Oak Island

South-facing white sand beaches, a 158-foot lighthouse, stately old live oak trees, three fishing piers, and around 60 public beach access points are just a few reasons this 12.6 mile long island is a popular vacation destination. Proximity to Southport and Wilmington, plus a very low crime rate, flat topography, numerous parks, and varied coastal ecosystem make it an increasingly popular place to live, too.

Sea Turtle Preservation    back to top

On one end of the mile-wide island are the N.C. Baptist Assembly, a church camp, and the quiet town of Caswell Beach, so named because the government constructed an Army fortress here in 1826 known as Fort Caswell. This community comprises 370 permanent residents who are dedicated to preserving the environment and protecting threatened and endangered sea turtles that nest on the beach from May to August.

The only commercial activity is located at the Oak Island Golf Club, which includes a challenging 18-hole golf course, putting green, driving range, lounge, very good restaurant and pro shop.

Seasonal Visitors Welcome    back to top

To the west is the Town of Oak Island, population 6,571. With a decidedly different character than Caswell Beach, this community caters more to seasonal visitors. Oak Island was formed in 1999 when Long Beach and Yaupon Beach consolidated, making it the largest incorporated town in Brunswick County. Like its Caswell Beach neighbor, Oak Island has a sea turtle program, but theirs focuses on restoring sea turtle habitats lost to erosion. A dedicated recreation department oversees a wide range of educational activities, parks, boat ramps, a nature center, interpretive walking trail plus mineral, rock and animal exhibits. An extensive sidewalk system provides enjoyment of bicyclists and pedestrians.

Plenty Of Parks    back to top

Environmental overlooks, dune crossovers, scenic walkways and viewing platforms are abundant, as are parks with picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts and soccer fields. Oak Island Skate Park for skateboarding and inline skating is located at 52nd Street NE and Yacht Drive. Davis Creek Canoe Trails cover 20 miles. Crabbing, fishing, and bird watching are favorite pastimes as well.

The Town of Oak Island actually extends its boundaries across the bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway and along Long Beach Road, where large groceries, department stores and fast food restaurants can be found. Hundreds of rental homes and condos are available along the oceanfront and adjacent streets; family motels and many restaurants are located on the island and nearby as well.