Grilling on the beach is a popular summer pastime for many people. However, before you pack up your grill and head to Oak Island Beach, there are a few things you should know. Oak Island Beach is a beautiful and popular destination for locals and tourists alike, but it’s important to know the rules and regulations regarding grilling on the beach.
So, can you grill on Oak Island Beach? The short answer is yes, but there are restrictions. Grilling is only permitted on the beach from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the summer months. Additionally, there are rules regarding where you can grill and what types of grills are allowed. It’s important to follow these rules to ensure the safety of yourself and others, as well as to protect the environment.
Beach Information
Access
Oak Island Beach is open to the public and can be accessed through designated access areas. A complete list of all Beach Access Locations can be found on the Oak Island website.
Hours
The beach is open from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the summer months. Beach equipment, including chairs, canopy frames, blankets, towels, and other personal items, must be removed by the end of each day. All items left unattended on the beach between 8:30 PM – 7:00 AM may be removed, and can be recovered after paying a $50 fine.
Rules
There are rules that must be followed when visiting the beach. Walking, running, playing, climbing, or other traffic of any kind on, or across the sand dunes and sand berms is PROHIBITED except in designated access areas. Glass containers are not allowed on the beach or in the beach accesses. Grilling is normally permitted on Oak Island Beach from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the summer months. However, fires on the beach are not allowed May through November to protect nesting sea turtles. Best check with local law enforcement.
Amenities
Oak Island Beach offers many amenities to visitors. There are public restrooms, showers, and changing rooms available. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. The beach is wheelchair accessible, and there are handicap parking spaces available.
Community
Oak Island is a friendly community that welcomes visitors. There are many local businesses that offer food, drinks, and souvenirs. There are also many events and activities that take place throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and fireworks displays.
North Carolina
Oak Island Beach is located in North Carolina, and visitors should be aware of the state’s rules and regulations. North Carolina state law prohibits smoking on the beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but they must be on a leash at all times. Visitors should also be aware of the state’s rip current safety tips and guidelines.
In summary, Oak Island Beach is a beautiful and welcoming destination for visitors. However, it is important to follow the rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Sea Turtles
Oak Island is a popular destination for sea turtles, and the town takes great care to protect them. Visitors are asked to be mindful of these magnificent creatures and to do their part in keeping them safe.
Nesting Sea Turtles
Oak Island is home to several species of sea turtles, including the loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley. These turtles come ashore to lay their eggs between May and August. During this time, it is important to be aware of the nesting areas and to avoid disturbing them.
The Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program (OISTPP) is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization whose mission is to monitor and protect the sea turtle population that visits the Oak Island beach strand. Over 190+ dedicated volunteers are involved in the program.
Visitors are asked to follow a few simple guidelines to help protect these endangered creatures:
- Do not disturb nesting areas or marked nests.
- Do not shine lights on the beach at night, as this can disorient hatchlings and cause them to head away from the ocean.
- Fill in any holes on the beach, as they can trap hatchlings and prevent them from reaching the water.
- Do not leave any trash or litter on the beach, as sea turtles can mistake it for food and ingest it.
By following these guidelines, visitors can help ensure that the sea turtles continue to visit Oak Island for generations to come.
Beach Safety
Beach Ambassador Program
Oak Island has a Beach Ambassador Program that is designed to educate visitors and locals about beach safety. The program is run by trained volunteers who patrol the beach, answer questions, and provide information about beach rules and regulations. The Beach Ambassadors also provide first aid assistance if needed and help to keep the beach clean and safe.
Beach Rules
Oak Island has specific rules that must be followed when visiting the beach. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of all visitors and to protect the environment. Some of the most important beach rules include:
- Walking, running, playing, climbing, or other traffic of any kind on, or across the sand dunes and sand berms is PROHIBITED except in designated access areas.
- GLASS CONTAINERS are not allowed on the beach or in the beach accesses.
- Fires on the beach are prohibited May through November to protect nesting sea turtles.
- Grilling on the beach is not allowed.
It is important to follow these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Beach Safety
In addition to following the beach rules, there are other safety measures that visitors should take when visiting Oak Island’s beaches. Some of these safety tips include:
- Always swim with caution and be aware of any beach warning flags. Double red flags indicate extreme surf conditions or water hazards and visitors should not enter the water.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear to protect against the sun and sharp objects on the beach.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on children at all times.
- If you see someone in distress, call 911 immediately.
By following these safety tips and rules, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience on Oak Island’s beautiful beaches.
Grilling on the Beach
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If you’re planning a beach trip to Oak Island and have been wondering if you can grill on the beach, the answer is yes! However, there are certain rules and regulations that you need to follow to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable beachside BBQ experience.
