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2025 Educational Activities Guide

Cape Fear Map
Wilmington Sunset Beach Ocean Isle Beach Holden Beach Oak Island Bald Head Island Southport Kure Beach Carolina Beach WrightsvilleBeach
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Victory Beach Vacations

Visitors who are on the hunt for the postcard-perfect vacation rental in the heart of the Carolina Beach or Kure Beach area will find an enticing selection and plenty of friendly customer service when they rent through Victory Beach Vacations. Based in Carolina Beach in the coastal Cape Fear region, Victory Beach Vacations has more than 100 vacation rentals in all shapes and sizes to ensure that every vacationing family can find their dream home away from home on the beach.   When you book your Cape Fear getaway with Victory Beach Vacations, the fun doesn’t end when you leave the beach, it continues with an array of privately-owned properties outfitted with all of the amenities needed for a fabulous beach vacation.   Jenna Lanier, General Manager, explains that her family first opened the rental and property management business in 2002. At the forefront of Victory Beach operations is Lanier’s mother, Caroline Meeks. Meeks is both the Broker in Charge and co-owner with husband, Buck Meeks, who manages the Field Services team with Lanier’s husband, Scott.   For nearly 20 years, the Victory Beach team has worked tirelessly to establish a network of top-of-the-line rental properties for Cape Fear visitors to enjoy. “As far as our properties go,” explains Lanier, “they are all updated, well-furnished and appointed. “We have always performed post-cleaning inspections and since the pandemic, have put freshly laundered duvets over all of the comforters between rentals.”   Lanier emphasizes how important the guests experience is “we strive to give our guests a relaxing, stress free, memorable vacation.” This emphasis on customer service has led to Victory Beach Vacations having a 4.8 Google rating with over 300 reviews by happy owners and guests.In addition to Victory Beach’s superior sanitation practices, the company offers properties for every type of visitor. Choose from luxury oceanfront houses and condos to more reasonbly priced 2nd row properties with oceanviews. Many properties include pools and hot tubs as well, perfect for outdoor entertaining, and many are dog friendly.   Lanier also notes that all properties are within walking or driving distance to Pleasure Island’s main attractions – Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. The former, as described by Lanier, is the more commercialized of the two destinations and features a boardwalk, outdoor dining options and a plethora of weekly activities including fireworks, live music, amusement park pop-ups, and movies under the stars. Kure Beach offers a more residential feel with its fishing pier, intimate restaurants and family favorite, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.More water fun awaits, too. “There is a harbor and a canal that feed into the intercoastal. We have several properties on the harbor so guests can bring their boat, kayak, [or jet ski] and travel between islands,” says Lanier.   A stay with Victory Beach Vacations is an annual pilgrimage for most. “A large percentage of guests are previous guests. Some even reserve the same property for the next year as they’re checking out,” Lanier says. “It’s almost like it’s their personal vacation home.”   Even before guests arrive at their vacation destination, the Victory Beach Vacations’ website greets them with a live beach cam and exquisite aerial footage of both Carolina and Kure Beaches. See for yourself by scanning the QR code and call Victory Beach Vacations at 910.458.0868 to book your Cape Fear getaway. Start making your memories today! —Grace Silipigni

Nauti - Wonderful 6bd, 4 full 2 half bat...
5.0
(1)

GetNauti.units offers this bright and inviting beach home. Both sides of a duplex with an internal adjoining door featuring 2890 sqft, this home offers a wide open social floor plan that combines the kitchen, eating, and living spaces into one great room. Ideal for a family or multiple families to appreciate a calming time together.Upstairs hosts the 6 bedrooms. 2 bedrooms with direct deck access and 2 with a private bathroom. Even though you’re not ocean front, you still have fabulous vistas of the ocean. Unlike other units we include amenities to help you savor your time without the added costs. We include linens, towels, and beach activities. Stuck with a rainy day or had too much sun, grab one of the family games to keep everybody off their phones. If they have to be in their phones or tablets, WiFi is supplied.Boss said you could remote work? Then do it here! We provide internet at 400+ Mbps from Spectrum with Google Wifi throughout the home with so they might even think your working faster than usual.Beach access is close and our private outside showers are available to help you not take too much of the beach home with you.Our goal is for you to appreciate your vacation and start planning your return.If you have any special requests for your stay please contact us before making your reservation.SERVICE ANIMALSIf you require a service animal, we entirely respect the job they do. We won’t discriminate but we hope you will check with pet friendly homes first. Our daughter is currently on allergy shots and my father is also highly allergic. We try to enjoy the home too so please understand our side in this. There are pet friendly options but we don’t have allergy options. Thank you!

  • Holden Beach
  • 6 Bedrooms
  • 5 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 18
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park

There’s an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much more, veritably every visitor under the sun can enjoy an active excursion or just a day of splashing around at this all-encompassing amusement center.

