Nestled along the stunning coastline of southeastern North Carolina lies a hidden opportunity . . . a chance to visit Oak Island. Renowned for its beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Oak Island offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture, this charming island has something for everyone from deep-sea fishing charter boats, surfing, windsurfing, and kite boarding to 18 scenic holes at the Oak Island Golf Club. There is also history at Fort Caswell and North Carolina’s most unique lighthouse.
Many newcomers visit Oak Island for their more than 10 miles of soft, sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see from Fort Caswell in the east to The Point in the west. Oak Island’s history dates back to the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the region. European settlers arrived in the 18th century, and the area has since played a role in various historical events, including the Civil War. The island’s maritime history is significant, with the Oak Island Lighthouse being a notable landmark. Over the years, Oak Island has evolved from a quiet fishing community to a vibrant tourist destination while retaining its natural charm and historical significance.
Wreck of the Mary E. Morris
The coast of North Carolina, known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” is home to approximately 5,000 shipwrecks, including the Mary E. Morris. Built in 1884 in Camden, New Jersey, this three-masted, 400-ton schooner was carrying phosphorus from Charleston to Philadelphia, on it’s last scheduled voyage, when it sank during a hurricane on September of 1893, near Southport, North Carolina. For years, the ship’s remains were buried beneath the sands of Oak Island until erosion gradually revealed its oak hull. In 1999, Hurricane Dennis fully exposed the schooner, moving it along the beach and damaging nearby walkways. The Town of Oak Island removed the 138-foot-long schooner from the beach and has dedicated this exhibit to its memory. This slice of history is a great excuse to visit Oak Island.
Oak Island Lighthouse
Perched vertically across the coastal landscape, the Oak Island Lighthouse has guided sailors and fascinated visitors for decades. Rising 169 feet above the sandy shores of Oak Island, the lighthouse stands as a testament to the importance of maritime navigation along the North Carolina coast. It’s design stands in contrast to other Tar Heel State lighthouses like Cape Hatteras, Bodie Island, Currituck Beach, Roanoke Marshes and our favorite . . . Ocracoke. Constructed in 1958, the lighthouse was constructed to replace the aging Bald Head Island Lighthouse, reflected a more practical design approach and was, in fact, the last lighthouse built in North Carolina.
The Oak Island Lighthouse features a cylindrical, tapered tower, providing greater stability and strength to withstand strong winds and harsh weather. This design also makes it easier to maintain and clean compared to traditional lighthouses. Built using a slipform method, the lighthouse’s construction was quicker and more efficient. Its black, white, and gray bands enhance daytime visibility, making it stand out against the coastal landscape, ensuring it can be easily seen by mariners. At one time Oak Island Lighthouse had the brightest light in the entire country.
The inside tour of the Oak Island Lighthouse in North Carolina offers a unique experience for visitors interested in maritime history and engineering. The tour involves climbing 131 steps to reach the top. Unlike traditional spiral staircases found in many lighthouses, Oak Island Lighthouse has a series of ship ladder stairs with platforms between them. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Fear River, and the surrounding coastal areas. Tours are often available by reservation only, and schedules may vary depending on the season. Best to check the Oak Island Lighthouse website before you visit Oak Island.
Caswell Beach
When you visit Oak Island you’ll discover around 10 miles of uninterrupted sandy beaches, ideal for those seeking relaxation, recreation, and adventure. The beaches are renowned for their soft sand and gentle slopes, making them perfect for families with children. Many areas have designated swimming zones with lifeguards on duty during peak seasons, ensuring safety for swimmers of all ages. Caswell Beach, located directly across from the Oak Island Lighthouse, offers a quieter and less crowded experience, perfect for a tranquil day by the sea. Public parking is available, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bald Head Island. We were lucky enough to see an isolated rain storm form over the open ocean.
Fort Caswell
Fort Caswell is a historic coastal fortification built between 1826 and 1838 to protect the Cape Fear River and Wilmington from naval threats. Named after Richard Caswell, North Carolina’s first governor, it features mid-19th-century brick and stone bastions, walls, and gun emplacements. Used for training and coastal defense during both World Wars, it now primarily serves as a site for religious and educational retreats, with parts open to the public for tours and historical exploration.
Coastal Drive
As you make your way west from Fort Caswell you’ll drive first along Caswell Beach Road, Oak Island Drive then East Beach Drive, all running parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. Many homes are situated directly on the beach, offering unobstructed ocean views and easy access to the sand and surf. Some properties serve as vacation rentals, especially popular during summer and holidays. To mitigate flooding risks, many homes are built on stilts or pilings, enhancing both protection and views. Common features include large decks, porches, and patios for enjoying the coastal environment. These homes are often nestled among dunes, maritime forests, and preserved natural landscapes, with convenient access to parks, golf courses, and nature trails.
Oak Island Pier
Extending gracefully into the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Oak Island Pier serves as a gateway to coastal tranquility and a haven for anglers, beachcombers, and sunset enthusiasts. Upon stepping onto the pier, you’re greeted by the gentle rhythm of crashing waves and the salty tang of sea air. Stretching 705 feet into the ocean, the pier offers unparalleled views of the coastline and a deep connection to the surrounding natural beauty. Its prime location along the Gulf Stream provides ample opportunities to catch a variety of saltwater species, including flounder, Spanish mackerel, and king mackerel. The end of the pier can get crowded with professional, and amateur, anglers which adds to the allure and character of the pier.
Ocean Crest Fishing Pier
Just 4.4 miles west, in a more secluded part of the Oak Island coast, you’ll find the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier. This pier is more focused on serious anglers featuring additional amenities like a fish cleaning station, a more fully equipped tackle shop plus a general store. It extends 188 feet longer (893’) than its counterpart and offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, with chances to catch species such as red drum, bluefish, and speckled trout. The Crest Pier also has the Island Way Restaurant and the Seahorse Eats & Drinks bar with excellent views of the dunes and the pier. There is a nominal $2 per head fee to walk on the pier and the surrounding beach is generally less crowded than that around the Oak Island Pier.
The Point
At the far western tip of Oak Island lies The Point, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Lockwood Folly Inlet. Known for its dynamic landscape of shifting sands and changing shorelines, The Point features some of Oak Island’s widest and most pristine beaches, perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing, and picnicking. The relatively calm inlet waters make The Point ideal for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. The Point is also a popular fishing spot, offering catches like flounder, red drum, and bluefish. Beachcombers will find an array of shells, sea glass, and other marine treasures along the ever-changing shoreline. At the end of each day it offers breathtaking sunsets with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.
Old Baldy Lighthouse
If you look east along the Oak Island shoreline you can see Bald Head Island which features the iconic Old Baldy Lighthouse. The 110-foot tall, octagonal Old Baldy, built in 1817, is the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. Constructed to guide mariners through the Cape Fear River and around Frying Pan Shoals, it was made from brick, plaster, and a unique tabby mix of lime, sand, and oyster shells. Deactivated in 1935 due to advancements in maritime technology, Old Baldy now serves as a historical landmark and museum. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of Bald Head Island and the surrounding waters. Accessible only by ferry or private boat, visiting Old Baldy offers a unique and memorable experience.
If you decide to visit Oak Island you’ll be rewarded. You can choose a relaxing day on the beach, a fishing expedition off one or two Atlantic Ocean piers, climb a modern lighthouse or explore an historic military fort. There is no end of adventure for this North Carolina getaway gem.
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