Oak Island is a gorgeous vacation destination any time of year, but it really shines in the summertime. There’s much to explore here, from exciting outdoor adventures to local tours and classic annual events like the Oak Island Summer Concert Series. The summer months are the most popular times to stay on the island for a reason!
As the weather heats up, you can feel the energy buzzing around Oak Island. Whether you’re visiting for a week's vacation or spending a long weekend to get some precious beach time in, you’re sure to have a great time!
Planning summer vacation can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out our Oak Island Summer Activities Guide to help you learn about all the happenings here in town!
For Adrenaline Junkies
Want to add a rush of adrenaline to your Oak Island vacation itinerary? Great! We have some incredible local activities that will bring that rush you need without the risk. Here are some of our favorite ways to get out and have a thrilling time on Oak Island:
High Tide Aviation
Get ready to fly high on an aerial tour of Oak Island! High Tide Aviation will take you high above the shoreline so you can see the island (and other parts of North Carolina, of course) from a whole new perspective.
Kevin Bell Skate Park
If you’re big into skateboarding, you don’t have to give up your favorite hobby while on vacation. Head down to the Kevin Bell Skate Park to get some reps in and see some seriously great skaters while you’re there!
Skydive Coastal Carolinas
Do you have a hankering to go skydiving? Now’s your chance. The skilled team at Skydive Coastal Carolinas will guide you through the experience, from training to free fall to landing with your parachute.
Fishing
Ah, now fishing is a classic activity here on Oak Island. The fish are always biting! Venture out on your own or choose a local fishing charter; either way, we’re positive you’ll have an incredible time.
Fishing Charters
Fishing Piers
For Fido
When traveling with pets, you want to be sure you're staying in a pet-friendly destination. Lucky for you, Oak Island is a great place to travel for a pet-friendly vacation! If you’re taking Fido along on your trip, there are numerous places where pups can let off some steam. Check out these local dog parks:
Dog Parks on Oak Island:
Hannon A. Templeton Park (On Oak Island)
- 4106 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465
- Amenities include fenced-in off-leash areas, separate areas for large and small/medium-sized dogs, watering stations, waste cleanup bags, sitting benches and shade areas.
Salty Dog Park at Bill Smith Park (Mainland)
- 4410 Fish Factory Road SE, Oak Island, NC 28461
- Amenities include fenced-in off-leash areas, activity structures, watering stations, waste cleanup bags, sitting benches and shade areas.
For Foodies
One of the most exciting parts about going on vacation is exploring the local food scene! There are so many incredible options when it comes to dining in Oak Island, from delicious desserts to craft breweries. No matter what you're craving, you'll find something great here on Oak Island. Let's look at some top choices below:
Spend a Morning at a Local Farmers Market
Visit a Local Produce Stand or Market
Grab a Sweet Treat
- Frosty’s Ice Cream
- Lil & John’s Sweetreat Homemade Ice Cream
- OKI Scoop Shop & Doughnuts
- Sunset Slush OKI
Sip a Local Vintage or Brew
- Carolina Crab Brewing Company
- Lonerider at Oak Island
- Solar Brewing Company
- The Grape & Ale
- Silver Coast Winery and Southport Tasting Room
For Kids
Oak Island is the ideal place to take a family vacation. There are so many exciting things to do here with your little ones. An Oak Island family vacation is one they’ll remember for a lifetime! These are our top suggestions for places to take your kids on and near Oak Island:
Go to the Beach!
A beach day is a must when you’re in Oak Island. The island has several great options: East Beach is the largest, West Beach sits in a more residential area, and Yaupon Beach is popular thanks to its pier, oceanfront restaurants and shops. Caswell Beach is quieter and less crowded, farther from the main action. No matter where you go, you’ll enjoy beautiful views and warm water—the Oak Island water temperature stays in the 80s all summer, so it’s perfect for swimming and playing with your little ones!
While you’re at the beach, there are plenty of activities you can partake in, like:
- Building a Sandcastle
- Flying a Kite
- Playing in the Tidal Pools
- Surfing the Waves
More Family Fun (Beyond the Beach)
- Makerspace at 2nd Story Art and Music Studio
- NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
- Oak Island Nature Center
- Oak Island Ocean Education Center
- Oak Island Jungle Golf and Arcade
For History Buffs
Oak Island has a rich local history that’s fascinating for anyone to explore, and if you’re a history buff, you’ll love it even more! Take yourself on a self-guided tour of Southport, or let a guide show you the ins and outs of the Oak Island Lighthouse. No matter which one you take, it's safe to say all of these local tours are great for learning about Oak Island’s history. You never know just what you’ll learn!
