It may be difficult to drag yourself away from the beach during your Ocean Isle Beach vacation, but if you decide to venture out, we have some suggestions. If you are looking for fun day trips from Ocean Isle Beach that are just a short distance from your vacation rental, we have you covered. From NC historic sites and lighthouses to nearby coastal towns, there is something for everyone to explore. Here are a few of the most popular sights and attractions near Ocean Isle Beach for visitors and vacationers. Get out a pen and start your OIB day-trip bucket list!
Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach
Barefoot Landing combines beauty and nature, located along the Intracoastal Waterway in beautiful North Myrtle Beach. Enjoy the fun and excitement of shopping, dining, entertainment, and special events for the entire family. This famous shopping destination is only 35 minutes south of your OIB rental.
Brunswick Town & Fort Anderson
Located on the Cape Fear River, Brunswick Town and Fort Anderson have a long history. Brunswick was a major pre-Revolutionary port destroyed by British troops in 1776 and never rebuilt. During the Civil War, Fort Anderson was built on top of Brunswick Town and served as part of the Cape Fear River defenses before the fall of the Confederacy.
Calabash, NC
Calabash is known as the Seafood Capital of the World. Incorporated in 1973, Calabash was a small fishing village with a handful of seafood restaurants. Today, it’s grown but still retains that small-town charm. Try the local fare, go shopping, catch a fishing voyage or dolphin cruise, or visit to relax and enjoy the peaceful beauty of this lovely coastal town.
Ferry Rides
North Carolina’s ferry system consists of 21 ferries and daily service on seven regular routes across the Currituck and Pamlico Sounds and the Cape Fear, Neuse, and Pamlico rivers. An open-air car ferry between Southport and Fort Fisher is an adventure you should consider. The crossing time is about 30 minutes. Check the ferry schedule and make your reservation.
Fort Fisher, NC
Until the last few months of the Civil War, Fort Fisher kept North Carolina’s port of Wilmington open to blockade runners who supplied necessary goods to the Confederate Army. When Ft. Fisher fell after a Federal assault on January 15, 1865, its defeat helped seal the fate of the Confederacy. Throughout the year, costumed guided tours tell the story of the Confederate artillerists and U.S. foot soldiers. Enjoy free admission at this historic site.
Southport, NC
In 1748, Fort Johnston was built at the mouth of the Cape Fear River in response to pirates, privateers, and numerous Spanish attacks on British settlements on the Carolina coast. A town formed and eventually became known as Southport, hoping to attract a major shipping port (but that went upriver to Wilmington). Southport flourished as a fishing village—and today, it is a lovely place to visit. It is only 45 minutes from your vacation rental and makes for a great day trip from Ocean Isle Beach. There are quaint shops, yummy ice cream, delicious seafood restaurants, and famous movie-making landmarks.
NC Lighthouses
Two of the seven North Carolina lighthouses are easily accessible for viewing and climbing during your Ocean Isle Beach vacation. The Oak Island Lighthouse is one of the most powerful in the world, with a light that can be seen for 16 miles. Old Baldy on Bald Head Island is North Carolina’s southernmost lighthouse. Since Old Baldy is only accessible by water, head to Southport, where you can take the ferry to Bald Head Island. For a full itinerary for a day trip to Bald Head Island, click here.
Lake Waccamaw State Park
A visit to Lake Waccamaw State Park reveals unique bodies of water and an intriguing geological mystery. Experience the phenomenon of the largest Carolina Bay, featuring species of aquatic life found nowhere else. A 700-foot boardwalk allows for wildlife viewing and fishing, and seven miles of trails let hikers explore multiple ecosystems and rare plants. A visitor center with an exhibit hall and free interpretive programs delve into the area’s diverse natural and cultural history.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is an iconic destination if you want to spend the day filled with attractions, shopping, theaters, amusement parks, and all the hustle and bustle of a commercial beach location. It’s only a 45-minute drive from your Ocean Isle Beach rental to downtown Myrtle Beach. When you’re done, return to the quiet, peaceful beaches of OIB.
Wilmington, NC
The historic city of Wilmington is about an hour’s drive north up Highway 17. From the Battleship North Carolina and the pedestrian-friendly Riverwalk to all the shopping and restaurants of downtown Wilmington, city life is not far away. Stroll the streets, do a little shopping, enjoy a waterfront lunch, and explore this famous Southern port city.
Which day trip from Ocean Isle Beach will you take first?
Our suggested day trip options are just a short drive from Ocean Isle Beach. Select the perfect vacation rental for your next OBI getaway. From oceanfront homes to mid-island condos, we have a rental that is right for you. Book early for the best availability.
