Top 7 things to do on Pleasure Island, NC and 2 BONUS spots to visit!

Article by: Mark Mayo

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Pleasure Island, NC consist of the following areas- Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Historic Fort Fisher. Here’s a list of the top 7 things to do on Pleasure Island while visiting along with links to each resource.

Table of contents:


1. Carolina Beach Charter Boats
Every kind of fishing you want to do is here. Inshore Fishing, Offshore Fishing, Flats Fishing, Near-Shore Fishing, Bottom Fishing, Gulf Stream Fishing, Deepsea Fishing, and Sportfishing. Let’s just name a few fish for you to catch: blue marlin, sailfish, wahoo, kingfish, spanish mackerel, dolphin, mahi, sharks, bluefin & yellowfin tuna, grouper, snapper, snook, redfish, tarpon, cobia, striped bass, sea trout, black drum, bonito, speckled trout, flounder, tripletail, shad.

2. Freeman Park
For a more quieter time head over to the completely undeveloped Freeman Park. Accessible only by 4WD vehicles, this dog friendly park is filled with an array of wildlife and sea grass indigenous to the Cape Fear Region. Open 24 hours, this seaside park is favored for boating, swimming, surf fishing, camping, picnics, and get together with friends and family over a late night bonfire. For a fee, day passes are sold at the park entrance.

3. Fort Fisher Civil War Museum
Take a trip back in time to a place rich in American history. The history of Fort Fisher is absolutely astonishing. It’s a must see for people of all ages. History Fact: Fort Fisher is still the location of the largest naval battle to ever take place on American soil.

4. N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Marvel at sharks, eels, sea turtles, alligators, and other aquatic life. Enjoy fascinating exhibits ranging from stingrays to shipwrecks, and touch live crabs and other sea life in the popular hands-on exhibit. Explore unique coastal habitats on educational field trips, and venture out to the sea on collecting expeditions. Call 458-8257 for more information.

5. Carolina Beach State Park
Take a trip to one of the most peaceful places on Pleasure Island, and a great place to watch the sun set. Located on the riverside of the island, you can venture down nature trails and see the native Venus flytrap. The park also has a campground.

6. Carolina Beach Arcade
This family and dog-friendly Arcade is located on the boardwalk in Carolina Beach. They have many new and classic arcade games for you to choose from. They are centrally located next to the boardwalk gazebo.

7. The Rocks
This construction of rocks was engineered by the Corp of Engineers in 1875. During low tide, people take a walk across the rocks to Zeke’s Island. This spot is great for fishing in the Cape Fear River and also has a boat ramp. Please note that Zeke’s Island is a protected natural area. Help to keep the area clean and beautiful for others to enjoy. While your visiting the rocks, take a trip to the Fort Fisher Civil War Museum located about a mile north of the rocks on HWY 421.

And here’s the 2 BONUS spots, while you’re passing through Wilmington, NC to get to Pleasure Island you should visit the following sites:

Battleship North Carolina
Located in Wilmington, one of the most visited sites in North Carolina. The battleship U.S.S. North Carolina is dedicated to the men and women of all U.S. military services who defended the United Sates of America during WW II. Tour nine decks and see the massive battleship in its original restored condition. Open everyday 8am-8pm during the summer. Rates: Adults 12 and over $9.00, Seniors (65 and older) & Military $8, Kids 6-11 $4.50, Children 5 and under get in free. Look for the exit signs as you cross the Wilmington bridge on HWY 74. Call (910)-251-5797 for further information.

The Cotton Exchange
Located in historic downtown Wilmington, The Cotton Exchange is an elegant trip back in time. There are many old style restaurants and elegant shops contained within the historic walls of one of Wilmington’s oldest buildings. Fine arts, clothing, crafts, antiques, toys, and many other shops, will surely provide you with an excellent shopping experience.

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