Rhoney R&R: Oceanfront Home With Two Liv...
4.3
(6)

5 Bedrooms | 3 Full Bathrooms | 1 Half Bathroom5 Queens | 2 Twin-over-twin Bunk BedsThis vacation rental welcomes up to 1 dog per reservation year-round and for off-season monthly units.Four CCTV's including a 40" Vizio intelligent TV, three bedrooms up and two bedrooms down (no interior stairs) with FSTV, DVD, internet access, wet-bar, microwave, additional refrigerator and coffee pot, new refrigerator, blender, crockpot, Keurig, waffle iron. PTAC heating and cooling unit downstairs, central air and heat upstairs. Ceiling fans, glass sunroom, and open deck and gazebo. Windows and deck replaced in 2024. Outside hose supplied to rinse off after leaving the beach. Downstairs second living room with wet bar, second refrigerator, microwave, coffeepot.

  • Oak Island
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 14
Masonboro Island Estuarine Reserve

Situated on the edge of the Cape Fear Coastline in between the bustling towns of Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, the Masonboro Island Estuarine Reserve is a unique slice of undeveloped and natural barrier island shoreline that’s an important habitat for countless coastal species. Hard to reach but wonderfully isolated, visitors who make a trip to this literal deserted island will be rewarded with great shelling, beautiful landscapes, and miles of beaches to go around.

DOG FRIENDLY - Second Row ...Ruff Life b...
4.9
(21)

You can hear and see the ocean from 2nd-row dog-friendly 3B/2B (~1,076 sq ft), elevated, one-level comfortable beach bungalow with simple beach access right across the street. Sleeps 6. Covered front porch with four rocking chairs. The cleaning fee includes all bed, kitchen, and bath linens, you just need to bring your beach towels. Be sure to add your dog to your reservation so the $75 pet fee will be added. High-speed internet, intelligent TVs/Rokus, and less than 2 miles to eateries, grocery, playground, splash pad, dog park, music in the park, etc. Entirely supplied kitchen for those who like to save a little money and dine in.

  • Oak Island
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The fascinating galleries throughout this extensive complex encourage visitors of all ages to meet and mingle with their aquatic neighbors, from interactive exhibits to "touch tanks" where patrons can have personal encounters with local bamboo sharks. This all-encompassing approach to maritime education has made the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher one of Carolina Beaches' most popular local attractions, and is a fun day trip for any Coastal Carolina visitor who wants to get their feet wet in the unique and varied wildlife habitats located just offshore.

Brunswick Islands Beach Rules & Guidelines

The Brunswick Islands offer a number of communities where enjoying the beach is always a breeze. From the small town of Caswell Beach to the enticing and hopping town of Ocean Isle, here’s everything you need to know about enjoying this barrier island stretch of shoreline.

The Turquoise Turtle -Private Pool, Hot ...

Welcome to The Turquoise Turtle! Just over the line into Kure Beach, this pretty, brightly colored girl points her head towards the ocean awaiting your next adventure. The Turtle is a newer Construction (2019) , second row, single family home with unobstructed ocean vistas, a private in-ground pool (not heated) and hot tub! Handicap accessible, public beach access is directly across from the driveway so no need to dread hauling all your beach gear on a long journey. We also supply a beach wagon to ease the walk!Appreciate your morning coffee or evening beverages on any of the 4 decks and take in the ocean breezes with striking sunrise and sunsets. Designed for entertainment, our home features a private in ground pool featuring LED lights and bar area and 2 separate living areas for everybody to spread out and relax. The downstairs area is outfitted with kid friendly board games and a TV.With 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, there's plenty of room to accommodate the biggest of families. Each bedroom is equipped with a digital clock/sound machine and outlet with USB/USB-C plugs.The beach access has minimal public parking spots so you will find this stretch of beach to be extremely peaceful and less populated than most other areas on the island. Pool and hot tub area feature lounge chairs, swim accessories in the storage closet, propane grille, shower/foot wash, and a convenient ground level half bath. Carolina Beach is a family friendly beach town with pizza spots, coffee and ice cream stores, seafood eateries, dive bars, and 2 grocery stores. You'll never have to (or want to) leave the island - but if you do, Wilmington is a short drive! During the summer there are complimentary outdoor concerts and movies, a weekly Farmers Market, carnival rides / games, and Thursday nighttime fireworks! Stroll the boardwalk and visit the famed Britt's donuts, head down to the Kure Beach pier, take a tour of Shark Tooth Island, visit the NC Aquarium or take in some local Civil War history at Fort Fisher. You can find new things to do every day or, of course, just relax on the beach and soak up the sun. You'll be glad you came to Pleasure Island you will want to come back year after year!The Turquoise Turtle sleeps 11 - max. 8 adults comfortably. This is a non-smoking, pet complimentary home. Linens included: sheets, comforters, bath towels, wash cloths, hand towels, bath mats, and dish towels.Check in is 4:00PM and check out is by 10:00AM

  • Carolina Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 11
The 7 Best Fishing & Beach Carts for 2025

For families travelling to the beach, or fishermen carrying tackle/coolers, a beach cart can be the best purchase of your vacation. These carts feature extra-wide wheels to move across soft sand, even when loaded. Carts are often built for specific scenarios, so think about the gear you’d be putting on your cart before making a decision.

