Nestled along the North Carolina coast, Ocean Isle Beach is a picturesque destination that has captivated families for generations. Boasting pristine beaches, a rich local culture, a bounty of natural sights, and a fascinating history, this charming coastal town offers a wide range of spectacular adventures for kids of all ages.
From exploring the great outdoors to engaging in local culture and history, Ocean Isle Beach is a treasure trove of family fun. In this blog post, we’ll highlight the ten best Ocean Isle Beach, NC kid-friendly activities that are sure to make your family vacation a memorable one.
1: Ocean Isle Beach Town Center Park
Ocean Isle Beach Town Center Park, offers a variety of recreational facilities and amenities. This vibrant park caters to all ages, making it a must-visit destination for an unforgettable family getaway.
One of the park’s highlights is its state-of-the-art playground, which enthrals children with its imaginative play structures, swings, and slides. The inclusive design ensures that children of all abilities can partake in the fun, fostering a sense of camaraderie and togetherness.
For families that enjoy staying active, the park features pristine basketball and tennis courts, as well as a well-maintained multi-purpose field perfect for soccer, frisbee, or a friendly game of catch. Meanwhile, the paved walking and biking trails wind through lush greenery, offering a serene environment for leisurely strolls or invigorating exercise.
With picnic shelters, plenty of space for the kids to run around, and even an amphitheatre featuring live music and other events, Town Center Park is Ocean Isle Beach’s comfy outdoor living room.
2: Ocean Isle Beach Park
The Ocean Isle Beach Park is a hub of outdoor family fun. With multiple playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and walking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Kids can burn off energy on the jungle gyms, swings, and climbing walls, while parents can relax and enjoy the scenery.
For sports enthusiasts, there are tennis courts, soccer fields, and basketball courts. Don’t forget to check out the splash pad in the summer, a perfect way for kids to cool off while having a blast.
3: Museum of Coastal Carolina
Delve into the fascinating world of marine life and coastal history at the Museum of Coastal Carolina.
For a single admission fee, this family-friendly ecological education museum features free interactive exhibits, live sea animals, aquariums, a reef habitat, a fossils exhibit and a sea turtle exhibit, providing a hands-on learning experience for kids. Be sure to check out the life-size model of a whale and the touch tank, where kids can get up close and personal with various sea creatures.
The museum also hosts special events, such as beach-combing walks and fossil digs, giving children the chance to learn about the local environment and history of this beautiful region.
4: Ingram Planetarium
Take a journey through the stars at Ingram Planetarium, where children can learn about astronomy, space exploration, and our solar system. The state-of-the-art Sky Theater showcases captivating planetarium shows, immersing visitors to Ocean Isle in the wonders of the universe.
At Ingram Planetarium discover a passion for the stars above; kids can explore the interactive Paul Dennis Science Hall, featuring hands-on displays and activities related to space and weather.
Ingram Planetarium also features a fascinating laser music show set to popular music, a favorite among kids and adults alike.
5: Ocean Isle Beach Turtle Talks and Nesting Program
During the summer months, Ocean Isle Beach is home to a unique and educational experience – the Turtle Talks and Nesting Program.
Run by the Ocean Isle Beach Sea Turtle Protection Organization, the program offers weekly Turtle Talks where kids can learn about the life cycle and conservation efforts of the loggerhead turtle.
Keep an eye out for turtle nesting sites along the beach and attend a supervised nest excavation to witness a mother turtle laying eggs. If you come a little later in turtle season, you might even witness the miracle of thousands of hatchlings crawling across the sand to take their first swim into adulthood.
This unforgettable experience is not only entertaining but also teaches kids the importance of conservation and respect for nature.
6: Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Explore the calm waters and quiet places of Ocean Isle Beach on a family-friendly kayaking or paddle-boarding adventure. Paddle through serene environments, encountering diverse wildlife such as birds, fish, and even dolphins.
Local rental shops offer equipment and guided tours, allowing kids and parents to navigate the marshlands and creeks surrounding the island.
Kayaking and paddle boarding are not only great ways to discover the natural beauty of Ocean Isle Beach but also provide a fun and healthy outdoor activity for the whole family.
7: Shallotte River Swamp Park
For the adventure seeking and nature enthusiasts, the Shallotte River Swamp Park offers an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the beautiful coastal wetlands.
The park features an aerial adventure park; take one of the guided zipline tours and traverse the forest canopy via zip line, rope bridges, and platforms, giving kids a bird’s-eye view of the swamp. Younger children can enjoy the kid’s course, designed for ages 4-9, with age-appropriate challenges and adventures.
The park also offers a guided ecology-focused swamp tour of local flora and area wildlife and guided ATV tours for teens and the young at heart.
8: Ocean Isle Mini Golf
No family vacation to coastal Carolina is complete without a round of miniature golf, a classic activity that kids of all ages adore.
Putt-putt courses in the area offer whimsical, pirate-themed obstacles and beautifully landscaped greens, creating a fun-filled atmosphere for friendly competition. As you navigate through challenging holes, enjoy the vibrant colors and creative designs that make each course unique.
Not only does miniature golf provide hours of pure entertainment alone, but it also encourages teamwork and problem-solving, making it a perfect bonding experience for the whole family.
9: See WWII Come to Life on the Battleship North Carolina
Discover the historic Battleship North Carolina, an awe-inspiring WWII-era warship docked near Ocean Isle Beach, NC.
Kids will be captivated by the immersive exhibits and guided tours, offering an unforgettable journey through history. They’ll explore the ship’s decks, living quarters, and gun turrets, while learning about the brave sailors who served on board.
Interactive activities, such as the hands-on radio room and the chance to fire a real anti-aircraft gun, will thrill and educate young minds. This must-see attraction is an engaging, educational experience that the whole family will treasure.
10: Myrtle Beach Day Trip: Fun-Filled Excursions for the Whole Family
While there’s no shortage of activities in Ocean Isle Beach, a day trip to nearby Myrtle Beach offers even more excitement for families. Just an hour’s drive away, this bustling beach town boasts a variety of kid-friendly attractions that promise a day of non-stop fun.
Cool off at Myrtle Waves Water Park, South Carolina’s largest water park, featuring exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated kids’ play area with smaller slides and splash zones.
Don’t forget to stroll along the iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and family entertainment options. As the sun sets, take a ride on the SkyWheel, a towering 187-foot Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and cityscape.
A day trip to Myrtle Beach is an excellent opportunity to make unforgettable memories and experience a different side of the Carolina coast with your family.
Need a place to stay during your Ocean Isle Beach vacation? To find the vacation rental of your dreams, visit the main website and book your stay today.
