Beaches & Outdoor Activities
Oak Island Beach
BEACH
Over 60 public access points along 14 miles of wide, uncrowded shoreline. Faces south, so you can catch both sunrise and sunset from the water's edge. Perfect for shelling, swimming, or just doing nothing at all.
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The Point
SCENIC SPOT
The far western tip where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the inlet. Stunning views, great for kayaking and paddleboarding. Parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends.
Caswell Beach
BEACH
Quieter and more residential, just east of Oak Island proper. A beautiful stretch for early morning walks, especially if you want to avoid summer crowds. The Oak Island Lighthouse is nearby.
Kayaking the ICW
WATER ACTIVITY
Salt marshes, tidal creeks, and waterways make Oak Island a genuine paddler's paradise. Launch from the Oak Island Recreation Center on SE 31st St. Keep an eye out for osprey, herons, and dolphins.
Fishing Piers
OUTDOORS
Both Oak Island Pier and Ocean Crest Pier are great for a casual stroll or a day of fishing. No license needed at Ocean Crest. The view from either pier at golden hour is hard to beat.
Oak Island Nature Center
NATURE
Open late May through September. Peaceful salt marsh ecosystem, walking trail, butterfly garden, fossil exhibits, and a floating dock. A wonderful low-key stop for families.
Restaurants & Dining
Island Way Restaurant
FINE DINING
Oak Island's only true oceanfront fine dining spot. Fresh local seafood, aged steaks, and a deck overlooking the water at sunset. Reservations recommended in summer.
Koko Cabana
CASUAL
Right on the Oak Island Pier with open-air seating and million-dollar views. Known for fish tacos, coastal bowls, and colorful cocktails. Live music on weekends.
Salt 64
LOCAL FAVORITE
Named to Yelp's Best Restaurants in North Carolina. Chef-driven menu with locally sourced ingredients and outstanding homemade desserts. Great for a nicer night out without the stuffiness.
Ruby's Coffeehouse
COFFEE
Right next to the Oak Island Pier — where locals go for morning coffee before hitting the beach. The pistachio coconut latte has a bit of a cult following. Open until around 3pm most days.
Paul's Place
CASUAL
Big portions of fresh seafood, sports bar atmosphere, and a more elevated dinner menu Wed–Sun thanks to an in-house chef. Great for families and groups.
Things to Do
Oak Island Lighthouse
LANDMARK
Completed in 1958 and once the second brightest lighthouse in the world. Free tours year round — top tours require advance reservation. Book at least two weeks ahead in summer.
Southport
DAY TRIP
A charming waterfront town just a short drive across the bridge. Stroll the historic downtown, grab lunch on the yacht basin, and browse local shops. Best visited on a weekday.
Bald Head Island Ferry
DAY TRIP
Board the ferry in Southport for a car-free island adventure. Rent a golf cart or bike, visit the 1816 Old Baldy Lighthouse, and enjoy some of the most pristine beaches in the region.
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
FAMILY
About 45 minutes north near Kure Beach. A 235,000-gallon saltwater tank, over 2,500 sea creatures, and divers who answer questions during feeding time. Worth every minute of the drive.
Fishing Charters
ON THE WATER
Oak Island is one of NC's top fishing destinations. Local charter companies offer inshore, nearshore, and offshore trips with experienced captains. A half-day charter makes for a great morning.
Summer Concerts & Markets
SEASONAL
Every Monday June through August, the island hosts an outdoor artisan market at Middleton Park. Free summer concerts run all season across Brunswick County — check local listings when you arrive.
Insider Tips from Lisa
- Arrive early at The Point on weekends Parking fills up fast in July and August. Get there before 9am or save it for a weekday.
- Best shelling is early morning at low tide Check the tide chart the night before and plan a sunrise walk for the best finds.
- Book dinner reservations before you leave home Island Way and Salt 64 fill up fast in peak season, especially on weekends in July.
- Stock up on groceries before crossing the bridge Better-stocked stores are on the mainland — saves time and money once you arrive.
- Visit Southport on a Tuesday or Wednesday Mid-week you'll practically have the waterfront to yourself compared to busy weekends.
Your coastal escape, perfectly curated
We are only satisfied with the best. From unbeatable oceanfront locations to stunning coastal interiors, we consider every detail when it comes to selecting our luxury vacation rentals. Take your pick from our collection of beachfront cottages, sound-side retreats, and spacious family homes — all ideally located, exquisitely designed, and lavishly furnished along the shores of Oak Island, NC.
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