Southport, NC History

The lower Cape Fear region was explored in the 1521 and again in 1526 by the Spanish. They chose to move on, due to poor soil and lack of adequate fresh water supplies.

Waterfront Oasis: Dock, Recreation Hall ...

Feel waterfront bliss and cherished moments at this striking, one-of-a-kind property!Welcome to Masons View, your dream waterfront escape! This spectacular property offers an unparalleled experience for your next hideaway, boasting opulent amenities and beautiful vistas.Located along the relaxing shoreline, this multiple-dwelling estate is a haven of relaxation and recreation. The main home features 3 elegantly appointed bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, ensuring ample space for you and your guests to relax in comfort. The relaxing ambiance of the water's edge sets the stage for a really rejuvenating stay.For the utmost privacy and convenience, a detached guest suite/studio awaits you, complete with a king-sized bed and a private full bathroom. This space serves as the ideal getaway for couples seeking a serene and intimate haven.Outdoors, your adventure begins with two 30' deep-water wet slips capable of accommodating two boats, alongside two additional slips with 26' boat lifts for painless access to the water. A 50' interior dock is also available for smaller boats, paddle boards, and kayaks, inviting you to embark on memorable aquatic escapades right from your doorstep. Masons View is only a short boat ride to Mason’s Inlet, so jump on your boat and appreciate the most handsome blue waters on the east coast of NC. While there is ample dock space, please be aware that the dock is shared with a close by resident. For the fun-loving and active guests, the Rec Hall promises countless enjoyment. Engage in friendly competitions over a game of pool, ping pong, or shuffleboard. The wet bar provides a invigorating getaway where you can relax and share laughter with friends and family.Evenings at this waterfront heaven are nothing short of magical. Gather around on the dock under the starry skies and share stories while the gentle lapping of the waves serenades your senses. Savor delicious grilled delights from the grille on the outdoor patio overlooking the water and create lasting memories as you toast to life's cherished moments.Inside, the main home welcomes you with a beautiful living area that captures the essence of coastal living. Grand windows frame expansive water vistas, flooding the space with natural light and tranquility.The kitchen is a chef's delight, entirely equipped with modern appliances and amenities, accepting you to prepare delectable feasts for your adored ones. A butler's pantry adds additional kitchen prep area, a second refrigerator and dishwasher to make fast clean up a snap for even the biggest of meals. As the day draws to a close, retire to the cavernous and elegantly appointed bedrooms, where restful nights are guaranteed. Wake up to the relaxing sounds of the water, energized and ready to embrace the day's adventures.Whether you seek relaxation, water sports, or simply a serene waterfront hideaway, this remarkable property has it all. Book your stay now and immerse yourself in a vacation experience like no other. Come and discover the unparalleled appeal of our waterfront getaway, where cherished memories await you.Please note furnishing updates are in progress. Rooms may be furnished differently than in photographs. Please see room descriptions for linens size details.You must be 25 years or older to rent this property.Parking Instructions: 2 car detached garage. PLEASE DO NOT PARK AT MIDDLE HOME, PRIVATE RESIDENCE. Any additional cars that do not fit at the property must park in paid public parking.Please notify our office if you're planning to bring a pet as the following pet policy will apply: A max. of 2 family pets are allowed. ONLY DOGS ARE ACCEPTED. The pet fee is $200 plus tax for each pet. A pet fee will be added after booking. No dogs are allowed without prior approval and payment of a non-returnable pet fee, per pet. Undisclosed dogs will incur a minimum $300 fine plus tax. Violation of our 2-pet max. policy will incur a minimum of $300 plus tax charge, per pet, plus the tenant will be in material breach of the lease, and grounds for eviction will apply. The pet must be removed from the premises immediately, and your reservation may be canceled with no refund given.**Please note: All service animal and emotional support animals must be disclosed at the time of booking to allow the agent to collect records and documentation to support the request in accordance with all state and federal laws. A pet fee will NOT be charged for true Service Animals.**Wrightsville Beach: No pets are allowed on the beach strand from April 1 through September 30. Family Animals must be on a leash if on the beach strand from October 1 through March 31.Sea Scape requires that all reservations have a signed rental agreement that will be sent to you via text message after booking. Once you've booked your stay, you will have 48 hrs. to complete the rental agreement to confirm your stay. Sea Scape reserves the right to cancel your booking if the rental agreement is not finished within 48hrs.Booking a vacation rental can be stressful! Our goal is to make the process as simple as possible for our guests and to provide superb customer service every time. Please contact us with specific requests, and we'll do our best to help!

  • Wilmington
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 5 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 12
Southport, NC Rainy Day Activities

One of the great aspects about a cultured and unique destination like Southport is that the occasional rainy day never puts a damper on the fun. The town is brimming with unique attractions, shops, and activities that are perfect to enjoy on a rainy afternoon, and which are just as enticing as the beautiful outdoor landscapes and sunny waterfront regions. So if a little inclement weather is on your upcoming vacation forecast, use it as an opportunity to discover these activities which are effortlessly easy to enjoy, rain or shine.

