What to Do This Spring on Oak Island (2023)

Ah, the beginning of spring on Oak Island! There’s nothing like this time of year — the weather begins to warm up, flowers start to bloom, and the wildlife awakens from the winter slumber. You’ll find that high temperatures in March and April float anywhere from the high 60s to the low 80s during the day, and you’ll feel like the only one on the beach during the spring months on the island! 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 or swim spa!

For those looking to travel to Oak Island in the spring, you’ll find some of the best times to visit along with our favorite things to do below.

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. 

For instance, the Cape Fear Craft Beer Week kicks off on Friday, March 24th, and runs through Sunday, April 2nd! This annual event celebrates the craft beer community with an entire week dedicated to sampling brews, fantastic food, live music, and more across the Wilmington area. For instance, the Cape Fear Craft & Cuisine event will be held right at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher on April 1st, 2023! Local chefs will be pairing their best dishes with local brews at this event for a tantalizing experience that every beer connoisseur will surely love.

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 as always, excellent dining options. Plus, most of the events are free and require no registration to join in the fun.

The Southport Spring Festival is the first thing that comes to our mind when asked about spring events near OKI! This Easter weekend event is typically held at Franklin Square Park and offers a wide variety of activities for everyone in the family. There is normally live music, handmade arts and crafts, activities just for the kiddos, numerous local food vendors on-site, and even a 5K run. Please note, this event happens to not be pet-friendly. But, keep scrolling to learn about the Doggie Eggstravaganza if you’re traveling with your furry family members.

Easter Egg Hunts? Yes! 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 is usually held in Southport at Bill Smith Park 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.

Memorial Day Weekend

And, last but not least, the third most popular time to visit Oak Island before summer is… drum roll, please… Memorial Day weekend! It’s the unofficial start to summer, and you’ll find your favorite seasonal restaurants and stores re-opening for the season.

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 with. 

Maybe you prefer an escape into nature on the beach? This is one of the best times of the year to visit Oak Island for seeing 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

Looking forward to a spring vacation of a lifetime? Our Oak Island vacation rental homes have everything you need to entertain and relax during your time away from home! From oceanfront properties with a swim spa at A Sight to Sea, you’ll be able to find your ideal rental with us. Simply browse through our properties or give us a call for assistance with your planning needs!