Things To Do in Oak Island &
Southport, NC

For those looking for a low-key vacation in paradise, Oak Island, North Carolina, and the southernmost coast of the state known as the Brunswick Islands, is for you. Oak Island is situated about an hour south of Wilmington and an hour north of Myrtle Beach and offers endless family-friendly adventures, like s'mores around the fire pit and listening to a beach band at the park. Oak Island is worth a visit year-round. April through September is peak season and the most popular time to visit. In the fall, visitors can watch the sun rise and set over the ocean thanks to the south-facing beaches that run east to west. Whether your group wants to do everything or nothing at all, there are plenty of things to do on Oak Island, the perfect setting for a gorgeous beach getaway.

This Beach Has The Clearest Water—And Whitest Sand—In North Carolina
 

Enjoy A Beach Day

Oak Island’s 8 miles of sandy shores are less crowded than nearby Myrtle Beach, so expect plenty of room for sandcastles. There are six beaches across the Brunswick Islands: Oak Island and its sister Brunswick Islands of Ocean Isle, as well as Holden Beach, Caswell Beach, Bald Head Island, and Sunset Beach. So even on a weeklong vacation to Oak Island, there are a variety of other beaches to explore. Swimming, boogie boarding, and stand-up paddle boarding are popular activities, but watch for rip currents and check the daily water forecast. Mid-day naps are welcome, but be sure to rise before sunset. With the unusual distinction of facing the Atlantic Ocean to the south, Oak Island is one of the best beaches from which to watch the sunset directly over the water, especially in late fall through early spring due to the Vernal and Autumnal Equinoxes and the beach's orientation. 
 

Paddle To An Island

​After a day or two of relaxing in the sand, consider a kayak tour for a nice change of pace. The Adventure Kayak Company in Southport offers tours most days of the week based on the tidal schedule. Explore the salt marsh creeks of the Davis Canal or the Montgomery Slough, or paddle out to uninhabited Sheep’s Island. Led by knowledgeable guides with both single and double kayaks available, no experience is necessary, and children can participate. If you take the trip to Sheep’s Island, be sure to make the climb to the cross on the peak and enjoy the view of Holden Beach just over the inlet.

theadventurecompany.net; 807 North Howe St., Southport, NC 28461
 

Climb OKI Lighthouse

Constructed in 1958, the Oak Island Lighthouse is the youngest of North Carolina’s seven active coastal beacons. Located at the Coast Guard station at Caswell Beach, walk-in tours of the downstairs are welcome, but for those wanting to climb the 131 steps to the top of the 150-foot lighthouse, reservations are required. This free experience for ages 9 and up is available year-round on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings from May 1 through September 30, and on Wednesdays and Saturdays from October 1 through April 30 based on tour guide availability. Open house tours of the bottom levels are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

oakislandlighthouse.org; 300A Caswell Beach Road, Oak Island, NC 28465
 

Fish At The Pier or from the Shore

Oak Island has two piers, the Oak Island Pier and the Ocean Crest Pier, that welcome locals and visitors. Oak Island Pier was built in 1955 and has been restored several times due to storm damage. Newly rebuilt in 2019, the handicap-accessible Oak Island Pier is 880 feet long. At 27 feet above the water, it is the tallest in the state. Guests can walk the pier or simply sit and watch the waves. Anglers can purchase day or season-long fishing passes. Fishermen have access to 30 King fishing stations. Basic supplies, snacks, and refreshments are also available, along with the Koko Cabana restaurant that offers waterfront views.

oakislandnc.gov/residents-visitors/parks-facilities/oak-island-pier; 705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465
oceancrestfishingpier.com;1409 East Beach Road, Oak Island, NC 28465
kokocabana.com; 705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465

 

Go Surfing or take lessons

Oak Island surf lessons  make it easy and come to you. OKI surf will show up with the intsructors and all of the equipment so all you have to do is walk down to the beach and learn to surf. www.oakislandsurflessons.com

​

Go Shelling At The Point

Olive, whelk, and Atlantic cockle shells can be found at any of the beach areas on Oak Island, but one of the most popular shelling locations is no doubt The Point. The best shelling here is typically at low tide, especially on mornings after storms or when there are strong winds. Even if you don’t fill your bucket, you’ll still capture some gorgeous views of Holden Beach just across the inlet. For those willing to make the 30-minute drive to Holden, a recent beach renourishment project means that beachcombers are likely to find more treasures including amazing sea biscuits, fossils, and beautiful shells.

oakislandnc.gov; 6959 Kings Lynn Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465
ncbrunswick.com/islands-towns/holden-beach
 

Play Mini Golf

A far cry from the elaborately themed miniature golf courses in larger beach towns, Oak Island Jungle Golf is a low-key, family-owned course featuring statues of zebras, giraffes, elephants, and even a gorilla near a waterfall. Complete with an old-school arcade featuring classics like Skee-Ball, Ms. Pac-Man, Whac-A-Mole, and air hockey, kids of all ages can try for a high score. Don't forget to trade in your tickets for prizes to remember their trip.