Downtown Southport, NC

Southport's downtown is a genuinely unique destination that combines all the charms of a laid-back coastal village with historic southern architecture and style. The end result is a collection of restaurants, museums, shops and services with a flair all their own, and a slow-as-molasses pace that invites visitors to pull up a rocking chair, take in a water view, and simply relax.

Close to Ocean, 4 Bedrooms + Both Clubs!
5.0
(2)

Charming, four-bedroom (pet friendly) beach bungalow located steps from beach access 17 in BHI. Open single story floor plan with bedrooms located on both sides of home. Great open decks to relax on after a long day at the beach. Great location on South Beach - across from Access 17. Home has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Bedrooms are located conveniently on both sides of the home for max. privacy. The Main Bedroom features a King Bed and window seat, as well as sizable French doors leading to the broad back deck. Next to the Main Bedroom is another sizable bedroom with a Twin and a Bunk Bed. Located on the opposite end of the home you will find the two other bedrooms. One has a King Bed and access to the back deck with huge French doors. The fourth bedroom is comfortable with a Queen Bed. The main living area is enormous and open with striking sunlight coming in through the huge French doors that lead to the expansive back deck (Amazing sunsets can be watched nightly here!). The kitchen is open to the living area with counter seating and a huge 8 person dining room table. The kitchen is completely supplied with all the necessary items to make magnificent meals and savor them with your family and friends!Those that appreciate the early morning sunrise, will enjoy sitting on the front deck with a cup of coffee. Here you can enjoy handsome sunrises along with the sounds of the waves from just over the dunes. There are plenty of games at the home when you need some downtime. There are also plenty of board games, puzzles, books and DVD's in the main living area. There are two golf carts available (1 six-seater + 1 four-seater). Both golf carts were purchased in 2024. The cabinets under the home have plenty of beach chairs and toys to use at the beach! Additionally, there is a large, private outdoor shower to use after a long day at the beach. This home comes with BHI Club and Shoals Club membership - please contact clubs directly for pricing and registration.House rents Friday to Friday during peak season (June - August)Pet friendly for an additional fee.

  • Bald Head Island
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 9
Carolina Beach Boardwalk

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is the place to go for family-oriented or even late-night fun after a sunny day on the beach. Noted as one of the top 10 boardwalks in America by Food & Wine magazine, this classic oceanside boardwalk features a full host of shops, amusements, restaurants, and nightlife for visitors of all ages to explore.

Best Surf Fishing Gear for 2025

Once you have your coastal recreational fishing license in hand, it’s time to start thinking about gear. Anglers will find tons of options when it comes to equipment for casting into the surf, from custom designed rods and reels at local tackle shops, to name brand varieties that are designed for multiple areas along the coastline. Here are just a few of the most popular gear options for surf fishermen. Keep in mind that there are endless options available, and your local bait and tackle store staff will be happy to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about what you’ll need for successful surf fishing in any given area along the North Carolina coastline.

God is Nigh: Comfortable, Spacious Ocean...
4.0
(2)

6 Bedrooms | 3 Full Bathrooms3 Queens | 6 TwinsHDTV with basic cable, DVD player, VCR, wireless internet, phone. Entirely equipped kitchen with dining seating for twelve. Covered porch, walkway to beach, enclosed outside shower with hot and cold water, charcoal grille, double garage with yard ladder ball. Walking distance to Blue Water Point Marina and Lonerider restaurant. Cozy home, gorgeously decorated with a roomy family room, area rugs throughout. New for 2020: Renovated kitchen and new floor. Formerly: Whispering Tides

  • Oak Island
  • 6 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 12
First Dog Free all Summer 2025

