The water has always been the center of attention in Oak Island. Beachgoers enjoy more than 60 public access points, two fishing piers, a marina and multiple public boat and kayak ramps, making it a watersports enthusiast's paradise. Bring or rent a boat and visit the western tip of Oak Island for breathtaking views of the ocean and marshland.

Of course, if you do want a break from the beach, there are many other kinds of adventure, from a visit to the Oak Island Nature Center to the thrill of skydiving. Or, choose from several local shops and eateries, each with their own unique flair and fare. There's plenty of things to do while vacationing in Oak Island to keep the whole family happy. The island is quite pet-friendly, so feel free to let your four-legged family members tag along too! Then, count on any of the cozy accommodations to welcome you right back "home."

When you envision a classic family beach vacation, you're most likely picturing Oak Island, whether you know it yet or not. That nostalgic feeling you get when you think of a family outing on bicycles complete with bells and baskets, an ice cream parlor after a round of mini-golf, or casting a line off a big ocean pier is what family memories at Oak Island are made of. It's no wonder this timeless place has been attracting visitors since the early 19th century. And after all this time, the familiar, uncrowded beaches still greet anyone who visits this quiet community.