Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Nikole
There are plenty of things to do near Oak Island North Carolina. The Island offers not just stunning beaches but also a variety of scenic hiking trails that showcase the region’s unique coastal ecosystems.
From serene boardwalks to immersive forest paths, here are the best hiking trails to explore on your next visit.
- – Oak Island Nature Center
- – Scenic Walkway
- – Fort Holmes Trail
- – Kent Mitchell Trail
- – Veteran’s Park
- – Loop Trail Bald Head Island
- – Dutchman’s Creek Park
- – Green Swamp Trail
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Oak Island Nature Center
Oak Island Nature Center isn’t a designated walking trail, however, they have areas where you can walk around and view nature.
There is a fishing dock you can walk across for views of the Intercoastal Waterway or take a stroll through their garden area.
This area is the perfect place to learn about the Island’s wildlife and you may be able to spot some local birds. During their open season, they offer a few events including crafts, storytime, and scavenger hunts.
Location: 5202 E Yacht Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Hours of Operaton: Open May 29th- August 30th Wednesday- Thursday 10AM- 2PM
Price: Free
Length: No specific length
Scenic Walkway
Another short hiking trail is the Oak Island Scenic Walkway where you can walk through scenic parts of the island.
The walkway has free and plenty of parking, and it’s located a few blocks away from the beach. Wildlife, sand dunes, bridges, and marshland are just a few things you will see during this hike in Oak Island North Carolina.
Location: 121 SE 20th St, Oak Island, NC 28465
Hours of operation: open 24 hours
Price: Free
Length: Short
Fort Holmes Trail
Fort Holmes Trail is yet another short trail system near Oak Island NC. It’s actually located on Baldhead Island and takes you through gorgeous scenery including forests, waterways, and salt marshes.
When you’re done hiking be sure to visit the ruins of Fort Holmes where you can learn about the history behind the Confederate forces during the Civil War. Don’t worry, there are plenty of plaques along the way that describe what went down.
Location: Bald Head Island, NC 28461
Hours of Operation: Open 24 Hours
Price: Free
Length: Short
Kent Mitchell Trail
I know, I know, all the trails near Oak Island seem to be a short hike, but Kent Mitchell is one of the few where you can walk a longer distance.
This 1.5-mile hike has several bridges that bring you through saltwater marshes, scenic overlooks, and various wildlife species. Several off-the-beaten paths may take you to perfect photography points.
Location: 432 N Bald Head Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461
Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
Length: 1.5 miles
Veterans Park
Take a short hike along the Intercoastal Waterway at Veterans Park. Walk along the boardwalk and take in the views of the water, when you are done eat some lunch at the provided picnic tables.
There is plenty of free parking in the area, but it’s more of a park than a hiking trail. Kick back and relax on the various bench swings or fish off the dock for a great catch.
Location: 1408 E Yacht Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Hours of Operation: 8 AM- 9 PM
Price: Free
Length: Short
Loop Trail at Baldhead Island
The Bald Head Island Loop Trail is located in the Maritime Forest Preserve and is about 2 miles long. It’s not the most maintained trail so be prepared to clear some areas to walk through.
You will find tons of plant species on this rugged hiking trail near Oak Island and the path takes you along the beautiful Bald Head Creek.
Location: 2033 Palmetto Cove Ct, Bald Head Island, NC 28461
Hours of Operation: Unsure
Price: Free
Length: About 2 miles or more, depending on which route you take
Dutchman Creek Park
Dutchman Creek Park is more of a park than a trail, but you can find areas to walk around while your kids play on the playground.
You will also find a nice fishing dock and a boat access area for kayaks and other vessels.
Location: 4750 Fish Factory Rd SE, Southport, NC 28461
Hours of Operation: Summer months: 8 am until 10 pm. Winter months: 8 am until 9 pm
Price: Free
Length: Short
Green Swamp Preserve
This 1.3-mile one-way hike near Oak Island guides you through the swamp and marsh areas and showcases several rare plant species including orchids and Venus fly traps.
The route in the Green Swamp Preserve is relatively flat but don’t underestimate the hike as it gets very hot in the summer months and the ground can be extremely muddy after rain.
According to their website, several people needed rescuing due to not staying on the marked pathways. Stay on the marked paths as it is easy to get lost.
Be sure to wear close-toed shoes as you will come across many roots and thin pathways.
Location: 673 Green Swamp Rd NW, Supply, NC 28462
Hours of Operation: Dawn to Dusk
Price: Free
Length: 1.3 miles one way
In Conclusion
There aren’t too many long hiking trails near Oak Island, however, the paths that are available are so beautiful. Be sure to visit at least one of them while vacationing on the Island.
