Visitors to Bald Head Island in the middle of the summer will be surprised and delighted to discover that the pirates have taken the beach by storm. The Bald Head Island Pirate Invasion is a fun and engaging annual event that brings some of North Carolina’s first visitors to vivid light through reenactments, a working pirate camp, and many more interactive exhibits and activities that everyone in the crew will adore.
The Bald Head Island or “Old Baldy” Lighthouse is distinguished along the Carolina coastline as one of the oldest lighthouses still standing in the country, and visitors can learn all about this history while having a ball at the annual National Lighthouse Day Weekend. Generally held in early August, this weekend-long event features an array of corresponding activities and attractions that shine a light on this special local landmark, and which provide hours of fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Please join us for the 2025 Back Door Kitchen Tour on Saturday, October 11th, from 10 am to 4 pm, rain or shine! Presented by Residents of Old Wilmington, this annual tour raises money that ROW uses to fund grants for local nonprofit organizations doing much-needed work to improve the quality of life in Wilmington. Our 2025 recipients, granted money raised from the 2024 Back Door Kitchen Tour, include Carousel Center, DREAMS Center for Arts Education, Castle Street Collective, Williston Middle School, Alliance for Cape Fear Trees, Sister Isaac Center, and Brooklyn Arts Music Academy.
There’s a lot to enjoy at the annual Classic Cars n’ Rock n’ Roll Cruise-In – a cool car show that’s held in the heart of Downtown Southport, and which features much more than the array of gorgeous and vintage automobiles. Featuring activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, this annual event that is brimming with live music, contests, and other activities is sure to be a crowd pleaser for the car lovers in your crew, and anyone who wants to dive into the community spirit of this coastal town.
Go behind the scenes of one of the most famous attractions along the Cape Fear River with this in-depth tour of Wilmington’s most treasured landmark, the USS Battleship North Carolina. This special one-afternoon-only tour takes participants deep into the depths of the ship, and is an illuminating look into one of the most famous battleships of the World War II era.
Join in the fun of the season and enjoy a days-long festival that highlights the community spirit of Southport by attending the highly anticipated WinterFest festival. This annual celebration features a wealth of activities at landmarks and popular spots throughout the coastal town, and is a great way to enjoy the spirit of the holidays while taking in everything this popular vacation destination has to offer.
Join in the fun of the season and enjoy a days-long festival that highlights the community spirit of Southport by attending the highly anticipated WinterFest festival. This annual celebration features a wealth of activities at landmarks and popular spots throughout the coastal town, and is a great way to enjoy the spirit of the holidays while taking in everything this popular vacation destination has to offer.
For more than 75 years, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has reigned supreme as one of the biggest and best festivals along the southeast coastline, and newcomers are welcome to join in the fun to experience full days of vendors, live music, parades, and other events that shine a spotlight on the lively city of Wilmington. Founded in 1948, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has emerged as one of the most anticipated events in the state, and the celebration attracts visitors from all over the world who want to discover how enchanting the Cape Fear region can be.
From antebellum mansions that steal the scene, to stunning waterfront vistas that can be admired from the downtown streets, Wilmington is a city that is brimming with beauty in every direction. On your next Wilmington vacation, pack along your camera, and be sure and plan an outing to these iconic landmarks, parks, and attractions where the views are breathtaking, and the local landscape is simply unforgettable.
