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.
Celebrating its 31st year in 2025, the annual Bark in the Park is a playful competition that pits high flying canines of all varieties in a number of competitions that will delight participants and their human spectators alike. Featuring a number of activities, and absolutely free to the public, Bark in the Park is a great outing for family members of all varieties, and especially the furry ones who love to make new friends and show off their stuff at one of the coolest parks in Wrightsville Beach.
Known as one of the most-watched and most intense competitions in the Cape Fear area and miles beyond, the Ironman 70.3 North Carolina puts athletes of all ages to the test with an incredible course that requires endurance and massive feasts of strength. Featuring a swim, bike ride, and run, this "point-to-point-to-point-to-point" event will wow spectators from all across the Cape Fear region with its incredible course, and incredible athletes who participate.
Ties up your laces and get ready for one of the biggest running and fitness events that the Cape Fear area has to offer! The annual Battleship Half Marathon, 10K and 5K is a popular running event that attracts active visitors from all across the county and beyond, and which provides a perfect opportunity to explore the local landscape of the southern N.C. coastline while enjoying a little competitive fun.
Discover one of the prettiest regions of the coastal Cape Fear area with this annual event that always attracts runners, walkers and joggers from all across the region and well beyond. The Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon & 5K is a fun and yet competitive race that features some of the best scenery on the beach, and which is open to visitors of all ages and abilities.
Runners, joggers, and walkers of all ages and abilities can explore the scenic coastal landscape of Oak Island while enjoying an invigorating dose of activity at the Run Oak Island event. This annual event features a variety of courses that can range from a 1-mile fun run or walk to a full half marathon, which allows active visitors of all ages to get out and explore in a lightly competitive and all-around fun environment.
For more than 10 years, runners from all across the country have stormed the beach for this annual event that presents a great opportunity to explore all the gorgeous waterfront scenery that the Cape Fear coastline has to offer. The Wilmington Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying event and an USATF-certified qualifier, and features a fun and unique course that starts at the beach and which uncovers all the cool landmarks and landscapes that are found in this coastal corner of North Carolina.
Celebrating its 22nd year in 2026, the annual St. Patrick’s Low Tide Run is a great way for visitors and locals to explore the coastal Carolina Beach scene while ringing in the holiday with a little active fun on the sand. Officially known as the “Steve Haydu St. Patrick’s Low Tide Run,” in honor of two amazing men whose paths crossed on Carolina Beach, this annual run features costumes, cool views, and beautiful terrain throughout, as well as plenty of ways to celebrate.
Clean and uncluttered beaches and a remarkable local history combine to make the Fort Fisher State Historic Site one of coastal North Carolina's most treasured barrier island attractions. This incredible locale, just miles away from Carolina Beach, is home to gorgeous stretches of shoreline, thickets of nature trails and live oaks, and the original site of Fort Fisher itself, a relic of the 1800s and an instrumental turning point during the Civil War.
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.
Savor your Coastal Retreat on the Canal at Happy Hour!LOCATION:Ocean Isle Beach, located in North Carolina, is a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine sandy beaches, family-friendly ambiance, and variety of outdoor activities. Located on a barrier island, it offers impressive ocean vistas, calming sunsets, and a welcoming community. Visitors can appreciate water sports, fishing, and exploring local stores and eateries. With its blend of natural beauty and laid-back appeal, Ocean Isle Beach is a ideal destination for a calming hideaway or a memorable family vacation.ABOUT THE PROPERTY:Just five mins. from the beach, Happy Hour is a handsome property with five cavernous bedrooms and five bathrooms, providing ample space and privacy for up to 13 people. Plus, it's pet-friendly for up 2 dogs who weigh 35 pounds or less so your furry friends can join in the fun, too!This family-friendly getaway is thoughtfully equipped to ensure a relaxing and delightful stay for everybody. We provide all linens and towels so you can pack light and focus on appreciating your trip. Our prime location offers painless access to shopping and the pristine beach, accepting you to discover and savor the area with ease.With Happy Hour located on the canal, you have even more of an excuse to bring your boat or use our kayaks supplied to enjoy the day on the Intracoastal waterway! Cruise to the famed Bird Island or enjoy the cool Breeze at Tubbs Inlet.For your days on the sand, we've included all the beach essentials you'll need, such as chairs, umbrellas, and toys, making your beach outings effortless and fun. