[20] Tropical storms are a continuing source of concern, e.g., in the 1996-1999 period, four major hurricanes (Bertha, Fran, Bonnie, and Floyd) made landfall and had significant effects on the area. Winters are moderate with an average temperature in the 50s (°F), albeit with brief cold periods. These are the top things to do in Oak Island. Some people don’t like seafood (gasp), and luckily Oak Island has more than a handful of way better than average eateries. Back in the 1800s, a military base was built to protect the mouth of the Cape Fear River, which is in fact along Oak Island’s shores. [27] The Frying Pan Shoals Light Tower is a decommissioned lighthouse located approximately 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Oak Island, North Carolina. That’s why you should take a helicopter tour. My family saw a strange light formation over the water tonight, probably a few miles off the coast. Probably the most obvious thing to do is go to the beach. Those with less time, inclination or a budget for heading offshore should also consider one or … 5 amber colored lights in an angled formation over the ocean, probably a few miles from shore. However, this slice of paradise is considered to be somewhat of a serene getaway, as it doesn’t see the same traffic as Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach. Oak Island is located on the Atlantic Ocean coast in Brunswick County, North Carolina near the South Carolina border. Ever wanted to stay the night in a lighthouse/tower off of the NC Coast? [17] In 1962 the first 9 holes of the Oak Island Golf Club designed by George Cobb opened for play. But the fish tacos and house-made, super crunchy potato chips are stars too. Oak Island Fishing Charters offers several different outing options. Long stretching beaches, piers that create a stunning silhouette against a North Carolina sunset, and dramatic trees and foliage give Oak Island a pristine southern beach presentation. Only a short drive from Wilmington, this area with an immense amount of preserved charm manages to deliver that dream vacation of both excitement and calmness. Rent a jet ski from Carolina Watersports. Whether it’s just a hobby or profession, you’ll leave with some seriously jaw-dropping shots. All these waterways also attract a large number of kayakers. Dramatic landscapes and the unique shape of the island can be seen while whisking around in the sky. [18] A second high rise structure (Swain's Cut Bridge) crossing was completed in 2010. When the ICW was completed, a swingbridge initially provided this service. Please fill out highlighted fields and click "Compare Prices" to continue. A barrier island, it contains the towns of Oak Island and Caswell Beach, Fort Caswell (since 1949 home to the North Carolina Baptist Assembly) and the Oak Island Coast Guard Station which is co-located with the Oak Island Lighthouse. Pizza Shack outdoes its basic name, even though they describe themselves as “no frills”. In 1938 it was sold to a private owner and moved directly across the road from its original location near where the current lighthouse stands. Kayaking is a chill way to get out into the water, and it doesn’t take long to get the hang of handling a two-person vessel. Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. Though the town employs a large number of officers, petty thievery and break-ins are rampant. Oak Island is quintessential coastal Carolina, with incredible sunrises and sunsets, along with a healthy population count. With two fishing piers, Oak Island is beloved by seasoned and beginner fishermen alike. The texture is rich, creamy, and dreamily indulgent, and the outdoor seating is a special touch. [29] Bird Island is an undeveloped barrier island along North Carolina’s southwestern coast … You don’t have to fish to go out on a boat, you can rent a boat just to yourself, or there are boating tours that just take guests for a scenic ride through the surrounding waters. Lil and John’s Sweetreat Ice Cream Parlor, Top 15 Under-the-Radar Travel Destinations, 10 Best Barbecue Joints in North Carolina, Top 14 Things to Do Outdoors in North Carolina This Fall, Top 12 Airbnbs in Asheville for Every Budget & Style. In 1958, the Oak Island Lighthouse became operational. [21] More recently, in October 2016, the eye of Hurricane Matthew passed almost directly over the island inflicting significant damage to the dune system,[22] and in September 2018, Hurricane Florence caused severe flooding and wind damage in addition to washing away most of the beach sand added earlier in the year.[23]. [4] In 2013, along with the Fort Caswell Rifle Range constructed during WWI,[5] it was designated as a National Historic District. [31], Coordinates: 33°54′49″N 78°06′40″W / 33.9137°N 78.1111°W / 33.9137; -78.1111, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Oak_Island_(North_Carolina)&oldid=953222707, Landforms of Brunswick County, North Carolina, Wikipedia articles with WorldCat-VIAF identifiers, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 26 April 2020, at 08:49. The Community of Oak Island unofficially began in 1825 with the construction of Fort Caswell. Located on the east end of the island, in 2004 the Town of Caswell Beach acquired it and in 2007 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Oak Island is plagued with crime. The island alone is home to over 65 public beach accesses...so you'll always have somewhere to lay your towel and soak up the sun. Almost 13 miles long, the island averages about one mile wide. Perspectives of even the beaches and lighthouse change. It's peaceful, serene, but also is home to a bustling small town atmosphere. Oak island isn’t overcrowded like many popular destinations nearby, and one can easily spread out and toss the football on the flat, compacted sands or just read a book in peace. OAK ISLAND -- Researchers are calling an iron-hulled Civil War era steamer found in … 7-Nt Caribbean Cruise on Navigator | Save 67%, 6-Nt W. Caribbean Cruise on Caribbean Princess, Exclusive Norwegian Cruise Offers From 30% Off, Serenity All-Inclusive Saint Lucia Resort | Save 60%, 3-Nt Bahamas Cruise on Norwegian Sky | 34% Off, Coconut Bay Beach Saint Lucia Resort | Save 55%, Florida | Beach Package at The Seagate Hotel & Spa, Save 72% | 3-Nts Miami Hotel - Free Cancellation, 5-Nt Mexico Cruise on Royal Princess w/ $200 credit, Florida | Winter Golf Package in Palm Beach, Save 69% | 3-Nts San Diego Hotel - Free Cancellation. 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