Visitors who are on the hunt for the postcard-perfect vacation rental in the heart of the Carolina Beach or Kure Beach area will find an enticing selection and plenty of friendly customer service when they rent through Victory Beach Vacations. Based in Carolina Beach in the coastal Cape Fear region, Victory Beach Vacations has more than 100 vacation rentals in all shapes and sizes to ensure that every vacationing family can find their dream home away from home on the beach. When you book your Cape Fear getaway with Victory Beach Vacations, the fun doesn’t end when you leave the beach, it continues with an array of privately-owned properties outfitted with all of the amenities needed for a fabulous beach vacation. Jenna Lanier, General Manager, explains that her family first opened the rental and property management business in 2002. At the forefront of Victory Beach operations is Lanier’s mother, Caroline Meeks. Meeks is both the Broker in Charge and co-owner with husband, Buck Meeks, who manages the Field Services team with Lanier’s husband, Scott. For nearly 20 years, the Victory Beach team has worked tirelessly to establish a network of top-of-the-line rental properties for Cape Fear visitors to enjoy. “As far as our properties go,” explains Lanier, “they are all updated, well-furnished and appointed. “We have always performed post-cleaning inspections and since the pandemic, have put freshly laundered duvets over all of the comforters between rentals.” Lanier emphasizes how important the guests experience is “we strive to give our guests a relaxing, stress free, memorable vacation.” This emphasis on customer service has led to Victory Beach Vacations having a 4.8 Google rating with over 300 reviews by happy owners and guests.In addition to Victory Beach’s superior sanitation practices, the company offers properties for every type of visitor. Choose from luxury oceanfront houses and condos to more reasonbly priced 2nd row properties with oceanviews. Many properties include pools and hot tubs as well, perfect for outdoor entertaining, and many are dog friendly. Lanier also notes that all properties are within walking or driving distance to Pleasure Island’s main attractions – Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. The former, as described by Lanier, is the more commercialized of the two destinations and features a boardwalk, outdoor dining options and a plethora of weekly activities including fireworks, live music, amusement park pop-ups, and movies under the stars. Kure Beach offers a more residential feel with its fishing pier, intimate restaurants and family favorite, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.More water fun awaits, too. “There is a harbor and a canal that feed into the intercoastal. We have several properties on the harbor so guests can bring their boat, kayak, [or jet ski] and travel between islands,” says Lanier. A stay with Victory Beach Vacations is an annual pilgrimage for most. “A large percentage of guests are previous guests. Some even reserve the same property for the next year as they’re checking out,” Lanier says. “It’s almost like it’s their personal vacation home.” Even before guests arrive at their vacation destination, the Victory Beach Vacations’ website greets them with a live beach cam and exquisite aerial footage of both Carolina and Kure Beaches. See for yourself by scanning the QR code and call Victory Beach Vacations at 910.458.0868 to book your Cape Fear getaway. Start making your memories today! —Grace Silipigni
Bright, cheerful, and freshly refreshed, this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom oceanfront condo is gorgeously equipped and well maintained. After multiple negative reviews mentioning needed upgrades, the owners undertook a full remodel! The unit has new furnishings, updated bathrooms and kitchen, as well as all new floor. There is a queen size bed in the oceanfront master bedroom, which also has a full private bathroom. The two guest bedrooms are located on the marsh side. There is a queen size bed in the first guest bedroom, and two twins in the second guest bedroom. Both bedrooms share the full hall bathroom. The oceanfront living room and dining room overlook the dunes and the ocean. The cavernous balcony offers you and your group outstanding ocean vistas, and a great place to appreciate the ocean breeze! Located on the first floor with simple access to the beach, an oceanfront pool, and elevators, this property is convenient for the entire family. Feeling active? Take up a game of tennis at the on-site court. Duneridge has everything you need for the ideal family vacation. Linens Information: 2 Queens, 2 Twins, Sleeper Couch (linens are not supplied for the sleeper couch) Linens supplied with units less than 21 nights. Additional Conveniences: Community Pool, 1 stereo, Washer/Dryer, Elevator, 4 TV's, DVD, Tennis, 2 VCR's, DVR service, High-speed Internet, Electric Car Charging Station Restrictions: - Non Smoking - No Family Animals - Summer Season Saturday check-in only. - In the summer season, daily units are only available for booking within 7 days of the arrival date and require a 2 nighttime minimum. - 2 car parking only. Campers and trailers of any kind are not allowed. - Community pool (Open May 1st - September 30th)
- Wrightsville Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
There’s an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much more, veritably every visitor under the sun can enjoy an active excursion or just a day of splashing around at this all-encompassing amusement center.
220 Cabana is an Oceanfront 2nd floor unit in an elevator building with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths. Located just north of the Boardwalk area close to downtown. It is a short walk to eateries, stores and the harbor with it’s Cruise Boats and Charter Fishing. Fantastic vistas.... from deck with access from living room w/tv. Equipped kitchen and Outdoor Pool. Strictly enforced no smoking policy. min. occupancy 6 with king in master w/bath, queen in 2nd bedroom with bath and queen sleeper couch in living room. Parking for max. 2 cars underneath if available or across the street.
