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2025 Nightlife Guide

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Wilmington Sunset Beach Ocean Isle Beach Holden Beach Oak Island Bald Head Island Southport Kure Beach Carolina Beach WrightsvilleBeach
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Victory Beach Vacations

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 The Marsh Harbour Inn-Room 6 ...

This enchanting getaway sleeps 4 with a Queen and king bed and plenty of space to relax and appreciate yourvacation on Bald Head Island. Guests will savor the charming 4 poster beds, woodfloors and sitting area with cable TV. High speed wi-fi is included for your browsing enjoyment atno additional cost. Appreciate serene vistas of the marsh from within or while appreciating your cavernousfurnished deck. Spectacular sunrises begin a peaceful and peaceful beginning to your day ofrelaxation, adventure, or both! For your convenience, a microwave, mini refrigerator, and coffeemaker will enhance your stay. Starter packs of coffee and gourmet teas are included along withyour favorite additions. Take advantage of our roomy decks, screened porch, and outdoorgrilling area. Grab a rocker on the front porch to watch the boats, Yachts, and our own BaldHead Island Ferry come and go in the Harbor – you're on island time! Eateries, bars, OldBaldy, and West Beach are a breathtaking walk away.A 4-person golf cart is supplied for your Island adventures during your stay with us. No worries,it's complimentary! That is a savings of roughly $80 per day for cart units on the island. Golf Cart  Daily Hot BreakfastShoals Club available with separate purchase Families Welcome! Animals not allowed No smoking allowed except for Decks and Porches High speed Internet supplied Cable TV supplied Bicycles – First Come First Serve Beach Towels Beach Chairs and Toys - First Come First Serve Pack n Play – Inquire for availability Roll Away Bed – Inquire for availability Roomy Common Room with fireplace Breakfast Area/Meeting Room Corn Hole Outdoor Grille area with Marsh-side vistas Outdoor Dining and Picnic Table Furnished open Decks and screened Porch Walking Distance to Eateries, Bars, Beach, Marshside, and Old Baldy Swimming – Sunbathing Fishing Shelling Surfing Kayaking Paddle Boarding Scenic Drives Sight Seeing Historic trails through the Maritime Forest

  • Bald Head Island
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park

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.

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Welcome to "Miss Me Yet" - Your Ultimate Canal Front Retreat! Located in the serene West End of Holden Beach, "Miss Me Yet" offers a relaxing escape from the bustling world. Discover the ideal blend of relaxation and tranquility as you soak in the striking surroundings and rejuvenate your senses.Delight in seamless access to the Intracoastal Waterway from your very own private dock. Whether you're a boating enthusiast or simply appreciate the serenity of the water, this is heaven for water lovers. Embark on a short walk to Ocean Blvd West, where you'll find painless beach access. Sink your toes into the soft sand, bask in the warm sun, and let the relaxing sounds of the ocean wash away your worries.This gorgeous canal front home features three bedrooms and two baths, providing comfortable accommodation for up to six guests. Each room is thoughtfully designed to ensure a restful stay. The open living room and well appointed kitchen area are the ideal place to savor some family time.Forget the anxiety of parking woes. "Miss Me Yet" provides plenty of parking space for your convenience. Plus, relax in the calming ambiance of your private yard, complete with a exhilarating outdoor hot/cold enclosed shower.We understand that your furry companions are part of the family. That's why this water front home is pet-friendly, accepting you to create memorable memories with your four-legged friends. For added convenience, a dog park area awaits close by on Scotch Bonnet Dr.NOTE: This property has an exterior video-only security camera which is monitored on check-in and check-out days only.Pet Friendly: $250 Non-returnable pet fee is required and is limited to a single dog up to 50 pounds. An additional dog(s) may be allowed supplied that they are pre-approved by PROACTIVE Vacations. Additional Fees will apply for more than one dog. Guests must crate family pets when they are left in the home unattended.Discounts may be available for this property. To view your total vacation price, including any available discounts, please input your stay dates with number of guests and click Book Now. (Don't worry, your vacation will not be booked until you have confirmed the terms)

  • Holden Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Top 10 Things to do in Brunswick NC

When you’re vacationing on the Brunswick Islands, it can be hard to figure out what to do first. Boasting miles of stunning shorelines, lots of attractions and activities, and plenty of shops and restaurants, this southern North Carolina region earns its reputation as one of the most all-encompassing beach vacation spots on the coastline. So start planning your upcoming vacation by ensuring these popular things to do are on your itinerary. From world class golf courses to stunning landscapes that truly shine at sunset, the Brunswick Islands offer miles of fun around every sandy corner.

