What to Do This Spring on Oak Island (2026)

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 group of friends, you’ll find something here for everyone.

Kick off the season with the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival on March 14 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 21, 2026 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 Deep Creek Soul Band 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 is held on Oak Island at the Salty Dog Park inside and will surely get your pooch in the holiday spirit.

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🗓️ Annual Easter Event Details

Easter events on Oak Island and in nearby Southport are typically held the Saturday before Easter weekend, with a consistent schedule year to year. Here is what you can generally expect:

Oak Island Youth Egg Hunt
Held at Bill Smith Park, this event features multiple age groups (3 and under, 4 to 6, and 7 to 10), with the hunt beginning around 10am.

Doggie Egg-STRAVAGANZA
Following the children’s event, the dog-friendly hunt begins around 11:30am at the Salty Dog Park, with separate areas for small and large dogs. Please keep in mind that all dogs must be current on all vaccinations to participate.

Southport Easter Egg Hunt
Located at Franklin Square Park and the Garrison Lawn, this event typically begins at 10am for ages 5 to 12, with a second hunt immediately after for younger children.

In recent years, events have included thousands of candy-filled eggs, special prizes, and appearances from the Easter Bunny — making it a memorable experience for both kids and adults.

Note: Event dates and times may vary slightly each year, so we recommend checking local event pages closer to your stay.

Southport’s Annual Springfest

Mark your calendar for April 18, 2026, as Southport’s Annual Springfest returns for a full day of fun! Held from 10am to 4pm, this beloved spring celebration takes place in the heart of downtown Southport on Bay Street, just a short drive from Oak Island.

For nearly three decades, Springfest has welcomed locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season of renewal. This vibrant festival offers something for everyone, including live musical entertainment throughout the day, handmade arts and crafts from talented local artisans, and a variety of food vendors serving up delicious coastal favorites. You will also find plant vendors, a swing dance lesson, and plenty of kid-friendly activities hosted by Southport Parks and Recreation.

With free admission and something for all ages, Springfest is a must-visit event if you are in the area this April. Whether you are browsing unique handmade goods, enjoying local flavors, or simply soaking in the small-town coastal charm, this annual festival captures the essence of spring in coastal Carolina.

Memorial Day Weekend

Last but certainly not least, one of the best times to visit Oak Island before summer is in full swing is 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 kicks off on May 22, 2026, setting the stage for a season of live music every Friday. That same day, Middleton Park celebrates the return of warmer days with the Splashpad Splashdown event, marking the opening of the splashpad for the season — a favorite for families visiting the island.

If you have not taken a ferry over to Bald Head Island before, their Memorial Day Weekend Celebration (May 23–25, 2026) is the perfect time to do it. This annual event is known as the official kickoff to summer and features a full lineup of hikes, watersports, art events, and incredible food — offering something for both first-time visitors and longtime vacationers.

Prefer a quieter escape into nature? Memorial Day Weekend also marks the beginning of one of the island’s most special seasonal experiences. Loggerhead sea turtles begin coming ashore at night to lay their eggs, with nesting season typically running from mid-May through August. About two months later, hatchlings make their way to the ocean, making this one of the most unique times of year to visit the coast.

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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