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.
Labor Day weekend on Bald Head Island is truly a celebration, and the annual Labor Day Cookout offers a lot more besides a chance to feast on burgers and beachy fare. With corresponding activities and events held all along the island, and plenty of unique attractions to discover along the way, the annual celebration is a prime opportunity to uncover everything this popular North Carolina vacation destination has to offer.
Labor Day weekend on Bald Head Island is truly a celebration, and the annual Labor Day Cookout offers a lot more besides a chance to feast on burgers and beachy fare. With corresponding activities and events held all along the island, and plenty of unique attractions to discover along the way, the annual celebration is a prime opportunity to uncover everything this popular North Carolina vacation destination has to offer.
Come explore Wilmington’s wild side while garnering a little knowledge about fire safety at this annual event that features ample ways to explore, learn, and have fun – especially for the Port City’s youngest residents and visitors. The Fire in the Pines Festival is a full day of activity and entertainment, with crats and games for kids, hayrides, food trucks, live music, animals, and so much more.
Wilmington is known as the “Port City” for a reason, and lifelong local mariners and visitors alike can celebrate this heritage with a stop at the Wilmington Boat Show. Featuring multiple events throughout town over the course of several days, this sprawling event features plenty of ways to discover the past, present, and future of Wilmington’s life along the water.
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.
Head to one of the Cape Fear region’s most charming and historic destinations just north of the Wilmington city limits for this annual event that adds a little extra sparkle and fun to the holiday season. A Merry Little Christmas Festival is held at the Poplar Grove Plantation, and is a fun-filled celebration that will delight visitors of all ages with a host of holiday activities and events.
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.
Head to one of the Cape Fear region’s most charming and historic destinations just north of the Wilmington city limits for this annual event that adds a little extra sparkle and fun to the holiday season. A Merry Little Christmas Festival is held at the Poplar Grove Plantation, and is a fun-filled celebration that will delight visitors of all ages with a host of holiday activities and events.
The Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal is the gateway to exploring the small, but popular paradise of Bald Head Island. Located on the northern edge of the roughly 5 square mile island, and bordering the Cape Fear River, the terminal deposits visitors in the heart of the action. With two major property management companies located within walking distance, in addition to the Bald Head Island Marina, the Marsh Harbor Inn, and a number of transportation options, first-time visitors will have so problem stepping off the docks and finding their way towards a great weekly vacation, or a fun day trip on the beach.
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.
"Salty Paddles at the Point" is a BRAND NEW (finished in early 2024) luxury home on the highly desired West End of Oak Island. Your dream hideaway awaits! Designed to maximize the expansive ocean vistas, relax in our open concept great room or escape outdoors to appreciate our backyard POOL, TIKI BAR, & PICKLEBALL COURT! Uniquely located oceanfront AND steps away from the sound, this exceptional property features nearly 360 degree water vistas, close by fishing access, and walkability to The Point!*Brand new construction & new to the rental market for 2024*6 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 16 Adults Comfortably 3 Kings | 2 Queens | 2 Twin-Over-Full Bunk Beds | 1 Queen Couch BedPrivate Pool | Elevator | Pickleball Court | Tiki Bar | Outdoor ShowerBedroom 1: (1) King bed with private en-suite bathroom & intelligent TVBedroom 2: (1) King bed with private en-suite bathroom & intelligent TVBedroom 3: (1) King bed with private en-suite bathroom & intelligent TVBedroom 4: (2) Queen beds with private en-suite bathroom & intelligent TVBedroom 5: (2) Twin-over-full bunk beds with en-suite bathroom & intelligent TVBedroom 6: (1) Queen couch bed / game room & intelligent TVIndoor amenities include an entertainer's dream kitchen that's entirely-outfitted with an upsized island, GE Cafe appliances, 42" refrigerator, gas stove, dual dishwashers & sinks, drink refrigerator, walk-in pantry, and seating for 18 guests. Additional features of the property include high-speed Wi-Fi, sizable capacity washer & dryer, private elevator access to each floor, game room with wet bar, and roomy great room with electric fireplace and unbelievable vistas.Outdoor amenities include 29' in-ground saltwater pool with off-season heating capability (for a fee), regulation size and professionally surfaced pickleball court & equipment, covered tiki bar for entertaining, private outdoor shower, Blackstone griddle & Weber gas grille, balcony & water vistas off of every bedroom (except bunk room), ample covered & uncovered parking via broad driveway, and pathway for fast beach access.Additional complimentary amenities supplied include bath towels and linens for a max. of 16 guests. Essential items such as toilet paper, paper towels, dishwasher pods, dish soap, laundry pods, shower products and coffee are also supplied. Outdoor essentials are available for use including beach towels (qty 16), beach chairs (qty 8), beach carts (qty 2), Boogie boards (qty 2), Shibumi sun shade (qty 1), beach umbrellas (qty 2), Yeti cooler (qty 1), kayaks (qty 2), life jackets (qty 4) and pickleball equipment.But wait, there's more! Simply walk to the end of our driveway and say hello to a fisherman's heaven! Our property offers the convenience of both the ocean and the sound, including close by fishing access. The Point on Oak Island is the ideal place to watch boats, jet skis, paddle boards, and kayaks pass by. Salty Paddles at the Point is just steps away from one of the most sought-after destinations on Oak Island!