oakislandjunglegolf.com; 6321 East Oak Island Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465
 

Rent A Golfcart

Entire families can explore the island by riding around on a golf cart with the ocean breezes blowing through their hair. During the summer months, the speed limit on Beach Drive is lowered to 35 mph and golf carts are allowed to drive on Beach Road. A convenient alternative to lugging your beach equipment all the way to shore, golf carts make getting there half the fun. Besides riding along the beach for ocean views, be sure to cross over Oak Island Drive to the north side of the island and ride along Yacht Drive to Veteran’s Park, where you can have a picnic and watch boats go by on the Intracoastal Waterway. Golf carts can be rented on the island by the day or week, and any licensed driver can drive them.

okicartrentals.com; 5714 East Oak Island Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465

​

Take A Day Trip To Southport

Known for its white picket fences and boutique shops, the once quaint fishing village of Southport has attracted beach vacationers and Hollywood filmmakers for decades. Replay your favorite scenes from popular movies like Safe Haven and A Walk to Remember on a golf cart tour of filming locations, or sample fresh seafood straight off of the boat at one of the yacht basin restaurants like Fishy Fishy or Frying Pan. Since it's just 20 minutes away from Oak Island, you can spend as much time as you'd like exploring this picturesque historic North Carolina town.

ncbrunswick.com/islands-towns/southport
fryingpansouthport.com; 319 West Bay St., Oak Island, NC 28461
fishyfishycafe.com; 106 Yacht Basin Drive, Oak Island, NC 28461
 

Tour Fort Caswell

Self-guided history tours of Fort Caswell, a 2,750-acre military reservation and former Civil War fort, offer a look into the essential role the fort played as a protector of the blockade runners of Fort Johnston and of the crucial port of Wilmington. Tours are only available for visitors at designated times during the off-season. Contact the office in advance for a schedule. 

fortcaswell.com; 100 Caswell Beach Road, Oak Island, NC 28465
 

Take A Ferry Ride

In Southport, take a ferry ride to nearby Fort Fisher where you’ll learn about Fort Fisher’s role in the Civil War. You can also enjoy the recreation area for hiking, swimming, and fishing. Another ferry heads to Bald Head Island, where no cars are allowed. Get around the island by bike or golf cart. While there, see the state’s oldest standing lighthouse or explore the maritime forest preserve.

historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/fort-fisher; 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd., South Kure Beach, NC 28449
 

Tune Into Summer Concerts

From May to September, locals and visitors flock to Middleton Park to enjoy some tunes after a day in the sun. Most concert events are held on Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30. Arrive early and bring a beach blanket or beach chair to stake out a spot close to the stage. An adjacent playground and splash pad ensure that there are plenty of activities for the kids too. 

oakislandnc.gov; 102 Southeast 47th St., Oak Island, NC 28465
 

Visit The Planetarium

If you miss the sunset, don’t worry because the view from the Oak Island beach is still gorgeous even after the sun goes down. Due to the area’s lack of light pollution and high rises, as well as its south-facing beaches, it is one of the best stargazing spots along the East Coast. During Milky Way season, which peaks from late April to late July, epic views of the stars and galactic center can be seen from anywhere along the beach or from the deck of your vacation rental. Another popular spot for amateur astronomers is the Ingram Planetarium, in nearby Sunset Beach, where visitors can get an up-close-and-personal view of the constellations, planets, and stars in the area inside the planetarium’s dome ceiling.

museumplanetarium.org; 7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach, NC 28468

Here are some indoor activities available in or near Oak Island, NC:

​

Museums - Visit local history museums, such as the 
North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport or the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitor's Center

-These museums offer insights into the area's rich history, including local pirate lore and movie filming locations, and often feature interactive elements like nautical knot-tying and scavenger hunts.
 

Visit Planet Fun & Starz Grille

Located in Shallotte (about 14.5 miles away), this family entertainment center features bowling, an arcade, laser tag, and a small indoor playground for younger kids.
 

North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Take a short drive and ferry ride to the aquarium in Kure Beach, which features a rare albino alligator, playful otters, and various other fresh and saltwater exhibits.
 

Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game Lounge

For a fun activity suitable for groups, this Southport location offers axe throwing and a selection of board games.
 

Browse Local Shops and Boutiques

Browse the shops at the Oak Island Farmers Market, The Hoarders antique shop, Local Call Surf shop, Sweetlife candy store or other local stores. 
 

Explore unique local shops and art galleries in the area

Visit Lantana's Gallery and Fine Gifts

 or Color Me Carolina, where you can find locally made art, unique gifts, and clothing, providing a perfect opportunity for relaxed browsing.

For Kids

Explore Create A Space. This indoor play center in Southport is great for children, offering climbing structures, pretend play areas, sensory play, and arts and crafts.

