6/29/16

Experience the Fourth of July Pleasure Island Style


Why limit the Fourth of July to just one day of celebration? Revelers can show their patriotic love at The Independence Day Weekend Fireworks By The Sea and Boardwalk Gazebo festivities July 1 through July 3 to celebrate our country's birthday.

What Pleasure Island has to Offer


Pleasure Island is home to some of the loveliest beaches in North Carolina, and this Fourth of July it's going to rock one awe-inspiring Independence Day tribute. From a fish fry to a pancake breakfast, from performing arts to live music, and of course breathtaking fireworks, come experience the three-day fun-filled festivities. Here are some event highlights of the Fourth of July weekend in Pleasure Island. Visit the Pleasure Island website for more information.

6/22/16

The Boardwalk at Carolina Beach: Where Summer Memories Are Made


The Carolina Beach oceanfront comes alive in the summer months along the boardwalk located just off the beach between Cape Fear Blvd. and Harper Ave. A treasured part of Pleasure Island history for more than eighty years, the boardwalk is a favorite entertainment and dining destination for locals and visitors alike. It's no surprise Food & Wine magazine ranked Carolina Beach Boardwalk one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country. Dotted with amusement rides, restaurants, watering holes, shops, live music, and exciting weekly events, the boardwalk is home to all things fun this summer.

Dining on the Boardwalk


From restaurants to taverns to decadent sweet shops, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk has something to satisfy everybody's appetite. Whether lunch, dinner, or late night bites, Shelby Jean's Restaurant on the boardwalk has favorites like burgers, wings, sandwiches, crab dip, steaks, and seafood...and don't forget their nightly drink specials!

Head over to Hurricane Alley's and enjoy a steam pot from their oceanfront rooftop deck, or venture to  Silver Dollar, another fun place to hang out on the boardwalk. This laid back  bar and grill in inviting and the food is fresh.  Follow up dinner and drinks with some grab-and-stroll goodies from Britt's Donut Shop, Krazy Kones, New Orleans Snowballs, The Fudgeboat, or the Island Ice Factory.

After Dinner Extravaganzas


Ferris wheel, carousel, trampolines, a big slide, miniature golf, and carnival games and prizes - the attractions at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park offer a variety of family-friendly (and budget-friendly) ways to play in a safe, fun environment. Thrill seekers and old-school merry-goers alike will find something to satisfy their adrenaline rushes with more than 25 amusement rides. Park goers can purchase single-ride tickets or an all-day pass. For more information, visit www.pleasureislandnc.org 

What would a beachfront boardwalk be without live music, entertainment, and fireworks? The Carolina Beach Boardwalk hosts a music concert series at the Gazebo Stage every week at 6:30 beginning Friday, May 27th, followed by fireworks on the beach at 9:00 pm.

The boardwalk is the best 'seat' in the house to rock out to reggae, blues, pop, classic rock, and country. Visit our concert website for the full music line up.

Something for Everyone


Entertainment at the Boardwalk doesn't have to be all fast paced. Every Wednesday night beginning May 25th, Cash Bingo takes place at the Boardwalk Gazebo from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm. For less than $20.00 participants can play all games, including specials. Cash prizes are awarded for each game, up to $1,000 each night. Call 910-458-8434 for more information.

The 800 feet of Boardwalk at Carolina Beach might not be the longest boardwalk in the country but it's packed with more fun than imaginable.  From the amusement park rides to the restaurants and live entertainment, this is where summer memories are made.

For more information on what to see and do at the boardwalk, visit us at www.pleasureislandnc.org/carolina-beach-boardwalk/

6/16/16

23rd Annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival Headliners


Twenty-three years strong, the annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival comes to town once again on October 8th and 9th. Park your chair along the Cape Fear River at the Fort Fisher Military Recreational Area in Kure beach and enjoy two fun-filled days of seafood, arts and crafts, wine-tasting, and of course, music.

6/10/16

What's Going On This Weekend in Pleasure Island?


Need some ideas for things to do this weekend? Pleasure Island has plenty of fun and exciting events going on, from concerts to movies and much more! Take a look at what's happening in Pleasure Island June 10, 11 and 12...

Friday, June 10


FREE Summer Concerts at Fort Fisher Featuring SOUTHERN TROUBLE!

Don't miss this fun and free concert with country/rock group Southern Trouble! Their style is a mix of contemporary country, country rock and southern rock and is sure to get you on your feet and dancing! If you like artists like Keith Urban, Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones or Lynyrd-Skynyrd, you'll surely become a fan of Southern Trouble!

Show starts at 6:30 pm and takes place at the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area.


