Few states match the variety of attractions available in North Carolina. Even once you’ve chosen between a getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains and a sandy vacay on the seaside, you’ve still got plenty of beach towns to choose from when planning the perfect vacation. Each has its own vibe and set of characteristics that make it special. Finding the right fit for your family is half the fun.
Just south of Wilmington, the last beach town facing Onslow Bay is Kure Beach. Pronounced like the word “curry,” it’s an idyllic spot where the pace of life is a little slower and the community spirit a little stronger. If you’re looking for arcades, amusement rides, and a beach party atmosphere, Carolina Beach or Wrightsville Beach are lively seaside towns with plenty of summer charm just a few miles up the road. On the other hand, Kure is a place for families and adults to unwind and stay awhile, a town of pretty and well-kept beach homes with a homely feel.
Kure Beach is a town surrounded by water. To the east, there’s the rolling surf of the Atlantic and miles of beautiful sandy beaches. On the west side, there’s the Cape Fear River, with its calm, shallow waters and islands perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. With so much water all around and an enormous historic fishing pier, it’s no wonder the town is also popular with anglers. Plus, the warm and clear water offshore harbors several wrecks that are popular with divers, including the Condor, which sank in 25 feet of water right off the beach in 1864.
Kure Beach is a vibrant seaside community
Kure Beach is known for its beautiful seaside homes and resorts, many of which are painted lively colors that make the entire town pop. The town has a relaxed community feel that can sometimes be missing in beach towns. Even though there are plenty of vacation rentals, there are also many full-time residents who give the town a welcoming and homey feel.
The center of town is at the end of K Avenue, where you’ll find the pier, beach boardwalk, and Ocean Front Park. Unlike its neighbor, Carolina Beach, which has lively amusement park rides and tons of cute shops, Kure Beach is more subdued. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing and taking a seaside stroll without getting too much sand in the car. The boardwalk stretches about 0.3 miles from the pier to the beach entrance at N Avenue. The 711-foot-long fishing pier is open for fishing or strolling and is one of the oldest in the state, built in 1923. Ocean Front Park has a pavilion that hosts live music and town events; plus, several cafés and restaurants are within walking distance.
The pavilion is also the site of the Kure Beach Market, held on Tuesday mornings during the summer. It’s a good place to shop for local products, art, and crafts. If you’re in the area, you’ll want to check out the history and nature at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which is just 2 miles south of town. It’s the site of an aquarium, a Civil War-era fort, and a large recreation area with miles of pristine beach.
Come and explore Kure Beach