Carolina Beach Rental 6 Minute Walk to the BeachAllows Short Stays - 1st Pet Free all Summer Long!3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms / Sleeps 11Affordable and Convenient - Walk to Beach - Dogs AcceptedBonito Breeze is only a short four-block walk to the oceanfront waves of handsome Carolina Beach.  Stroll to Ocean Grille and Tiki Bar or Granny's Country Kitchen within two mins.. For the walkers in your crew, you'll never need to move the cars! The famed Carolina Beach Boardwalk, with all its stores, bars, and eateries, is a 1.2-mile walk. There will be plenty of oysters at The Shuckin Shack, and cold beers at the Fat Pelican along the way. Hang Ten Grille, the weekly Arts and Crafts festival on the lake, and farm fresh produce at the Veggie Wagon are all iconic spots along this walking trail. You are renting one side of a shared duplex.  This eclectic and trendy beach rental features retro mod furnishings, painless-to-clean LVP floor, and granite kitchen counters. The primary suite is a dream with a private porch. Located into a splendid neighborhood: sleep and traffic will be peaceful, but you are still close walking distance to all the action.   Ground Level:The home has a security camera monitoring the entry door.Parking: Shared Driveway with parking on the right side for up to 3 cars. Garage Space for 1 Car. Please do NOT park on the left side or block the entrance. Golf Carts Accepted. Outdoor shower, grassy yard, outdoor shaded seating area with seating vignette. The entry door is at the back of the garage area to the interior stairwell.  Level 2:Living Room: sectional queen sleeper couch, side chairs, coffee table, ceiling fan, wall-mounted intelligent TV, sliding doors to front covered porches where you can smell the salt sea air and hear the waves.Ocean Side Porch: al fresco dining vignetteKitchen- granite counters, double stainless steel sink with pull spray faucet, dishwasher, electric range, microwave, completely equipped for cooking meals at home, bar top with seating for 4.Bedroom 1 Queen-size bed, wall-mounted TV, ceiling fan.Guest Bath: bathtub and shower, single vanity, toilet.Washer and Dryer: Located in the hallway.Level 3:Bedroom 2: Primary Bedroom Suite: Private sun deck, king-size bed, intelligent TV, side chair, ceiling fan, ensuite bathroom with double vanity and a shower/tub combo.Bedroom 3: Full over Full Bunk Beds with twin trundle. Guest Bath: Vanity with shower/tub combo.Linens - Sheets and Towels will be wrapped in sealed packages and lying on the end of the beds. Rental Policies:In response to the increased incidence of credit card fraud, a valid government photo ID will be required for every reservation. A signed rental agreement is required: accepting House Rules on any online travel agency requires reading and acceptance of our rental agreement.Things to bring:Paper towels and toilet paper, trash bags, soaps, detergents, minimal cleaning supplies, and beach towels.Arrival/Departure:Summer Check-ins (June-August) begin at 4 pm and are guaranteed by 6 pmOff-season check-ins begin at 3 pm and are guaranteed by 5 pmCheck-out is by 10 am. We adhere to this policy, so please do not arrive early or plan to delay your departure.Guest Access:Electronic lock on the right side duplex.House Rules:No events such as weddings, bachelor/bachelorette events, sororities/fraternities No smokingYou must be at least 25 to rent this unit.Pet Policy:Up to two dogs allowed, no more than 75lbs. The first dog is supplied in the price of the Rental. Subsequent dogs subject to additional payment! Carolina and Kure Beaches are pet-friendly, but you must follow town guidelines. Please check the town website for beach pet restrictions.Cancellation Policy:- Free cancellation within 48 hours of booking- After 48 hours of booking and more than 60 days out from arrival, a full refund will be processed less a $300 cancellation debit.- After 48 hours of booking and within 60 days of arrival, there will be no refund processed unless the dates are re-rented. If premises are re-rented, a refund will be processed less a $300 cancellation debit.Things to do:Adventure awaits. Discover aquatic wildlife and vegetation at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher or savor a calming ferry ride across the Cape Fear River to a cozy little shopping town called Southport. Take a trip back in time at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and Museum which features live oak-covered trails and bunkers from the American Civil War. Stroll through the marsh to visit the home of the famed Ft. Fisher Hermit. Or wind down with nature at our two state parks, sure to provide a memorable experience with hiking, fishing, and water activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking, and search for a Venus Flytrap which is native to NC only. As one of North Carolina's most undeveloped beaches, the island offers a unique opportunity to see many diverse coastal wildlife, including pelicans and loggerhead sea turtles, in their natural habitat. Whether it’s exploring activities on the island, appreciating the ocean vistas, or enjoying a beverage by sunset from your own private balcony, Pleasure Island offers diversion for every enthusiast!Explore the treasures of Carolina Beach, ranked one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country by Food & Wine magazine. One of the last remaining beach boardwalks on the East Coast, it includes a variety of eateries, an arcade, stores, ice cream, Famous Britts Donuts, bars, and more! During the summer months, the Boardwalk is bustling with the sound of music, carnival rides, bingo, family nights, and events like the weekly fireworks and concert series. Rent a Jeep, bicycle, or golf cart as the most convenient ways to navigate the island. Annual off-season events include the Cape Fear Kite Festival, Christmas by the Sea, and the Island of Lights Festival.We look forward to you visiting us!

  • Carolina Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 11
Southport, NC Camping Guide

From picturesque beaches that straddle the state border, to sunny destinations found just inland of the Cape Fear River, the Southport region is dotted with an array of campgrounds that will entice visitors of all outdoorsy tastes. The options are nicely varied, and can range from RV resorts where all amenities are accounted for, to rustic and primitive destinations that straddle the water’s edge. With a variety of unique features, picturesque settings, and locations that are close to all the attractions the Brunswick and Cape Fear regions have to offer, campers will find ample ways to relax in the sunny Southport area.

Southport, NC Activities for Kids

When it comes to activities for kids, Southport is a veritable playground. Stocked with unique public parks, a collection of shops, and ample places to explore, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting for visitors of all ages and interests. Make a vacation full of memories and experiences that will stick with all family members for years to come, and be sure and check out these destinations and activities that the younger set will adore. From fun local playgrounds to historic museums and sites, an entertaining time is found around every corner of charming Southport.