- Carolina Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
Fort Johnston is a remarkable visitors’ center and museum that has deep historic roots in the early years of Southport’s long and storied history. Located on the edge of the waterfront downtown area along Bay Street, the stoic and regal looking brick structure, complete with four two-story white pillars, is an imposing but impressive site in this historic corner of the Cape Fear coastline.
Appreciate our beautiful vacation rental with only a short walk to the beach. This freshly refreshed home is on a nice private street that is in close proximity to the beach. The intercoastal waterway is right around the corner for elegant fishing and kayaking. This home is well appointed with everything you will need for a laid-back hideaway, including a brand new heated 31x16 inground pool. Savor the front porch for sunrises, and back screened porch for sunsets and the sound of the ocean.
- Oak Island
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 10
Wilmington originated as a port city, and its reputation as a haven for vessels of all sizes has lasted throughout the generations, making it one of the most popular boating destinations in southeastern North Carolina. From unique cruises of the downtown area to extended treks along the Intracoastal Waterway, the sheer range of boating adventures will entice any mariner to drop anchor in this distinctive town. Spend a day exploring the local waterways, or sign up for an area cruise, and discover why Wilmington life is at its finest on the water.
Shell Island may not be a familiar term for new visitors to Wrightsville Beach, but it’s certainly well-known among locals and historians who like to explore the original roots of the area. Referring to the northern tip of Wrightsville Beach which was once the site of a popular resort, “Shell Island” is still an attractive destination for shell-seekers, fishermen, beachcombers, and anyone who likes a little peace and quiet in this otherwise bustling beach town.
This striking Carolina Beach bungalow offers a unique blend of old and new through recent renovations. It's conveniently located just one block from the newly redesigned boardwalk and two blocks away from the public beach access. Explore the eateries, bars, arcades, and live music events that Carolina Beach is acclaimed for, all within simple walking distance. Location of the bungalow is what makes it unique. One block from the new and charmingly designed boardwalk with beach access right there. Walk to all the eateries, bars, arcades, activities, and live music events that Carolina Beach is famed for.Plenty of parking available, and once you park you don't have to drive for your whole stay (unless you want to take in some of the magnificant local scenes like the NC Aquarium or the US Battleship). Cottage includes amenities for you and your family including an enclosed outdoor shower with hot water, patio with a fire pit to gather around, ping pong table, charcoal grille and a private fenced backyard. Fast Wifi to stream Hulu, Netflix, AT&T TV, ESPN+, Prime and Disney+. 3 enormous flat screen intelligent TVs in the family room and the bedrooms. Take your beach gear and supplied beach towels on a fast walk to the beach in the wagon included for you, but grab yourself some Britts Doughnuts first along the way for breakfast. When you're ready to refuel, head over to Franks Pizza and have a slice or 3 for lunch. When you've had enough sun, walk the family back, clean off the sand at the outdoor shower and have a gorgeous meal at home. You can savor the whole home and the private fenced backyard.Plenty of places for drinking, dancing, and dining available close by. Golf cart and all other beach toy units imaginable, one block away. Fishing tours and booze cruise across the street at the Marina! Surfing lessons, kayaking tours, and all things beachy are right here!No keys to lose or to return! This property provides secure, keyless entry with a Intelligent Lock. You can lock and unlock the door with your smartphone, using a unique virtual key, or personal entry code issued to you for the duration of your stay. Check in is automatic, but we are available to address any questions or concerns you may have. Our goal is to provide you with a phenomenal and memorable vacation.Please no one over 150 pounds on the bunk beds.The property has three security cameras, one in the front porch, on the side near the driveway facing the road and in the backyard. There are no cameras anywhere else in the property.CHECK OUT INSTRUCTIONS:We hope you had an spectacular stay at the Sea Shanty :-) Please take a little time to tidy up the place to leave it as close to how you found it as possible. We ask that you please do the following tasks prior to leaving: PLEASE LEAVE EVERYTHING AS YOU FOUND IT FOR THE NEXT GUESTS!!! 1) Please wash all dishes and put them away where you found them for the next guest.2) Put all used towels in one pile ready for wash.3) Strip the bed and pillow covers (NOT THE MATTRESS AND PILLOW PROTECTORS) and leave it on the floor in the respective rooms.4) Take all trash in the home to the trash and recycle bins.5) If the check-out day is a MONDAY, please move the trash and recycle bins to the front on the home for collection.6) Switch off all lights and fans to conserve energy.7) Return the remotes for the fan/light to the holders in each of the bedrooms.8) Return the ping pong paddles to the living room bin where you found it. Please respect your neighbors and keep the noise level down after 10 pm. We have spent a great deal of time and resources making this home enchanting for our guests, please be respectful of our property.LIABILITY WAIVER:Guests understand we provide amenities to make your stay comfortable and fun at our property.Guests RELEASES property owner/host from any and all liability for any loss, damage, physical injury, illness, or expense that he or she may suffer or incur by reason of his or her presence at or use of the Property and any amenities including firepit and grille supplied at the property. All guests in your event acknowledge and agree that they have read this waiver and acknowledge this waiver by being in the property constituting a binding and enforceable contract between the Guests and the property owner/host.
