Carolina Beach State Park is located south of Wilmington on Pleasure Island near. It is on the Cape Fear River and Snow's Cut, a part of the Intercoastal Waterway.

The campground has 83 rustic sites and two bath houses with hot showers. The park does not offer electric and water hookups, but does have a dump station.

"Man, you should have been here last week!"

The slogan for the Kure Beach Fishing Pier is a reminder of the changing fortunes of fishing, and the benefits of fishing often. The Pier is a fun way to spend a day at the beach and to fill a cooler with fish for the freezer. Bait and tackle can be purchased at the Pier, as well as snacks and gifts.

Check their website for more information, fishing reports and a gallery of great catches.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area provides a glimpse into Civil War history as well as the opportunity for a great day at the beach.

North Carolina Aquariums are located at Roanoke Island, Pine Knoll Shores and Fort Fisher. Being reasonably priced and highly educational, the Aquariums are a must-see attraction for every Carolina family and tourists on the Carolina coast.

Plan to spend a minimum of 2 hours at the Aquarium, and to enjoy some refreshment at the Snack Bar at the end of your tour.

The USS North Carolina is a World War II battleship in Wilmington NC which now serves as a memorial to the 10,000+ North Carolinians who died in the conflict.

She was commissioned on April 9, 1941 and had a crew of over 2200 men. She was the first battleship to enter Pearl Habor after the attack there, and served in every major navel offensive in the Pacific, earning 15 battlestars. Throughout the war, only 10 of her crew were lost.

The Deck House in Carolina Beach is one of the best in fine dining on Pleasure Island. The restaurant is in one of the island's historic buildings, having been a church at one time.

Big Daddy's is one of the finer dining establishments on Pleasure Island. The menu offers the best cuts of beef as well as a variety of seafood. Some favorites include Coconut Shrimp and Crab Legs. Undecided? Get the Surf and Turf combo for a fabulous feast!