So many Ocean Isle Beach things to do during your vacation, so little time. No worries! We have created a bucket list of the best OIB experiences, attractions, and activities to enjoy while you’re here to help you narrow down your options. Make it a fun vacation challenge to complete with your family. Print the bucket list at the end of this post, and check off as many as you can. If you don’t finish it this vacation, save it for next time and continue checking off the items until you complete the list. Good luck and have fun!

☑ Catch an Ocean Isle Beach sunrise and sunset.

Ocean Isle Beach and all of the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina are east-west facing which means that you can catch fabulous sunrises and sunsets along the coast all year long.

☑ Dine at the Seafood Capital of the World.

During your Ocean Isle Beach vacation, you’re only about 15 minutes from the famed Seafood Capital of the World—Calabash, NC. If you like traditional Southern-style fried seafood, this is a must-do. Here are our seafood restaurant recommendations.

☑ Enjoy a sweet treat.

Is it even a beach vacation if you don’t enjoy something cold and sweet? No! Here are some of our favorite OIB sweet spots where you can find ice cream and more beach desserts to cool you down after a day at the beach.

☑ Fish or stroll the Ocean Isle Beach Pier.

The Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Pier is local landmark and one worth visiting each and every time you vacation here. Whether you fish, stroll, grab a bite to eat, or play in the arcade, there is always a reason to visit.

☑ Go fast on a Go-Kart.

If you and your family feel the need for speed, then check out the Ocean Isle Beach Super Track during your vacation. With single-seater and double-seater go-karts, everyone can enjoy the fun. The OIB Super Track is open seasonally, so be sure to check their website for currents hours of operation.

☑ Learn a little local history.

Ocean Isle Beach and this part of the North Carolina coast is incredibly rich in history. Take a family outing to one of these NC historical sites during your vacation to learn more about the area.

☑ Make a splash in the Atlantic.

However you want to do it, just make sure you get some splash time in the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you wade, swim, surf, paddle, or ride—be sure you dip your toes in the Atlantic at least once while you’re here. Read up on these fun facts about the Atlantic to learn while you play.

☑ Play in a park.

Speaking of playing, you definitely need to visit at least one of our parks while you’re vacationing here. The Ocean Isle Beach Park, Town Center Park, and Ferry Landing Park each have unique offerings and lots of fun for everyone.

☑ Play a round of golf or mini golf.

Brush up on your golf swing and practice your putting on theseOcean Isle Beach golf courses and putt-putt mini golf courses. No matter your skill level, you’ll find plenty of options for you and your family. 9 holes or 18? That’s up to you.

☑ Share a secret at the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.

This mysterious mailbox is the inspiration behind Nicholas Sparks’ novel Every Breath. It’s a place to share your innermost thoughts (anonymously, if you prefer). The walk to Kindred Spirit on Bird Island near Sunset Beach is two miles roundtrip. You can save time by renting a bike for the journey.

☑ Spy a sea turtle nest.

Sea turtle nesting season on the coast of North Carolina runs from May through October, so there’s a really good chance you’ll see a sea turtle nest marked off on the beach during your beach vacation. See if you can spy one next time you’re here.

☑ Take a tour of the island.

You’ll learn so much about Ocean Isle, NC and you’ll see some beautiful sights, too, when you opt for a local tour. You can choose from a boat tour, eco tour, paddling tour, or walking tour—it’s totally up to you.

☑ Touch a starfish at the Museum of Coastal Carolina.

There is always something new to discover at the Museum of Coastal Carolina each and every time you go. One thing is also for certain: you can touch live marine life here! The touch tank is a museum favorite for all ages, so go ahead and touch that starfish, horseshoe crab, or sea urchin if you dare to get up-close and personal with nature.

☑ Visit a winery or brewery.

Whether you’re a wine lover or craft beer enthusiast, you can sip something delicious during your Ocean Isle Beach vacation. Check out our local wineries and breweries, then visit at least one while you’re here.

☑ Zipline over a swamp.

How many times do get an opportunity to zipline over a swamp? Not many! Take full advantage of your chance to do that and more at the Shallotte River Swamp Park. Interested in a few more adrenaline-inducing adventures to be had in Ocean Isle Beach? Then you’ll want to read this.