Permit
Grilling is normally permitted on Oak Island Beach from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the summer months. However, you may need to obtain a permit from the local law enforcement office before you start grilling. It’s always best to check with the authorities beforehand to avoid any issues.
Rules
There are some rules that you need to follow when grilling on the beach. For example, you should only grill in designated areas and ensure that the grill is at least 10 feet away from any flammable materials. You should also avoid using glass containers, and keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies.
Beach Rental
If you’re renting a beach house or a condo, you should check with the property owner or the rental company to see if grilling is allowed on the property. Some rentals may have specific rules or restrictions regarding grilling on the beach.
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills are allowed on Oak Island Beach, but you should be careful when disposing of the ashes. Make sure that the ashes are completely cool before disposing of them in a designated trash can. You should also avoid dumping the ashes on the beach or in the water.
In summary, grilling on Oak Island Beach is allowed, but you need to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Always check with the local authorities and property owners beforehand to avoid any issues.
Oak Island Restaurants
If you’re planning to visit Oak Island and want to enjoy some delicious food, then you’re in for a treat. Oak Island has a variety of restaurants that offer different cuisines, from seafood to burgers. In this section, we will explore Oak Island’s restaurant scene and highlight some of the best places to eat.
Business Directory
Oak Island has a diverse restaurant scene, with many different types of establishments to choose from. Some of the most popular restaurants on the island include Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille, Island Way, and Shagger Jacks. For a more upscale dining experience, check out Koko Cabana, which offers a fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors.
Popular Dishes
When it comes to food, Oak Island has something for everyone. Some of the most popular dishes on the island include seafood, burgers, and breakfast items. For seafood lovers, we recommend trying the Carolina Crab Cakes at Island Way or the fresh catch of the day at Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille. If you’re in the mood for a burger, head over to Bar-B-Que House, which offers a variety of mouth-watering burgers. For breakfast, we recommend stopping by Old Bridge Diner for their famous clam chowder.
Outdoor Seating
One of the best things about dining in Oak Island is the outdoor seating options. Many restaurants on the island offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the ocean. Some of the best restaurants with outdoor seating include Shagger Jacks and Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille.
Fine Dining
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Oak Island has plenty of fine dining options to choose from. Koko Cabana is one of the most popular fine dining restaurants on the island, offering a unique fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors. Other notable fine dining options include Island Way and The Oyster Rock.
Seafood
Being a coastal town, Oak Island is known for its fresh seafood. Some of the best seafood restaurants on the island include Island Way, Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille, and The Oyster Rock. These restaurants offer a variety of seafood dishes, from crab cakes to fresh catch of the day.
Burgers
For burger lovers, Oak Island has several restaurants that offer delicious burgers. Bar-B-Que House is one of the most popular burger joints on the island, offering a variety of mouth-watering burgers. Other notable burger restaurants include Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille and Shagger Jacks.
Lunch
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty lunch, Oak Island has plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best lunch spots on the island include Pepperoni Grill, which offers fresh New York-style pizza, and Provision Company, which offers a variety of sandwiches and seafood dishes.
Breakfast
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at one of Oak Island’s many breakfast spots. Old Bridge Diner is one of the most popular breakfast spots on the island, offering a variety of breakfast items, including their famous clam chowder. Other notable breakfast spots include Turtle Island Restaurant and Bakery and Ocean Crest Pier.
Koko Cabana
Koko Cabana is one of the most popular fine dining restaurants on Oak Island. This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors, with dishes like jerk chicken and ceviche. Koko Cabana also has a beautiful outdoor seating area, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Rating
Oak Island’s restaurant scene has something for everyone, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to eat. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best restaurants on the island. These restaurants have great food, excellent service, and beautiful views.
Where to Stay
Oak Island offers a variety of accommodations for visitors who want to enjoy the beach and grill. Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental or a hotel, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
One popular choice for vacation rentals is Oak Island Accommodations. They offer a range of properties, including those with grills. You can contact them directly to find out which rentals have grills available. They also have a convenient online booking system to make your reservation process easy.
If you prefer a hotel, there are several options available on Oak Island. The Island Resort offers oceanfront rooms with balconies, a pool, and a restaurant on-site. Another option is the Ocean Crest Motel, which is located just steps from the beach and has grills available for guest use.
For those who prefer a more unique experience, Airbnb has several options for Intracoastal Waterway vacation rentals. These properties offer a different view of Oak Island and are perfect for those who want to be close to the water. Many of these rentals also have grills available for guest use.
No matter where you choose to stay on Oak Island, be sure to check with your accommodations to ensure that grilling is allowed on their property. Some rentals and hotels may have specific rules and regulations regarding grill usage.
