An escape to the beach doesn’t have to mean leaving your four-legged companions behind. With pet-friendly options for dining, lodging and adventure, peaceful Kure Beach invites you and your dog to unwind and discover nature’s playground together.

Barks and Recreation

It doesn't get much better than a day of beach fun alongside your canine companion. Leashed dogs are welcome to visit the beach strand any time from October through March. During peak season, April through September, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

For activities the whole family will enjoy, including your pup, venture to Joe Eakes Park and play a round of disc golf or a game of bocce ball, tennis or basketball. Kids can swing, slide and climb at the large playground. Let the furry friend off the leash to run and play at the Gurney Hood Barking Lot, a dog park located within Joe Eakes Park.

 

Adventure through tranquil waters, wildlife-filled marshes and secluded sandy beaches with a pet-friendly guided tour or rental from Kayak Carolina. No experience is necessary to enjoy this paddling experience. Or, grab your furry friend and get out on the water for a self-guided journey with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental from Pleasure Island Rentals.

On dry land, explore Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, where leashed dogs are always welcome for some fun in the sun and sand. Savor the beautiful natural surroundings on a hike along the Basin Trail, where you can catch a glimpse of the WWII bunker that was once home to the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit.

 

Nearby on the island, Pets in the Park occurs each October and celebrates pets, their owners and pet-friendly businesses. This year’s events include a pet blessing, dog and cat adoption zone, puppy kissing booth and more. All well-behaved pets are invited to join the festivities.

 

 

Bone Appétit! 

Thanks to Kure Beach restaurants offering pet-friendly dining options, there is no need to leave your favorite canine companion behind. Bring your pup on your morning coffee run to Happy Hippies Java Hut and order a pup cup and a one-of-a-kind coffee potion, Mermaid Magic, for yourself. The seasonal Riverview Restaurant is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset and enjoy fresh seafood alongside your pet on an outdoor deck. Stroll to the seasonal walk-up window at Beach House Burgers and enjoy one of their signature made-to-order burgers. Be sure to save room for their soft-serve ice cream…we won’t tell if you share a little with your pup.

 

Barkingham Palace

Enjoy the freedom of staying at a pet-friendly vacation rental with options from companies like Victory Beach Vacations, or pack your pet’s favorite toys and bed for a relaxing stay at one of Carolina Beach Realty’s Kure Beach properties. Many of the island’s vacation homes feature grassy areas for pets, outdoor showers for rinsing off sandy paws and spacious interiors for unwinding together.

Kure Beach offers plenty of ways to include your pets in the family fun, so make sure to bring them along for a Kure Beach retreat that will leave everyone recharged and refreshed.