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.
Zeke's Island Coastal Reserve is found just south of the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, and is one of the three original 1985 National Estuarine Research Reserve components dedicated by NOAA and the Division of Coastal Management. Encompassing a wide range of habitats, the lagoon-like reserve is one of the most important feeding regions of the North Carolina shoreline for a wide range of birds, and is a popular destination for nature lovers, mariners, kayakers, and birdwatchers alike.
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
Footsteps from the wide beach and rolling waves, you and your family (including the 4 legged ones) will create memories on this relaxing, calming and safe beach. Only a 5 min. walk down the beach and you'll be grabbing a bite to eat or a cold drink at one of the local eateries, a slushy at Sunset Slush or picking up some saltwater taffy at the local candy shop. For max. relaxation time you'll be rocking away on the comfortable, enormous back porch and appreciating a sunrise or sunset view (from late fall to early spring you will appreciate both sunrises AND sunsets from the back porch on the same day!). Welcome to Life is Shore-t!Many books, games, and puzzles await in the living area with plenty of space for everybody to spread out. A well-equipped kitchen is ready for you to make a family meal that can be appreciated in the cavernous dining room or at the outdoor picnic table. An sizable outdoor shower provides plenty of space to relax and cleanse after a long day at the beach. If some time away from the beach is in order, stretch your legs at the Holden Beach family park, basketball court and kids's outdoor splash area, a 5 min. walk away. High speed (1 Gig internet) & fiber to the home.Home is equipped with a whole home air cleaner & 3M clean living anti-allergen active carbon filter.For dog owners: If your dog is housebroken and does not chew on household items, they are welcome at Life is Shore-t. If you bring your dog, pick up family pets waste and dispose of properly. The outdoor shower includes a handheld shower head to make washing off the kids and pups a breeze. Note that Holden Beach does not allow dogs on the beach from May 20th to September 10th between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Up to 2 dogs are supplied in the dog fee. Contact owner if you have more than two furry friends who want to come to the beach, additional $350 non-returnable dog fee applies.Check-in: 4:00 PM / Check-out: 10:00 AMMin. age of primary renter: 25Bed linens and towels are not supplied (renters need to bring their own)Kids welcomeNon smoking onlyOnly pet dogs are allowed. No other pets allowed.Intelligent TVs in all rooms (cable service not included)Parties/events not allowed without prior approval by owner100% returnable if cancelled 90 days or longer of arrival50% returnable if cancelled 61-89 days of arrival0% returnable if cancelled within 60 days of arrival
- Holden Beach
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 12
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.
Welcome to Beach Haven Bungalow #2• Sweet 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom beach bungalow• Steps to the Beach• Luxurious Spa Bathroom, striking character & designThe Space• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom beach bungalow• Two gorgeous porches to watch sunrise and sunsets • Dedicated workspace• Expertly designed beach haven• Private Parking • SmartLock PIN Entry• Two queen bedrooms• Added additional nook• Totally equipped kitchen to meet all your needs • Please note there is not a conventional oven but there is a new, enormous toaster oven located under the stovetop in the cabinet.• Washer & Dryer in Unit• High-speed WiFi• Intelligent TV's• Pack & Play available if needed• We supply bed linens & bath towels. • We also provide enough hand soap, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, & trash bags to get you started upon arrival. However, if you are staying longer than a couple nights, please plan to supplement with your own supplies based on your personal needs.• Please note that we do require a signed rental agreement.Pet Policy• Please message us for pet approval prior to booking.• If possible, please add family pets to your reservation during the booking process. Once added, the $150 pet fee is included as part of the nightly rate (spread out equally over the course of the stay) and in the total price at checkout.• Pet fee is non-returnable and is a flat rate for the stay.• Limit is 2 dogs; no other animals allowed.• Must pick up all droppings from pet(s).• Dogs must be entirely housebroken.• Dogs are not allowed on furnishings or linensHouse Rules:• NO SMOKING. If anything is smoked inside, you will incur a $200 fee for deodorization treatment.• Check-in time is 4:00PM and check out by 10:00AM. Early check ins and late check outs are not available due to our cleaning schedules. Unapproved late check outs will incur a $200 fee.• No parking on premises before check in time or after check out time.• Self check-in with keyless PIN code lock• In order to avoid potential staining, please do NOT use bleach to clean anything during your stay. We have professional cleaners who will use bleach appropriately in between guests to ensure a high standard of cleanliness.• Only stainless steel cleaners may be used on stainless steel appliances. Other cleaners will cause stainless steel to rust, so please do not use them on the appliances.• Visitors must be approved by the host.• Be respectful of our neighbors. Keep noise volume low and no walking through neighbors yards.• Do not burn incense, essential oils, or similar items. These scents are difficult to remove before the next guest checks in, and some guests may have sensitivity to smells.• Guest must sign a rental agreement.
