2025 Activities Guide

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...

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...

Cap off a leisurely day of exploring Southport with a scenic walk along the waterfront, courtesy of the Southport Pier and Riverwalk.  Located on the edge of Howe and Bay Streets, and therefore easy to reach for veritably any Downtown Explorer...

It's hard to confuse the Old Baldy Lighthouse with the other Carolina lighthouses that guard the Eastern Seaboard. The unique structure has undergone some interesting natural and manmade changes during its nearly 200 year lifespan, but many visitors...

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 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...

Sunset Beach Park is a peaceful public space that captures the essence of coastal relaxation and small-town charm. Tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway just before the bridge to Sunset island, this scenic park provides visitors with a tranquil...

Enjoy miles of pristine beaches, salt marshes, and scenic views in every direction with a visit to Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. Located just south of Kure Beach, and renowned for its 6 miles of undeveloped shoreline, this sunny beach...

But despite being an instrumental component to the island's very existence, and a protector against erosion and storms, Bald Head Woods serves a more visible role as a fun, outdoor destination for visitors to enjoy off the beach. A popular spot with...

The Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal is the gateway to exploring the small, but popular paradise of Bald Head Island. Located on the northern edge of the roughly 5 square mile island, and bordering the Cape Fear River, the terminal deposits visitors...

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...

While Downtown Southport has an ample supply of wide front porches to take a load off and enjoy a breeze, many longtime visitors attest there's no better place to relax than the Southport waterfront Park.

The New Hanover County Arboretum, located on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington on Oleander Drive, is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers everywhere. With seven acres of greenery, and gorgeous foliage that changes with the season, every visit...

Fishermen, sightseers, and even history buffs will find plenty of reasons to take a quick trek to the Sunset Beach Fishing Pier, a sprawling wooden pier that is conveniently located at the end of Sunset Blvd., the main road on and off Ocean Isle...

Visitors who want to take a break from Carolina Beaches' busy surfside scene, and instead enjoy its acres of wild, undeveloped territory, can pay a visit to the sprawling Carolina Beach State Park.

Travelers by sea in search of an accommodating marina with plenty of access to the local coastal North Carolina sites will feel right at home at the Southport Marina. This destination is a worthy spot to drop anchor, as not only is the marina itself...

Nature lovers who want to take an in-depth and self-guided exploration of Southport's wild terrain can take an easy stroll down the "Marsh Walk." This long boardwalk that begins along Brunswick Avenue on the edges of the busy downtown ends...

Ferry Landing Park, nestled at the end of Shallotte Boulevard in Ocean Isle Beach, is a peaceful waterfront destination that offers visitors a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty and laid-back coastal charm. Located along the Intracoastal...

Long Leaf Park is a centrally located public park that features a wealth of natural beauty and scenery, as well as plenty of activities to keep park-goers of all ages engaged. Located just south of the UNCW campus, and easy to reach for visitors...

Fort Johnston is a remarkable visitors’ center and museum that has deep historic roots in the early years of Southport’s long and storied history. Located on the edge of the waterfront downtown area along Bay Street, the stoic and regal...

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...

The Oak Island Pier has a legendary reputation as one of the best places to reel in a king mackerel, and its recent history speaks for itself. With over 250 kings being reeled in from the pier on an annual basis, the structure has become an oasis...

Visitors to historic Southport who want to make a beach escape, or Carolina Beach travelers who need an easy yet scenic route to head south will find the Southport / Fort Fisher ferry a convenient yet completely unique way to explore the southern...

The sunny Wrightsville Beach Park, conveniently located in the heart of town, is a fantastic destination for an outdoor adventure that doesn't necessarily entail a trip to the beach. Adjacent to the Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation's main...

The Riverwalk in Downtown Wilmington is a showstopper of a stroll that is a distinctive attraction all its own. Originally conceived in the 1980s as a way to generate more interest and tourism to the Cape Fear River waterfront regions of...

