If you’re dreaming of a relaxing escape, Oak Island, NC, offers the perfect blend of serene beaches, adventure, and charm. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a fun weekend getaway, Oak Island has something for everyone.
From must-see attractions to top-notch dining experiences and more, this hidden gem on the North Carolina coast is the ideal destination for a memorable trip. Let us guide you through a few of our favorite spots to help you plan the perfect getaway to Oak Island!
About Oak Island
Oak Island is a tranquil barrier island located along the southern coast of North Carolina. Known for its expansive sandy beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and abundant natural beauty, this destination is perfect for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. With over 60 public beach access points, a picturesque fishing pier, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Oak Island offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy a slower pace, explore the island’s charming communities, and experience a variety of activities, from kayaking and fishing to beachcombing and birdwatching. Whether you’re here for a family vacation or a peaceful retreat, Oak Island’s unique blend of coastal charm and natural beauty will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.
Must-See Attractions
Oak Island Pier
The Oak Island Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local charm. Stretching 880 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, this pier offers stunning panoramic views and is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. If you’re hoping to reel in a big catch or take a leisurely stroll above the water, the pier provides an unbeatable vantage point for soaking in the coastal scenery.
The Oak Island Pier is more than just a scenic spot—it’s a hub of activity and local flavor. At the heart of the pier, you’ll find the Pier House, a well-stocked bait and tackle shop catering to fishing enthusiasts. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, Ruby’s Coffeehouse & Eatery is a cozy spot located near the pier. From freshly brewed coffee to homemade pastries and breakfast bites, Ruby’s is a great stop to fuel up before or after a walk along the beach.
After a day of fishing or exploring, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Koko Cabana, the restaurant overlooking the pier. With a menu that highlights fresh seafood and coastal-inspired dishes, Koko Cabana offers both indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable ocean views!
Oak Island Lighthouse
Standing tall at the eastern end of the island, the Oak Island Lighthouse is a must-see landmark and a beloved symbol of the area’s maritime history. Built in 1958, this unique lighthouse is known for its modern cylindrical design and striking color scheme of black, white, and gray bands. Although it may not resemble the classic lighthouse, it boasts the brightest light of any U.S. lighthouse, guiding ships up to 16 miles out to sea.
Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the lighthouse up close, and for the more adventurous, guided tours are available by reservation. These tours offer a chance to climb the 131 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Oak Island, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastline. Whether you’re interested in its history or simply want to take in the stunning scenery, the Oak Island Lighthouse is an essential stop for anyone visiting the island.
The Point
One of the most beautiful spots on Oak Island is, without a doubt, The Point. Ideal for a tranquil retreat, The Point is particularly famous for its stunning sunsets. Visitors can walk as far as they can to absorb the enchanting colors as the sun dips below the horizon. This beauty spot is equally magnificent during the daytime, providing splendid opportunities for beachcombing and shell collecting.
The Point offers plenty of space for kids to run, play, and explore the tidal pools filled with fascinating marine life. The calm, shallow waters in certain areas make it a great spot for young children to splash and enjoy the beach safely. The expansive shoreline provides an ideal setting for family picnics, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying quality time together surrounded by nature. The Point is an unforgettable destination for creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
Activities for All Ages
Visit Oak Island Jungle Golf
For a family-friendly adventure that everyone can enjoy, head to Oak Island Jungle Golf, a fun and exciting mini-golf course with a tropical twist. This 18-hole course is designed to immerse players in a jungle-themed setting, complete with lush landscaping, playful obstacles, and creative animal statues that add to the excitement.
The course offers challenges for all skill levels, making it enjoyable for kids and adults alike. After a round of mini-golf, cool off with a refreshing treat from the on-site snack bar. Oak Island Jungle Golf is a perfect blend of fun and competition, creating lasting memories for families and groups of all ages.
Spend the Day at Malcolm Register Park
Middleton Park is a favorite destination for families and visitors on Oak Island. With its expansive green space, playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas, the park offers endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. Kids can burn off energy at the well-equipped playground, while sports enthusiasts make use of the tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts. Middleton Park also hosts a seasonal splash pad, perfect for cooling off during the warmer months, and a skate park where teens and young adults can show off their skills.
