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
Oak Island Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk on the beach to catch the sunrise. It's a perfect time for some beachcombing and shell collecting.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy the fresh catch of the day. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the shore or taking a kayak tour.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Oak Island Lighthouse for stunning views. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a beachside restaurant.

day 2
Beach Day Bliss
morning
:

Spend your morning building sandcastles and swimming in the ocean. Make sure to pack a picnic for a fun breakfast on the beach.

afternoon
:

Try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding; rentals are available nearby. Alternatively, explore the local shops for some souvenirs.

evening
:

Wind down with a beach bonfire as you roast marshmallows under the stars. Enjoy a laid-back dinner with the sound of waves in the background.

day 3
Island Exploration
morning
:

Start with a boat tour of the surrounding islands to see local wildlife. Don’t forget your binoculars for bird watching!

afternoon
:

Stop by a local museum to learn about the history of Oak Island. Afterward, grab a late lunch at a charming cafΓ©.

evening
:

Catch a live performance at a nearby venue or enjoy an open mic night. Finish the day with ice cream from a local scoop shop.

day 4
Nature and Trails
morning
:

Hike the trails at Oak Island Nature Center and enjoy the beautiful views. Bring your camera to capture the scenic landscapes.

afternoon
:

Have a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas among the trees. Spend time bird watching or enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Return to your lodging to freshen up and head out for dinner at a local eatery that offers outdoor seating. Relax and reflect on the day.

day 5
Shell Seeking
morning
:

Explore the shoreline at low tide to find unique sea shells and treasures. Use a guidebook to identify your finds.

afternoon
:

Visit a local art gallery showcasing coastal art. Transfer your midday energy with a wonderful crab cake sandwich from a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Take an evening stroll down the pier as the sun dips below the horizon. Dinner at a restaurant with a view of the water will cap off your day perfectly.

day 6
Tee Off Day
morning
:

Start your day with a round of golf at the local course, enjoying the lush greens and ocean views. Don't forget to hydrate!

afternoon
:

Have a light lunch at the clubhouse. Continue the fun with mini-golf, perfect for families or friendly competitions.

evening
:

Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a steakhouse to celebrate a day well spent. Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar to unwind.

day 7
Coastal Cycling
morning
:

Rent a bike and cycle along the scenic coastal paths. Stop at viewpoints for stunning ocean sights along the way.

afternoon
:

Find a picnic spot for lunch and savor some local flavors. Afterward, visit nearby attractions like the Oak Island Historical Museum.

evening
:

Return your bike and head to a local beachfront restaurant for dinner. Enjoy the salty breeze and maybe a special event like trivia night.

day 8
Stargazing Night
morning
:

Visit the local farmers' market for fresh ingredients and breakfast snacks. Enjoy the community atmosphere and shop for goodies.

afternoon
:

Prepare a picnic with your market finds and head to the beach for lunch. Spend some time relaxing or playing beach games.

evening
:

After dinner, find a quiet spot on the beach to stargaze. Bring a blanket and perhaps a telescope for an unforgettable experience.

day 9
Fun on Water
morning
:

Join a surfing lesson with experienced instructors to catch the waves. It’s a thrilling way to experience the ocean!

afternoon
:

After your lesson, enjoy lunch at a nearby beach shack. Spend your afternoon trying other water sports like jet skiing or snorkeling.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Oak Island Lighthouse for stunning views. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a beachside restaurant.

day 10
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional coastal dishes. Enjoy a delightful breakfast and meet fellow food lovers.

afternoon
:

Savor the lunch you cooked in class, or explore a food truck gathering nearby. Indulge in various authentically prepared dishes from local chefs.

evening
:

Consider joining a culinary tour to sample dishes at different restaurants. Cap off your day with dessert at a local bakery.

Discover Oak Island

Read more in our Oak Island 2024 Travel Guide.

Oak Island Travel Guide