers, and Harry Houdini’s ouija board.
The museum also features unusual biological specimens, including a two-headed calf and shrunken heads, as well as cryptozoological items like Bigfoot’s footprint, a unicorn horn, and a chupacabra hand. Interactive experiences, such as a laser maze challenge and a Star Trek-inspired room, add to the fun.
Whether you’re a fan of the macabre or simply looking for something different, this museum offers a fascinating and entertaining escape from the rain.
8. Enjoy Indoor Entertainment at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park (Wilmington)
For a fun-filled day away from the rain, head to Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park in Wilmington. This indoor entertainment hub offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable outing regardless of the weather.
Start your adventure in the expansive arcade, which features a wide range of video games and redemption games. From classic arcade favorites to the latest interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone. Younger children will love the indoor playground, a multi-level structure complete with slides and various obstacles that provide a safe and exciting environment to burn off energy.
For those seeking a bit of friendly competition, the park’s 10-lane bowling alley is a great option. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just looking to have some fun, the bowling alley offers a lively atmosphere perfect for groups. The laser tag arena is another highlight, where visitors can engage in thrilling team-based games in a themed environment.
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Other Ideas for Rainy Day Activities
9. Cozy Up in Your Short Term Rental (Carolina Beach and Kure Beach)
Vacationers staying in short-term rentals in Carolina Beach or Kure Beach can still make the most of their coastal getaway even on rainy days. Many rentals offer stunning oceanfront views, allowing guests to cozy up indoors while watching the dramatic weather unfold over the Atlantic.
Take advantage of the fully equipped kitchens often found in these properties to whip up some comfort food or try your hand at local seafood recipes. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather the family for a leisurely brunch or dinner, perhaps accompanied by board games or a movie marathon in the living room.
The sound of rain on the windows can create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal time to unwind and enjoy some quality time indoors. Some rentals also come with amenities like hot tubs or fireplaces, adding an extra touch of comfort to your rainy day retreat. Whether you’re curling up with a good book, enjoying a cup of hot cocoa, or simply watching the waves crash against the shore, staying in your short-term rental can be a peaceful and enjoyable way to spend a rainy day.
10. Wait 30 Minutes Until the Sun Comes Back Out and…
Rain showers often pass quickly, so once the sun reappears, dive back into outdoor fun with these activities. The beaches are perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and sandcastle building. Catch post-rain waves for surfing, or try your luck fishing at the Carolina Beach or Kure Beach piers.
Explore Carolina Beach State Park’s hiking trails and diverse ecosystems, and enjoy stunning views of the Cape Fear River. Visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for shops, arcades, and amusement rides. Take a sunset cruise or enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach.
Wondering Where to Stay in Carolina Beach & Kure Beach, NC?
Stay like a local by booking one of our Carolina Beach Realty. 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.