For Music Lovers
Now, who doesn’t love live music? There are plenty of opportunities for music lovers to hear the best of the local live music scene on Oak Island. Whether you want to perform karaoke or sit back and listen to the pros, there’s a place for you!
Oak Island Summer Concert Series
The Oak Island Summer Concert Series is the highlight for live music here on the island. From May 23rd through August 30th, gather and listen to outstanding performances from bands like Rivermist, The Sand Band, 52nd Street Band, and the Salty Dawgs. Concerts take place every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the Middleton Park Complex.
Looking for even more live music? Check out these spots!
For Nature Lovers
Since we’re located right on the coast, Oak Island is a fantastic place for nature lovers. There’s ample opportunity to see several bird species as well as marine wildlife during your time here! Common species include sea turtles, alligators, and even some dolphin sightings. As you're exploring the waters, keep your eyes peeled for birds like loons, herons, pelicans, and cardinals. Take a tour on the water or venture out on your own to see these animals, and enjoy gorgeous coastal views as you do so.
Tours on the Water:
- Southport Water Tours
- Dolphin Tours
- The Adventure Kayak Company (Guided Kayaking Tours)
- Town of Oak Island Kayak Tours
Other Water Activities:
- Kayaking
- Tidalwaves Kayak and Canoe Launch
- Shelling
- SUPing at The Point (Rent from local companies like Mr. Beach Rentals or Long Beach Paddle Company)
For Movie Lovers
We've covered several great outdoor activities so you can enjoy the gorgeous summer weather on Oak Island. But wait, what should you do if it rains during your vacation? Don't worry, there are still plenty of rainy-day options here to make your vacation a blast. For a rainy day (or just a relaxing change of pace), head to one of these local theaters to catch a flick!
For Sports Lovers
Whether you want to let your little ones release some energy or you want to get active yourself, there’s plenty of opportunity for recreation on Oak Island. We even have a collegiate baseball team you can watch if you're in the mood for spectating!
Oak Island Loggerheads Baseball
Nothing says summer like a day at the ball park. Sit back and enjoy a baseball game during your Oak Island vacation! The Oak Island Loggerheads are a local collegiate baseball team participating in the Old North State League’s Coastal Division. Tickets are only $10 for Adult GA and $5 for kids, so you can enjoy the game without breaking the bank! Your kids will love watching the Loggerheads, and you can enjoy an ice cold beer and relive your own favorite summertime baseball memories.
Middleton Park
If you want to get involved in playing some sports, Middleton Park is a great option. There's a playground here, as well as several sports facilities and even a splash pad for when the weather gets hot! Keep in mind that if you plan to play sports here, you will need to bring your own equipment (baseball bats, gloves, etc.). Additionally, you must pay to park at Middleton Park.
These are some of the amenities at Middleton Park:
- Baseball/Softball Fields
- Basketball Court
- Pickleball/Tennis Court
- Soccer Field
Golf
Oak Island is on the Brunswick coast of North Carolina, aka “the Golf Coast”. Suffice it to say, there are some great opportunities to get some swings in here. These are just a few of the best golf courses on Oak Island:
Book Your Stay on Oak Island Directly with Oak Island Accommodations!
Relax and enjoy summer on the beach in an oceanfront Oak Island vacation rental like our 5 Bed, 3 Bath "Sweet Retreat", pictured here.
Wow! There’s so much to explore during summer on Oak Island. That means you can tailor your trip to exactly what you need! Whether you spend your trip heading out on educational tours or lying on the beach, you’re sure to have a great time.
Now that you know how to fill your itinerary for your trip, the next step is booking your accommodations. Luckily, you’re already in the right place! When it comes to the best vacation rentals on Oak Island, look no further than Oak Island Accommodations. We have an extensive selection of vacation rentals on the island, with amenities ranging from dog-friendly properties to gorgeous oceanfront homes and even rentals with hot tubs!
No matter what you’re searching for in your Oak Island vacation rental, we’re confident we can help you find your place by the sea. Browse our available vacation rentals now and book your next trip to Oak Island directly with Oak Island Accommodations!