- Carolina Beach
- 2 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 5
It's hard to confuse the Old Baldy Lighthouse with the other Carolina lighthouses that guard the Eastern Seaboard. The unique structure has undergone some interesting natural and manmade changes during its nearly 200 year lifespan, but many visitors believe that the unique structure, the aging exterior, and the long history only adds to the overall charm. A must-see local attraction for day trippers and weeklong vacationers alike, the Old Baldy Lighthouse is easily one of the most interesting and admired sites throughout all of Bald Head Island.
Summary:Welcome to our Sea Breeze Bungalow - your ideal beach getaway on Oak Island! Our beautiful 3-bedroom unit is charmingly located just a short walk away from the pristine shores, offering you the ultimate coastal hideaway. One of the standout features of our unit is its proximity to the island's breathtaking walkover bridging the intercostal waterway. Our location is just mins. away from all of Oak Island's stores, dining, and attractions. Visit all Oak Island has to offer, or just sit back and relax!The Space:This is a comfortable duplex with two queen beds and a twin over full bunk that has a twin trundle bed underneath - ideal for families, friend groups, or even a couple's hideaway. All rooms are equipped with a intelligent TV for your enjoyment. In the main living area, you will find cozy seating, a 55" intelligent TV, and a high-top dining table. The kitchen is outfitted with all the cooking supplies you may need including a toaster, a full-size oven, a dishwasher, and a Keurig coffee maker. In the bathroom, you have a washer and dryer at your disposal as well as towels, basic toiletries, and an iron, steamer, and ironing board. Outside you may appreciate our outdoor dining set and outdoor shower to rinse off after a long day at the beach.Guest Access:You will have full access to your side of the duplex with your own private patio, outdoor shower, and assigned parking spaces.The Neighborhood:Located on the southern end of North Carolina’s striking coastline, the Town of Oak Island encompasses nearly 20 square miles; offering 10 miles of beachfront, along the 12-mile-long island from which the Town derives its name. The island itself is marked by the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) to the north. With roughly 8,400 residents year-round, the Town features a summertime population that swells to nearly 50,000 visitors and seasonal residents alike. However, the Town works hard at successfully maintaining a balance of its bustling, vibrant tourism, with the traditional, peaceful appeal of a modest southern town.Interaction with Guests:We live just a short drive away so don't hesitate to reach out, should you need anything!
- Oak Island
- 3 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 8
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.
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.
Welcome to "Sandy Dunes", a Freshly Constructed, elegant bespoke constructed oceanfront home. You will appreciate spectacular unobstructed vistas of the Atlantic Ocean in this 8 bedroom 6.5 bath home, which will comfortably accommodate up to 19 people. Your private 23 x 12 ft dune side pool is ideal for calming and entertaining, and a private beach walkway puts you just steps away from the ocean's edge. You will savor the convenience of having an elevator that takes you from the parking area to the 1st & 2nd floors. The first level features a handsome open floor plan with a sizable living and dining area overlooking the striking Atlantic Ocean. You'll be amazed at the vistas from the humongous ocean front covered balcony, just off the main living area. A spectacular gourmet kitchen is very well supplied and invites family and friends to gather around the huge bar area including a wine chiller, as well as in a enchanting dining area, which seats 14-16 people comfortably. Also located on the 1st floor is a bedroom on the street side with a private balcony. Off the main living area you will find a full sized laundry room with an additional ice maker. A huge pantry provides plenty of additional storage as well as a secondary refrigerator/freezer for your convenience. The second level offers a sitting area with a convenient wet bar, mini refrigerator, microwave & coffee maker and a drink refrigerator. This level offers a beautiful covered beach front sundeck and 4 additional bedrooms. On the top floor you will find a recreational area with 2 futons and a private uncovered balcony overlooking the ocean, as well as the remaining 3 bedrooms. You will appreciate the rare treat of having all beds made up and ready upon your arrival. Appreciate the convenience of having three fridges in which to stock up for your stay along with an additional ice maker. There are various decks and covered porches from which you'll enjoy taking in the vistas, watching the coastal wildlife, dining, entertaining and gazing up at the stars. An additional enormous charcoal grille is available for your use alongside the pool deck, and an outdoor hot/cold shower is available to wash the sand away at the end of the day. Stay connected and entertained with 11 flat screen tv's, high speed WiFi and cable. With all it's features, this island home is just the getaway you and your guests have been looking for on the peaceful West End of Holden Beach. Early Check-in is Not Available for this Property. This is a PET COMPLIMENTARY property Swimming pools are open each year from April 15 thru October 15. Pool heater may be available upon advance request only, with pool heating fee of $400 plus tax paid in advance. Pools are cleaned prior to arrival, and also cleaned mid-stay for 7 nighttime units. 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
- 8 Bedrooms
- 6 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 19
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.