​

Breweries

Adults can visit local breweries like Solar Brewing Company to enjoy freshly brewed beers in a relaxed indoor setting.

Surf Cinemas - Catch a movie at this local, cozy cinema in Southport. 

Dining:
Oak Island

Sebbys Pizza 4336 Long Beach Rd SE, 910-477-6380

55th Street Seafood House 5515 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-250-1873

BBQ House 5002 E. Oak Island Dr
910-201-1001

Beana’s Kitchen 106 D SE 58th St.
910-278-7209

Bob’s Dogs 8903 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-3456

Fish House 57th Place West
910-278-6012Seafood

Island Way Restaurant 1407 E. Beach Dr. 910-278-7770

Jones’ Seafood House 6404 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-5231

Kai-Joe’s 4722 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-622-1509

Little Bit’s Grill 5902 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-6430

Lazy Turtle Bar & Grille 601 Ocean Dr.
910-278-7725

Oak Island Deli & Pub 5422 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-4005

Oak Island Restaurant 6302 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-201-9925

Oak Island Sub Shop 5705 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-278-9040

OKI Scoop Shop & Burgers 4922 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-250-1321

Old Bridge Diner 132 Country Club Dr.
910-250-1184

Pepperoni Grill at the Beach 4320 E. Beach Dr
910-250-1190

Pizza Shack 6212 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-6781Pizza

Russell’s Place 5700 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-3070 

Shagger Jack’s 8004 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-933-4103

Swain Seafood Shack 5119 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-448-5056

Thai by the Sea 8300 E. Oak Island Dr.
910-278-6420

Tranquil Harbor Restaurant 5908 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-250-1294

Wildlife Restaurant & Grill 4381 Fish Factory Rd.

910-457-9953

Turtle Island Restaurant 6220 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-278-4944

Delphina Cantina 8 Marina Wynd

910-457-1222

Honey’s BBQ 10 Marina Wynd

910-457-5959

Maritime Market 8 Maritime Way
910-457-7450 

Mojo’s on the Harbour 10 Marina Wynd

910-457-7217

Shoal’s Club 100 Station House Way

910-454-4888

Will o’ the Wisp 98 Keelson Row

910-363-1887

Southport

All American Grill 505 N. Howe St.
910-477-6677

Asian Taste 1671 N. Howe St.

910-457-0988

Bella Cucina 5177 Supply Rd.

910-454-4540

Cafe Koa & Market 302 N. Howe St

910-363-4206

Castucci’s 4332 Long Beach Rd.

910-477-6755

Eric’s Grille 1671 Howe St.

910-457-9024

Famous Subs & Pizza 1541 N. Howe St.

910-457-5143

Fat Andy’s Burgers 4655 Long Beach Rd.

910-269-7008

Fishy Fishy Cafe 106 Yacht Basin Dr.

910-457-1881

Frying Pan Restaurant 319 W. Bay St.

910-363-4382

Joseph’s Italian Bistro 5003 O’Quinn Blvd.

910-454-4440

Local’s Family Diner 832 N. Howe St.

910-457-0444

Moore Street Market 130 Moore St.

910-363-4203

Mr. P’s Bistro 309 N. Howe St.

910-457-0801

Oliver’s on the Cape Fear 101 W. Bay St.

910-457-9222

Ports of Call 116 N. Howe St.

910-457-4544

Potter’s Seafood 116 N. Howe St.

910-457-0101

Provision Company 130 Yacht Basin Dr.

910-457-0654

Southport Gourmet & Sushi 1643 N. Howe St.

910-477-9045

Southport Smoke House 1102 N. Howe St.

910-363-5035

Taylor Cuisine Cafe 731 N. Howe St.

910-454-0088

Terry’s NC BBQ & Ribs 4688 Long Beach Rd.

910-477-9187

Wine, Beer + Coffee

Jumpin’ Java 4022 Old Bridge Rd.

910-363-4841

Old America Fish Co. 150 Yacht Basin Dr.

910-457-9870

Slainte Irish Pub 1513 N. Howe St. Ste. 10

910-457-6554

Loco Jo’s Grill & Bar 602 N. Howe St.

910-457-9009

Dry Street Pub & Pizza 101 E Brown St.

910-457-594

Chaser’s Sports Bar & Grille 8520 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-278-1500

Dead End Saloon 4097 Fish Factory Rd.910-454-4002

Sweets

Side Street Bakery 417 N. Howe St. Ste A

910-363-4629

Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream 6 Marina Wynd

910-457-1222

Burney’s Bakery 808 N. Howe St.

910-454-4222

The Confectionary 4345 Long Beach Rd.

910-457-9310 

Ahoy Donuts 5821 E. Oak Island Dr.

910-278-6929

Flava’s Ice Cream Shop 318 W. Bay St.

910-457-5150 

Southport Cheese Shoppe 417 N. Howe St. Ste B

910-477-6387

Spike’s Dairy Bar 201 N. Howe St.