Cheerful Cottage - Beach Retreat - Near ...

You've found the ideal home to relax with your family and friends at the beach! This 3 bed, 2 bath home sits on a peaceful street just three blocks away from the boardwalk! The main living space is ideal for getting together with it's comfortable couches and openness to the kitchen and dining spaces. The cavernous bedrooms are comfortably decorated so you can relax after a long day at the beach. The best feauture of the home is the broad outdoor space in the impressive screened in porch! It's ideal for appreciating your morning coffee or a drink at the end of your day. Linens are supplied, and the kitchen is ready to prepare!The main living spaces of this home are open concept, so the living room with plenty of seating space for your group opens right into the kitchen. There is counter seating at the kitchen peninsula, and it has been supplied with all of the essentials that you'd need to savor a home cooked meal during your stay. There's an additional dining nook for additional indoor seating as well as an outdoor table. Two of the bedrooms have queen size beds, and there is a murphy bed in the third that can be put up for additional space when not in use. The best part of this home is the outdoor space! There's an outdoor shower ideal for coming back from the beach, and the screened in porch is a great place to relax at the end of the day.Guests will have access to the entire home, screened in porch, yard space, and driveway for parking. There is a locked owner's closet for our storage, but otherwise you'll have use of everything in the home. Please be sure to review our cancellation policy prior to making your reservation. We strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance at the time of booking. Thank you for booking with us!

  • Carolina Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Driving on the Beach - Cape Fear and Brunswick Islands

The coastline of North Carolina is unique in that beach-goers have ample opportunities to explore the shoreline from the comfort and convenience of a 4WD vehicle. From the northern Outer Banks along the Virginia state border to the sunny beach towns that border Wilmington, visitors will find that there are plenty of options when it comes to cruising the coast.

Masonboro Island Estuarine Reserve

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.

Hobbs Realty - \

Big Water is ideal for your family vacation! Appreciate your morning coffee from the screened porch of this striking Dunes home (1K, 1Q, 4T).Unwind on the ground-level swing, or savor a cookout underneath the bungalow with the included charcoal BBQ and picnic table. The enclosed outside shower has a dressing area. Beach access is located about 110 yards away at the end of Seagull Street, then down 2 homes to the right.Savor a welcome set of starter amenities, including one roll of paper towels, trash bags, laundry and dishwasher pods, dish soap, and a sponge. All bathrooms include one roll of toilet paper, trash bags, shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion, makeup wipes, and bar soap.All dogs deserve their day at the beach! This owner invites you to bring your canine family member along, up to 65 pounds. Your first doggie stays for complimentary, and your second dog requires $500 per week in Doggie DuesAs a gift to you, this home offers a $250 credit for you to select top-quality beach gear for your vacation stay. You can choose from a range of items including bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, body boards, and more. Simply select the gear you want for your vacation at least 48 hours before your scheduled check-in date, and VayK Gear will take care of the rest! Please note, a modest delivery fee may apply.​​​​​​​There is definitely no smoking allowed on this property.

  • Holden Beach
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Brunswick Islands Top Attractions

While it’s easy to spend a full vacation relaxing on the beach or on the golf course, visitors who spend some time off the sand or the greens will discover that the Brunswick Islands are brimming with enticing attractions. From the historic museums and lighthouses, to the casual fishing piers with island-wide ocean views, these are the “can’t miss” destinations for visitors who love a coastal adventure.

Cape Fear & Brunswick Islands Fishing Guide

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.