- Oak Island
- 6 Bedrooms
- 5 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 16
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
New in 2021… covered oceanside deck, sundeck, boardwalk with benches! Also, broad remodel of pool and grille area. Prior to purchasing this home in 2019 the current owners were beach front home renters on Holden Beach for 17 years. Knowing personally what visitors want and deserve in a beach rental, the owners are committed to make this comfortable, cozy home very special inside and outside. Wood and ceramic floors throughout. Great room features classic wood walls, a towering cathedral ceiling, and striking ocean view. Kitchen, with granite countertops, is completely outfitted and has ALL refreshed appliances. Also, updated bathrooms, extensive landscaping, and park style patio grille. Covered ocean side deck, roomy covered street side porch, and a swimming pool contribute to the ideal family vacation. Bed Linens (Beds in Bedrooms only) and Bath Mats are supplied for Weekly Units only. No Towels supplied but can be rented.
- Holden Beach
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 9
But despite being an instrumental component to the island's very existence, and a protector against erosion and storms, Bald Head Woods serves a more visible role as a fun, outdoor destination for visitors to enjoy off the beach. A popular spot with bird watchers, hikers and nature fans alike, this rustic destination allows vacationers to easily step off the beaten path, and dive into Bald Head Island's natural landscape.
There is no place better to vacation than “Shearer Heaven”. This new construction home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and upgrades throughout. Savor a convenient location that is just a short walk to the beach, community pool and pickle ball court, or spend evenings riding bicycles through the residential streets soaking in the salt air. As you enter the home you are instantly welcomed into the heart of the home! The gorgeous kitchen forms a brilliant open living area that is filled with natural light and crisp décor. Complete with an eat in bar, the kitchen features granite counter tops, a generously sized undermount sink, enormous pantry, and stainless-steel appliances. A deck off the kitchen overlooks the community pool and is a ideal perch to relax with a cold drink in the evenings. The open great room seamlessly flows to the dining area which will accommodate six guests, and then to the living room which is furnished with a huge sectional couch. A deck off the living room provides another outdoor getaway to escape to and is the ideal location to appreciate your morning coffee.Upstairs the first bedroom you will arrive to is the primary bedroom. Furnished with a plush king-sized bed, the primary suite includes a sizable walk-in closet, intelligent tv, dual vanity, and handsome walk-in shower. Down the hall you will find the first guest bedroom which offers two twin-sized beds and a sizable closet complete with suitcases rack. A full-size washer and dryer are in the hall closet for added convenience. There is a full bathroom located near the laundry room that serves the two guest bedrooms. This bathroom features dual sinks as well as a combination shower tub with tiled storage nook and spray wand. The third guest bedroom is furnished with a queen bed. With handsome, vaulted ceilings, this guest bedroom offers two closets as well as a sitting bench. Make sure that you do not miss the spectacular sunrises, famed donuts at Britt's, Thursday nighttime fireworks on the beach and quality time with your family making lifelong memories. The North Carolina Aquarium and the Fort Fisher historical site are great day time activities for everybody to savor. Catch a ferry ride over to Southport for the day for some great local dining options or spend the day hiking in the maritime forest of Carolina Beach State Park. Venus fly traps and native pitcher plants can be spotted in the park seasonally and make a really memorable experience. You'll want to immerse yourself in the myriads of activities offered on Pleasure Island. Book today for a really memorable family friendly experience! Occupancy: 6.Stay Requirements: Flexible arrivals year-round with a minimum of 2-nighttime stays. Linens Configuration: 1 King, 1 Queen, 2 Twin. Parking: Assigned parking on site for 2 cars. Pet Policy: No family pets allowed.Prohibited: Animals, Smoking, RV’s, Boats, Boat Trailers, Charging Golf Carts, Mail and Packages are not able to be sent to the rental. Featured Conveniences: Keyless Entry, Covered Parking, Enclosed Outdoor Shower, Community Pool, Pickle Ball Court. Cancellation Policy: Full refund within 24 hours of booking, cancellations at 31+ days before check-in will receive a full refund after a $350 cancellation fee is deducted, cancellations at 15-30 days before check-in will receive a 50% refund of monies paid less a $350 cancellation fee and less than 15 days prior to arrival is not subject to a refund. All policies are subject to possible additional refund based on re-rental, excluding non-returnable cancellation costs and travel insurance (if applicable).Bryant Real Estate, established in 1952, is a professionally operated firm that is licensed in North Carolina and hired by the property owner to manage “C317 – Shearer Paradise” as a vacation rental.
