What to Do This Spring on Oak Island (2025)

Ah, the magic of spring on Oak Island! As the cool grasp of winter fades, the island comes alive — azaleas burst into bloom, the salty breeze grows warmer, and dolphins can often be spotted playing in the waves. March and April bring daytime highs ranging from the upper 60s to the low 80s, making it the perfect time to enjoy uncrowded beaches, tranquil coastal walks, and breathtaking sunsets.

Children are still in school for most of the season, making for a quieter atmosphere on Oak Island for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Keep in mind that it does cool off after the sun goes down, but the cooler evenings are perfect for stargazing and relaxing at one of our vacation homes with a heated pool, swim spa, or hot tub!

If you’re planning an escape to Oak Island in the spring, we’ve rounded up some of the best times to visit and must-do activities — from lively festivals to peaceful beachside moments:

Spring Break Getaway in North Carolina

Oak Island is a popular spot for families and friends to visit for spring break in North Carolina! No matter if you’re thinking about a trip with your family or your college roomies, you’ll find something here for everyone.

Kick off the season with the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival on March 15 in Wilmington (only about a 40-45 minute drive from the island). This beloved annual event brings the community together for an afternoon of craft beer, smooth bourbon tastings, mouthwatering barbecue, live music, and more.

The fun continues the following weekend with Spring Fling: Market and Music on Oak Island! This vibrant community event scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025 between noon and 4pm is the perfect way to welcome the season. Stroll through the Artisan Market to find unique souvenirs, grab a delicious meal from local food vendors, and let the little ones burn off energy in the Kids Zone. Live music from Hood’s Creek will set the stage for a lively afternoon of fun.

Easter Vacation on Oak Island

The first “major holiday” every year on the island is Easter weekend, and there are so many annual traditions to fall in love with (if you haven’t already)! You’ll find family-friendly celebrations to take advantage of, like Easter egg hunts, a parade, and egg-cellent dining options as always. Plus, most of the events are free and require no registration to join in the fun.

Gather your Easter baskets and check out these two annual events that are a must while you’re visiting. The first is Oak Island’s Easter Egg Hunt that is held at Bill Smith Park and geared towards those 10 years old and younger. Just over the bridge in Southport, you’ll find the second Easter Egg Hunt at Franklin Square Park and Fort Johnson Garrison Lawn.

Now, for those who are looking for a pet-friendly Easter event on Oak Island, you will want to check out the Annual Doggie Eggstravaganza! This event will be held on Oak Island at the Salty Dog Park inside and will surely get your pooch in the holiday spirit. Please keep in mind that all dogs must be current on all vaccinations to participate.

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🗓️ Calendar of Easter Events 2025

Oak Island Youth Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 12th — hunt begins promptly at 10:00am at Bill Smith Park. Age groups: age 3 and under, ages 4 to 6, and ages 7 to 10. Learn more here.

Oak Island Doggie Eggstravaganza
Saturday, April 12th — hunt begins at 11:30am at Salty Dog Park inside Bill Smith Park. There will be 2 separate hunts, one for dogs under 20 pounds and another for dogs over 20 pounds. Learn more here.

Southport Parks & Recreation’s Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 12th — hunt begins at 10:00am. Details haven’t been released yet, but Taylor Field typically hosts ages 5 to 12, while the Garrison Lawn hosts those 4 and under. Learn more here.

Southport’s Annual Springfest

Mark your calendar for April 19, 2025, as Southport’s Annual Springfest returns for a full day of fun! Held from 10am to 6pm, this beloved spring celebration takes place in Franklin Square Park, just a short drive from Oak Island.

Springfest is the perfect way to soak in the season with live music, local food vendors, and a vibrant arts and crafts market featuring talented artisans from around the region. It’s a great opportunity to browse unique handmade goods, savor delicious eats, and enjoy the welcoming small-town charm of Southport. Plus, there will be plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep little ones entertained throughout the day.

With free admission and something for all ages, Springfest is a must-visit event if you’re in the area this April. Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon with family or a laid-back outing with friends, this annual festival captures the essence of coastal Carolina in the springtime!

Memorial Day Weekend

Last but certainly not least, one of the best times to visit Oak Island before summer is in full swing is — drum roll, please — Memorial Day Weekend! As the unofficial start to summer, this holiday weekend brings the island to life with seasonal restaurants and shops reopening, longer days filled with sunshine, and the return of local events. The Oak Island Summer Concert Series also kicks off on May 23, setting the stage for a season of live music every Friday.

If you haven’t taken a ferry over to Bald Head Island before, their Memorial Day Weekend Celebration event is the time to do it! You’ll find countless hikes, watersports, art events, and plenty of incredible food to kick off the summer season.

Maybe you prefer an escape into nature on the beach? This is one of the best times of the year to visit Oak Island to see the Loggerhead turtles come ashore during the nighttime hours to lay their eggs! The egg-laying season typically begins in mid-May and continues into August, with the hatchlings usually emerging about two months later.

Places to Stay on Oak Island This Spring

Ready to plan the ultimate spring vacation to Oak Island? Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage or a luxury oceanfront retreat with a heated private pool, we have the perfect place for you. Spring is one of the best times to visit before the summer crowds arrive, so don’t wait — browse our stunning Oak Island vacation rentals today, or give us a call for expert trip-planning assistance!

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