Fenced in yard, Short walk to the beach ...
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Welcome to Inner Child Gone Wild!!! The ideal location in Oak Island with tons of space for all! This home has a great layout that offers tons of flexibility. and so much natural light, you will know you are at the beach. The additional sizable deck, screened in porch, and fenced in backyard with firepit give you many of options to savor the outdoors.This home offers four huge bedrooms and three full bathrooms.The kitchen is well equipped so you can appreciate cooking and making memories with newer generations.This beautiful home is a short walk from the beach, middleton park which has a playground and splash pad for the kids, basketball and tennis courts, an off leash park for the dogs, weekly farmer's market, and also festivals, movie nights, and concert throughout the season. Also very close by is the nature park, intercoastal waterway, public dock access for boat and kayaks, numerous eateries, ice cream shop, donut stores, coffee home, gift shop, Publix supermarket, ABC store.While we mostly walk when we are here, you can rent a golf cart just 3 blocks away, or even have one delivered. You can also rent bicycles and e-bicycles on the island as well. This home is has four enormous bedrooms. all bedrooms have Intelligent TV OR a Roku equipped TV to access your own favorite shows:BR #1- 1 King bed, upstairs, direct access to bathroomBR# 2- 2 Queen beds, downstairs- direct access to bathroom and direct access to screened in porchBR #3- 2 Queen beds, downstairs, direct access to private bathroomBR #4- 1 Full and 1 Twin bed, upstairs. Full size desk.The kitchen is entirely supplied, with blender, hand mixer, slow cooker, pots and pans, cooking silverware, a keurig duo coffee machine so you can make one serving or one pot. The kitchen also has dine-in area for 4.In the open floorplan living room you will find board games and a intelligent TV to keep everybody entertained. An additional huge, super comfortable couch, chairs, stools, and puff cushions for everybody to gather. The dining room sits up to 8 people, there are additional chairs in the closet.Screened in porch with rocking chairs and couchDeck with chairs, rocking chairs, and picnic tables.Firepit, hammocks create a chill area in the backyardLinens are supplied by a third event company and are delivered individually wrapped in plastic. This means the beds will not be made. You should bring your own beach towels. In your welcome bag you will have toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, some dishwasher soap, laundry detergent, and few more goodies. You should bring your own toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap)For the dogs we provide multiple gates, food/water bowls, blankets to cover the furnishings, and a crate. There’s a modest section of the fence that is 2.5’ tall, it is surrounded by plants and it hasn’t been an issue for most dogs. But if you have an escape artist, something to look out for. You MUST pick up after your dog. Please note for everybody’s safety, we have installed exterior only cameras at the deck/driveway and door.Linens are included by a third event and will arrive individually wrapped for sanitary reasons, beds will not be made.Oak Island has so much to offer! the lighthouse is one of the few in NC, 2 piers, pier fishing, units for water activities such as paddle boarding, kayak units or kayak tours. If you are here for more than a few days, a trip to Southport is a must! and a trip to Bald Head Island via the ferry is well worth it!You'll appreciate it!

  • Oak Island
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 13
Best Surf Fishing Gear for 2025

Once you have your coastal recreational fishing license in hand, it’s time to start thinking about gear. Anglers will find tons of options when it comes to equipment for casting into the surf, from custom designed rods and reels at local tackle shops, to name brand varieties that are designed for multiple areas along the coastline. Here are just a few of the most popular gear options for surf fishermen. Keep in mind that there are endless options available, and your local bait and tackle store staff will be happy to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about what you’ll need for successful surf fishing in any given area along the North Carolina coastline.

Brunswick Islands Beach Rules & Guidelines

The Brunswick Islands offer a number of communities where enjoying the beach is always a breeze. From the small town of Caswell Beach to the enticing and hopping town of Ocean Isle, here’s everything you need to know about enjoying this barrier island stretch of shoreline.

Ocean View, 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath with direc...

Feel countless beachfront joy at 'Ocean Isle Be Back.' Our all-season condo offers year-round luxury with ocean vistas, direct beach access, and a private pool. Embrace the sun, sand, and relaxation, any time of year.Located directly on the pristine shoreline, this condo accepts you to step from your doorstep onto the soft sands and into the inviting waters of the ocean. Whether you're building sandcastles with the family, taking charming sunset strolls, or simply calming by the water, the beach is your personal playground. No matter the season, this condo invites you to savor the joys of coastal living. In the summer, bask in the sunshine and savor beach activities. As autumn approaches, relish in the milder temperatures and the calming ambiance of the off-season. Even in winter, the coastal appeal remains, making it a comfortable hideaway with the ocean as your backdrop."Ocean Isle Be Back" is charmingly located for both relaxation and adventure. Explore close by attractions, indulge in the local cuisine at Jinks Creek (the best place to see the sunset from the island!), Sharkey's, Ocean Isle Fish Company or Inlet View. Finish the nighttime off with some delicious ice cream at the Ocean Isle Beach Creamery or some Italian ice from Sunset Slush. From impressive coastal towns to outdoor recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and beachcombing, Ocean Isle Beach is the place to be! As the day winds down, sip a beverage on the balcony while watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors. Secure your dream coastal hideaway at "Ocean Isle Be Back," where the allure of the ocean and the delight of a pool converge. Embrace the year-round beauty of the beach and experience a vacation that blends relaxation, adventure, and the serenity of the sea. Book now to make memories that will call you back time and time again.Guest access: Whole condo and the pool/common areas.