For a relaxing afternoon, grab a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawn or stroll along the nearby trails. The park frequently serves as the venue for community events, concerts, and outdoor movie nights, adding even more family-friendly activities to its lineup. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax or play, Middleton Park is a great choice for a day filled with fun!
Explore the Outdoors at Oak Island Recreation Center
For a scenic adventure that blends Oak Island’s natural beauty with outdoor fun, the Oak Island Recreation Center off SE 31st St. is the perfect starting point. The center features a picturesque nature trail that takes visitors on a journey through lush island landscapes, crossing over the Davis Canal and leading to a breathtaking ocean view at the trail’s end. Along the way, you’ll experience the peaceful, winding path surrounded by native flora and fauna, ideal for hiking or a relaxing stroll. At the start of the trail, the town has provided a convenient kayak launch into the Davis Canal, allowing paddlers easy access to the calm waters. Whether you’re looking to hike, enjoy a leisurely walk, or kayak through Oak Island’s waterways, the recreation center is the perfect spot to explore nature on Oak Island!
Top Restaurants in Oak Island, NC
Lonerider Brewing
Located near the island’s coast, Lonerider Brewing offers an inviting atmosphere where locals and visitors can relax with a cold, handcrafted beer in hand. Known for their “outlaw” spirit, Lonerider’s brewers pride themselves on crafting distinctive ales that embrace bold, adventurous flavors.
From classic IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing sours, the beer lineup at Lonerider has something for everyone. Signature brews like the Sweet Josie Brown Ale, a smooth and malty favorite, and Shotgun Betty, a Hefeweizen with a hint of banana, are crowd-pleasers that bring out the best in Southern beer culture. Plus, the friendly staff is always ready to help you discover new favorites based on your unique tastes.
Provision Company
Perched in the old yacht basin in Southport, Provision Company offers more than just a meal—it delivers a connection to the sea. With a history intertwining with the local fishing industry and boating community, this restaurant boasts a unique charm. Still owned and operated by the same family for over 30 years, it serves up great food and cold beverages, welcoming guests through its storied screen doors. Whether arriving by boat or on foot, this is a quintessential spot for a genuinely local dining experience.
Moore Street Oyster Bar
For seafood lovers visiting Oak Island, Moore Street Oyster Bar in nearby Southport is a dining experience not to be missed. This beloved local spot, just a short drive from Oak Island, has become famous for its fresh, expertly prepared oysters and laid-back atmosphere.
Start with a platter of raw oysters sourced daily to ensure peak freshness, or try their unique spins like oysters Rockefeller or chargrilled oysters with garlic butter and parmesan. Alongside the oysters, the menu also boasts a variety of coastal-inspired dishes, from shrimp po’boys to seafood boils, perfect for a full, savory meal. The bar is well-stocked, featuring a mix of local craft beers, wines, and creative cocktails that pair perfectly with the salty sweetness of fresh oysters.
Plan Your Visit
Book your Oak Island vacation rental with Sea Coast Rentals for the perfect getaway! Find a wide selection of rental options and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation on beautiful Oak Island.
Book Your Oak Island Vacation Rental with Sea Coast Rentals
At Sea Coast Rentals, we’re here to help you plan the perfect getaway to Oak Island! With our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Oak Island, NC, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re searching for a charming beachfront cottage, a spacious family home, or a cozy condo steps from the pier, we’re committed to finding the ideal home base for your coastal adventure.
When you choose one of our vacation rentals, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living spaces, and convenient access to the beautiful beaches and exciting attractions that make Oak Island a favorite destination. After a day of exploring, you can unwind in your rental and make lasting memories with family and friends.
Don’t wait—book your vacation rental in Oak Island, NC, with Sea Coast Rentals today! Let us help you create an unforgettable experience in this beautiful coastal paradise. We can’t wait to welcome you to Oak Island!