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a charming hideaway, or a fun trip with friends, our beach rental home promises a memorable and hassle-complimentary experience. Book your stay today and create memorable memories with your appreciated ones!Linens/Bath Configurations:First Floor-Room 1: King with full bath Room 2: King with full bathSecond Floor- Room 3: Twin/twin x2 with a trundle bed available for useRoom 4: Queen with desk for remote work and full en-suite bath Hallway bath Room 5: Queen*There is also a full bath in the garage on the ground level.*This home is pet-friendly and accepts up to 2 family pets under 35lbs. Pet approval and a $250 non-returnable pet fee will be required. HOME RULES:- Please do not use water balloons or chalk on the patio or driveway as they have caused permanent stains in the past.- No pets are allowed on the property at any time unless you have received written approval from our reservations team.- No deep fryers or fire pits are allowed for use on the property at any time.- No Chinese lanterns or fireworks are allowed.- Please do not move or rearrange furnishings.- No unauthorized events or gatherings are allowed.- No jumping or diving from balconies allowed at any time.- No leaning or climbing on the balcony railings.- Guests are responsible for supervising kids and teens.CANCELLATIONS & TRANSFERS: A guest may cancel a reservation and receive a full refund, excluding any credit card processing costs (a total of 4% of the total paid). Cancellation requests must be in writing (via e-mail or letter) clearly stating cancellation of the reservation at least ninety (90) days before the check-in date. Cancellation requests within ninety (90) days of check-in date for any or no reason (including the failure to pay the final payment due 90 days before the stay), including inclement weather, will not be eligible for a refund of any payments made to Oasis Vacations LLC. All cancellation requests shall be submitted in writing and are effective when received and confirmed by the Agent. All transfer requests shall be submitted in writing at least (90) days before the check-in date and are subject to approval.
- Ocean Isle Beach
- 5 Bedrooms
- 5 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 13
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
Welcome to Palm & Pier, your ideal beach escape at North Pier Ocean Villas in sunny Carolina Beach! This freshly refreshed 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo combines modern comfort with coastal appeal—and it's just steps from the sand, pier, and ocean breezes.Sleeping Arrangements:Primary Bedroom: King bed with ocean vistas and ensuite bathSecond Bedroom: Queen bedThird Bedroom: Bunk bed with two twins + pull-out trundle (ideal for kids or additional guests)☀️ What You'll Appreciate:Private balcony with ocean vistas—ideal for your morning coffee or sunset drinksRoomy open-concept living room, kitchen, and dining area—ideal for gathering with family and friendsTotally outfitted kitchen with modern appliances and island seatingBright, coastal-inspired décor and fresh furnishings throughoutCommunity pool + direct beach access just steps awayPrime location near Carolina Beach Boardwalk, local dining, and storesThe cleaning fee includes towels and linens for your stay; however, you will want to bring your own beach/pool towels. While we do provide some items to get you started, here are a few things to bring:ToothpasteToilet PaperCondiments/SeasoningsPaper TowelsSuntan Lotion/SunblockClothes HangersGarbage BagsLaundry DetergentDishwasher DetergentBeach TowelsPlease note: The 5% processing fee of the total reservation amount is non-returnable after booking.???? CONDO RULES:Must be at least 25 years old to bookNo smoking in or on-premiseNo family petsLocal Attractions & Things to DoCarolina Beach Boardwalk – Just steps away! Appreciate stores, live music, amusement rides (seasonal), and the famed Britt's Donuts.Carolina Beach State Park – Explore spectacular hiking trails, go fishing, or visit the only native Venus flytrap habitat in the U.S.Fort Fisher Historic Site & Aquarium – Tour a Civil War-era fort and visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, featuring sharks, sea turtles, and a touch tank!Kure Beach Fishing Pier – One of the oldest piers on the East Coast! Great for fishing or a calming walk with ocean vistas.Island Hopping & Boat Tours – Take a ferry to Southport, rent a kayak, or book a sunset cruise for a unique water adventure.Local Breweries & Eateries – Sip craft beer at Good Hops Brewing or savor fresh seafood at Michael's Seafood Restaurant.Live Music & Events – Check out local festivals, beachside concerts, and fireworks during the summer.Shopping & Souvenirs – Browse unique coastal stores and beach stores for the ideal vacation keepsakes.Bicycle Units & Outdoor Fun – Ride along the coast, take a surf lesson, or rent a paddleboard for an active day outdoors.Wilmington Day Trip (30 min drive) – Stroll the historic riverwalk, tour the USS North Carolina Battleship, or discover the striking downtown area.