  • Ocean Isle Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion

One of Kure Beach’s newest pubic parks is already becoming one of its most popular, thanks to a prime location along the oceanfront, and a host of concerts, shows, and special events that have all been held within its borders. The Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion is home to the town’s largest public green space, and is perched along the oceanfront, inviting visitors to stop by and admire the scene. Fun for big community-wide events and everyday visitors alike, this park is charming both the visitors and locals of Kure Beach.

Sea Shanty - Great Canal Home on Private...
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Nicely furnished and decorated canal home located at private end of street with all new appliances, floor, carpet and countertops. This home features a enormous 4g 55-inch flat screen intelligent TV in the living area with a whole-home DVR. New living room furnishings. Well equipped kitchen, TV's in all bedrooms, new floating dock, enclosed hot/cold outside shower and a huge pinball machine downstairs for additional entertainment. New for 2018, a MS. Pac-Man arcade. Beach access located down the street between 915 & 917 OBW.Bed linens included (Beds in bedrooms only) for weekly units. No Towels supplied can be rented. ***Strict 3 PM Check-in***

  • Holden Beach
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 6
Oceanfront & Pool with gorgeous views fr...
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We've dubbed our Condo "Chillaxing" stemming from the feeling of chilling on the front deck calming with a cold drink in hand oceanfront. This condo has been completely modernized that includes cavernous living quarters and has enough room for 7 people. Each of the 2 bedrooms has been decorated with comfort and class in mind. Each bedroom has a deck, with the master facing the ocean and the guest bedroom deck having a view of the canal. The condo features flat screen TVs in each room (Netflix included), and freshly refreshed appliances and hardwoods throughout.

  • Carolina Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 7
Wilmington Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park, which encompasses a decent chunk of the popular Downtown Riverwalk, is a scenic region which will lure visitors into pulling up a bench seat, staying a while, and enjoying the miles of Cape Fear River views on the horizon.

Laid Back By The Sea - Steps from the be...

G1 - 2 Bedrooms, 2.0 Baths (Sleeps 8) It is time to get Laid-Back by The Sea in our 2br 2ba condo which sits justacross a modest street from the beach with great vistas of the ocean! Bedroomsinclude a QUEEN in the master with private full bath and a FULL plus twin bunkbeds in second bedroom just off the hall. There is also a queen sleeper couchin the living room ensuring the condo will sleep 8 comfortably! There is alsoa shared tub/shower combo in the hall bath. Intelligent TVs and complimentary Wi-Fisupplied so you may choose to stay connected even while on vacation. The handsomely refreshed Kitchen is completely equipped and supplied with all yourcooking needs such as microwave, toaster oven, dishwasher and both a standarddrip and Keurig coffee pot. The huge deck off the living room overlooks the North End of our islandmaking this the ideal location to savor your evenings after a long day inthe sun or morning coffee at the bar height table and chairs for anunobstructed view! Ready for a change of scene? Head just 2 Blocks south tothe REEFS I / II where you will find the pool access. Parking for 2 cars supplied with rental. Less than 2 miles to the center of Carolina Beach for shopping, eateries,and the gorgeous Carolina Beach Boardwalk! Or take a 5-min. drive down tothe Fort Fisher Aquarium and the ferry which takes you over to Southport whereyou will find a day full of appeal. - BOOK TODAY- relax and Get Laid-Back byThe Sea!

  • Carolina Beach
  • 2 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Fort Johnston - Southport Museum

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.