- Carolina Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
The small but well-stocked Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is a charming little attraction that may not take very long to explore, but nevertheless presents a complete and fascinating portrait of this surprisingly long-standing beach town.
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.
4 Bedrooms | 2 Baths2 Kings | 2 Queens | 1 Twin TrundleFind the beach vacation you’ve been dreaming about at Wish Upon a Starfish. Conveniently located less than a seven-min. walk from many dining and entertainment options and only half a mile from the nearest public beach access, this ranch-style home on a double lot provides a peaceful neighborhood vibe for your time spent off the beach. Two dogs up to 60lbs each can appreciate playing in the sizable fenced-in yard while the family relaxes on the cavernous screened-in porch. A huge driveway provides plenty of parking for cars, trucks or even your boat, and a public boat launch is located just around the corner.The open-concept living and dining area is brightly lit and welcoming. A comfortable sectional and armchairs located across from the huge flat-screen T.V provide the ideal place to gather together and savor a favorite movie, and the enormous dining table seating eight stands ready for family dinners or game nights. The adjacent kitchen is completely outfitted with all the cookware needed to prepare your catch of the day–or more standard fare snared from the close by grocery store.Directly off the living room, you’ll find the primary bedroom, complete with a king bed, flat screen T.V. and modest desk area for those who may need to bring work with them to the beach. The attached private bath provides a step-in shower stall. Down the hall from the kitchen is the second bathroom, with a standard tub/shower combo. Two bedrooms are also located in this hallway. The first has an additional king bed and a flat-screen T.V. The second has a queen bed and twin trundle and also has a flat-screen T.V.The final bedroom is off the dining area and provides an additional queen bed and flat-screen T.V. Directly across from this room is the laundry and utility closet, with a washer and dryer as well as storage space for your beach bags or equipment. Just outside the side entrance door, you’ll find a roomy screened porch as well as access to the fenced backyard. Parlor in the egg chair or gather around the table for lunch under the shade and protection of the screened porch with a ceiling fan to keep you comfortable. Swim around in the private pool on those warm afternoons. Then gather around the backyard firepit as the evening breeze cools the air and exchange stories as you roast marshmallows. Thoughtfully furnished, located among oak trees and close to everything Oak Island has to offer, all that’s missing in this happily ever after is you!
- Oak Island
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 9
Nature lovers who want to take an in-depth and self-guided exploration of Southport's wild terrain can take an easy stroll down the "Marsh Walk." This long boardwalk that begins along Brunswick Avenue on the edges of the busy downtown ends, essentially, in the middle of nowhere, with incredible views of the Cape Fear River, Elizabeth River, and miles of the waterfront terrain that defines Southport as a uniquely coastal town.
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.
