 Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Fort Fisher comprise Pleasure Island. There are currently more than 7,000 residents on the island, and that number is expected to continue to grow as more than 700 new property projects are under way.
The real growth is mostly renovations of older dwellings that are occupying prime development property. These properties are creating substantially higher values with new multifamily properties replacing single family dwellings. Many of these dwellings have been passed down through the generations and have not seen many updates. Not to mention the majority of these cottages were built before the days of flood zone maps and most were built on the ground level. These homes are quickly being upgraded into multifamily units. It seems as if every trip across Snows Cut bridge onto the island will reveal something new that didn't exist the day before.
A popular tourist destination for more than 55 years, Pleasure Island continues to offer family entertainment. The area also features nearby Tregembo Animal Park which is southeastern North Carolina 's oldest zoo, featuring more than 75 species of animals. Carolina Beach is also well known for its unique Boardwalk, which features a variety of food, arcades, mini-golf and bumper cars.
Fort Fisher , a major Civil War battle site, retains the remains of its earthen fort for visitors to explore. The recently expanded and renovated North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher offers visitors indoor and outdoor exhibits, daily programs featuring live animals, and special activities.
For my family and I, one of the most relaxing things we can do is to take a ferry ride with the North Carolina ferry system at Fort Fisher . The 30 minute trip takes passengers and/or their cars to the town of Southport seven days a week, all year-round. On occasion, we have taken the short trip over to Southport simply to turn around and get right back on and ride again. The trip over will cost a mere $5.00 per vehicle and will prove to be quite an adventure. Plan ahead during the summer season and during peak travel times as these boats can only hold so many vehicles and you may find yourself waiting another 45 minutes to catch your trip.
Also at Fort Fisher you will find our favorite beach access point. You will find this unique area by parking at the last public parking area on the island just before the actual fort of Fort Fisher . This small paved parking area is located directly across the street from the Ocean Dunes complex and provides a public access between the buildings and over the dunes. What makes this spot so special is the rock formation is located right on the water line. These aren't your man-made erosion barriers that are common on many beaches but rather massive flat rocks that abound with animal life in all the cracks and crevices. Our children love to walk along this area and investigate all that this little eco system has to offer. I have visited most every beach in North Carolina and have yet to come across anything quite like this. It is sure to please one and all.
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