In the fast paced lifestyle of today’s world, we often wish for the slower times of yester year, a life without a lot of bustle and high rise condo complexes and the blinding glare of 1000s of neon lights. If you went to the beaches back in the 60s on vacation you know exactly how that felt and looked.
Kure Beach has maintained that persona. Sometimes called “the sleepy beach town”, this small coastal village typically has 2,000 permanent residents. It was selected as one of North Carolina’s top 10 “most overlooked beaches” by the Travel Channel in 2014.
One of Kure Beach’s most famous landmarks is the fishing pier which holds the distinction of being the oldest pier on the entire Atlantic Coast. It was first built in 1923 by Mr. L.C. Kure who was an heir to the founder of this beach, Mr. Hans Andersen Kure.
Fort Fisher is an interesting historical site to visit. Sitting at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, Fort Fisher was a Confederate fort during the American Civil War. The artifacts and historical significance makes this place a “must see” if you’re in the area. Because this is a state park, the area is very natural with over 6 miles of undeveloped beach. The area in front of the fort and museum has a canopy of Live Oak trees that have been molded and shaped by the incessant wind blowing onshore from the ocean. The way these gnarled trees are bent in unison is unbelievable. If you have a four wheel drive you can enter a gate on the south end of the beach and drive to a secluded spot right on the ocean.
There are many more things to do and places to see. The North Carolina Aquarium is spectacular. There is a walking tour as well as a huge aquarium which holds 235,000 gallons and replicates an off shore reef. More strenuous activities include kayaking, canoeing, surfing, water skiing, and riding a wave runner. If you want to spend a day of ultimate fun, reserve a deep sea charter and head to the Gulf Stream.
Take the ferry from Southport or travel south on highway 421 until you see a little piece of heaven; that’s when you will know you’ve arrived at Kure Beach