Dutchman Inlet Park

Oak Island offers a diverse dining scene with several notable restaurants. Koko Cabana is a popular spot for its casual atmosphere and wide selection of drinks, offering both dine-in and takeout options. Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & Bar provides a cozy setting with locally sourced seafood and steaks. For seafood lovers, Shagger Jacks is a seasonal favorite with a lively patio and live music. Salt64 offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on wine and cocktails. Lastly, Island Way is known for its beachfront views and high-end steaks and seafood.

These restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have plenty of options for dining out during their stay.

For accommodations near Dutchman Inlet Park, visitors can choose from several hotels and motels. The Hampton Inn & Suites Southport offers a laid-back atmosphere with free breakfast and an outdoor pool. The Beach House Motel & Suites provides a casual oceanfront experience with a pool and gazebo. The Ocean Crest Motel is another beachfront option with simple rooms and an outdoor pool. Lastly, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport offers modern rooms and suites with an indoor pool and free breakfast.

These hotels provide a range of amenities and price points, ensuring there's something for every traveler's needs.

Dutchman Inlet Park and the surrounding area offer several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. While specific amenities at the park itself are not detailed, nearby facilities like Dutchman Creek Park provide restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. For beachgoers, Oak Island offers numerous public beach access points, many of which are equipped with restrooms and showers. Additionally, the island features several marinas and public boat launch facilities, catering to those interested in boating and fishing.

Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the local business districts, which include convenience stores, restaurants, and retail shops. The area is well-suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Oak Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm waters. The island's two piers are popular spots for fishing, and the surrounding waters are ideal for boating and sailing. For those interested in land activities, there are several golf courses, including a championship course, and numerous nature trails for hiking and birdwatching.

The area is also great for family activities, with playgrounds and disc golf courses available. During the summer, events like the NC Festival by the Sea and the NC Oyster Festival add to the island's lively atmosphere. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Oak Island has something for everyone.

Oak Island provides several options for visitors with disabilities. The town offers nine beach wheelchairs, including one floating wheelchair, which can be borrowed for up to two days without a deposit. Additionally, many of the public beach access points are equipped with handicap-accessible ramps and restrooms. For those requiring vehicle access to the beach, permits can be obtained for designated areas, allowing individuals with state-issued handicapped permits to drive approved vehicles on the beach.

Local restaurants and hotels also offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy dining and lodging options. Overall, Oak Island strives to provide an inclusive environment for all visitors.

Parking on Oak Island is generally accessible, with many public beach access points offering free or paid parking options. During peak season, from April to September, paid parking is in effect at most public spaces. However, for those displaying a handicap license plate or hangtag, parking is free in designated handicap spaces. The island's business districts also provide ample parking, often free, at local shops and restaurants.

For visitors planning to explore the island, having a vehicle can be convenient, but there are also options for walking or biking in the more populated areas. Overall, parking is relatively convenient, allowing visitors to easily access the beach and local amenities.

Oak Island has a fascinating history, having been formed into an island with the creation of the Intracoastal Waterway. The town was established in 1999 through the consolidation of Long Beach and Yaupon Beach, making it the most populated incorporated town in Brunswick County. Despite its size, Oak Island maintains a small-town charm, appealing to both residents and visitors.

The island is also known for its unique wildlife, including sea turtles, which are protected through conservation efforts. The annual Sea Turtle Walk Programs allow visitors to learn about and participate in turtle conservation. Additionally, Oak Island's southern-facing beaches provide gentle wave action, making it an ideal spot for family beach activities and water sports.

Historically, the area has been significant for its maritime activities, with the Old Baldy Lighthouse serving as a beacon for sailors. Today, the island continues to celebrate its maritime heritage through various festivals and events.

Oak Island and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. The Old Baldy Lighthouse, located on nearby Bald Head Island, is a historic landmark and a must-visit for its stunning views and rich history. The Smith Island Museum provides insight into the island's maritime past, while the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve offers a serene natural setting for hiking and exploration.

The island itself features two piers, which are not only great for fishing but also offer beautiful ocean views. For nature lovers, the M. Kent Mitchell Nature Trail and the Sea Turtle Walk Programs are excellent ways to engage with the local wildlife and ecosystems. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the beach, Oak Island has plenty to offer.