Waterfront, Sunset Views! Historic Dwtn-...
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Waterfront refreshed 5 Star 1st floor condo located in Downtown Historic District on the peaceful south end of the Cape Fear Riverwalk! Unwind and appreciate the impressive sunsets and water vistas while you lounge or dine on the enormous fenced private deck. Walk to eateries, bars, shopping, events and local attractions. OWNER PROVIDES PARKING SPACEMaster Bedroom: Sweet dreams on this King Serta "Cool to touch" Memory Firm Mattress with Crown and Ivy cotton linens and down and feather pillows. Full size dresser and 55" intelligent TV.Bath: Custom high end bath with towels, hairdryer and toiletries.Kitchen and Dining: Dine alfresco on the patio along the river or inside at your hight top table for 2. Full kitchen, well equipped with Keurig coffee maker, pods and supplies.Living Room: Stylish and comfortable living room with Poly and Bark Italian leather couch overlooks the Cape Fear River. When it's time to drift off to sleep, the comfortably retractable sleeper couch will send you to dreamland in no time. Laundry: Stackable washer and dryer is located in hall closet. Laundry soap is supplied.

  • Wilmington
  • 1 Bedrooms
  • 1 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 4

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is the place to go for family-oriented or even late-night fun after a sunny day on the beach. Noted as one of the top 10 boardwalks in America by Food & Wine magazine, this classic oceanside boardwalk features a full host of shops, amusements, restaurants, and nightlife for visitors of all ages to explore.

Beer Barrio is a chic Happy Hour destination in the heart of Downtown Wilmington that’s renowned for ice cold drinks, fresh cuisine, and an abundance of good times. A perfect stop for refueling after a lengthy downtown exploration, this cool bar and eatery will be a favorite local destination for both beer lovers and taco fans.

Billy Ray’s Family Restaurant is a unique destination that attracts sports fans and southern cooking fans alike. Located in a busy but more local section of Carolina Beach Road, this relatively new eatery serves up big plates, cold drinks, and plenty of fun.

Beer and wine lovers will be in a casual and locally cool heaven when they pay a visit to Cape Fear Wine & Beer – a longstanding local bar and beverage shop that has been raising the bar for beer fans for nearly 15 years. Located in the heart of the downtown area, and just a block away from the waterfront, this central destination will be a haven for late-night visitors and afternoon explorers alike, with plenty of ice cold brews to shake off the local heat and enjoy a cool break with a no-frills vibe.

Take a break from the daily grind and dive into a game of volleyball, a trivia night, or just a few rounds and a hearty meal with friends and family with a visit to Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill & Sports Bar. This unique destination that’s appropriate for all ages features an expansive sand volleyball court, plenty of indoor and outdoor porch-style seating, and a menu that’s just casual enough to appeal to all appetites.

Downtown Wilmington explorers don’t have to venture too far to discover the Port City’s exceptional theater scene thanks to the conveniently located City Stage Theater. Featuring a “Level 5” bar, an intimate stage area, and a rotating series of plays and performance that utilize the talents of some of the area’s top local performers, patrons can enjoy a world-class night at the theater while never straying too far away from home.

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating than a big belly laugh, and Wilmington’s own Dead Crow Comedy Room is a perfectly convenient destination for Cape Fear visitors to sit back, enjoy a drink, and let loose with some of the region’s, and even the country’s, most talented comedians.

The Fox and Hound Pub & Grille is a prime destination for visitors to relax with a pint and a hearty meal after a long day of shopping in the ultra-posh Mayfaire Town center. Featuring a full menu of drinks and lunch and dinnertime traditional pub fare, the Fox and Hound is a good destination for casual bar-style grub that’s just slightly elevated and refined.

Movie buffs and foodies alike will have a fine time at Hell’s Kitchen, a chic little Downtown Wilmington restaurant that had a guest role in the homegrown TV series, “Dawson’s Creek.” Located just a couple blocks away from the waterfront, this eclectic restaurant is a prime spot for visitors to take a break from the shopping and sightseeing, and just enjoy a cold drink and a little taste of Wilmington’s eclectic dining scene.

“Pleasure Island” is all about having fun, and the Hoplite Pub & Beer Garden, a true pub or “public house” lives up to this reputation with a full menu of brews and pub grub, and a relaxed setting that stays open well into the early morning hours.

Summertime visitors who want to hop off the beach and enjoy a cold drink, an easy-going bite to eat, and a fine oceanfront view can stroll along the boardwalk to reach Hurricane Alleys. Located just off the dunes, this beach bar and restaurant in the heart of Carolina Beach features shaded outdoor seating, light interior seating, (and plenty of dance space on hot summer nights), and a popular rooftop deck where the adjacent boardwalk and Atlantic Ocean vistas can be admired.