Beautiful 5BR/4.5 bath house with pool/h...
4.9
(69)

This handsome third row home has some of the best vistas on the island. Even though it is third row, there is only one home between you and the ocean. The reverse floor plan accepts for gorgeous vistas of the ocean and intracoastal waterway. Appreciate a wide beach that was re-nourished in 2017 and is located near the East end of the island.Savor elegant ocean vistas as you sit in the living room on the top floor while watching TV on a new 55 inch HDTV. The open floor plan includes the kitchen and dining area that accommodates 10 people at the dining room table with 4 bar stools. The kitchen is entirely equipped for the family that chooses to prepare. The master bedroom is located just off the living room. With access to the front deck, you can savor waterway vistas or watch the deer that visit daily. After a long day at the beach or golfing, you can relax in the hot tub or take a swim in your private pool.The bottom floor has 4 bedrooms, all equipped with tv and cable. Three bedrooms have two full beds in each room. The other bedroom has a queen bed. Each bedroom in this home has a water view.Huge Whirlpool Duet front loading washer and dryer are located on the bottom floor.Private pool with fenced in back yard for those times when you don't want to go to the beach. Equipped with lounge chairs and tables and a gas grille for family cookouts.

  • Ocean Isle Beach
  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 16
Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island, a roughly 5 square mile southern North Carolina barrier island that extends into the Atlantic Ocean, may be a small and secluded island destination, but it makes up for its size with a world of exclusive and elite vacation style.

Driving on the Beach - Cape Fear and Brunswick Islands

The coastline of North Carolina is unique in that beach-goers have ample opportunities to explore the shoreline from the comfort and convenience of a 4WD vehicle. From the northern Outer Banks along the Virginia state border to the sunny beach towns that border Wilmington, visitors will find that there are plenty of options when it comes to cruising the coast.

Beach House on a Canal in Ocean Isle Bea...
5.0
(1)

Upon arrival, you will see just how this home is open and airy - full of natural light. You can look straight through the home and look directly down the canal at the calming waterfront vistas as soon as you open the front door. Stress...GONE. From there you will find a outfitted kitchen that will ease the process of cooking for all 14 people. There are two fridges to help store all your food! The supplied washer and dryer help reduce the amount of clothes needed so packing is easier. The first floor primary bathroom has the extravagant feel of being in a hotel with the huge wall tiles in the shower and the mutli-setting showerhead. Walking up the stairs under the fancy chandelier will lead you to the three additional bedrooms and workstation. This home is ideal for the long getaways where work may sometimes be required. There are vistas of water from every bedroom upstairs - what a treat! You will be walking on LVP floor everywhere in this home, so you know it is clean and will not trap the sand and grime as carpet does. The second story deck and crows nest are ideal for sunbathing while appreciating the canal and the ocean! The enclosed ground floor garage area is ideal for relaxing and playing games when the weather outside is not ideal. But when the weather is ideal, the completely-enclosed backyard accepts kids to run around and play cornhole, catch, etc. all while the parents relax knowing the waters edge and street are guarded by an aluminum fence. The outdoor shower and hose area is ideal for getting all the clingy sand off before entering the home after a great day on the beach. Sitting on the boat dock can be so relaxing. The dock is also ideal for fishing, catching crabs, swimming, or just laying down to sunbathe. The front of the home parking accepts for many cars when there are multiple families gathering together at this home.This striking home is as close as you can be to the beach, while having a premier canal location and boat dock. 1 mile from OIB city center, close beach access (3 min. walk) and appealing décor! Walking distance to the park, museum, coffee shop, and putt putt. Convenient summer Sunday to Sunday units (during summer season ONLY) - avoid the traffic! New, comfortable beds, tons of eating space, upstairs bar/coffee area, desk and working space, plenty of deck space on multiple levels and crow's nest with magnificant canal, city, and ocean vistas. Savor morning sun on the front deck, afternoon shade on the back deck, watching the boats come in on the canal. Very kid-friendly- supplied with tons of kids' extras, including crib, pack-n-play, kids silverware and cups, high chair, step stools, beach toys, completely fenced in backyard. Come see why the "Three C's" in our family appreciate making memories here, and we know you will too!

  • Ocean Isle Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 15
Airlie Gardens

Arlie Gardens is home to a stunning collection of natural gardens and eye-catching artworks which continually impresses visitors to the Wilmington area. Established in 1901, and originally used as a private garden for the wealthy Pembroke family, the garden has since been transformed into a public attraction that’s dotted with thousands of camellias, magnolias, wisteria, azaleas, and other southern blooms that thrive in the warm coastal climate. The azaleas are arguably the star of the show, as there are more than 100,000 red, white, and magenta hued-azaleas to admire.

Old Brunswick County Jail Museum

Take a trip back in time without ever leaving the heart of Southport for a fascinating and educational visit to the stoic Old Brunswick County Jail Museum. Found within a multi-story brick building on the corner of Nash and Rhett Streets, this iconic downtown site is a unique little treasure where patrons can explore a unique component of the Cape Fear’s fascinating local history.

North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport

Downtown Southport visitors who want to learn more about this community’s essential role in North Carolina history, or who just want to enjoy a rainy day adventure that’s filled with maritime culture, can pay a visit to the engaging North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport. Located just off of Moore Street a block or so away from the waterfront, this central museum is one of three state-sponsored maritime museums found along the coast, and is home to a treasure trove of exhibits that trace the lineage of this unique and storied coastal town.