- Carolina Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 7
While Wilmington visitors will arguably enjoy the best views of the Cape Fear River, this distinctive river actually spreads out throughout most of the coastal and piedmont regions of North Carolina, originating in the town of Haywood, just north of Greensboro, NC, and flowing all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Our Peace of HeavenOur calendar is refreshed in real-time & our nightly prices are accurately displayed. Simply enter your desired dates and click 'Book Now!'Indulge in the ultimate beachside experience at this freshly remodeled coastal haven. Thoughtfully updated with brand new rich wood floor and serene, designer-selected, newly painted tones throughout, every detail of this home has been curated for your comfort and relaxation.Renovated Beach Escape – Ocean Vistas & Steps to the Sand!Feel coastal living at its best in this freshly updated island getaway! With upgraded wood floor and fresh, calming paint throughout, this inviting home is designed for relaxation and comfort.Take in striking ocean vistas right from the property, and savor an effortless short walk to the beach, making every day a beach day. After a day in the sun, cool off in the exhilarating private pool, supplied with more beach and pool toys, chairs, and floats than you'll find anywhere else.Inside, the home is impeccably clean, completely equipped, and thoughtfully maintained, with plenty of plush towels and everything you need for a anxiety-complimentary stay. The comfortable ambiance and gorgeous outdoor space are ideal for families or modest groups looking to relax together.Conveniently located near local shopping and dining, with fast, responsive customer service always available, this beach hideaway checks all the boxes for a amazing, memorable stay.Don’t miss the chance to appreciate ocean vistas, comfort, and convenience — book your island escape today!THINGS TO KNOWPlease note that cable TV is only available in the living room.If you are bringing a dog on your trip, the pet fee is already supplied in your quote when selecting ‘Yes’ to family pets. If you would like to add more dogs, please contact us. The pet fee is per stay and ranges between $150 and $200, depending on the bedroom count, and will apply for each additional dog.Parking notes: There is complimentary parking available for 4 cars.Due to local laws or HOA requirements, guests must be at least 25 years of age to book. Guests under 25 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the reservation.
- Oak Island
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 11
Wilmington is brimming with activities that are ideal for the younger crowd. From amazing tours on the Cape Fear River to a host of sites and attractions that are ideal for kids, keeping everyone in the family – especially the youngest members – is a breeze in this engaging town. Start your family-friendly expeditions by ensuing that these amazing activities and destinations are on your vacationing agenda. With so many adventures waiting to be discovered, it’s no wonder that Wilmington continually lands on the top of the list of Kid Friendly North Carolina Vacation Spots.
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.
