Directions To Oak Island, North Carolina

15+ Fun Things To Do in Oak Island, NC (2022 Travel Guide) Trips To from www.tripstodiscover.com

If you are planning a beach vacation in North Carolina, Oak Island is a great destination to consider. It is a barrier island located in Brunswick County, North Carolina. Oak Island is known for its clean beaches, calm waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. If you are looking for directions to Oak Island, North Carolina, keep reading.

Getting to Oak Island

Oak Island is located about 30 miles south of Wilmington, North Carolina, and 60 miles north of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The closest airport to Oak Island is Wilmington International Airport (ILM), which is about 35 miles away. If you are driving, you can take Interstate 40 to Wilmington, and then take Highway 17 south to Oak Island.

Driving Directions

From Wilmington, take Highway 17 south for approximately 30 miles. Turn right onto Highway 133, which is also called Long Beach Road. Follow Highway 133 until you reach Oak Island. You will cross a bridge onto the island, and then you can take the main road, East Oak Island Drive, to reach the beach. From Myrtle Beach, take Highway 17 north for approximately 60 miles. Turn left onto Highway 211, which is also called Southport-Supply Road. Follow Highway 211 until you reach Oak Island. Turn right onto Midway Road, and then turn left onto East Oak Island Drive to reach the beach.

Navigating Oak Island

Once you arrive on Oak Island, navigating the island is easy. The island is only about 7 miles long, and there are only a few main roads. East Oak Island Drive runs along the oceanfront, and West Oak Island Drive runs along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Beach Access

There are many public beach access points along East Oak Island Drive. Look for the signs that say "Public Beach Access" and follow the signs to the parking areas. Some of the most popular beach access points include the Ocean Crest Pier, the Oak Island Lighthouse, and the Yaupon Beach area.

Tips for Visiting Oak Island

Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Oak Island:

Bring Sunscreen

The sun can be strong in North Carolina, especially during the summer months. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and apply it frequently throughout the day.

Watch for Rip Currents

Rip currents can be dangerous, so be sure to pay attention to the warning signs and flags posted at the beach. If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, and then swim back to shore.

Respect the Wildlife

Oak Island is home to many species of wildlife, including sea turtles and shorebirds. Be sure to respect their habitat by not disturbing the nests or feeding the birds.

Conclusion

Oak Island, North Carolina is a beautiful and peaceful destination for a beach vacation. With its clean beaches, calm waters, and family-friendly atmosphere, it is sure to be a hit with everyone in your group. By following these directions and tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Oak Island.