You’ve put in your vacation request at work. You called Williamson Realty Vacations and booked your 2021 summer beach vacation. The budget is set, the kids are excited, and all that’s left to do is head to Ocean Isle Beach and start having fun. But what to do? Well, there are tons of great things to do and see on Ocean Isle Beach. Some cost more than others, but as they say, the best things in life are free. This week we have ten family-friendly (and budget-friendly) things you can do for free on the beach.

Build a Sandcastle

Sandcastles are an iconic part of any beach vacation. Kids and adults alike enjoy building them and the best part is they are fee to build. You can make a sandcastle as big or small as you like. Complex or simple, it doesn’t matter. Really the joy of a sandcastle is the time spent with family, the kids or friends. Don’t over think it. Grab a few buckets, maybe some different shapes that you can get a big box store and let the creativity flow. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag us in it.

Reading by the ocean

We all have that stack of books we never get around to reading. While on vacation on Ocean Isle Beach, make sure to bring that book, some sunscreen, a beach chair and of course, your favorite drink. Let the worries of the world drift away as you turn each page.

Sea Shelling

The beach is home to thousands of different types of sea shells. Each shell offers a unique glimpse into the magic of the ocean. Collecting shells won’t cost you anything and there are loads of fun crafts and DIY projects to put those shells to good use. Check out our previous post: Everything You Need to Know to Find the Best Seashells for all the ins and outs of shelling on Ocean Isle Beach.

Have a picnic

Picnics are a great way to enjoy the beach without any expense. Whether you want a gathering with friends, a romantic sunset picnic, or just need to pack up the kids for the day on the beach, an Ocean Isle Beachpicnic offers the best ocean front reservation in town.

Go Boogie Boarding

It is hard to believe you can have this much fun with what is essentially a piece of foam, but it’s true – Boogie Boards are a blast. These boards are in almost every family’s arsenal of beach toys. If not, they cost next to nothing and on the beach they are good for hours of fun. Grab that Boogie Board, hit the water and watch the kids have the time of their life with each new wave.

Walking on the beach

Few things are as relaxing as walking on the beach. Whether you want to walk for exercise or just to see what is around the bend, walking and the beach go hand in hand. We love an early morning sunrise walk or even a sunset walk. It’s a great way to see all of Ocean Isle Beach and burn off that ice cream cone from earlier in the day.

Wet a line

Fishing is one of America’s favorite pastimes. Fishing is fun, cheap, and great for all ages. Ocean Isle Beachis home to some of the best fishing grounds in the United States. So, whether you just want to cast the day away to the relaxing sounds of the ocean or you’re looking for dinner, fishing is perfect for a day on the beach.

Note: North Carolina does require a fishing license which is easy to get and inexpensive.

Beach Tic Tac Toe

If you have little ones, this is a fun and super easy game to play. Just draw a tic tac toe grid in the sand and you are ready to play. This is also easy to do with other fun games. If you can draw it, it can be played on the beach for free.

Paddle Ball

Paddle Ball was probably played by caveman visiting the beach. This game has been around forever, and for good reason. The games are simple, entertaining, and the equipment costs next to nothing. You probably already have a set of paddles and a ball somewhere if you are a beach lover. Break out this game to take advantage of the world’s prettiest court…the beach!

Metal Detecting

If you are an avid metal detector at home don’t forget to pack your equipment for your Ocean Isle Beach vacation. We have miles of pristine beaches that are just waiting to be explored. Leave a comment below with your favorite Ocean Isle Beach treasure.

Are you still waiting to book your next beach vacation? Reservations are filling up fast, but there is still time to give one of our friendly reservationists a call to plan your next Ocean Isle Beach visit. Don’t forget that the beaches of North Carolina are a great vacation destination well into the fall. Take advantage of all Ocean Isle Beach has to offer by calling us today at 800-727-9222 or click the button below.