The Town of Oak Island has nearly ten miles of beach along the twelve-mile-long island. It also has public beach access points, facilities along the Intracoastal Waterway, parks, and an interactive art map. This makes it easy to shape your stay around the experiences you actually want to have.
Beaches and Access Points
There are 65 public beach access points to help you find your way. Conditions at individual access points can change due to tides, erosion, and maintenance. So check the access point you plan to use for your beach visit.
Nature Along the Intracoastal Waterway
The Oak Island Nature Center is located beside the Intracoastal Waterway. Accessible ramps and viewing platforms offer views of the forest and waterway. At the center, volunteers share information about wildlife along the Intracoastal Waterway; this program may vary. The Ocean Education Center also offers a specific focus: it is a public place where visitors can learn about sea turtles, crabs, dolphins, and other marine life in the area. The two learning destinations have different focuses: the Nature Center covers wildlife along the Intracoastal Waterway, while the Ocean Education Center covers sea turtles, crabs, dolphins, and other marine life in the area.
On the Water: Fishing, Kayaking, and Boating
Oak Island has two fishing piers. The Oak Island Pier is 27 feet high and 880 feet long; it has 30 king fishing spots. If you plan to visit a pier, check availability before your trip. Another way to enjoy the water is with guided kayak tours offered by Oak Island Parks and Recreation, lasting about two hours. Kayak, paddle, personal flotation device, and experienced guides are included; dates and availability are seasonal. The Tidalwaves Kayak & Canoe Launch has a floating dock with a kayak ramp, a kayak rental station, and an area for observing nature and wildlife. You can also visit the western tip of Oak Island by private or rental boat and see both the ocean and the marshland there.
Trails, Parks, and Activities
The Middleton Park Complex has a paved walking path with loops of up to three miles (five kilometers). The Barbee Walking Trail is a paved path connecting May Moore Park and Shipwreck Park. Shipwreck Park features a historic shipwreck and information panels. Hannon A. Templeton Park has fenced, off-leash areas for dogs. Kevin Bell Skatepark offers opportunities for skateboards, inline skates, and BMX bikes; pegs are not allowed there.
Art and Seasonal Offerings
The Public Art Trail is an interactive story map that leads to murals, sculptures, and other installations throughout the town. The Farmers & Artisans Market offers fresh local produce, homemade jams and cakes, and other homemade goods. Its schedule is seasonal; check the market dates if a visit is part of your travel plans.
Discover more destinations: Shallotte, Bolivia, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Caswell Beach, Calabash, Bald Head Island, Leland
For the broader travel overview: Brunswick.
