2025 Activities Guide

Visitors who want to explore the cool and calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway can embark on their own self-guided adventure via Carolina Beach Pontoon Rental. Located close to the Cape Fear River / Intracoastal Waterway just off of US Highway...

Carolina ebikes offers ebike rentals and tours throughout the local Cross City trails, also downtown historic areas and Wrightsville, Carolina and Kure beaches. They carry many makes and models for sale and offer fully built custom ebikes shipped...

Enjoy a James Bond-style adventure that’s well off the beaten path with a visit to Carolina Flyboard. This Zapata Racing Distributor for the Carolinas provides FlyBoard instruction for patrons who want to glide over the water, allowing...

Visitors who want to join the crowds of surfers and paddle boarders that flock to the Cape Fear area can join in the fun by signing up for a lesson or camp from the Carolina School of Surf. Located in Ocean Isle Beach along the oceanfront, this...

Locally owned and operated since 2002, CB Surf Shop has steadily grown over the years to become one of Carolina Beach's premiere shopping destinations. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff is always happy to help, because they want everyone to...

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...

Downtown Wilmington explorers don’t have to venture too far to discover the Port City’s exceptional theater scene thanks to the conveniently located City Stage Theater. Featuring a “Level 5” bar, an intimate stage area, and a...

Bald Head Island visitors who want to explore the terrain in a new but relaxing way can make a stop at the convenient and effortlessly fun Coastal Urge. This watersports shop specialize in paddleboard excursions and rentals, but also has a whole...

Wrightsville Beach is well-known in North Carolina surfing circles, and new visitors can join in the fun with a lesson or camp at the homegrown Crystal South Surf Camp. Featuring a full array of lessons that’s suitable for boarders of all ages...

Custom-Tied Flies and Guide Service is an onshore Fly-Fishing School.  They teach the basics of rod selection, knots, fly selection, and casting.  Once the client has a handle on this information, they start fishing in a pond environment...

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating than a big belly laugh, and Wilmington’s own Dead Crow Comedy Room is a perfectly convenient destination for Cape Fear visitors to sit back, enjoy a drink, and let loose with some of the region’s...

Enjoy a range of both indoor and outdoor fun with a visit to the enticingly named DefyGravity Wilmington. A unique trampoline park that’s home to a wealth active entertainment, this centrally located fun center is a great destination for...

Scuba Divers can embark on an underwater adventure that’s second to none with a dive trip that’s chartered by Diving Carolina. This Wrightsville Beach-based diving center offers a myriad of customized trips, from day trips close to shore...

Sail away on a fine adventure of the Cape Fear River and beyond with a lesson or charter that’s launched from Endless Summer Day Tours. Located on the edge of Downtown Southport next to the South Harbour Village Marina, and therefore within...

On Oak Island, even getting to the beach can be a scenic and relaxed adventure, thanks to the collection of Environmental Overlook Trails that lead visitors from the Intracoastal Waterway-bordering sections of town to the beachfront neighborhoods...

Epic Excursions specializes in captained boat tours, sunset cruises, paddleboarding, island dining experiences & more in Wrightsville Beach, NC! All adventures are customized for one-of-a-kind experiences, and our team is dedicated to...

Take a walk on the Cape Fear’s wild side with a visit to the Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve – a scenic 174-acre natural area that’s a prized component of the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Located just outside the busy...

Water lovers can plot their own course, or lean back and enjoy the views while an expert captain does all the work, with a boat rental or charter from FantaSea. Featuring a wealth of Cape Fear-worthy vessels, as well as a variety of cruises and...

Blue Water Point Motel & Marina is an all-encompassing destination for mariners who are cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway to dock, dine, and enjoy a night off the water in the small coastal town of Oak Island.

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...

The eastern tip of Oak Island is figuratively guarded by the long abandoned Fort Caswell, a centuries old but still relatively intact structure that originally encompassed a huge portion of the island. Today, the structure is a landmark within the...

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...

Take a step back in time and discover the remnants of one of North Carolina’s most famed Civil War forts with a visit to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. This former Civil War site was instrumental in protecting the port city of Wilmington...

The Fox and Hound Pub & Grille is a prime destination for visitors to relax with a pint and a hearty meal after a long day of shopping in the ultra-posh Mayfaire Town center. Featuring a full menu of drinks and lunch and dinnertime traditional...

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...

Visitors who are staying in Ocean Isle Beach and who crave a fishing trip that ventures well off the coast can contact Fugitive Fishin Charters. This charter fishing business offers a full line-up of nearshore and offshore fishing expeditions where...

Halyburton Park, (also known by its formal name of Halyburton Memorial Park), is a 58-acre nature preserve that features a lengthy biking and hiking trail, a number of public facilities, and a scenic glimpse into the local foliage and wildlife that...

