Introduction to Oak Island, North Carolina
Oak Island, North Carolina, in Brunswick county, is 24 miles SW of Wilmington, North Carolina and 131 miles S of Raleigh, North Carolina. The town is part of the Wilmington metropolitan statistical area.
Oak Island History
Oak Island was settled by European in the early 19th century, with development beginning in 1826. Fort Caswell was built on the eastern portion of the island in 1838, and the Oak Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1889. The area became popular for fox hunting, and development of the rest of the island did not begin until the late 1930s. In 1954, Hurricane Hazel destroyed most of Oak Island, as only five buildings were left standing after the storm. However, Oak Island recovered in a short time and the Towns of Yaupon Beach and Long Beach were incorporated in 1955.
Oak Island and nearby Attractions
- Brunswick Town State Historic Site
- Carolina Beach State Park
- Cape Fear Museum
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
- Oak Island Golf and Country Club
Things To Do In Oak Island
Carolina Beach State Park and Fort Fisher State Recreational Area provide boating, fishing, hiking and swimming opportunities. Carolina Beach State Park is also popular as a picnic spot. The Cape Fear Museum is popular among those hoping to learn more about the social and cultural history of the area.
Oak Island Transportation
Flights are available from Wilmington International Airport.
Oak Island Higher Education
Cape Fear Community College, the University of North Carolina-Wilmington and Horry-Georgetown Technical College are some of the local colleges and universities.
