Top Playgrounds, Parks & Trails Near Our Vacation Rentals in Carolina Beach & Kure Beach, NC
A beach vacation is about more than just sand and surf — and that’s one of the things guests love most about Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. From waterfront playgrounds to scenic nature trails, this area offers plenty of outdoor spaces where kids can burn off energy, parents can relax, and everyone can enjoy the coastal surroundings.
Here’s a local guide to some of the best playgrounds, parks, and trails near our vacation rentals.
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Carolina Beach Lake Park (Carolina Beach)
Carolina Beach Lake Park is a favorite for families and one of the most popular gathering spots on the island.
Why guests love it:
- Large playground with modern equipment
- Paved walking path around the 11 acre lake
- Shaded picnic areas, restrooms and grills
- Seasonal events, markets, and festivals
It’s perfect for an afternoon stroll, a playground break between beach visits, or a relaxing sunset walk.
Mike Chappell Park (Carolina Beach)
Mike Chappell Park is a spacious 10-acre park that truly offers something for everyone in the family — including your four-legged friends. Located at 501 Dow Road and bordered by Sumter Avenue and Clarendon Boulevard, this well-loved community park is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
The park features a wide variety of amenities, including:
- Two tennis courts
- One full basketball court and a youth basketball area
- Playground equipment for children of all ages
- A designated dog park
- Baseball and softball fields
- Soccer field
- Skate park
Guests can relax beneath the tall pine trees that provide natural shade throughout the park, making it a great place to unwind after a day at the beach. With easy access to the Island Greenway, it’s also perfect for walking, biking, or jogging.
Mike Chappell Park includes a covered shelter with picnic tables and a grill, conveniently located next to the newly installed playgrounds and nearby restrooms — making it an ideal spot for family outings, casual lunches, or an afternoon break outdoors.
Island Greenway (Carolina Beach)
Nestled in the heart of Carolina Beach, North Carolina, the Island Greenway is a charming paved trail that invites locals and visitors alike to stroll, bike, jog, or just soak up the coastal sunshine. The greenway stretches about 1.2 miles through shaded woods, around small ponds, and past neighborhood parks — making it the perfect laid-back escape for a morning ride or an evening walk by the water.
This wide, smooth asphalt path starts near Mike Chappell Park — a local favorite with plenty of space to picnic, play, or let your pup run around — and winds gently southward toward central Carolina Beach. It’s thoughtfully designed for bicycles, pedestrians, and pet-friendly adventures, and connects with other greenway routes and quiet neighborhood streets for even longer outings.
Joe Eakes Park (Kure Beach)
Located in a quiet residential area just a short walk from the ocean, Joe Eakes Park is a well-loved community space in Kure Beach and a great place to take a break from the sand. It’s a park locals use year-round, and visitors often enjoy it as an easy, laid-back outdoor option during their stay.
The park offers basketball courts, a playground, picnic tables, and open grassy areas, making it a convenient stop for families, teens, or anyone looking to get outside without committing to a full beach day. Shaded spots throughout the park provide welcome relief on warmer days and are perfect for a casual lunch or a short rest between activities.
Situated in the heart of Kure Beach, Joe Eakes Park is easily accessible by foot or bike and fits nicely into a day of exploring the area. It’s also a great complement to a neighborhood walk or a leisurely ride toward nearby Fort Fisher. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply looking for a quiet place to relax outdoors, this park offers a simple and enjoyable slice of local coastal life.
Ocean Front Park (Kure Beach)
Located right along the shoreline, Ocean Front Park is one of Kure Beach’s most popular oceanfront spaces and a favorite place to relax, play, and take in the coastal views. With direct beach access and wide-open ocean scenery, it’s an easy stop whether you’re spending a full day at the beach or just passing through.
The park features a playground, open lawn, picnic areas, and a shaded gazebo, making it ideal for families, small gatherings, or a peaceful break from the sun. Paved walkways and benches offer plenty of places to sit and enjoy the breeze, while the nearby beach access makes it simple to go from park time to beach time in minutes.
Ocean Front Park is also home to seasonal events, concerts, and community gatherings, adding to its role as a central hub in Kure Beach. Whether you’re watching the waves, letting kids burn off energy, or enjoying an evening stroll by the ocean, this park delivers relaxed coastal charm with front-row views of the Atlantic.