The Cotton Exchange has long attracted shoppers, foodies, and history buffs of all tastes, but few people know that this ancient collection of brick buildings that’s found alongside the Cape Fear River also has a darker side – a side...

Movie buffs and foodies alike will have a fine time at Hell’s Kitchen, a chic little Downtown Wilmington restaurant that had a guest role in the homegrown TV series, “Dawson’s Creek.” Located just a couple blocks away from...

It's easy to miss the Bluethenthal Wildflower Preserve. Located on the outskirts of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington's campus, this preserve was all but wiped away by the 1970s due to encroaching development. Thanks to the perseverance...

Wrightsville Beach anglers can enjoy a fulfilling expedition to the back bays, inlets, and open waters of the Atlantic Ocean with a trip that’s commandeered by Hieronymus Fishing Charters. Located on the edge of the Causeway Bridge to the...

The maze of barrier islands, rivers, inlets, and inland icons that comprise the Cape Fear area can be viewed from a sky-high and much clearer perspective with an out-of-this-world trip that’s guided by High Tide Helicopters. Located on the...

When it comes to exploring the network of exceptional golf courses that are scattered all along the Cape Fear and southern North Carolina coastline, a little practice never hurts to contend with the courses where the greats play. This is why...

Holden Beach anglers will find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big catch, or even spend a full vacation dedicated to the pursuit of fishing, at the Holden Beach Pier. With ample room for anglers, even in the height of the summer tourist season...

Visitors throughout the Cape Fear area can easily embark on a paddling adventure thanks to the centrally located Hook, Line & Paddle. This convenient paddling destination features a wealth of rental equipment for riders of all ages and skill...

“Pleasure Island” is all about having fun, and the Hoplite Pub & Beer Garden, a true pub or “public house” lives up to this reputation with a full menu of brews and pub grub, and a relaxed setting that stays open well...

Summertime visitors who want to hop off the beach and enjoy a cold drink, an easy-going bite to eat, and a fine oceanfront view can stroll along the boardwalk to reach Hurricane Alleys. Located just off the dunes, this beach bar and restaurant in...

iEscape Rooms offers an immersive and interactive experience that puts you in the middle of a real-life adventure that you'll never forget. Imagine you and your friends, family, or colleagues are trapped in a highly realistic, themed series of...

Southport and Bald Head Island vacationers can turn a fishing whim into a true on-the-water adventure with a fishing trip that’s lead by Impulsive Charters. Catering to both the Southport and Bald Head Island marinas, this friendly charter...

Indo Jax Surf School serves as a launching point for Wrightsville Beach locals and visitors alike who want to join the crowds that flock to the beach for the consistent good surfing conditions. With a home base that’s on the edge of US Highway...

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...

Island Bicycles offers the largest collection of state-of-the art bicycles and accessories in the Southport - Oak Island area. Conveniently located at 4324 Long Beach Rd, Island Bicycles has a large showroom that features bicycles...

Everything You Need While at the Beach! A hardware store, tackle shop, marine supply & clothing store...a revolutionary combination

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill is a fun destination for a Happy Hour drink and round of appetizers, an easy-going lunch or dinner, or a late-night snack right before the party begins. Located next to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, and popular with...

Situated in a quiet and primarily residential corner of the city of Wilmington, the James E.L. Wade Park is a surprising and engaging destination for locals and visitors alike who want to experience the Great Outdoors of the Cape Fear region.

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating and TVs to watch the big...

Adventurous vacationers of all ages will love learning to ride the waves through the professional instructors at JC Surf Camp. Based in Wilmington, this established surf camp was built with the vision to pass on the love and skill of surfing to a...

Kure Beach visitors who want to take a break from the sandy beaches can keep the outdoor entertainment and activities going at Joe Eakes Park. Located just a few blocks away from the oceanfront, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the...

Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely original destination where food, drinks, live music, a hookah bar, and even belly dancing can all be found. A popular hang-out with the college crowd, and a fun late-night destination for laid-back yet...

The Cape Fear region is well-known for its exceptional golf courses, and vacationers who want to get in on the fun on a “miniature” scale can play an easy-going 18-holes at the Jungle Golf mini golf course. Challenging enough for all...

Katy’s Grill and Bar is a haven for sports fans, thanks to a recently renovated living room, a full bar with rows of flat screen TVs, a cool outdoor dining area complete with shady umbrella-topped tables, and an array of flags outside that...

For nearly 20 years, Kayak Carolina has been the Carolina Beach go-to for fun adventures within the miles of open waters that surround the Cape Fear area. Located close to a number of cool sites, including Zeke's Island, Shark's Tooth Island...

Sail away on a picturesque and breezy tour of the Cape Fear River and admire all the on the-water attractions of the southern North Carolina coastline with a sailing excursion that’s lead by Kelly Allen Sailing. This tour company that’s...

