On the Water

Water Activities

For those who crave the ocean and ache for new ways to conquer the waves, a visit to the Cape Fear Coast and Brunswick Islands will more than quench your thirst. With just about every type of water activity available, you can spend each afternoon testing your skills on a new water sport. Think you’ve tried everything already? Think again!

Paddleboarding
A new favorite in the Cape Fear Coast and Brunswick Islands, paddleboarding is a growing trend among water enthusiasts. In paddleboarding, the paddleboarder kneels down on a long surfboard (or paddleboard) and leans forward, using the arms in a swimming motion to propel them towards the shore. An offshoot of paddleboarding is stand-up paddleboarding, another popular water sport, where the participant stands on the board and uses a long paddle to maneuver through the water. Rent a board at one of the local shops, and try your luck riding in the surf.

Surfing
Home to hall of fame surfers and noteworthy waves, the Cape Fear Coast is the perfect place to hang ten. Whether you own a wetsuit or have never touched a surfboard in your life, surf camps in the area offer everything you need to catch a wave. These camps typically last a week, and experienced instructors offer private and group lessons to all ages. In addition to the basics, surf camps can educate you on currents, equipment and ecology. Safety is a must when learning to surf, but these camps also know the importance of having fun and allow you the opportunity to experience the ocean in a whole new way.

Parasailing
What can beat soaring above the beach on a smooth parasail ride? For 25 years, more and more people have been discovering the joys of defying gravity and flying among the clouds. One of the most popular beach activities, parasailing can actually be done without even getting your feet wet. Most parasail companies ask if you’d prefer to take off and land from the boat or the water. Either way, as you float higher and higher in your harness, the last thing you’ll be thinking about is the water. You’ll be too busy enjoying the breathtaking view and unbelievable feeling of flight.

Jet Skiing
Speed across the water and over waves, spot dolphins in the surf, and explore island areas inaccessible by foot on your own personal watercraft. Most rental companies give you a designated riding area to explore, ranging in size. Be sure to ask ahead of time where your area begins and ends. Of course, safety is always key, and our outfitters make sure you are properly trained before driving the craft. Remember to always keep on the lookout for those sharing the waterways with you—that goes for other boating enthusiasts and wildlife!

Boating
Pontoons, jet boats, sailboats, cruisers, skiffs—the possibilities are endless. Just choose your craft and set out on your own voyage in the surrounding waters. Pontoons and deck boats are great for families—enjoy an afternoon cruising, swimming, snacking and sunning. Or if you’re craving some speed, rent a speedboat or cruiser. Some companies even offer free water ski, tube and wake-board rentals, so you can enjoy a full day of water sports. And of course, experienced anglers can skip the charter and rent their own skiff for a solo fishing adventure. Whatever your passion, renting a boat is one of the best ways to experience the abundant and beautiful water that surrounds Brunswick and New Hanover counties.

Kayaking
Ideal for exploring remote coastal areas, kayaking is a great way to get a close-up view of some of our country’s last preserved natural beaches. Spot wildlife and migrating birds, coast through tall marshes, and enjoy the quiet solitude of nature. Take a kayak tour, and let a guide lead you through unspoiled areas while explaining the eco-system and wildlife around you. Or just rent a two-person kayak, and explore wherever your heart desires. Companies on the coast offer a wide variety of kayaking options, from kayaking tours to beginner and intermediate kayaking lessons.

Cruises
From ferry boats to sunset sails, there is a wide variety of public cruises to choose from in the Cape Fear Coast/Brunswick Islands area. Learn the ropes of sailing on a customized sailboat cruise, spot wildlife in coastal marshes, or just sit back and relax as the sights of the Carolina coast go by.


On The Water Listings

Adventure Company, The
807 A Howe St.
Southport, NC
910-454-0607
www.TheAdventureCompany.net


Batson Charter Boats
910-367-0653
or
910-367-2317
www.carolinabeachcharterfishing.com


Cape Fear Riverboats / Henrietta III
Board on South Water Street (foot of Dock St.) at the Cape Fear River
Wilmington, NC
910-343-1611
800-676-0162
www.cfrboats.com


Captain John's Fishing Charters
Carolina Beach
Wrightsville Beach
Wilmington
910-262-2230
www.fishingcarolinabeach.com


Carolina Explorer Fishing Charters
910-264-1807
www.carolinaexplorer.com

Expedition Organization
102 Brookwood Avenue
Wilmington, NC
910-200-1594
www.expeditionorganization.com


Hook Line & Paddle
435 Eastwood Road
Wilmington, NC
910-792-6945
www.hooklineandpaddle.com



Kayak Carolina
Exploring the Carolina Coast by Kayak!
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-9171

Mahanaim Adventures
Wilmington, NC
910-547-8252
www.mahanaimadventures.com

Surf Camp at Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach, NC
910-256-7873
www.wbsurfcamp.com


Wilmington Water Tours
Water St.
Wilmington, NC
910-763-4483
www.wilmingtontrolley.com


Wrightsville Beach Jet Ski Rentals
Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge
Wrightsville Beach, NC
910-279-3769
www.wrightsvillebeachjetskirentals.com

Wrightsville Parasailing
Wrightsville Beach, NC
910-232-1235
www.wrightsvilleparasail.com