Oak Island Lighthouse

The Oak Island Lighthouse and Coast Guard station have a long history together, and the tall lighthouse tower stands as a welcoming beacon to visitors who head to these picturesque shores. As the newest lighthouse in North Carolina, the distinctive white, gray and black structure is unlike any other on the coastline, prompting both curiosity and amazement from visitors, and making it a "must-see" on any lighthouse lover's road trip list.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The fascinating galleries throughout this extensive complex encourage visitors of all ages to meet and mingle with their aquatic neighbors, from interactive exhibits to "touch tanks" where patrons can have personal encounters with local bamboo sharks. This all-encompassing approach to maritime education has made the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher one of Carolina Beaches' most popular local attractions, and is a fun day trip for any Coastal Carolina visitor who wants to get their feet wet in the unique and varied wildlife habitats located just offshore.

Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Clean and uncluttered beaches and a remarkable local history combine to make the Fort Fisher State Historic Site one of coastal North Carolina's most treasured barrier island attractions. This incredible locale, just miles away from Carolina Beach, is home to gorgeous stretches of shoreline, thickets of nature trails and live oaks, and the original site of Fort Fisher itself, a relic of the 1800s and an instrumental turning point during the Civil War.

Cape Fear Riverboats

Narrated sightseeing tours, & private charters on the Cape Fear River. Featuring the Henrietta.  Cape Fear Riverboats is Wilmington NC’s longest continuously running cruise line. We’ve been in business since 1987 and are celebrating our 29th year on the Cape Fear River.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

The Museum of Coastal Carolina is the only North Carolina Natural History Museum that’s located on a barrier island, and is a fun destination for visitors of all ages to dive deep into the unique and beautiful coastal region. Located in the heart of Ocean Isle Beach, just a couple blocks away from the oceanfront and the Ocean Isle Beach Pier, this rainy day destination will impress patrons with its wealth of natural, interactive, and eye-catching treasures.

The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport is one of three maritime museums sponsored by the state that lies along the eastern portion of NC. The Southport branch focuses on the maritime history of the lower Cape Fear River, and contains a detailed and fascinating collection that covers shipwrecks, piracy, the Civil War, commercial fishing, hurricanes, and a number of other natural and manmade events that have left a permanent mark on the North Carolina coast. Voted one of the best attractions in Southport by newcomers and frequent vacationers alike, an afternoon at the museum is a must for any coastal lover who wants to dive right into the fascinating history and culture that this region supplies in abundance.

The USS Battleship North Carolina is an unmistakable site in Downtown Wilmington. Taking up a large portion of the waterfront docks, this historic World War II moveable landmark is a must-see for Cape Fear vacationers.

The Cape Fear Museum, (shorthand for the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science), has been educating and entertaining visitors for well over 100 years. Founded in 1898, the museum is the oldest operating museum in North Carolina, and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Distinguished for its modern structure and Market Street location in the middle of Downtown Wilmington, the museum has a wealth of information on the history, wildlife and culture of the 50-square mile Cape Fear region. More than 50 thousand exhibits can be found within its brick and concrete walls, and patrons of all ages will surely find an exhibit or two that is engrossing, educational, and sheds new light on this essential coastal Carolina region.

With Wilmington's distinguished history as a thriving port community, few folks recognize at first that part of this reputation stemmed from its legacy as a bustling railroad center. In fact, for well over 125 years, railroading was the top industry in this town, surpassing importing and exporting goods along the Cape Fear River, (although the two businesses were certainly intertwined.)

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, the Cameron Art Museum has grown over the past five decades into one of coastal North Carolina's premier collections of regional, national and international art, filling virtually every corner of its gallery space at its 17th Street and Independence Blvd. intersection location. The modern building with its trio of glass pyramid rooftops is easy to distinguish in Downtown Wilmington, however visitors are even more impressed when they walk through the doors and get a first glimpse of the permanent and rotating collections.

E-BIKE TOURS — An Experience For All Levels! Our goal is to make you feel like a local as you explore all Wilmington has to offer. If you’re looking to check out some of the best breweries in town, visit unique neighborhoods, and take in the historic and significant sites that Wilmington is known for, then we have a tour for you.  Learn more and to book your spot on a tour today! 

Bald Head Historic Island Tours works in conjunction with the Old Baldy Foundation to introduce Cape Fear vacationers to the historic Bald Head Island, or “Old Baldy” lighthouse. Located on a 10-acre site on the secluded Bald Head Island, and famous as the oldest lighthouse still standing in North Carolina, these tours take visitors to the heart of the structure, with plenty of stories and history along the way.

There's a reason why the wild terrain of Bald Head Island and its surrounding islands remains distinctively wild, and the primary responsibility of retaining this native nature is in the hands of the local Bald Head Island Conservancy. Overseeing a number of regional operations from successful sea turtle nestings to outreach programs that get the community enthusiastically involved, the Bald Head Island Conservancy is at the forefront of ensuring that the barrier island terrain remains a safe destination for locals of all species.

