History, Trails & Coastal Adventure

Just south of Kure Beach, Fort Fisher is one of those rare places where you can spend the morning exploring local history and the afternoon hiking, fishing, or relaxing along miles of undeveloped coastline.

The area is home to both Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, giving visitors two completely different experiences within one beautiful stretch of Pleasure Island. Whether you're here for the history, wildlife, trails, or four-wheel-drive beach access, Fort Fisher is well worth adding to your itinerary.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Address: 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach

With miles of protected shoreline and some of the most natural scenery on Pleasure Island, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a favorite for anyone looking to get away from the busier beaches.

Popular activities include:

Swimming
Surf fishing
Hiking
Paddling
Picnicking
Bird watching
Wildlife viewing
Four-wheel-drive beach access

Certain portions of the beach are accessible by 4WD vehicles, making Fort Fisher especially popular with surf fishermen and visitors looking for a more adventurous beach day.

Hike the Basin Trail

If you only have time for one trail, make it the Basin Trail.

This approximately 2.2-mile trail takes you through coastal marshes and maritime environments, passing a historic World War II bunker along the way. At the end, you'll reach an observation area with beautiful views overlooking the Cape Fear River and Zeke's Island Reserve.

Bring comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and bug spray—especially during the warmer months.

Explore Five Miles of Beach

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area protects approximately five miles of oceanfront, offering plenty of room for walking, shell hunting, fishing, and simply enjoying a quieter stretch of coastline.

During warmer months, the area also becomes important nesting habitat for loggerhead sea turtles. If you encounter marked nesting areas, wildlife, or protected sections of beach, give them plenty of space and follow all posted guidelines.

Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Address: 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd South, Kure Beach

Fort Fisher also played a major role during the American Civil War, protecting the port of Wilmington and the Cape Fear River.

Today, visitors can explore the historic grounds, monuments, outdoor exhibits, and reconstructed features while learning more about the fort and its significance to the region.

The site also features a modern 20,000-square-foot visitor center with exhibits and additional opportunities to dive deeper into the area's history.

Things to See & Do

Explore the visitor center
Walk the historic grounds and trails
View monuments and outdoor historic structures
Take a guided tour
Visit the activity hall
Browse the gift shop
Learn about Fort Fisher's role during the Civil War

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 9 AM–5 PM
Closed Sunday, Monday, and state holidays.

Vesta Tip

Give yourself more time at Fort Fisher than you think you'll need. It’s easy to combine the historic site, Basin Trail, and beach into one outing and there’s even more to explore nearby. Pack water and sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and make a full day of the south end of Pleasure Island. Before heading out, check current park hours, trail conditions, beach driving requirements, and seasonal wildlife closures, as access can change throughout the year.

Fort Fisher Rec Area + Historic Site