Visitors can cast off for some exceptional fishing, while enjoying a bit of local history, with a visit to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier. Family owned and operated since it was first built, this unmistakable beach landmark is a fantastic destination...

Halyburton Memorial Park is a perfect respite for visitors who want to take a break from the busy Downtown Wilmington shopping, dining and attractions, and just relax amidst the natural ponds and unique rolling sand hills, and watch the wildlife...

Greenfield Lake Park is known as one of Wilmington’s coolest and most scenic destinations, and is a vast public park that’s located just south of the historic downtown area. Located on the western edge of Greenfield Lake, and just a...

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...

The northernmost coastal region of Carolina Beach is home to the Freeman Park Recreation Area, a stretch of shoreline that is well known to adventurous, beach-loving 4WD truck owners. Unlike other stretches of the barrier islands off the coast of...

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 fishing pier and arcade in Ocean Isle Beach is a favorite local attraction that is hard to miss. Located at the very end of Causeway Drive, the only route on and off the island, the pier is visible from virtually every stretch of beach along...

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...

Visitors can celebrate Wilmington's deep-rooted history in trade with a visit to the historic Cotton Exchange. The complex of eight buildings features over 30 shops and restaurants that are worthy of exploration, and will provide an enjoyable...

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...

Anglers from all regions love cruising over to the Ocean Crest Pier, the only privately owned and operated pier on Oak Island, and one of the best venues for great fishing, tournaments, and taking in the scene. Voted the #1 fishing pier in North...

The Carolina Beach Pier, technically (formerly) known as the "Carolina Beach Fishing Pier Northern Extension" is a great place to grab a cocktail or bite to eat. Please note the pier suffered storm damage and is mostly closed for the time being.

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...

Renowned as a small but substantial piece of Southport’s history that was almost lost in the wake of 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, the Southport City Dock reopened to grand acclaim in the 2021, and has regained its reputation as a popular...

Any experienced visitor will attest that one of the best things about the North Carolina coastline is the fishing, and the Johnnie Mercer's Pier is a prime locale for Wrightsville Beach visitors to tackle the exceptional saltwater fishing conditions...

The small but well-stocked Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is a charming little attraction that may not take very long to explore, but nevertheless presents a complete and fascinating portrait of this surprisingly long-standing beach town.

One of Kure Beach’s newest pubic parks is already becoming one of its most popular, thanks to a prime location along the oceanfront, and a host of concerts, shows, and special events that have all been held within its borders. The Kure Beach...

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...

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...

Visiting scuba pros who want to explore the ledges and historic wrecks that are found off the Cape Fear coastline, and local scuba newbies who want to take the plunge and learn the trade, can accomplish both of these goals and more with a visit to...

Arrowhead Park is a fun destination for Wilmington locals and visitors alike to take a break from the waves, and dive into a little outdoor entertainment outside the waterfront realm. Located just south of the heart of the Wilmington, and easy to...

Wrightsville Beach has a dedicated local and visiting surfing community, and newcomers or old pros who need to upgrade their equipment and gear can make an easy stop at Aussie Island Surf Shop. Located on Lumina Avenue, just off the Channel Bridge...

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...

The Bald Head Island Club is an elite introduction to all the finer things that this small island community has to offer. Comprising of a championship 18-hole golf course, fine dining options, tennis and fitness facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere...

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...

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...

Battle House is a mission-based laser tag center that takes the traditional laser tag game to the next level. Suitable for adults and older kids, as well as private and corporate parties, the facilities feature 10,000 square feet of...

Beer Barrio is a chic Happy Hour destination in the heart of Downtown Wilmington that’s renowned for ice cold drinks, fresh cuisine, and an abundance of good times. A perfect stop for refueling after a lengthy downtown exploration, this cool...

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...

Bijou Park is a hidden gem of a "blink and you'll miss it" attraction in Wilmington, and is a perfect spot for weary shoppers and strollers to find a quiet bench, stretch out their legs, and relax. Located in a rare gap in between downtown buildings...