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.
Appreciate a luxury 2 bed, 2 bath suite offering a one-of-a-kind lifestyle in historic downtown Wilmington, located in the iconic “Hotel Tarrymore”. Guests are only steps away from a variety of eateries and entertainment all while appreciating an fresh setting and fine amenities.The unit features: Chef inspired kitchen with designer lighting, entirely equipped kitchen with user friendly appliances, cookware, dinnerware, flatware, coffee station, plank floor throughout entire apartment, LG stainless appliances, frameless glass walk-in showers, quartz countertops with integrated sinks, cavernous balcony, bespoke closets, designer illuminated bathrooms, designer ceiling fans in all rooms, tiled shower surrounds, subway tile backsplash, washers/dryers.
- Wilmington
- 2 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 4
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.
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.
Dog Friendly w/ Fee | Access to Sunset Village Conveniences | Beach Gear SuppliedSun, sand, and countless golf? Say less! At this well-appointed Sunset Beach condo, you'll have no problem keeping your days full of fun. This 3-bed, 2-bath vacation rental has been carefully curated to anticipate your every need while you're in town, from supplied beach gear to access to the on-site golf course and club. After a few rounds, head down the coast to discover more gorgeous towns and striking beaches.-- THE PROPERTY --SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS- Bedroom 1: 1 king bed- Bedroom 2: 1 king bed- Bedroom 3: 2 twin bedsCOMMUNITY AMENITIES- Pool & hot tub- Tennis & pickleball courts- Golf course & pro shop- Year-round Christmas storeINDOOR LIVING- Flat-screen TVs- Group-friendly dining table, breakfast bar- Updated appliances & furnishings- New sheets, towels & showerheads- Game tables, drink stationOUTDOOR LIVING- Private screened balcony w/ outdoor seating & vistas- Beach gear (sunscreen, toys, blanket, coolers, chairs, snorkels, life jackets, surfboard & games)KITCHEN- Fridge, stove/oven, dishwasher- Keurig coffee maker (starter pods included)- Toaster, microwave, paper products- Cooking basics, dishware & flatware- Cutting boards, coffee stationGENERAL- Free WiFi, keyless entry- Central A/C & heating, ceiling fans- Washer & dryer, laundry detergent, iron & board- Linens & towels, trash bags & paper towels- Free toiletry samples, hair dryer, hangers, infant gate- Local dining & activity recommendations suppliedFAQ- Quiet hours (10:00 PM-8:00 AM)- Pet fee (paid pre-trip)ACCESSIBILITY- Stairs required for access- Single-story unitPARKING- Community parking lot (2 cars, first-come, first-served)-- THE LOCATION --- Painless access to local golf courses & dining options- 4 miles to Sunset Beach- 7 miles to Ocean Isle Beach- 8 miles to Museum of Coastal Carolina- 10 miles to Ocean Isle Beach Nature Trail- 32 miles to Myrtle Beach attractions- 38 miles to Myrtle Beach International Airport-- REST EASY WITH US --Evolve makes it painless to find and book properties you’ll never want to leave. You can relax knowing that our properties will always be ready for you and that we’ll answer the phone 24/7. Even better, if anything is off about your stay, we’ll make it right. You can count on our homes and our people to make you feel welcome — because we know what vacation means to you.-- POLICIES --- No smoking allowed inside. Guests can smoke on the balcony- Pet friendly w/ $150 fee (+ costs & taxes, dogs only, 2 max)- Please bring your own pads for dogs that aren't crate-trained- No events, events, or enormous gatherings- Please observe peaceful hours from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM- Must be at least 25 years old to book- Additional costs and taxes may apply- Photo ID may be required upon check-inADDITIONAL INFORMATION- This single-story unit is located on the 2nd floor and requires exterior stairs to access
- Sunset Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6
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.
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.