The Museum of Coastal Carolina is the only North Carolina Natural History Museum that’s located on a barrier island, and is a fun destination for visitors of all ages to dive deep into the unique and beautiful coastal region. Located in the heart of Ocean Isle Beach, just a couple blocks away from the oceanfront and the Ocean Isle Beach Pier, this rainy day destination will impress patrons with its wealth of natural, interactive, and eye-catching treasures.
Visitors will find plenty to do once inside the museum, thanks to a series of exhibits that are designed to both educate and entertain. Kids can get their hands on live sea stars or sea urchins in the touch tank, dig in the fossil pit for ancient sharks’ teeth, explore the wild dioramas that showcase marine life, or even watch a movie on the sea turtles that nest along the Ocean Isle shoreline.
There’s also a host of seasonal programs that highlight a unique component of the region, as well as a gift shop on-site for shore-specific goodies. Engaging for visitors of all ages, the centrally located Museum of Coastal Carolina is a must stop for any Cape Fear newcomer who wants to learn more about this remarkable and distinct region.
Museum of Coastal Carolina
21 East 2nd Street, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
910-579-1016
Memorial Day through Labor Day, 2023
Open Mondays through Fridays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Tuesdays and Thursdays until 7:00 pm
Sundays 12:00 to 4:00 pm.
Planetarium Theater
April 3 through Sept 4, 2023
Doors open at 10:30 am Mondays through Saturdays
Open Memorial Day, Monday May 29
Dome shows start on the hour from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Laser shows on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 6:00 and 7:00 pm
See the events schedule for daily programs.
Laser Light & Music Shows
Laser music shows are a hugely popular and historic offering at the Ingram Planetarium. These immersive experiences include laser artwork, live covelight effects, and star projector effects as a backdrop for some of the biggest and most beloved hits in music. All laser music shows are performed live by our team of planetarium facilitators. They are an out of this world adventure you are not soon to forget!
Laser shows begin promptly.
Arrive 15 minutes early.
For your safety, late arrivals will not be admitted to the theater after a show has begun.
Rain or shine, the Cape Fear area is always brimming with ways to learn something new, have some fun, and create incredible memories that will last long after a vacation is over. From unique museums and historic sites to incredible shopping and dining opportunities, there’s a lot to discover in this coastal North Carolina region, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. So if a rain cloud or two tries to put a damper on your upcoming Cape Fear vacation, discover these incredible attractions, activities and sites that are always engaging, regardless of the weather.
Located just east of the quiet Ogden area of Wilmington, Figure Eight Island is a destination that has inspired curiosity for decades. Privately owned by its homeowners, and only accessible by a single bridge that crosses the Intracoastal Waterway, the island is a rumored haven for celebrities, wealthy CEOs and company owners, and any visitor who just wants a private escape. Though difficult to access, visitors who make the cut by renting or buying a vacation home on the island will be treated to one of the quietest beach landscapes in the area. As a result, Figure Eight Island retains its reputation as one of the most pristine – and privileged – vacation destinations in the coastal Cape Fear area.
Welcome to this striking, freshly remodeled 3 bedroom, 1 bath beach bungalow in Carolina Beach, NC! Located just one short block away from the ocean, this comfortable rental getaway offers the ideal blend of modern updates and classic coastal appeal. The open-concept living area features rich wood finishes and all the new cozy furnishings, making it an inviting space for family and friends to gather after a day at the beach. With its modren design and all the essentials, the entirely equipped kitchen is ready for a meal with friends or family! Each bedroom is decorated with beachy touches and new furnishings ensuring a restful nighttime's sleep for up to 6 people! Two bedrooms each offer a queen-sized bed, and the third one offers two twin beds. Finish your day roasting marshmallows by the firepit out back, calming on the covered porch, or even taking a nap after dinner on the screened in porch on the front of the home.Named after a beloved furry friend, Sammie's Retreat is pet-friendly! Come appreciate the convenience of being just steps away from the sandy shores, and local dining, and entertainment options Carolina Beach offers. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Sammie's Retreat is the ideal home base for your coastal hideaway!Book now for a relaxing and memorable stay by the sea!Firm License #C10887
- Carolina Beach
- 3 Bedrooms
- 1 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6