ARTISTRY IN JAZZ BIG BAND CONCERT - Friday Performing Arts Night at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk

From big bands to solo acts, the Carolina Beach Arts and Activities Committee brings you a variety of live performances at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk throughout the summer! This Friday, enjoy the Artistry In Jazz Big Band Concert, featuring incredibly talented musicians as they perform a repertoire consisting of arrangements by Stan Kenton, Lennie Niehaus, Bill Holman, Gene Roland, Bill Russo, Bill Mathieu, Hank Levy and others.


Saturday, June 11



Come browse the many booths of local produce, handmade goods, arts and crafts and more at the Carolina Beach Farmer's Market! The market takes place every Saturday from May 28 to October 1, 2016 at the Carolina Beach Lake Park. Hours are 8 am to 1 pm.

Sunday, June 12


It's a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids after they're hurtled Rio de Janeiro to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all: his father-in-law.

Starting May 29th through September 4th, vacationers as well as residents from Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wilmington grab their kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the lake in Carolina Beach to enjoy a FREE Outdoor movie on a 'gigantic' screen!  Movie goers can purchase cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more.  You can also bring your own food and beverages. Movies start at dusk.


Adaptive athletes, families and hundreds of volunteers come together for an epic day in the ocean. Registration has closed for participation in this event; however, visitors are welcome and encouraged to come down to Carolina Beach Access 2 to meet the athletes, participants, and volunteers and get inspired.

Art Appreciation Along Pleasure Island…

Many are often surprised to discover that Pleasure Island is a mecca for artists and those in search of artistic pursuits.

6/8/16

Enjoy Free Summer Concerts Coming to Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area!


Often referred to as one of the military's 'Best Kept Secrets', Fort Fisher is home to the Ft. Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, a carefree family vacation spot for active duty military, reservists, national guard, coast guard, retired military, DoD civilians, and disabled veterans.

Situated a little over a mile south of the Kure Beach stoplight at 118 Riverfront Road in Kure Beach, The Fort Fisher AF Recreation Area plays host to a free summer concert series featuring some of the area's most popular rock, blues, beach, country, dance, and bluegrass bands.

Bring the family by on the second and fourth Fridays this summer beginning June 10th through August 26th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The 2016 concert lineup includes genres for all generations. For more details visit us at www.pleasureislandnc.org

Here's a sneak peak of what this summer has to offer:

  • Southern Trouble kicks it all off Friday, June 10, putting their unique style and experience to work on contemporary country, country rock, and rock covers by artists like Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, Eric Church, Keith Urban, Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, and many more.

  • On June 24th, it's a southern-style British invasion with Liverpool, Carolina's Beatles experience. This 5-man Beatles tribute band hails from Raleigh and entertains fans with favorite Beatles hits like "I Wanna Hold Your Hand," "Ticket to Ride," and "I Need You," as well as songs by Paul McCartney.

  • Justin Cody Fox wows audiences with his southern rock and alt country repertoire on July 8th. Justin has shared the stage with greats like David Lee Roth, Cowboy Mouth, Lynyrd Skynrd, and Marshall Tucker Band, just to name a few.

  • Party band Bounce! from Burlington, NC gets the crowd on their feet and singing along on July 22nd. From standards like Soul Man and Love Train, to dance favorites like Footloose and Brick House, to 80's rock and pop hits, this band will get you dancing.

  • South of K, an acoustic band from the Kure Beach, electrifies audiences with its un-plugged, un-packaged bluegrass brand of musical storytelling on August 12th. Influenced by performers like Balsam Range, Flatt and Scruggs, Lonesome River Band, Blue Highway, and The Infamous Stringdusters, South of K will have your feet tapping.

  • Closing out the concert series at the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area on August 26th is The Cut, a four-man power popular rock band covering some of the greatest rock hits from the 90s and beyond.

6/6/16

Where to Find Your Beach Vacation Essentials



With Memorial Day behind us, summer is officially here! If your thoughts have turned to how you are going to make the most of those beach days - fishing excursions, barbecues and more - we can help. Although this list certainly does not represent all of our members, here are a few suggestions aimed at guiding you where to find just what you’ll need for those lazy, crazy days ahead! We encourage you to visit our member page in order to view individual websites.

Gather up your gear…


Pleasure Island Rentals is a great spot to get key items for your coastal adventure. Beach chairs-check/umbrellas-check/beach cruisers-check/boogie boards, surfboards and SUPS-check! They even provide a convenient delivery and set-up service! Find them at 2 N. Lake Park Blvd. or call 910-458-4747.

Wheel Fun Rentals is another Chamber member that can help you maximize your free time. We encourage you to check out their impressive fleet of bikes, low-slung sports models and the unique surrey bikes, which can accommodate up to six folks - it's a beach party on wheels! They also coordinate bicycle tours and rent beach toys as well. Find them at 107 Carolina Beach Avenue N. or call 910-458-4545.

Sun Fun Rentals offers a variety of popular vehicles, from jeeps to scooters and a few others in between. They also feature Bazen rods and can set you up for a day of fun and fishing at Freeman Park or anywhere else the sea breezes take you. Located along N. Lake Park Blvd., call to reserve your top choices today: 910-707-0926.