Take a trip back in time and embark on an exploration of one of the East Coast’s oldest lighthouses with a visit to “Old Baldy,” or more formally, the Bald Head Island Lighthouse. Located on the western heart of Bald Head Island, and within easy biking or golf-cart distance of the ferry docks, this historic site is one of the Cape Fear region’s most visited attractions, and is a much-photographed landmark, thanks to both its legacy, and its unique and distinctive exterior.

When driving or strolling past the Bellamy Mansion, visitors are often transported back to a different time, when the Antebellum South was in full prestige, and Wilmington was a bustling, pre-Civil War port town. Located on Market Street, just barely on the outskirts of Wilmington's busy downtown center, the Bellamy Mansion is a famed attraction that easily lures in history buffs, garden lovers, and anyone who wants a genuine look into Wilmington's genteel southern past.

The Children's Museum of Wilmington, located in historic Downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, is an ideal destination for adventurous kids who want a day full of imagination exploring the world of art, science, and even pirates! Designed for kids ages 1-10, the Children's Museum's mission is to inspire imaginative, independent thinking through hands-on, science, math and art experiences.

Fort Anderson, also known as Brunswick Town, is the historic site of the first permanent settlement in the Cape Fear area. Established nearly 300 years ago in 1726, and destroyed just a few decades later by British Soldiers during the start of the Revolutionary War in 1776, visitors can still explore the ancient ruins of this long-gone civilization and enjoy a glimpse into the area’s centuries-deep roots.

Military members in need of a beach vacation will find the Air Force Recreation Area in Carolina Beach a welcome home base. A unique mix of cottages, mobile homes, and RV and tent sites, this veritable waterfront resort has a fantastic location and plenty of amenities to make even the weariest military member feel fully refreshed.

Serving as a regional hub for the North Carolina Coastal Federation, the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center is a unique destination in the heart of Wrightsville Beach that offers a wealth of events and activities to appeal to coastal explorers everywhere.

Visitors who love the beach but have an equal appreciation of the starry Carolina skies, or visitors who just want to take in a completely unique theater experience, should plan a rainy day trip to the Ingram Planetarium. The extensive attraction, located just outside of Sunset Beach on the mainland, is the perfect launching point for a high-flying experience that never leaves the ground. Planetarium patrons will find they can simply relax, lean back, and enjoy the incredible ensuing show in comfort, and with a rotating series of programs that change on an hourly basis, this favorite attraction is sure to be an off-the-beach day trip that Sunset Beach vacationers will want to return to again and again.

The Latimer House Museum and Gardens has a key role in Wilmington's historical culture. Built in the early 1850s and still preserved as one of the region's many opulent homes which have been converted to museums, this "residence" has also been the official home to the local Historical Society since 1963. Ornate and inviting, with rich touches throughout, the Latimer House Museum and Gardens is a must-stop for history buffs who are taking a strolling tour through Wilmington's most famous and best-preserved southern palaces.

The coastal waters and rivers of Brunswick County have served as an economic engine for the citizens of this county.  This is not only  true now but dates back to the very early days of Brunswick County.  Our seafood is regarded as some of the very best in the world.  Atlantic Telephone Membership Corporation is proud of this heritage, for those people who drive that industry are our members, friends, and our families

Wilmington visitors can enjoy a visit to one of the oldest peanut plantations in the country with an easy drive to the Poplar Grove Plantation. Located just north of the center of Wilmington along US Highway 17, this semi-remote site is a picturesque and perfectly maintained example of antebellum architecture at its most charming.

Budding biologists with an inherent curiosity about their coastal surroundings will have a blast at Wilmington’s own Sea Turtle Camp – an enriching summer camp program for teens to learn more about these beautiful creatures, as well as the local environment. The summer camp program allows campers to enter the world of the sea turtle, from giant 200-pound adults to newly hatched baby turtles that need to struggle their way into the deep ocean waters, and presents a purely enriching experience along the way.

More than 120 coastal communities oppose offshore drilling- the coast has spoken, and we are determined more than ever to protect our coast. Communities, elected leaders, and impacted businesses and residents along the Southeast spoke out strongly against drilling and for protecting our coastal communities and economies instead. The government is weighing another ill-advised plan for oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic Ocean, which would be a direct threat to the Southeast coast and the millions of people whose livelihoods depend on our beautiful beaches. For further information, please visit, protectourcoastnow.com.

The Old Brunswick County Jail is a favorite stop along any historic Downtown Southport walking tour, as the early 1900s structure is chock-full of stories which span from its stately brick architecture to its original sprinklings of graffiti, still legible after more than a century.

The Stanback Coastal Education Center is one of the newest landmarks in Wrightsville Beach, and is an all-encompassing station for preserving the local history and ecology for future generations. Boating a facility that doubles as an office for the North Carolina Coastal Federation, a nonprofit organization that’s committed to preserving and enhancing water quality in coastal North Carolina, the site offers a nice array of exhibits for visitors, including touch tank presentations, “Around the Scenes” tours, and Coastal Living Speaker Series events.

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