(Pet-friendly noted with 🐾)
- Shagger Jacks 🐾 – Fun atmosphere, quirky decor, great for kids.
- Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill 🐾 – Marina views + laid-back food.
- Fishy Fishy 🐾 – Colorful spot on the water; kids love feeding the fish.
- Pirates Deck – Nautical theme; great fried seafood.
- Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & Bar – Local staple, friendly staff.
- Duffers Pub & Grill – Casual bites, close to the golf course.
- Koko Cabana – Beachfront, breezy, great for sunset meals.
- Frying Pan – Southport favorite with HUGE fried platters.
- Provisions – Order-at-the-counter waterfront spot; amazing views.
- Cafe Koa – Healthy bowls + sandwiches; good alternative to heavy beach food.
(Pet-friendly marked with 🐾)
- American Fish Company 🐾 – Stunning sunset views.
- Carolina Crab Brewery 🐾 – Small batch brews.
- Cape Fear Brewery – Great rotating taps.
- Southport Tap & Cellar 🐾 – Laid-back craft beer spot.
- Solar 🐾 – Relaxed outdoor vibes + live music.
- Grape & Ale – Wine flights + events.
- Uncorked by the Sea – Wine tastings + retail.
- Fizzy Janes – Trendy cocktails.
- The Mullet Bar – Very “beach local” energy.
- Seahorse Eats and Drinks – Casual & breezy.
- Royal James Rummery – Historic pool hall & bar.
- Lonerider Brewery 🐾 – Super dog-friendly; outdoor seating.
Day 1 – Settle In + Sunset Start
- Breakfast (arrival day or next morning): Grab something easy like OKI Donuts or a latte from Island Jo Coffee & Café.
- Afternoon: Walk the Oak Island Pier, explore the beach, or rent bikes/chairs from Mr. Beach Rentals to set up for the week.
- Sweet Treat: Stop at Sunset Slush for classic Italian ice.
- Dinner: Keep night one relaxed with a waterfront meal at Shagger Jacks 🐾 or Fishy Fishy 🐾 (family‑friendly and pet‑friendly).
- Optional Nightcap: Head to American Fish Company 🐾 for your first Oak Island sunset over the water.
Day 2 – Lighthouse + Southport- Breakfast: Start strong at Fixins (go early!).
- Morning Activity: Climb the Oak Island Lighthouse or stroll the shore for shells.
- Midday: Hop to Southport — explore the Maritime Museum or wander the historic waterfront.
- Lunch: Try Provisions for casual order-at-the-counter harbor views.
- Treat Stop: Pop into Spikes Dairy Bar for ice cream.
- Dinner (Fancy Night #1): Choose a date‑night spot: Mr. P’s, Olivers (waterfront patio!), or Edgewater 122.
- Evening Option: Southport Ghost Tour for something fun + walkable.
Day 3 – Adventure Day
- Coffee: Hit Ruby’s or Big Pups Coffee Truck (pup cups for the dog lovers).
- Choose Your Adventure:
- High Tide Helicopter Tour for unbeatable aerial views
- Oak Island Fishing Charter (inshore or offshore)
- Skydive Coastal Carolinas for thrill‑seekers
- Southport Water Tours (eco tour or tiki cruise)
- Lunch: Grab easy take-out like Fat Andy’s burgers or Kai Joe’s tacos to refuel.
- Downtime: Relax at Middleton Park, check out markets, or let kids enjoy the splash pad.
- Dinner (Fancy Night #2): Book Island Way for sunset ocean views (reserve early!).
- Optional: Stop by Grape & Ale or Uncorked by the Sea for a post-dinner wine tasting.
Day 4 – Beach + Bald Head Island- Breakfast: Try Carolina Coast Café for quiche + cold brew or Locals for hearty AM plates.
- Morning–Afternoon: Take the ferry to Bald Head Island — rent a golf cart, explore the lighthouse, enjoy quiet beaches.
- Return & Relax: Grab a sweet treat at Burney’s (don’t skip the glazed croissants!).
- Dinner: End with something memorable: Salt 64, Swains Seafood & Cut, or Fish Factory overlooking the marsh.
- Last Night Happy Hour: Celebrate a great trip at Southport Tap & Cellar 🐾,, Solar 🐾, or Lonerider Brewery 🐾.
Additional Day Activities for a 5-6 Night Trip to Oak Island 
