Planning a trip to Kure North Carolina? Explore the area's top attractions, from Fort Fisher's history and untouched beaches to local dining favorites, scenic ferry rides, and family-friendly parks.
Kure Beach North Carolina is one of those places that people return to for the simple reason that it feels good to be there. The pace is slower than its lively neighbor, Carolina Beach, and that's a big part of its charm. Kure North Carolina is a small coastal town with history, nature, and family-friendly activities all wrapped into one walkable stretch of shoreline.
Even though the town is small, the range of things to do is surprisingly broad: Civil War history, untouched state parks, an award-winning aquarium, local restaurants with decades of loyal fans, and some of the most scenic ferry rides on the North Carolina coast.
At Carolina Beach Realty, we specialize in vacation rentals in the heart of Pleasure Island. Family-owned and locally operated since 1963, we've spent over 50 years helping guests discover the best of North Carolina's coast. Our blog is filled with insider tips on where to eat, must-visit spots, and year-round events, because we love sharing the hidden gems that make Carolina and Kure Beach so special!
Below, you'll find a curated guide to the best ways to spend your time in Kure Beach NC.
TLDR: Things To Do in Kure North Carolina
- Visit the Fort Fisher Aquarium
- Walk the trails and earthworks at Fort Fisher State Historic Site
- Spend a morning on the Kure Beach Pier
- Relax at Ocean Front Park and its seaside playground
- Explore Fort Fisher State Recreation Area's untamed shoreline
- Paddle or kayak to Zeke's Island Reserve
- Ride the Southport Ferry for a perfect half-day trip
- Enjoy Caribbean-inspired seafood at Jack Mackerel's
- Try Freddie's for its famous pork chop and classic Italian dishes
- Search for coquina rocks at low tide
1. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
The Fort Fisher Aquarium is one of Kure Beach's most beloved attractions, and for good reason. It blends education, conservation, and pure coastal charm in a way that resonates with all ages. You'll wander through galleries featuring coastal river ecosystems, touch tanks, stingrays, moray eels, sharks, glowing jellies, and an otter habitat that tends to steal everyone's attention.
The design is intentional: low light, gentle soundscapes, and windows framing underwater scenes that make you slow down naturally. Children gravitate toward the Adventure Reef play area outside, while adults appreciate how well the exhibits explain the region's biodiversity.
Pro Tip: If you're visiting in summer, arrive when it opens. It's one of the most popular rainy-day activities in the county and becomes busy quickly.
2. Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Fort Fisher is where natural beauty and history meet. The Civil War earthworks sit just beyond the dunes, and the interpretive trail loops through live oaks, grassy berms, and coastal views that make the walk feel both scenic and meaningful.
Inside the small museum, you'll learn why Fort Fisher was once called the "Gibraltar of the South" and how the fall of the fort helped end the war. Outside, a restored gun emplacement and coastline overlook add a sense of place you rarely get from historic sites.
The combination of sea air, open sky, and layered history makes this one of Kure Beach's most memorable stops.
Heads Up: There is little shade along the trail. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially on hot afternoons.
3. Kure Beach Pier
The Kure Beach Pier isn't just for fishing, though fishing is absolutely part of its appeal. Built in 1923, it's one of the oldest fishing piers on the East Coast, and its weathered timbers and ocean breezes set the tone for much of the town's personality.
A walk on the pier is relaxing and oddly addictive. You'll see families trying their luck with bait buckets, couples leaning against the railing, and seasoned locals who know exactly where the fish tend to bite. The ocean view stretches uninterrupted, and the sound of waves below makes everything slow down a little.
And then there's the arcade and snack shop at the entrance: nostalgic, unfussy, and exactly right for an afternoon treat.
Pro Tip: You should keep an eye out for Bibi, the famously friendly pier cat.
4. Ocean Front Park & Pavilion
Ocean Front Park is the social heart of Kure Beach. It's compact and picturesque, with a breezy boardwalk, wooden swings facing the water, and a pirate-ship-themed playground that becomes the center of children's attention the moment they spot it.
The open-air pavilion hosts seasonal events like Story Time by the Sea, music nights, and artisan markets. Even without events, the space feels lively but never crowded. It's the perfect place to let kids play while adults enjoy the ocean views from a bench.
5. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
This is Kure Beach's wild side: six miles of undisturbed shoreline where the dunes stretch high and the crowds thin out. If you're looking for a quiet beach day, this is where you'll find it.
The Basin Trail is one of the park's highlights. It weaves through maritime forest and marshland, ending near a WWII bunker once inhabited by the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit. Along the way, you may spot ospreys, egrets, or even deer, depending on the season.
