Outdoor Activities

Cape Fear Boat Rentals is the only boat rental company operating directly out of downtown Wilmington, NC. Experience the thrill of captaining your own pontoon boat without the need for a boating license. Explore the scenic Cape Fear River at your own pace, whether you prefer the vibrant downtown area, the serene upper river, or the lively atmosphere towards Carolina Beach. Bring your own beverages (BYOB) and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Easy online booking and a fleet of well-maintained boats make it simple to embark on your water adventure.

Oyster Eco Tour is an immersive coastal farm experience hosted by Hold Fast Oyster Co. in the waters near North Topsail, North Carolina. Guests start with a boat ride through local estuaries, then stop at a floating oyster setup to learn how oysters are grown and why sustainable aquaculture matters for healthy coastal ecosystems.

The tour is designed to be hands-on and interactive: you’ll see the farming gear up close, hear how tides and daily farm work shape the harvest, and get guidance from the farmers themselves. A signature part of the experience is shucking and tasting oysters that have been pulled from the water moments before, often paired with time wading out to a private sandbar for a barefoot, on-the-water adventure vibe.

It’s a good fit for seafood enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and curious travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at regenerative aquaculture. Guests are typically encouraged to bring their own beverages while licensing is pending.

Reserve a private bonfire pit on the beach. The experience includes 2 bundles of wood and s'mores for up to 6 people. Food and drinks are available on site.

*parties larger than 6 can be accommodated with additional fire pits.

When you email reservations@cbpier.com, make sure you mention that you found it through Check What's Good! Reservations are highly recommended and almost booked out for the season

About Carolina Beach Pier: The pier is free to access, pet friendly, has food & drink, and multiple stories. The top floor has an indoor bar that is perfect for all weather.