Billy Ray’s Family Restaurant is a unique destination that attracts sports fans and southern cooking fans alike. Located in a busy but more local section of Carolina Beach Road, this relatively new eatery serves up big plates, cold drinks, and...

BlackBird Guide Services provides inshore and nearshore fishing charters with the goal of providing a trip that you will never forget. Whether you are a first timer looking to catch your first saltwater fish or you are an experienced fly angler...

Vacationers can enjoy a world of on-the-water fun through the accommodating and centrally located Blockade Runner Soundside Rentals. Situated on the edge of the popular Blockade Runner Beach Resort, and close to both the wide waters of the Banks...

Oak Island visitors will find plenty of water in every direction to explore, and new adventures can start with a visit to the centrally located Blue Planet Watersports. Found just inland of the Oak Island shoreline, this all-encompassing watersports...

The Cape Fear area is known for its exceptional and purely scenic golf courses, and the brilliant views and challenging field-of-play at the Brick Landing Plantation Golf Club is certainly no exception. Located just inland of the Oak Island...

Wilmington is known for its rich history, and its’ incredible theater and entertainment scene, and the acclaimed Brooklyn Arts Center combines these two enticing attributes. Featuring a rotating line-up of shows, theater productions, and other...

The Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is the oldest and largest historic site in downtown Wilmington.  They’re eight colonial structures left in Wilmington, four on are the property. Three ballast stone buildings, circa 1744, once the city...

Cape Fear Games is miles above the standard gaming store, thanks to an impressive collection of board games, cards, sports equipment, and regular special events that attract board game fans and players of all genres. Located along Oleander Drive in...

Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach vacationers can dive into the region’s newest and hottest sport with a visit to Cape Fear Paddleboarding. Offering a wealth of guided tours, lessons, fitness classes and rentals, this all-encompassing Stand-up...

Visitors who want to explore the historic and story-rich streets of downtown Wilmington will find plenty of tour options, but arguably none are more unique than the Segway tours provided by acclaimed local provider, Cape Fear Segway Tours. With...

Beer and wine lovers will be in a casual and locally cool heaven when they pay a visit to Cape Fear Wine & Beer – a longstanding local bar and beverage shop that has been raising the bar for beer fans for nearly 15 years. Located in the...

Cape Fearless Extreme is a family-friendly aerial adventure course set on 25 acres of forest just 20 miles west of Wilmington, North Carolina. The courses contain a mixture of obstacles and challenges ranging from ziplines, Tarzan swings, hanging...

Capt. Jot Owens / Jot It Down Fishing Charters is a popular inshore and near-shore fishing charter that provides friendly and professional fishing trips to some of the Cape Fear region’s most productive local fishing grounds. Located on the...

Captain Charles Robbins' Cape Fear River Adventures is a top-rated touring company that takes explorers to the backwaters of the local Cape Fear rivers and streams where the local wildlife thrives. From basic on-the-water skills like boating...

Take a break from the daily grind and dive into a game of volleyball, a trivia night, or just a few rounds and a hearty meal with friends and family with a visit to Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill & Sports Bar. This unique destination...

Cardinal Lanes Beach Bowl is an expansive bowling center where amateurs and pros alike can test their skills in a fun and family-friendly environment. Perfect for afternoon or evening games, as well as private parties and celebrations, this...

Water lovers can enjoy a full host of adventures, from fishing trips to romantic sunset cruises, with a visit to Carolina Beach Inshore Adventures. This all-encompassing fishing charter and boat tour company offers a nice range of tailored cruises...

Take a thrilling spin around the wide open waters that surround the Cape Fear region with a Jet Ski provided by the locally owned and operated Carolina Beach Jet Ski Rentals. Featuring owners with a keen knowledge of motorsports and the boating...

Enjoy a freshwater environment just a block or so away from the beach with a visit to Carolina Beach Lake Park. This public park is centered on the 11-acre freshwater lake, which was noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as being the closest...