Sunrise and Sunset
Oak Island Beach is one of the few places in the world where you can experience both sunrise and sunset over the ocean without having to move your beach chair. This is due to the unique southward-facing shoreline of the beach, which allows for magnificent views of both the sunrise and sunset from the same stretch of sand.
The natural phenomenon of watching both the sunrise and sunset over the ocean occurs from late fall through early spring. This is because the orientation of the beach changes during this time, making it possible to sit on Oak Island, Caswell Beach, Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, or Holden Beach and watch both the sunrise and sunset over the ocean.
Many visitors to Oak Island Beach make it a point to witness the stunning sunrise and sunset views. The Point is by far the best place to watch the sunset. Because of the way the point sticks out, you can actually watch the sun sink low in the sky, creating a breathtaking view.
If you’re an early riser, you can catch the sunrise over the ocean from the comfort of your beach chair. The sunrise at Oak Island Beach is a spectacular sight to behold, with the sun slowly rising over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the ocean.
Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, the sunrise and sunset views at Oak Island Beach are not to be missed. So, grab a chair, sit back, and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique beach.
Coastal Town Information
If you’re planning a trip to Oak Island and want to know more about other coastal towns nearby, here’s some information to help you out.
Holden Beach
Holden Beach is a small, family-friendly town located about 30 minutes north of Oak Island. It’s known for its wide, sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Holden Beach also has a pier where you can fish, as well as several restaurants and shops.
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is a popular vacation spot located about an hour north of Oak Island. It’s known for its boardwalk, which features amusement rides, games, and restaurants. Carolina Beach also has a state park where you can hike, swim, and camp.
Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island is a secluded island located about 30 minutes south of Oak Island. It’s accessible only by ferry and has no cars or paved roads. Bald Head Island is known for its natural beauty, including its beaches, marshes, and forests. It also has a lighthouse that you can climb for stunning views.
Ocean Isle
Ocean Isle is a small town located about 45 minutes north of Oak Island. It’s known for its quiet beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Ocean Isle also has a pier where you can fish, as well as several restaurants and shops.
If you’re looking to explore other coastal towns while visiting Oak Island, these are some great options to consider. Each town has its own unique charm and attractions, so be sure to check them out and see what they have to offer.
Additional Information
Parking Information
To help with the improvement and future maintenance of the beach accesses, the Town of Oak Island has a Paid Parking program which is enforced from April 1 – September 30, between the hours of 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. This program helps to reduce congestion from unregulated streetside parking and ensures that the beaches remain accessible to everyone.
Dunes
The dunes are an important part of the beach ecosystem, providing a barrier against storms and erosion. Please do not walk on or disturb the dunes, and use designated beach access points to avoid damaging them.
Trash
Please help keep the beach clean by disposing of your trash in the appropriate receptacles. Do not leave trash on the beach or bury it in the sand.
Pets
Pets are allowed on the beach, but they must be on a leash at all times and owners must clean up after them. Please be respectful of other beachgoers and keep your pet under control.
CRC Beach Management Plan
The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) Beach Management Plan is a comprehensive guide to managing the beach and protecting its natural resources. Please familiarize yourself with the plan and follow its guidelines to help preserve the beach for future generations.
Citizens Academy
The Oak Island Citizens Academy is a program designed to educate residents and visitors about the town’s government, services, and operations. If you are interested in learning more about the town and its beach management practices, consider attending a Citizens Academy session.
Hurricane Preparedness Week
Hurricane Preparedness Week is an annual event that takes place in May. The Town of Oak Island provides resources and information to help residents and visitors prepare for hurricane season, including evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and other important information.
Making a Flood Insurance Claim
If your property is damaged by flooding, it is important to file a flood insurance claim as soon as possible. The Town of Oak Island provides resources and information to help property owners navigate the claims process.
Pedestrian Safety
Please be aware of your surroundings and follow all pedestrian safety guidelines when walking on the beach. This includes using designated crosswalks and avoiding distractions such as cell phones.
Town Ordinances
The Town of Oak Island has several ordinances in place to help protect the beach and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Please familiarize yourself with these ordinances and follow them at all times.
Upcoming Events
The Town of Oak Island hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including beach cleanups, festivals, and concerts. Check the town’s website for a schedule of upcoming events.
Wildlife Information
The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, shorebirds, and marine mammals. Please be respectful of these animals and follow all guidelines for protecting them.
Beach Nourishment Projects
The Town of Oak Island periodically conducts beach nourishment projects to help maintain the beach’s natural resources and protect against erosion. Please be aware of any ongoing projects and follow all guidelines for accessing the beach during these times.