The recreation area also offers excellent surf fishing, and for those with a permit, designated 4x4 access points allow you to drive onto the beach and reach more remote pockets of coastline.
6. Zeke's Island Reserve
Zeke's Island is a place you reach not by car but by curiosity. Accessible mostly by kayak or guided boat tour, the reserve is known for its lagoon-like channels, quiet coves, and striking variety of coastal habitats. It's a sanctuary for wildlife, particularly shorebirds.
As you paddle, you'll move between tidal flats, sandy stretches, marshes, and open water — a constant blend of textures and colors. It feels remote despite being minutes from town.
Some excursions also include a stop at Shark Tooth Island, which is popular for beachcombing and finding fossilized shark teeth.
Pro Tip: Go at low tide for the most walkable areas and best shelling opportunities.
7. Ride the Ferry to Southport
The ferry at Fort Fisher is one of those simple experiences that feels far more memorable than you expect. You drive on, step out of your car, and watch as the Cape Fear River widens into sweeping views of marshland, open water, and distant towns. The crossing takes about 30–40 minutes, just enough time to feel like an excursion but not a commitment.
Southport itself is charming: walkable streets, boutique shops, film locations, and waterfront restaurants where the seafood is reliably fresh. Many visitors book a golf-cart tour to learn about the town's history and movie ties.
8. Jack Mackerel's Island Grill
Jack Mackerel's is a longtime favorite with both locals and visitors. The menu leans Caribbean-inspired, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere is upbeat without losing its beach-town ease. Dishes like honey sriracha shrimp, seafood chowder, and daily fresh catches are consistent highlights.
The second-floor patio, with its partial ocean view, often becomes the deciding factor for diners choosing where to eat.
Pro Tip: Monday is rib night, beloved by locals who don't eat seafood.
9. Freddie's
Freddie's is something of a legend on Pleasure Island: a compact Italian restaurant known for its pork chop, pastas, martinis, and warm, family-run feel. The tables are close, the lighting is cozy, and the red-checkered tablecloths add to its classic charm.
The menu is full of favorites — veal piccata, seafood ravioli, chicken parmigiana — and the desserts, particularly the limoncello cake, have their own fan base.
Heads Up: It's small, so reservations are strongly advised.
10. Search for Coquina Rocks at Low Tide
Finding the coquina rocks at Fort Fisher is one of those small coastal surprises that quickly becomes a trip highlight. At low tide, the ocean pulls back just enough to reveal a rare outcrop of mossy, honeycombed limestone, a natural formation that looks almost sculpted. The scene changes with the light, and depending on when you go, the rocks might appear bright green, muted gold, or covered in tiny tide pools worth a closer look. It's a simple outing, but that's part of the charm.
Pro Tip: Aim for low tide after a calm night. On windy days or during choppy surf, the rocks may stay submerged even when the tide is technically out.
FAQ About Kure Beach NC
What are the top things to do in Kure Beach, North Carolina?
Kure Beach blends nature, history, and small-town charm. Visitors often spend time at the Fort Fisher Aquarium, explore trails at the historic site, walk the pier, relax at Ocean Front Park, paddle to Zeke's Island Reserve, or take the ferry to Southport.
What should I know about Kure Beach vacation rentals?
You'll find a mix of oceanfront condos, family-friendly homes, and quieter retreats near Fort Fisher. Many rentals include beach access, porches, and easy proximity to parks, dining, and local attractions.
How do I get to Kure Beach, North Carolina?
Kure Beach sits on Pleasure Island just south of Carolina Beach. From Wilmington, take US-421 S for about 20 minutes until the road reaches the shoreline. It's a simple, direct drive.
What is the weather like in Kure Beach, North Carolina?
Expect warm summers perfect for swimming, mild spring and fall days ideal for exploring, and cooler, breezier winters. The off-season is quieter and often more budget-friendly.
Is Kure Beach a nice beach?
Yes. Its soft sand, gentle surf, friendly atmosphere, and smaller crowds make it one of the most relaxed beaches on the North Carolina coast.
Does Kure Beach have a downtown area?
There's no traditional downtown, but the pier district and Ocean Front Park create a central hub with restaurants, small shops, and a relaxed boardwalk feel.
How do locals pronounce kure North Carolina?
Locals pronounce it "cure," a detail that surprises many first-time visitors.
Is Kure Beach good for swimming?
Absolutely. The shoreline is calm and swimmable, especially in summer, with lifeguards present during peak season for added safety.
Make the Most of Your Trip to the North Carolina Coast
At Carolina Beach Realty, we offer a curated selection of vacation rentals across North Carolina's coast — from classic beach cottages to spacious oceanfront homes. With over 50 years of local experience, we take pride in delivering personal service, exceptional comfort, and that unmistakable Carolina hospitality.
