Oak Island Pier – Fishing, Oceanfront Dining & More

Are you excited about a trip filled with coastal adventures and creating vacation memories with your loved ones that will last a lifetime? One of the most popular pastimes for families and friends is spending an afternoon or evening at an Oak Island Pier! Here is where you’ll find kids playing, friends laughing, and families strolling along, taking in the seaside sights.

If you’ve never visited Oak Island NC before, you might not know that there are two great piers on the island: the Oak Island Pier (formerly the Yaupon Fishing Pier) and the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier! Keep reading to learn all about both piers and what there is to do nearby.

The Oak Island Pier (Formerly: Yaupon Fishing Pier)

This gorgeous, historic pier was built over 65 years ago and happens to be the highest pier in North Carolina! It measures 27 feet tall and runs a whopping 880 feet in length, which provides visitors with 30 different fishing stations. Talk about the perfect place to cast your line and reel in a delicious catch!

Aside from the exquisite fishing opportunities, you’ll find countless things to do during your time at the Oak Island Pier — from The Pier House and three dining options to an oceanfront center for all of your event needs. The beach lovers in your group will also love being able to quickly take a stroll along the sandy shore, while the fisherman can stay behind and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

The Pier House

Forgot to bring your fishing rods or tackle? You’ll find a wide variety of poles, tackle, and gear you’ll need for your fishing venture on the pier. They even have rental options for those who do not wish to purchase gear during their time here. In addition, to live bait and fishing equipment, you’ll also find souvenirs, snacks, and unique apparel for the entire family.

Dining at the Oak Island Pier

Are you looking for oceanfront dining on Oak Island? Look no further than the excellent restaurants at the Oak Island Pier (formerly the Yaupon Fishing Pier)! If you start your day with a fresh cup of brew or feel like grabbing a bite before heading out for a fun-filled day in the sun, the place to go for breakfast and lunch is Ruby’s Coffeehouse! This popular eatery has all your favorite coffee, teas, and delicious baked treats. It’s open from the morning until mid-afternoon Tuesday through Sunday.

Another excellent place to grab a bite to eat and your favorite beachy cocktail is Koko Cabana! You’ll find island vibes and an assortment of dishes to please even the pickiest diners in your group. The menu includes snacks, salads, seafood plates, island bowls, and more. They’re typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 8pm, making it a terrific stop for lunch and dinner.

A quick walk away is where you’ll find the 3rd spot to stop for a bite to eat near this OKI pier, Lazy Turtle Bar & Grill. This popular oceanfront restaurant is known for having some of the best views on Oak Island! You’ll find a casual dining atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options. Their menu offers fresh seafood, salads, chicken wings, sandwiches, burgers, and more. They’re open 7 days a week and always have fun events like Bingo and Trivia, making it an entertaining, family-friendly hangout!

801 Ocean Event Center

If you want to plan an event at the beach in North Carolina that your guests will never forget, you’ll find that 801 Ocean offers a spectacular experience! The chic coastal atmosphere paired with the beautiful exposed ceilings makes the interior an event planner’s dream. Not to mention, you’ll have your choice of add-ons like catering and auto-visual services. This oceanfront event space will take your breath away from weddings and anniversaries to birthday parties and ceremonies. Plus, it’s open year-round and can host up to 200 guests.

Ocean Crest Fishing Pier

The second pier on Oak Island is the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier, which holds the title of the longest fishing pier on the Southern Cape Fear Coast at 893 feet long! It’s also been voted as the most popular fishing pier in North Carolina by Fisherman’s Post and has been recognized by its T-shaped end that’s 50 feet wide. Even though this unique end was actually damaged and lost in Hurricane Isaias, it still remains to be the ideal spot for catching king mackerel and provides dazzling views for miles from the large boardwalk.

The amenities include landing nets and cleaning stations, rod rentals, handicap-accessible restrooms, nighttime lighting, bench seating, and easy beach access. It’s open 7 days a week from 11am to 8pm during the warmer months, so don’t hesitate to stop by and enjoy everything there is to do: eat, dine, and relax!

The Ocean Crest Pier House

The pier house at Ocean Crest is the perfect place to rent fishing rods along with an assortment of bait, like frozen shrimp, squid, cut mullet, and more! It’s also a hotspot for hanging out after your fishing excursions! Grab a drink at the bar, pick up some snacks and refreshments, and browse through all the souvenirs available. There’s even a wide range of Oak Island apparel to choose from — hats, shirts, shorts, and more.

Dining at the Ocean Crest Pier

More oceanfront dining options on Oak Island? Yes, that’s right! The Seahorse Eats & Drinks can be found overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Ocean Crest Pier. Grab a cold Carolina brew from their massive beer menu or pick from over 10 types of wines as you relax after a day fishing from the pier! They even have live music performances and often host various events.

If you’re searching for a more upscale dining experience with sweeping panoramic views, you’ll love Island Way! It’s Oak Island’s favorite oceanfront steak and seafood restaurant. On the menu, you’ll love fan-favorites like their mouthwatering jumbo lump crab cakes grilled to perfection and shrimp and grits that will have your taste buds going wild! Reservations are strongly recommended, and they’re open Wednesday through Sunday from 4:30pm to 9pm.

Oak Island Fishing Pier Webcams

Curious to see the current weather conditions at the Oak Island piers? You don’t have to be here to see the sights firsthand. There are webcams set up that offer 24/7 live streams of the ocean. It’s a fun way to feel like you’re seaside and see what’s happening in real-time near the coast. View what it currently looks like on the Ocean Crest Fishing Pier webcam… or on the live camera in Southport at the waterfront park!

Is a NC Fishing License Needed?

One of the best things about pier fishing in North Carolina is that you don’t need a fishing license! If you want to fish at other spots on the island, you must purchase one on the North Carolina Wildlife Resouces Commission website.

But, don’t worry — it’s super simple to do and is very affordable. If you prefer buying a fishing license over the phone, you can call them on 888-248-6834 (Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm). Additionally, most bait and tackle shops in the area allow you to pick up a NC fishing license in person.

Oak Island Vacation Rentals Near the Piers

There is nothing like a day and evening spent at the Oak Island Piers! Whether you’re in town for one of the fishing tournaments or on a family vacation, there’s something for everyone in your group to love here. And, when you’re ready to start planning your next OKI adventure, our team is here to help you with all of your needs. Either pick up the phone, send us an email, or start browsing through all of our premier Oak Island vacation homes today!

(Blog post updated on 8/12/22)