Bame Ace Hardware has the things that will help you make the most of your island time. Invest in a few key items that will last forever, such as grills, Yeti products and Leatherman tools that will ensure you are truly prepared for whatever you catch. Pay them a visit at 1201 N. Lake Park Blvd. or call ahead: 910-458-8266.


Plan your adventure…


Wilmington Fit Body Boot Camp may possibly be the best place around to get in shape for all of your upcoming escapades! They believe in the group motivation experience rather than the one-on-one personal trainer option. Not only is this method of getting in shape more affordable, it’s also way more fun! Give them a call to find out more: 910-471-0234.

Island Hopper Tours takes care of the planning for you. Their private charters get you out on the water for both full and half-day trips. There are several different excursions to choose from, so see what’s scheduled by calling 202-330-8382.

Hot Ticket Fishing Charters is not just for avid anglers and sport fisherman. Along with their half-day Spanish, Blues and Shark-fishing trips they also offer Dolphin-Spotting cruises for the nature lovers in the crowd. Get the details when you dial this number: 910-619-1729.

Tony Silvagni Surf School is a Pleasure Island institution. From private to group lessons and special events, Tony and his crew have got your covered. Let this be the summer to discover why, "only a surfer knows the feeling."

Pack your picnic…


From the time you cross the Snow’s Cut bridge until you breeze into charming Kure Beach, you’ll be tempted by edible delights every step of the way. Be sure to check out the icons like Britts Donuts and A&G Barbeque as well as a few more.

Don’t miss one of the area’s newest and most popular stops: Wake N Bake Donuts. Located at 1401 N. Lake Park Blvd. their offerings include classic glazed donuts, plus fritters, vegan donuts and donut waffles! Come early because they often sell out. Their hours are: 6:30 am – 10 pm Mon.-Sat. and 6:30 am until 5 pm on Sundays. They also accept preorders, so just call 910-707-0166.

For some of the best subs this side of the Cape Fear River, we suggest provisioning at Sea Bee Subs, which is right on the boardwalk at # 11 Boardwalk Ave. They offer hot and cold subs, plus Paninis.

Island Beverage not only has your favorites ready to ice down, they also have a cute wine bar and great atmosphere. Stop by 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. Unit C, and check them out.

You know what they say, "YOLO!" - so don’t miss The Fudgeboat! With 30 different types of fudge, 16 flavors of ice cream, chocolate-dipped strawberries plus freshly roasted nuts, they certainly cover all of the bases. Find the 38-foot “yacht of fun” on the boardwalk at 107 Carolina Beach Ave.

To give your picnic or barbecue that “wow” factor, a visit to Go Sauce Yourself is a must. Featuring plenty of made in the Carolinas BBQ sauces, hot sauces, rubs and seasonings, they also have Marie Sharp’s Belizean Heat that takes your grilled creations straight to the Caribbean!

Fido is on vacation too…


Of course our four-legged friends love the beach too, however, they can not always participate in all of the fun. That’s where The Dog House comes in. Bella and Buddy will have a blast at their playtime sessions or be in excellent hands for an afternoon of doggie daycare or even a sleep-over. Located at 115 Cathay Rd. call to learn more: 910-547-1568.

6/3/16

Test Your Pleasure Island IQ!



1. In what year was the high-rise bridge built over Snow’s Cut to connect the island to the mainland?

1959
1962
1964

2. What local dancer is credited with developing and popularizing the dance known as the “shag”?

Chicken Hicks
Shaggie Smith
Rooster Parker

3. Kure Beach takes its name from one of the first families to visit and buy property in the area. It is pronounced “Cure-ee” and the family was originally from:

Minnesota
Denmark
Germany

4. The man, Robert Harrill, who became known as the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit was originally from:

Athens, GA
Gaffney, SC
Lincoln, NE

5. In its heyday during the Civil War, Fort Fisher was known as:

The Gibraltar of the South
The Sand Castle Fortress
The Iron Mermaid

6. When the Astor Hotel burned to the ground in 1985, it was how old?

42 years
69 years
120 years

7. Kure Beach boasts its own natural wonder. What is it?

An artesian well
A coquina outcrop
A rocky sea cave

8. Which hurricane did the most recent damage to the Kure Beach Pier?

Dianne
Fran
Bertha

9. Which Native American tribal group predominately populated the area now known as the Cape Fear Coast, which includes Pleasure Island?

Shawnee
Tuscarora
Blackfoot

10. What is the name of the albino alligator at the Fort Fisher Aquarium?

Jack White
Luna
Elsa



(answers: 1962, Chicken Hicks, Denmark, Gaffney, SC, Gibraltar of the South, 69 years, coquina outcrop, Bertha, Tuscarora, Luna)

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