Oak Island, NC (2024)

FAQs

What is so special about Oak Island, NC? ›

As one of North Carolina's only barrier islands that face directly south, beachgoers can enjoy magnificent views of both sunrise and sunset over the ocean, all from the same stretch of sand.

Local politics leave a lot to be desired, but there is no place better to live than Oak Island, NC. Quiet, friendly beach community with free parking and beach access at the end of most streets. Oak Island is nine miles of peacefulness forty-five minutes from Wilmington, North Carolina.

Situated on the southern end of North Carolina's picturesque coastline, the Town of Oak Island offers nearly 10 miles of beachfront along the 12 mile long Oak Island, from which it derives its name. The island itself is marked by the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) to the north.

Because Oak Island is a south facing beach, the water may not be as clear, but the current is not as severe making it better for swimming in general. But be aware there are still rip tides and currents and there are no lifeguards on the island.

Oak Island, North Carolina's cost of living is 1% lower than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary based on factors such as your career, its average salary and the real estate market of that area.

The original shaft, the location of which is unknown today, was dug by early explorers, and is known as "the money pit". A "curse" on the treasure is said to have originated more than a century ago and states that seven men will die in the search for the treasure before it is found.

Oak Island is populated on a seasonal basis with two permanent homes and two cottages being occupied part-time. While the island remains private property, public access is granted to those who schedule tours ahead of time.

Overall, Oak Island has extreme risk of flooding over the next 30 years, which means flooding is likely to impact day-to-day life within the community. This is based on the level of risk the properties face rather than the proportion of properties with risk.

The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Oak Island is 1 in 77. Based on FBI crime data, Oak Island is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to North Carolina, Oak Island has a crime rate that is higher than 48% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

Unlike other surrounding beach towns, you won't find crowds here, but you may be limited when it comes to accommodation options in Oak Island proper. Keep in mind this area of North Carolina is prone to hurricanes, so be mindful of booking in late September and early October.

Is Oak Island NC a good investment? ›

Is Oak Island, NC a buyer's or seller's market? Since last year, Oak Island has remained a Seller's Market. Oak Island is a Sellers Housing Market, which means prices tend to be higher and homes sell faster.

Whether you are interested in learning more about nature or crave action adventures, Oak Island and its surrounding area have what you need for a great vacation with kids!

Beach bonfires are only permitted by the Town of Oak Island between mid-November and mid-to-late April. Beach-goers are required to apply for a bonfire permit within 72 hours of the planned bonfire date and time, and to adhere to all Town ordinances.

Town of Oak Island offers 65 public Beach Access Locations, more than any other coastal community in North Carolina! Many of these areas have available parking, with several offering reserved handicap parking as well, along with other amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and shower stations.

Oak Island Paid Parking Quick Facts

Non-residents, visitors and anyone without a Town Resident Decal/Pass will be required to purchase a paid parking permit on a per-vehicle basis in order to park in all designated parking areas except those specifically marked for Town residents.

Spend a day at the Oak Island Pier at 705 Ocean Drive. Visitors of all ages can fish, sit and enjoy the view and stroll out over the ocean. The Pier is 880 feet long, and 27 feet above the water. It's the highest pier in North Carolina.

Ranked one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country by Food & Wine magazine, a stroll on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk features classic seaside family fun with shops, restaurants and nightlife entertainment. The boardwalk and amusem*nt park is open Memorial Day through Labor Day every year.

The Curse of Oak Island is a multi-season reality television series that chronicles a team of treasure hunters run by brothers Marty and Rick Lagina and its search for legendary treasure on Oak Island off the shore of Nova Scotia.