Travelers who are longing for a laid-back and scenic escape from the hustle of life can find it waiting for them on Oak Island, North Carolina. This beautiful and inviting destination within the collection of Brunswick Islands offers visitors access to a terrific beach town getaway where everything from sunbathing and hiking to fishing, and visiting historic lighthouses can grace an itinerary. When you’re not enjoying the island’s eight miles of shoreline, there are many different day trips from Oak Island, NC, that offer other ways to explore our beloved area!
When you’re looking for the best day trips from Oak Island, NC, you’ll discover other incredible things to do, area attractions, and other experiences. Why not join our newsletter to get these recommendations delivered right to your inbox?
Why Carolina Beach & Kure Beach Are the Best Day Trips From Oak Island, NC
Enjoy Carolina Beach
One of the Best Day Trips From Oak Island, NC
Expand your getaway fun by setting your sights on beautiful Carolina Beach, one of the closest day trips from Oak Island, NC.
Getting From Oak Island to Carolina Beach
To get here, you’ll drive around 13 miles to Southport where you can hop on the ferry and make the 35-minute sail to Fort Fisher. From here, it’s just 13 minutes by car to reach Carolina Beach where the fun can get underway. Upon arrival, you’ll have a lot of options for customized fun and entertainment.
Experiences in Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach offers up seamless access to beautiful shorelines and many things to do where you can soak up the sun in style. It’s also a great place to spend time exploring Carolina Beach State Park which is a popular place to cast a line or hike Flytrap Trail. A trip this way isn’t quite complete without time spent on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk where you can pop in and out of unique shops, enjoy a variety of island dining, and infuse amusement park thrill rides into your day trip too! Over at the Federal Point History Center, you can dig into the area’s past in more detail while Freeman Park is the perfect place to spend the day if you’re into nature photography and looking to capture sea grass and dunes on camera.
Looking for the best places to stay on Carolina Beach following your day trip from Oak Island, NC? Check out our Carolina Beach vacation rentals and book your stay today!
Make Your Way To Kure Beach
Another One of Our Favorite Day Trips From Oak Island, NC
Yet another convenient day trip from Oak Island is your vacation destination of choice is Kure Beach.
Getting From Oak Island to Kure Beach
This is a little quicker to reach than Carolina Beach as you’ll still make the trip to Southport and hop on the Ferry, but you’ll find the drive from Fort Fisher is just 3 miles.
Experience Kure Beach
Kure Beach is a popular day trip destination from Oak Island among those adventurers who are looking to enjoy small-town vibes, gorgeous beaches, and stunning natural views just about everywhere you look. Your visit here can include time at the North Carolina Aquarium to learn more about amazing marine creatures, a tour around the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, fishing at the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, or kayaking and paddleboarding your way through a relaxing stay. No matter what you end up enjoying, don’t be surprised when you find yourself longing to return again soon!
Looking for the best places to stay on Kure Beach following your day trip from Oak Island, NC? Check out our Kure Beach vacation rentals and book your stay today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Island, NC
Is Oak Island worth visiting?
Yes! Oak Island is a beautiful destination designed for travelers with interests of all types who are looking to pair inspired outdoor adventures with time shopping and dining in style too.
What is the history of Oak Island?
Before Oak Island was the vacation hot spot it is today, it was home to the Waccamaw Siouan Indian tribe. European settlers arrived in the 1830s and began to build up the island’s east end before spreading west. The island earned its name from the many red oak trees settlers noticed upon arrival. The iconic Oak Island Lighthouse was built in 1958 to support the area’s robust maritime economy and in 1999, the towns of Long Beach and Yaupon Beach combined to become the incorporated town of Oak Island.
What beaches near Oak Island are the best to visit?
While Oak Island has plenty of stunning shorelines to explore, we highly recommend dropping by Caswell Beach at least once while you’re in town. This family-friendly destination is loved for its pristine sand, gentle waves, and laid-back vibe that lets you kick back at your own preferred pace.
What can I experience on Oak Island for the day?
Oak Island is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike! We always recommend strolling the Oak Island Pier, enjoying a round of mini golf at Oak Island Jungle Golf, or visiting Fort Caswell.
Book Your Stay After Your Day Trips From Oak Island, NC
No matter when your travel plans bring you this way, the team at Victory Beach Vacations is here to make sure you have amazing accommodations to match. Reach out today to learn more about our lineup of property options available across Carolina Beach and Kure Beach and how we can help you make more of every single moment of your getaway!