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill is a fun destination for a Happy Hour drink and round of appetizers, an easy-going lunch or dinner, or a late-night snack right before the party begins. Located next to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, and popular with the local angling crowd and vacationers alike, this eatery with a cool local tavern atmosphere is a laid-back destination for a round of drinks and a few good eats.

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating and TVs to watch the big games, Jax is a popular lunch stop, hang-out, and late-night destination for Wilmington locals and vacationers alike.

Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely original destination where food, drinks, live music, a hookah bar, and even belly dancing can all be found. A popular hang-out with the college crowd, and a fun late-night destination for laid-back yet cultured individuals of all ages and tastes, Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely unique icon in Downtown Wilmington’s food and drink scene.

Katy’s Grill and Bar is a haven for sports fans, thanks to a recently renovated living room, a full bar with rows of flat screen TVs, a cool outdoor dining area complete with shady umbrella-topped tables, and an array of flags outside that pays homage to all the top North Carolina teams. Featuring a cool beach atmosphere, a convenient College Road locale, and a big menu with all the fan food staples, Katy’s Grill and bar will be a favorite local destination on game day.

King Neptune Restaurant is an all-encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night hot spot that boasts a friendly hometown vibe, and a big wave of classic American fare with a coastal and southern influence. Known as a solid breakfast and lunch option, as well as a laid-back local bar after the sun goes down, this restaurant can cater to a wealth of appetites for fun, drinks, or filling food.

Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill is a fun spot for beach fans and night owls alike, with a wealth of entertainment that’s just steps away from the wide outdoor patio and bar. Known for ice cold drinks, casual beach eats, and plenty of ways to stay entertained during a lazy Happy Hour or during a night on a town, this fun spot is a nice representation of what makes “Pleasure Island” a playground for adults.

Might as Well Bar & Grill is a modest-sized bar and restaurant that’s a solid destination for filling food and Happy Hour or late-night drinks with friends. Boasting a big array of beverages and drink specials, as well as varied but ultimately filling fare, this neighborhood destination is a fun hang-out for local college kids and professionals alike.

The Old American Fish is a popular bar on the water’s edge of Southport that has a magnificent view and a unique and decades-long history. Located at the very end of Yacht Basin Drive, it’s an easy spot for downtown visitors to wind down after a full exploration with a cool cocktail, a cold beer, and a little dose of history with a picturesque Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) backdrop.

Poe’s Tavern is an effortlessly chic spot for Happy Hour drinks, a post-beach meal, or a late night adventure with friends reminiscing about the day over a round of beers or two. Featuring a cool brick and dark wood interior, with subdued lighting and a relaxed atmosphere, Poe’s Tavern is the place to linger over a big burger, a filling appetizer, an ice cold beer, or all of the above.

The SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is a casual little spot that has a definitive coastal vibe and a hearty menu that’s seemingly designed to appeal to salty appetites. Found just a block away from the oceanfront, and bordered by palm trees, this coastal eatery is a solid spot for a weekend brunch, a relaxed lunch or dinner, or a little late night entertainment just steps away from the sand.

Silver Dollar is a fine representation of what makes “Pleasure Island” a popular destination for the after-hours crowd. Located along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and sandwiched in between a couple of cool bars, restaurants, and shops, this restaurant and nightspot is a convenient spot for beachgoers to kick off their flip flops and have some fun.

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of outdoor and indoor tables and bar stools, and lots of big screen TVs in every direction, this entertaining and elevated pub will entice patrons to linger for another round, and a hearty bite to eat.

The Dive is an ultra-casual little spot that’s a fun destination for the after-hours beach crowd. Located just off of US 421, and bordered by a collection of beach bars, motels and restaurants, this little establishment is a subtle addition to Carolina Beach’s always bustling late night scene.

Take a trip to the edge of Downtown Wilmington to dive into authentic Irish cuisine with a visit to The Harp – a subtle little eatery that’s found just a couple blocks away from the Cape Fear Riverfront, and which features a casual but lively and friendly environment where pub fare can be enjoyed at its best.

Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill is a hidden gem that’s tucked away near the Masonboro Sound, and which serves as a popular hang-out for Wilmington residents in the Masonboro Loop and Monkey Junction area. Serving up good food and a fun bar scene, complete with big TVs that regularly broadcast the games, Whiskey Trail is a solid destination for food, fun, and even a little Happy Hour or after-hours entertainment.

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