10 Ways to Enjoy Kure Beach’s Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Visiting Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is one of the top things to do in Kure Beach. The state park is your excuse to embark on a coastal adventure to uncover history and discover an untouched shoreline.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area has free admission for all visitors. Once inside, there are 287 acres worth of fun activities awaiting! Guests staying at Sea Scape Properties Kure Beach vacation rentals are just a short distance from one of the top North Carolina state parks.

Here’s why!

1. Six miles of beach fun

The natural coastline in Fort Fisher State Recreation Area extends six miles. And with few crowds at the beach compared to nearby beaches, you’ll have all the room you need to enjoy the beach. The state park preserves the shore, making it one of the cleanest beaches free from resorts lining the property.

Soft white sand sinks between your toes as you enter the gently sloping ocean. Swimming, paddle boarding, and windsurfing are everyday activities here. Lifeguards are stationed on the beaches between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Also, pay attention to signs about current ocean conditions before entering the water.

2. Trek the Basin Trail

Several hiking routes crisscross Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The Basin Trail (also called the Hermit Trail) is the best route to check out. It’s the long hike in the park, stretching 2.2 miles across the diverse landscape. In less than an hour, hikers traverse through salt marshes, maritime forests, and the beach. You’ll stumble upon a WWII bunker that once hosted a hermit (hence the trail name). There’s also an observation deck at the trail end with views overlooking Cape Fear River and Zeke’s Island.

Dogs are even welcome on the trail with a leash!

3. Boating through coastal salt marshes

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers plenty of opportunities for boating. The state park features several boat ramps to make it easy to get your vessel in and out of the water. The Fort Fisher Basin is a lagoon within the park that makes the perfect location for kayaking and canoeing. Keep your eyes near the shore to spot tons of wildlife, shorebirds, and coastal flora.

4. Catch a trophy fish

Pack your fishing gear for a chance at a prized catch. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is one of the best places to fish in Kure Beach. Surf fishing is the preferred method in the park. This style of fishing requires anglers to wade in the water to catch fish swimming near the shore. Fish commonly caught here include King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Trout, Bluefish, and Bass. For even bigger fish, rent a small boat to fish away from the shore.

Compare fishing in Fort Fisher State Recreation Area with the Kure Beach Pier to see which gives you better luck!

5. Browse exhibitions inside the Visitor Center

Everything you need to know about the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area can be found inside the visitor center. When visiting the park, it’s an excellent first stop to get an idea of its layout, things to do, and understand what makes it special.

Chat with friendly park rangers or explore the rotating exhibitions showcasing everything from the park’s geology to history. Use it as a restroom break before tackling the Basin Trail. Pick up souvenirs in the gift shop for keepsake memories!

6. Unearth history at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Did you know Fort Fisher was the site of the largest land and water battle during the Civil War? The Confederate fort protected the Cape Fear River and Port of Wilmington. It also had a role during WWII.

The Fort Fisher State Historic Site designates the area around the fort impacted by wartime history. A portion of the bunker remains with a small museum to learn about its role during the wars. The site also holds the 1921 Fort Fisher Monument, marking the site of the fort’s headquarters.

7. Four-wheel driving on the beach

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is the only beach in New Hanover County that allows driving on the beach! Rev up those engines and leave a trail of sand behind you because it’s one of the most thrilling things to do in Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. Park your 4 x 4 vehicle on the sand so that you’ll have everything you need for a beach day within arm’s reach.

Be sure to stay within the designated driving area only.

8. Picnic in the pavilion

Warm weather in Kure Beach is a sign that you should have a picnic. Fort Fisher State Recreation has the perfect spot to fire up the grill and have a proper cookout. A small pavilion next to the visitor center features picnic tables and grills. Pick a spot, light a fire, and let the good time roll!

Need help planning a picnic for your group? Let the experts at Coastal Picnic Wilmington handle it. See this exclusive partner offer, which is available only for Sea Scape Properties guests.

9. Learn about marine life inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is slated to become the largest aquarium in North Carolina after new expansion plans. The multi-million-dollar project will bring new habitats, an interactive touch pool, a rooftop sky deck, and more, which began in 2025!

The aquarium is a go-to center for learning about the marine life inhabiting coastal North Carolina and nearby barrier islands.

10. Take the Ferry to Southport

Add a bonus destination to your Kure Beach vacation. Fort Fisher is the launchpad for the daily Southport/Fort Fisher Ferry. The scenic 35-minute ferry ride across the Cape Fear River will take you directly to the historic town of Southport, nicknamed ‘America’s Happiest Seaside Town.’ Take a day trip to Southport from Kure Beach, where one day is plenty of time to soak up the wonders of Southport. Learn local history inside the North Carolina Maritime Museum. Stroll the Southport Riverwalk. Indulge in this charming coastal town’s dining and shop scenes.

Stay Near Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Sea Scape Properties is your gateway to experiencing the excitement awaiting inside Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. We offer Kure Beach vacation rentals just a short drive from the park. With free admission to the park, you can plan an entire trip around the park’s top activities.

Start your adventure with these Kure Beach vacation rentals!