Fall Outdoor Activities on Pleasure Island

Autumn is one of the best times of year to get out and get active on Pleasure Island. The air is cool and crisp, and the humidity and summertime crowds have eased up. While the ocean waters may be a little brisker this time of year, there are still plenty of ways to frolic and stay fit in the fall. Here are our top picks for outdoor pursuits during the coast’s finest season:

Biking

Whether you bring your own bicycle or rent one here, you'll find miles of well-maintained, flat roads on which to explore the entire island. The 16-mile round trip Pleasure Island Pedal Route starts at the state boat launch site at Snow's Cut and traverses down to Fort Fisher State Park. Along the way, you can ride the bike trail at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, which winds through a maritime forest near the Ft. Fisher-to-Southport Ferry Landing.


Another peaceful ride takes you through the roads of Carolina Beach State Park. While bikes are not permitted on the hiking trails, it's nice to meander through this scenic park and make a few stops along the way to check out the marina or stroll the popular Flytrap Trail.

Disc Golf

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to get some outdoor exercise, try your hand at disc golf. At the Kure Beach Disc Golf Course, you play with Frisbee-like discs instead of golf balls, and you aim for “disc-catchers” instead of holes. The course is located at K and 7th Avenues, and features unique vegetation and sometimes challenging terrain. The course is open from sunup to sundown 7 days a week and is free and open to the public.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

These activities are a great way to enjoy our waters without having to take a dunk in the surf on those cool autumn days. If you're new to SUP, or Stand Up Paddleboarding, catch a lesson at the Tony Silvagni Surf School, or rent a board and head out on your own on the calm protected waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. Let one of Tony's experienced guides lead you on a peaceful kayak tour of the waterway or on an excursion to Zeke's Island or Shark Tooth Island.

Hiking

Fall is the best time of the year to hike the beautiful trails at Carolina Beach State Park. The bugs have dwindled, and the shade is cool and inviting. Six miles of trails wind through a diverse array of natural habitats. Most of the trails are level and easy to walk, and some of them are even handicap accessible. Start your adventure by picking up a trail map at the visitor's center or the marina. Birdwatchers will especially love the Sugarloaf trail, which passes through a marsh and follows the edge of the Cape Fear River.

While much of the country may be turning up a collar to cold winds and rain, Pleasure Island is suiting up for a romp in the bright sunshine. Come see for yourself how many ways there are to enjoy the best of seasons in Southeastern North Carolina.