Goodbye Summer 2025, Hello Fall!

beachbumlocal • August 26, 2025

As the warm summer air gives way to cooler breezes, Pleasure Island’s Carolina Beach and Kure Beach come alive with a unique, relaxed charm. From September through November 2025, families can enjoy a range of activities that showcase the island’s natural beauty and community spirit without the large summer crowds. This season offers a perfect opportunity for families to explore the area’s parks, fishing spots, and special events.

Fall family fun abounds on Pleasure Island. At Kure Beach’s Ocean Front Park, the popular Boogie in the Park concert series wraps up in early October, with a final free concert to enjoy with a beach chair and blanket by the sea. In November, the sky above  Fort Fisher State Recreation Area  comes alive with the spectacle of the Cape Fear Kite Festival, featuring professional kite-fliers and a dazzling “Night with Kites” display. For a seasonal treat, don’t miss the annual Halloween Story Time by the Sea at  Kure Beach’s Ocean Front Park  in late October, offering enchanting tales for the little ones. Beyond the planned events, families can also enjoy quieter beach days, exploring the trails at  Carolina Beach State Park , or visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at  Fort Fisher  to see sharks, otters, and other marine life.

For those seeking dinner and nightlife, Pleasure Island offers a vibrant culinary scene and evening entertainment. Grab a delicious seafood dinner with an ocean view at the  Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar  in Carolina Beach, where you can walk the pier after your meal. In Kure Beach,  Jack Mackerels Island Grill  offers Caribbean-influenced fare and a lively atmosphere with a second-floor deck. Later in the evening, enjoy live music at local tiki bars like the  SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar  or the  Ocean Grill ‘s own Tiki Bar. For a more casual night out, catch a game and a bite at Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill.

Beyond the island, the nearby city of Wilmington provides an even wider array of evening festivities. The Riverfest takes place in downtown Wilmington in early October, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with vendors, music, and fireworks. Later in the fall, Wilmington hosts the popular Cucalorus Film Festival in November, known for its selection of films, shorts, and live entertainment. For a more casual taste of the local flavor, head to downtown Wilmington for the Voracious & Rare Beer Festival in October or the Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival, both offering extensive selections from local breweries and wineries.

Christmas at the Beach!

By beachbumlocal • November 24, 2025
🎄 Coastal Christmas Cheer: Holiday Events in Carolina & Kure Beach For renters visiting in December, you're in luck! Carolina Beach and Kure Beach host the annual Island of Lights Festival , which transforms the area into a festive coastal wonderland with unique holiday celebrations. Here are the key events for the Christmas season: ⛵ Weekend of Lights: Parades and Flotilla These events are the highlight of the season and typically take place the first weekend of December: Carolina Beach Christmas Parade Location: Lake Park Blvd Date and Time: Friday, December 5 at 7:00pm Description: A classic small-town, nighttime parade featuring festive floats, marching bands, community groups, and the grand entrance of Santa Claus! Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla Location: Carolina Beach Yachy Basin to Snow's Cut Date and Time: Saturday, December 6 at 6:00pm Description: A stunning display of boats and vessels decked out in thousands of twinkling lights as they cruise the Intracoastal Waterway. Viewing is free along the waterfront. Christmas Palm Tree Lighting Location: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park Date and Time: Sunday, December 7 at dark Description: A unique coastal tradition! Watch the palm tree at the Ocean Front Park light up for the holiday season. ✨ Month-Long Holiday Cheer Beyond the parades, there are plenty of ongoing opportunities to enjoy the festive spirit: Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake Location: Carolina Beach Lake Park Details: The festival officially kicks off the day after Thanksgiving, and the beautiful light displays circling the lake remain lit throughout December and into the new year. It's perfect for an evening stroll. Island of Lights Holiday Home Tour Location: Various homes on Pleasure Island 2025 Date: Typically Saturday, December 13th (Check for ticket availability and exact times) Details: Get a peek into the local hospitality as residents open their beautifully decorated homes for a self-guided tour. A great way to enjoy southern Christmas charm Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty Location: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park 2025 Date: Typically Friday, December 19th Details: A fun, family-friendly event with a playful holiday theme. This gathering often includes games, activities, and sometimes a Grinch-themed celebration! Island of Lights New Year's Eve Celebration Location: Carolina Beach in 2025. Alternates between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Date: Wednesday, December 31st Details: Ring in the New Year with a DJ, dancing, a giant beach ball drop at midnight, and an amazing fireworks display over the ocean! 🛍️ Holiday Shopping Kure Beach Holiday Market : You may find smaller markets on select Saturdays in December, offering local arts, crafts, and unique gifts, often held at the Ocean Front Park. Book your stay today so you don't miss any of the Christmas events on Pleasure Island!

Carolina Beach Boardwalk

By beachbumlocal • October 22, 2025
Carolina Beach Boardwalk in Late Fall, Early Winter
kids flying a kite on Carolina Beach NC

Go Fly a Kite!

By beachbumlocal • September 24, 2025
The Cape Fear Kite Festival is a great time to visit Carolina Beach or Kure Beach. Learn about the rentals managed by Pleasure Island Properties are the best!