Local guide · Kure Beach
Kure Beach Pier
L.C. Kure built a fishing pier here in 1923, and his family still runs it. It’s often called the oldest fishing pier on the East Coast. Storms have destroyed it five times, and each time it’s been rebuilt.
Why families go
Visitors describe a laid-back pier town with a clean, uncrowded beach. Sunrise from the end of the pier is the favorite moment, and pelicans glide by at eye level. The pier staff are friendly to first-time anglers. Ocean Front Park next door has swings and a pirate-ship playground, so kids who aren’t fishing stay busy too.
Don’t miss
- A sunrise walkThe east-facing pier is made for early risers.
- Fishing without a licensePay the pier fee and fish; no individual license is needed on the pier.
- Ocean Front ParkSwings and a pirate-ship playground beside the pier.
Photo: Town of Kure Beach
Before you go
- Walking onto the pier is free in season through the pier house; fishing is paid.
- The pier is alcohol-free.
- It’s open from Good Friday to the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Plan your visit
- Where: 100 Atlantic Ave., Kure Beach, NC 28449
- From Topsail: About 1 hour 10 minutes from central Surf City.
- Hours: In season, 24 hours a day (Good Friday through the Saturday after Thanksgiving).
- Admission: Free walk-on in season; paid fishing.
- Updates: Kure Beach Pier on Facebook
- More nearby: more family fun in Kure Beach
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Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.