4 Bedrooms | 3 Full Bathrooms2 Kings | 2 Queens | 1 Twin-over-double Bunk Bed | 1 Queen Sleeper CouchLive your best beach life at Sandy Toes Bungalow! Let your cares drift away as you float in the backyard's private saltwater pool, appreciate island breezes from the comfort of the screened back porch or discover the local area with ease when you rent the optional golf cart (complete with a local beach parking pass) for an additional $400/stay. You can even bring Fido along, as this home accepts up to two dogs weighing up to 50lbs each per stay.Gather together on the sectional to stream your favorite shows in the evening or settle at the adjacent dining table for meals or a family game nighttime, where you'll find seating for six and an additional two seats at the breakfast bar. The kitchen provides plenty of counter space and all the equipment you need to prepare meals together. Around the corner, a more private breakfast nook provides a second dining table set for four and is flooded with natural light.Each bedroom on the main floor of the home is furnished with its own TV for personal entertainment. A full bathroom with a standard tub/shower combo and double vanity is located between the first two bedrooms, one of which has a king bed while the other provides a twin-over-double bunk bed and a queen bed. The master bedroom is also furnished with a king bed and offers a private en suite bath with a hottub soaking tub and a step-in shower stall.Downstairs, you'll find a modest apartment complete with its own living area, where a queen sleeper couch offers additional sleeping space if needed. Kids will adore curling up on the comfortable bean bag chairs to watch their favorite show on the TV between trips to the beach. There is also a compact second kitchen on this level which includes another full-sized refrigerator, a standard full bathroom and a stackable washer and dryer. The only bedroom on this floor has a queen bed and also provides its own TV.There are plenty of outdoor spaces to savor as well. Drink your morning coffee at the captain’s chairs and table on the covered front porch or relax on the outdoor couches on the screened back porch as the kids play in the pool below. The backyard is entirely fenced so kids and dogs can play safely. Sit around the firepit to toast marshmallows and share stories on cooler evenings or play cornhole under the shade of the home. Clean up your catch at the fish cleaning station and clean up your kids in the outdoor shower with hot and cold water after an impressive day on the beach. Cook out on the supplied charcoal grille and dine alfresco at the poolside picnic table. However you spend your days, they’ll be filled with fun at Sandy Toes Bungalow.
- Oak Island
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 13
Renowned as a small but substantial piece of Southport’s history that was almost lost in the wake of 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, the Southport City Dock reopened to grand acclaim in the 2021, and has regained its reputation as a popular Southport tourism destination ever since.
Situated on the edge of the Cape Fear Coastline in between the bustling towns of Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, the Masonboro Island Estuarine Reserve is a unique slice of undeveloped and natural barrier island shoreline that’s an important habitat for countless coastal species. Hard to reach but wonderfully isolated, visitors who make a trip to this literal deserted island will be rewarded with great shelling, beautiful landscapes, and miles of beaches to go around.
The Beach House Motel & Suites is a comfortable, cozy, clean, and economical boutique property for the ideal vacation. With the ideal Oak Island accommodations for every style, The Beach House Motel & Suites offers 22 units, including ten double-occupancy rooms and twelve one- and two-bedroom suites. Check-in and check-out are hassle-complimentary and you can contact us anytime for assistance with special requests or needs for your family. We're always here for you!The hotel is located on breathtaking Ocean Drive, and provides striking ocean view rooms with an simple walk to the handsome beaches, and is within walking distance to the Oak Island Pier and eateries. Oak Island has countless opportunities for fun in the sun whether you want to relax by the pool or get out and find your next adventure. There are tons of great things to do in Oak Island! There is an on-site common laundry room, shared pool, outdoor grilles and picnic tables for use, an outdoor common shower, bicycles, and beach chairs and umbrellas for rent!A Carolina Resort Collection property.
- Oak Island
- 1 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 2
The sunny Wrightsville Beach Park, conveniently located in the heart of town, is a fantastic destination for an outdoor adventure that doesn't necessarily entail a trip to the beach. Adjacent to the Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation's main facilities, the Wrightsville Beach Arboretum, and plenty of wide open green spaces, this park is a perfect spot for enjoying a little free fun in the sun, without the risk of getting sand in the shoes.
The history of Wilmington is one of the biggest lures for vacationers, as this popular Port City has an undeniably fascinating background that can be effortlessly explored and uncovered today. From its early roots at the dawn of the Colonial era, to its tumultuous role in the Civil War, the story of Wilmington is always engaging and as distinctive as the cityscape itself.
Zenn-La is a roomy and comfortable home that is sure to take your idea of relaxation to another level. It is a 5-min. walk to the beach, one block away from the greenway, and a mere mins. drive to local eateries, stores, and the boardwalk. Whether your plan is to lay in the sand, discover all that Carolina Beach has to offer, or catch up on some much needed rest, “Zenn-La” has you covered.
- Carolina Beach
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 12
The Riverwalk in Downtown Wilmington is a showstopper of a stroll that is a distinctive attraction all its own. Originally conceived in the 1980s as a way to generate more interest and tourism to the Cape Fear River waterfront regions of Wilmington's historic Downtown, today the Riverwalk encompasses a full mile of scenic boardwalk, hugging the borders of the riverfront, and providing visitors with endless views and easy access to some of the Downtown's most beloved attractions.
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.