- Carolina Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
While Downtown Southport has an ample supply of wide front porches to take a load off and enjoy a breeze, many longtime visitors attest there's no better place to relax than the Southport waterfront Park.
Rain or shine, there’s always plenty of fun to be found in Wilmington. Home to a wealth of museums, cultural attractions, shops, restaurants, and so much more, visitors of all interests and ages will have no problem at all finding something to do, regardless of the weather.
Explore Wilmington with your family or friends while staying at this bright 3 bedroom, 2 bathrooms vacation rental! Boasting entirely equipped kitchen, modern amenities, and a private outdoor patio, this townhouse makes the ideal home base for your adventures. Spend your days exploring the stores, and museums downtown, soaking up the sun at Wrightsville Beach, or head over to University of North Carolina to cheer on the Seahawks, all located just mins. away!
- Wilmington
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
Whether a visitor lands in the inland regions of Wilmington and mainland New Hanover County, or the coastal vacation hotspots of Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach, fishing is always readily available – and celebrated – in the Cape Fear area. A favorite activity for locals and visitors alike, the sheer variety of waters and terrain ensures that anglers of all tastes will never be too far away from a local fishing hole or a full-fledged fishing adventure.
Wilmington is a city that’s brimming with activity. From a vibrant arts and theater scene to a collection of acclaimed museums, there’s no shortage of things to do in this popular port town. So brighten your vacation by ensuring that the following things to do are a part of your Wilmington agenda. With a world of entertainment, arts, history, and all-around fun waiting, it’s no wonder that Wilmington is a vacation destination that visitors return to again and again.
IT'S ONE SWEET WORLD ON OAK ISLAND'S EXCLUSIVE YAUPON BEACH! This clean and comfortable refreshed 2nd Row beach bungalow has its own private swimming pool but is also just steps away from the beach and a short walk to the pier, eateries and stores. It’s all about location as they say, and One Sweet World will not disappoint! Three accommodating bedrooms including a private Master (BR1:1Q, BR2:1Q, BR3:1T/1F Bunk w/1T Trundle) complemented by two full bathrooms, a entirely equipped kitchen and living area for everybody to relax together after a long day in the sun. An enclosed sunroom with tile floor provides more space for everybody to hang out, play games, or savor their well-deserved piece of island time! Luxury vinyl plank floor, enclosed O/S shower, boat parking, stainless steel appliances and so much more! Book today before someone else does! Linens & Departure Maid service supplied, Saturday to Saturday only in prime season, minimum 3 nighttime stay in all other seasons. Dog Friendly - limit 2 with fee. Check-In 3-5PM Check-Out: 10:00AM
- Oak Island
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
One of the largest attractions in Wrightsville Beach – both literally and figuratively – is the town’s miles of ocean-facing shoreline. And over the decades, the local beaches are the prime reason why millions of visitors have discovered, (and return to), this cool coastal community. With parking available throughout the town, seasonal lifeguarded beaches, and wide shorelines where splashing around is a breeze, it’s easy to see why people keep coming back to enjoy the local shorelines that have made this vacation destination famous throughout the generations.
The camping scene in the greater Wilmington area is just as diverse and inviting as the city itself. From incredible all-inclusive campgrounds that has all the amenities of a world-class resort, to smaller and rustic destinations on the edge of a riverfront landscape, every taste can be accounted for in this expensive destination.