Oak Island

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Oak Island's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive at Oak Island and settle into your beachfront rental, taking a moment to absorb the salty air and serene vibes. Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll along the pristine shores while collecting seashells and enjoying the sunrise. Sip your coffee as you watch the waves roll in, setting the tone for a week of relaxation.

afternoon
:

After a light lunch, explore the local shops and boutiques in the nearby town, finding unique souvenirs and local art. Settle down at one of the local parks for a picnic on the shore, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Take the opportunity to try some water sports, like paddleboarding or kayaking, to feel the thrill of the ocean.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a family-friendly seafood dinner at one of the popular local eateries, indulging in fresh catches of the day. Follow up with a sunset walk on the beach, basking in the dusky hues that paint the sky. Cap off the night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories under the starry sky.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a guided bird-watching tour at the nearby Oak Island Nature Center, where you can observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Take in the beauty of the diverse ecosystems as you may spot pelicans, herons, and other fascinating species. The fresh morning air and the sounds of nature will refresh your spirit and inspire your day.

afternoon
:

After your nature excursion, head to the Point, the eastern tip of the island, where you can enjoy a picnic while watching the ships pass through the mouth of the river. Explore the tidal pools and sandy beaches, and if you're lucky, spot some dolphins playing in the water. Later, unwind at the local coffee shop, sipping on a delicious brew while chatting with friendly locals.

evening
:

Dine at a charming local restaurant known for its farm-to-table menu, filled with fresh ingredients from nearby farms and the sea. Post-dinner, take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic oceanfront paths as the evening air cools down. Grab some homemade ice cream to enjoy as you stroll and appreciate Oak Island's quaint charm.

day 3
Historical Discoveries
morning
:

Wake up early to visit the historic Oak Island Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. The rich maritime history of the area will fascinate you as you learn about the significance of this beacon. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café filled with coastal nautical elements.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Fort Caswell, a historic Civil War fort, where you can explore the grounds and learn about its history through informative displays. Have lunch at a local sandwich shop before heading back to the beach to enjoy soaking up the sun and sand. Thankful for the rich local history, enjoy water games or simply relax with a good book.

evening
:

Experience a history-themed dinner event, where local culinary delights are paired with tales from the island's past. After dinner, join a ghost tour to explore Oak Island's more mysterious past, filled with stories of pirates and treasure hunting. Wind down with a nightcap at a beach bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 4
Adventure and Fun
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of adventure. Challenge yourself with a round of mini-golf or head to the local arcade for some family-friendly competition. The playful atmosphere is sure to get everyone in high spirits.

afternoon
:

After your fun-filled morning, head to the beach for some more laid-back entertainment, such as beach volleyball or building sandcastles. Rent bikes again and explore more of the island's beautiful trails, relishing the outdoors. Make sure to take a break for lunch at a beachfront café, where you don't have to stray too far from the sand.

evening
:

Enjoy a themed night dinner at a fun family restaurant featuring live music or entertainment. After your meal, head back to the beach for an evening of stargazing, bringing along a telescope if you have one. Share what you see with loved ones, making memories that last a lifetime.

day 5
Fishing and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin the day with a fishing trip on a charter boat, setting out at the crack of dawn to catch some of the local fish varieties. Experience the thrill of the catch, and enjoy the camaraderie with fellow anglers in tutorial moments about fishing techniques. While at the ocean, appreciate the serenity and beauty around you.

afternoon
:

After returning from your fishing adventure, prepare a fresh catch for lunch at your rental with family or friends participating in the cooking process. Enjoy leisurely time on the beach, soaking up the sun and perhaps taking a refreshing dip in the ocean. As the afternoon shines, gather seashells or wander along the shore with your catch from the morning.

evening
:

Celebrate the day with a cookout at your beach rental, featuring your freshly caught fish, grilled to perfection. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and the sounds of waves as your group shares laughter and memories around the dinner table. Conclude the evening with a walk along the shore, collecting your thoughts and photos from the day.

day 6
Local Culture and Arts
morning
:

Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Oak Island Art Gallery, where you'll find works from talented local artists. Discover unique pieces reflecting the charm of the island and beyond, perhaps finding the perfect memento. Spend the morning engaging with the artists themselves, learning about their inspirations and techniques.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a cozy café in town allows you to refuel before taking a scenic boat tour to explore the coastline and nearby remote beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for local craft shops where you can pick up art supplies or sample locally made jams and honey. Enjoy your time mingling with locals while absorbing the creative spirit of the community.

evening
:

Attend an outdoor art and music festival if available, featuring local musicians and artists showcasing their work. Savor the season's flavors with food truck delicacies and enjoy the buzz of the festival atmosphere. After the event, head back to your rental to relax with a movie night, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.

day 7
Adventure at Sea
morning
:

Go on a dolphin-watching excursion, where you can see these playful creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying the ocean breeze. The thrill of spotting dolphins will create unforgettable memories, capturing photographs of their acrobatic displays. Relax as you take in the salt air, fully enjoying the morning on the water.

afternoon
:

After a boating adventure, enjoy lunch at a local dockside restaurant with scenic views and fresh seafood options. Spend the afternoon at the beach, beachcombing or setting up a beach game of frisbee or paddle paddleball. The vibrant atmosphere will keep you invigorated for the evening to come.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with an intimate beachside dinner, where candlelight and ocean sounds create a beautiful ambiance. Enjoy conversations filled with laughter and memories, strengthened by your shared experiences throughout the week. End the night by watching the stars come out, recounting the highlights of your ocean adventures.

day 8
Rejuvenation and Reflection
morning
:

Spend your final morning with a yoga session on the beach, allowing the gentle waves to guide your thoughts as you focus on peace and rejuvenation. The calming environment will provide a perfect backdrop for deep reflection and gratitude for your time spent here. Enjoy a lightweight breakfast overlooking the water, savoring every moment.

afternoon
:

Have a farewell lunch at your favorite local eatery, reliving your favorite memories of the trip while soaking in the coastal charm one last time. Afterward, take time to walk through the local farmers' market, picking up fresh produce and handmade goods to remember your experience. Consider crafting a scrapbook of your trip with the keepsakes gathered along the way.

evening
:

As evening falls, take a quiet walk on the beach, collecting your thoughts and enjoying the calmness of the water one last time. Have a farewell dinner at a restaurant that features your favorite dishes from your stay. Reflect on the trip and share what you'll miss most about Oak Island as you pack up for departure.

day 9
Departure and Memories
morning
:

On your final morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your rental while reminiscing about all the amazing experiences you’ve had over the past ten days. Pack your bags and ensure you leave nothing behind, taking one last look at the stunning ocean view. Do a final sweep of the beach, leaving a footprint of cherished memories.

afternoon
:

After checking out, take your time driving around the island to capture last-minute photos or perhaps visit one last favorite spot. Enjoy your lunch at a delightful café where you can sit and soak in the atmosphere one last time. Share stories of your favorite moments with everyone on the trip, solidifying those memories in your hearts.

evening
:

Begin your journey home while reflecting on the beautiful sunsets and ocean waves that have filled your heart with joy. Think about the return trip as you make plans to revisit Oak Island, vowing to create more memories in the future. Carry the essence of Oak Island with you, forever a part of your adventures.

Discover Oak Island

Read more in our Oak Island 2025 Travel Guide.

Oak Island Travel Guide