The Kent Mitchell Nature Trail gives Bald Head Island visitors a chance to experience a natural slice of barrier island life that cuts through the perfectly preserved 800 acre maritime forest. Located on the southern edge of the island, and jetting...

King Neptune Restaurant is an all-encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night hot spot that boasts a friendly hometown vibe, and a big wave of classic American fare with a coastal and southern influence. Known as a solid breakfast and lunch...

Wilmington visitors who want to check out the adjacent Cape Fear beaches in style can sign up for a surf lesson or camp from the homegrown KowaBunga Surf School. Based out of Wilmington but accessing a number of local beaches depending on where the...

Kure Beaches' newest local hotspot is the Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, a small but welcoming local venue that beacons fans of summer farmer's markets, live concerts, and special, private events in a stunning location.

La Polena's Southern style estate overlooking the Cape Fear River offers the perfect balance between a modern simplistic design and old world warmth.  If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, Southport’s Figurehead is...

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...

Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill is a fun spot for beach fans and night owls alike, with a wealth of entertainment that’s just steps away from the wide outdoor patio and bar. Known for ice cold drinks, casual beach eats, and plenty of ways to...

Wilmington visitors who love a good sports outing, exhibition, or a grand scale performance will want to check out what’s on the schedule at the renowned Legion Stadium. Home of the Wilmington Hammerheads soccer team, and serving as a venue...

Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle Beach visitors who want to dive into southern North Carolina’s world-class golf scene can make a date with Leopard's Chase Golf Club – one of five “Big Cat” golf courses that are found along the...

Lion's Paw Golf Links is a stunning coastal course that’s part of the five-course “Big Cat” collection, and which provides a challenging field of play for golfers staying along the southern North Carolina coastline. Located just...

Literary fans and writers will adore the Literary History Walking Tour - a cool tour that explores the streets of Downtown Wilmington from the point of view of some of the globe’s most famous scribes. Working in conjunction with Old Books on...

Embark on a fishing trip that’s close to home but which targets some larger-than-life catches with a fishing trip that’s commandeered by Live Line Charters. This local charter business specializes in deep water jigging for all species...

Golfers can treat themselves to a fun day away from the beach and on the scenic greens with a visit to Holden Beach’s own Lockwood Folly Country Club. Voted the "Best Golf Course in Brunswick County" for 2012, 2013, and 2015 by the local...

Enjoy a guided tour of all the canals throughout the Intracoastal Waterway that can’t be accessed by boat, or plot out your own course via a kayak or stand-up paddle board (SUP) with a rental or excursion from Long Beach Paddle Company. This...

Though seemingly always hopping with activity, Wilmington has a surprising number of rugged and undeveloped paddling trails throughout the Cape Fear area, and newcomers can explore all these hidden gems with a kayaking adventure tour that’s...

Situated on the edge of the Cape Fear Coastline in between the bustling towns of Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, the Masonboro Island Coastal Reserve is a unique slice of undeveloped and natural barrier island shoreline that’s an...

Take a break from the beach and enjoy the winding canals and creeks that border the Elizabeth and Cape Fear Rivers with a visit to the May Moore Park. This small destination, located on the northeastern side of Oak Island, is within walking distance...

Might as Well Bar & Grill is a modest-sized bar and restaurant that’s a solid destination for filling food and Happy Hour or late-night drinks with friends. Boasting a big array of beverages and drink specials, as well as varied but...

Visitors can enjoy a peek into Revolutionary War history while embarking on a natural expedition through the picturesque inland regions of the Cape Fear area with a visit to Moores Creek National Battlefield. Famed as the site of the February 27...

At Morningstar Marinas, we offer a brand new fleet of Luxury Crest Tritoon boats that are perfect for exploring the ICW to the Cape Fear River at your leisure. You can dolphin watch in Southport, enjoy the clear water behind Oak Island, spend the...

Mr. Beach Rentals has been renting kayaks and paddle boards on Oak Island since 2014. They deliver kayaks, bicycles, beach umbrellas, beach chairs and other equipment directly to rental homes. Customers can rent online.  Mr. Beach Rentals...

Sometimes a name says it all, and the Museum of the Bizarre is a short but engaging trip through some of Wilmington’s more unusual chapters in history. A popular destination for weird-loving visitors and film buffs, the museum has a host of...

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...

Frequent visitors know that the Cape Fear area is best explored by water, and vacationers can embark on their own afternoon, day-long, or even weeklong adventure with a vessel from Nauti Times Rental Boats. Featuring a fleet of water-worthy boats...

There’s no excuse to put off a day of fishing with this friendly and professional charter boat company that patrols the waters just off the Cape Fear shoreline for some of the region’s tastiest and most photo-worthy catches. Based in...

Military history buffs can explore decades of local and national artifacts that range from medals to actual tanks and helicopters with a visit to the North Carolina Military History Museum. Equipped with both indoor and outdoor exhibits, this unique...