Vacation rentals in Oak Island (NC)

This quiet little gem is sandwiched between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington. Because it isn’t well known, you can have this slice of heaven all to yourself for a relaxing getaway with family and friends. It’s a beachcomber's paradise, full of sandy beaches and turquoise ocean like a picture-perfect postcard! You can take a day trip to Myrtle Beach and still have supper on the famous Oak Island Pier. Your days will be filled with adventure and family friendly activities. Thrill seekers will find their fix here too. You’ll feel right at home among the community-oriented businesses and restaurants.

These charming, gorgeous rentals are just what you need to start your vacation off on the right foot. Whether you choose beach accommodations, or the fresh atmosphere that a rental in the nearby woods can offer, there is a rental just right for you! Staying in one of these architecturally classic, Southeast coast rentals will give you a 360-degree, laid-back NC experience! Perfect for families, couples or big groups, some of the amenities include a full-sized kitchen, large living room space with a TV, gardens and a terrace.

There are two famous fishing piers worth visiting, Ocean Crest Pier and Oak Island Pier. Both have exciting fishing right on the pier and fine dining. Ocean Crest is especially popular for its special events and angling competitions. There’s also plenty of action on the ocean. You can charter sailing vessels and fishing boats for deep sea sport fishing. Or, rent kayaks, paddleboards, and anything else that goes on the water. Of course there’s also relaxing shell picking and quiet walks on the beach with soft white sand. Also, there are tons of unique shopping and nightlife to enjoy while you’re here!

Oak Island is part of Brunswick Isles, the golfing capital of the southeast. You’ll have the opportunity to play a round of 18 holes on Arnold Palmer’s famous designed course, as well as other popular golf stars. Join Oak Island Gold Club to get the best experience from this pro-golfer’s dream destination. For a less professional venue check out Oak Island Jungle Golf and Arcade featuring 18 holes of mini-golf in a jungle themed park. There’s also classic arcade games like Pac-Man and games with prizes for the competitive ones. Be sure to stop by the nearby ice-cream shop for its unusual flavors like “Birthday Cake” and “Bubblegum”.

If you love fish and the idea of grilling a fresh catch while drinking a smooth brew, head out to Ocean Crest Fishing Pier at the tip of Cape Fear Coast. You’ll be glad you did, just for the friendly atmosphere and interesting people you’re likely to meet. And, the Spanish and King Mackerel are to die for! For a nature immersion take a hike to the Oak Island Nature Center and do the Talking Trees Walking Trail alongside the spectacular river with birds singing in the lush trees. They have fossils and interesting animal displays that are educational for the whole family.

Centuries before European settlers arrived in North Carolina, it was home to tribes related to the Sioux and Cherokee nations. You can purchase their baskets, pottery and jewelry at select shops. Visit historic Fort Caswell, built in 1838, and discover its importance to the Civil War and both World Wars. Oak Island Pier is another historical site offering excellent fishing and recreation. The Flying Fish Café has beautiful sunset views overlooking the ocean and delightful fresh cuisine like Hoisin salmon and corn crab cakes that go well with their signature wines. For extra adventure, visit the historic lighthouses and climb the iconic Oak Island Lighthouse’s 131 steep steps for a spectacular view!

The Ingram Planetarium is the place to learn about our universe. They have the Paul Dennis Science Hall and the Sky Theater Library with lots of interactive information for the family. Then, there are programs with laser light accompanied by music shows and ancient geological history. Lots to do for the curious mind!

Everyone loves shopping while on holiday because you never know what cool things you’ll find. The Hoarders is perfect for your treasure hunting collection. They offer art, antiques, sculptures, and many unusual trinkets to add to everyone’s collection.

Hop on a helicopter and take one of four sightseeing flights like the ‘Beach Lovers’ or ‘Historic Lighthouse Tour’. But if you’re really daring you can get a Discovery Flight package where you’ll be the pilot. Now that’s worth writing home about!

The Environmental Overlook Trail takes you across the Davis Canal at Oak Island Drive. It has a swamp area filled with fascinating herons, egrets and other beautiful birds and unusual wildlife. There are also bridges and boardwalks leading into the forest and ending at the beach.

Fort Fisher from the mid 1800s harbors details of the Civil War which determined the fate of the Confederacy. You’ll have a unique opportunity to view its underwater Archeology Headquarters Museum featuring artifacts that divers have brought up from the sea floor of shipwrecks from the Civil War, Blackbeard, and many more plus details of current projects.