Fort Fisher Recreation Reserve Observation Deck — Attraction in Kure Beach

This is a 1.5 mile walk from the Ft Fisher bath house. The changing environment is both beautiful and can be challenging. You begin on a path in a Live Oak forest, skirt behind the NC Aquarium and into the dunes. You then travel into the tidal mash area which takes you over the marshy area by way of long boardwalks. Stopping on the boardwalks gives great opportunities for observing birds, small fishes, crabs, salt marsh snails and just enjoying the breeze. Around the 1 mile mark, there is a sign and short side trail to the bunker where the Ft Fisher Hermit lived. Back on the trail, you suddenly come upon the observation deck! The deck is well constructed and gives you a panoramic view of the "Basin", of ferries coming and going on the Cape Fear river as they travel to and from South Port, large vessels going up the river to the port at Wilmington and recreational boaters, kayakers, SUP and folks just out there fishing. Be sure to check the weather and carry the appropriate supplies with you. Sunscreen and bug spray are needed year round IMHO. Always take several bottles of water and make sure your cell phone has a full charge. Should you need assistance, it will take some time for aid to reach you as you are out on a peninsula with no real road access. Lots of photographers, people walking dogs, single walkers and families with children use this trail so expect to have company at some point...

My husband proposed the first time we visited Kure Beach/Fort Fischer and we come back every year! In comparison to Daytona, Myrtle, and Topsail Beaches, we absolutely prefer this one. Going out to the Fort Fischer Rec area is worth the extra 5 min drive. There is a large parking lot, restrooms, changing area, picnic tables, grills and hoses to rinse the sand off before you leave. The beach itself is always clean and peaceful. The staff patrols and keeps and eye out for everyone's safety. There aren't vehicles to worry about driving past you on the beach (aside from the staff which definitely aren't a nuisance). We normally stay in Wilmington or Leland and make the short drive out. I'd definitely recommend this beach for families, couples, pet lovers,...

This is something that you can take your whole family to do, totally free of charge. Walking out into the nature and get to see wildlife during your walk, can we be quite exciting. As well as, if you are a photographer, most of the time this is an ideal place to photograph a lot of the birds in the area.

One thing for sure bring bug spray, repeat again bring bug spray during the warmer days of spring and summer because you will be ate up by bugs, mosquitoes and gnats if you don't have bug spray on. Since it is 2.2 miles round trip, it's very highly advisable to bring some water to drink with you along the way or other drinks.

Do be aware, there are spiders and snakes along the way so just keep your eyes peeled and you'll...