Summary:Escape to "The Hideaway," your private slice of heaven on Ocean Isle Beach. This gorgeous oceanfront getaway offers direct, effortless beach access, accepting you to seamlessly transition from your doorstep to the sun-kissed sands and calming waves.The Space:Oceanfront Bliss: Wake up to striking expansive ocean vistas and fall asleep to the gentle lull of the surf.Cavernous Living: With 4 comfortable bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, there's ample space for families and groups to relax and rejuvenate.Bright & Airy Kitchen: A completely equipped, bright kitchen provides all the essentials for preparing delicious meals, ideal for casual breakfasts or family feasts. Gather & Unwind: The broad living room invites relaxation, while TVs in every room ensure everybody stays entertained. Outdoor Oasis: Step onto the sizable back deck, furnished with comfortable lounge chairs and seating, ideal for soaking up the sun and appreciating the coastal breeze. The private backyard extends your outdoor living space, creating a serene environment. Refreshing Outdoor Shower: Rinse off the salt and sand in the convenient outdoor shower.Privacy and Peace: Located at the end of a peaceful street, this home offers ultimate privacy and a calming escape.Beach Fun Supplied: We've thought of everything! Appreciate 4 beach chairs, a beach umbrella, kids' beach toys, body boards, and fishing poles, ensuring countless hours of oceanside enjoyment.Game Time: challenge your friends and family to a corn hole match in the grass backyard! Grilling perfection: Savor cooking out on the gas grille (propane supplied) Home Comforts: We provide linens, bath and beach towels, hand soap, and dish detergent for your convenience."The Hideaway" is more than just a beach home; it's a place to create lasting memories. Book your memorable Ocean Isle Beach vacation today!The Neighborhood:Why Ocean Isle Beach?Unspoiled Beaches: Feel miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing, shelling, and building sandcastles. The gentle waves and soft sands create an ideal environment for relaxation and recreation. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ocean Isle Beach features a welcoming and safe environment, making it a favorite destination for families. Enjoy leisurely bicycle rides, playful days at the playground, and quality time with appreciated ones. Tranquil Escape: Escape the hordes and embrace the calming ambiance of this cozy coastal town. Ocean Isle Beach offers a slower pace of life, accepting you to relax and reconnect with nature. Breathtaking Sunsets: Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky with vibrant hues, creating unforgettable moments and impressive photo opportunities. Abundant Outdoor Activities: From fishing and kayaking to paddleboarding and surfing, Ocean Isle Beach provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Local Charm: Explore the stunning local stores, delicious seafood eateries, and friendly community that make Ocean Isle Beach a really special destination.Proximity to nature: The ocean isle beach park, and the marshlands surrounding the island offer a chance to discover the natural habitat of the area.Ocean Isle Beach Pier: Take a walk on the pier, fish, or just appreciate the view.Ocean Isle Beach is more than just a vacation; it's an experience. Come and discover the magic of this coastal paradise and create memories that will last a lifetime.Getting Around:Bikes and Golf Carts (not included) Barefoot or Flip-flops
- Ocean Isle Beach
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 10
The New Hanover County Arboretum, located on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington on Oleander Drive, is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers everywhere. With seven acres of greenery, and gorgeous foliage that changes with the season, every visit offers a new way to experience the native and beloved plant life of Wilmington in a perfectly tranquil setting.
New visitors to Wrightsville Beach may hear the phrase “The Loop” tossed around by locals and long-time visitors in-the-know. This initially unfamiliar term actually refers to one of the town’s literally largest attractions – a roughly 2.5 mile long path that circles through the very heart of town. Popular with walkers, runners, and even four-legged visitors, this unique little trail offers a great opportunity to explore the center of this popular beach vacation destination.
PRIVATE POOL! Sensational vistas of the ocean as well as the ICW can be seen from the porches of this island home! Very well-maintained inverted home on peaceful street off the boulevard. Five bedrooms with 3 full baths and 2 half baths allow for huge gatherings. Open floor plan with enormous great room and kitchen. This home has 2 fridges for additional storage to save from multiple grocery store trips, as well as an air fryer, and an outdoor gas firepit for any cool nights! Beach access located between 1017 OBW & 1019 OBW. FYI: This home is not part of the Pointe West community. Bed linens included (Beds in bedrooms only) for weekly units. No Towels supplied can be rented.5% discount for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and first responders with identification.***Pool can be heated upon advance notice for a fee. Pool is heated to a max. of 90 degrees but can only maintain a temperature of 15 - 25 degrees above the outside temperature. Pool heaters cannot operate if the temperature outside is below 55 degrees. Pool heaters will not be turned on June-August. Please call for more details.***
- Holden Beach
- 5 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 15
Visitors to historic Southport who want to make a beach escape, or Carolina Beach travelers who need an easy yet scenic route to head south will find the Southport / Fort Fisher ferry a convenient yet completely unique way to explore the southern North Carolina coastline. Though just a short 35 minute ride from the mainland to Pleasure Island, (the home of Fort Fisher State Park, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach), this ferry trip nonetheless gives its passengers exceptional views of the Cape Fear River, and an incredible story to take back home.
With easy proximity to Masonboro Island and the outlying beaches, the Cape Fear River, and miles of creeks and bodies of water in between, kayaking is a dream in the Port City. Wilmington is home to a wide range of kayaking clubs, equipment providers, and miles and miles of trails, which means that any outing can turn into a kayaking adventure in no time. Explore the various guided tours and clubs available, or find a boat ramp and / or launching site and embark on your own adventure. No matter what kind of excursion you crave, Wilmington always sets the stage for an exceptional paddling adventure.