Oak Island vacation rentals
Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb
Top-rated vacation rentals in Oak Island
Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Oak Island vacation rentals
Oak Island house rentals
Home in Wilmington
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviewsWOW! Pool+Pizza Oven near Beaches, UNCW & Downtown
Home in Southport
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviewsDowntown Southport Cottage
Home in Ocean Isle Beach
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviewsBeautiful Oceanfront property 5 bed/5 bath
Home in Wilmington
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviewsCharmed Beach Getaway Just Minutes Away
Home in Carolina Beach
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviewsBeach House carolina Beach
Home in Oak Island
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviewsCharming Island Bungalow
Home in Holden Beach
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 64 reviewsReel Lucky- A Canal Home
Home in Lockwoods Folly
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 247 reviewsStay Salty
Oak Island cottage rentals
Cottage in Sunset Beach
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviewsThe Palms on Sunset Beach
Cottage in Ocean Isle Beach
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviewsCoastalsoul-Time to Breathe in the Salty Air!
Cottage in Carolina Beach
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviewsRelax on the porch* 1 blk boardwk/beach*dogs ok*
Cottage in Carolina Beach
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews"Seadar" Cottage - A Mid-Century Beach Cutie!
Cottage in Ocean Isle Beach
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviewsOcean Isle Beach, NC Cotton Patch Cottage
Cottage in Wilmington
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 142 reviewsIsland hopping & fishing around Masonboro Island
Cottage in Kure Beach
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviewsPierside Cottage A| 1 Block to Beach, Bars, Dining
Cottage in Shallotte
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviewsOcean Pine Cottage • Pet friendly • Fully Fenced
Oak Island beach vacation rentals
Condo in Kure Beach
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviewsBeachfront Condo, Steps to the Beach
Home in Carolina Beach
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviewsEbb Tide - Oceanfront house with 4 bedrooms!
Condo in Crescent Beach
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviewsBeachfront Condo in Crescent Beach - Sleeps 6
Townhouse in Carolina Beach
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 178 reviews5-Minute Walk to Beach & Boardwalk, Full kitchen!
Condo in Crescent Beach
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviewsCozy Ocean Front Oasis w/ Spectacular Beach Views
Cottage in Carolina Beach
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviewsSurf4life Oceanfront Beach Cottage
Condo in Ocean Drive Beach
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviewsBeach Lover's Condo With Spectacular Ocean View!
Condo in Carolina Beach
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviewsBoho Beachfront Condo with Huge Balcony
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Oak Island
Total rentals
1.4K properties
Nightly prices starting at
$50 before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
34K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
1.3K properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
540 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
400 properties have a pool
Your guide to Oak Island
Introduction
Situated at the eastern end of North Carolina’s Brunswick Island beaches, Oak Island has been a family summer vacation destination for decades. The Intracoastal Waterway separates the mainland from this barrier island, a long and skinny sliver where much of the real estate is oceanfront. Bookended by marshland, Oak Island is home to an almost endless network of watery byways to explore by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Indeed, water is the star attraction here, whether it’s splashing in the gentle ocean waves, fishing for mackerel, or kite-surfing, but there are also lighthouses to climb, historic military sites to tour (including Fort Caswell, built to protect the coast from marauding pirates in the 1830s), and many holes of oceanfront golf to play. Bonus: Oak Island’s beaches are pet-friendly; in the off-season, your pup is even free to roam off-leash.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Oak Island
Summer days are hot, humid, and breezy, with average highs of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature is not far behind, reaching a bathtub-like 83 degrees. Summer is also the region’s wettest time of year: it gets nearly half its annual rainfall in August and September; and it’s always a good idea to be mindful of tropical storms during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Spring and fall are ideal times to stay in one of the area’s vacation rentals, when temps are mild and it’s not too humid. Winter nights can be downright cold, so pack something cozy.
Top things to do in Oak Island
Oak Island Lighthouse
Located in nearby Caswell Beach, this icon of the region has stood 153 feet over the mouth of the Cape Fear River since 1958. If you’re hoping to climb the 131 steps to reach the observation deck up top, you’ll need to make a reservation in advance.
Oak Island Nature Center
Kids and adults can learn all about the salt marsh ecosystem at this nature center nestled among native oaks and pines, which has a walking trail, fossil exhibits, and butterfly garden. The center is open seasonally, April through September 1.
Bald Head Island
Accessible by ferry from Southport, this car-free island is known for its isolated beaches, the Old Baldy lighthouse, and its 191-acre nature preserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Oak Island?
Oak Island experiences a subtropical climate with humid, hot summers and mild winters. Average high temperatures in summer reach around 86°F (30°C), while in winter, they hover around 57°F (14°C). Frequent showers can occur throughout the year, adding to the island's lush greenery.
What are some of the best things to do in Oak Island?
Popular activities in Oak Island include swimming, fishing, and walking at Oak Island Beach. Nature lovers often explore the Oak Island Nature Center, while history enthusiasts enjoy the Oak Island Lighthouse. Kayaking in the surrounding marshes and Intracoastal Waterway provides a unique perspective of the island's beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit Oak Island?
Many visitors flock to Oak Island during the warmer months, primarily from June to August, when average temperatures range from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C). During this time, the annual Oak Island Art Guild Arts & Crafts Festival and the Oak Island Lighthouse Run & Walk are often enjoyed by guests.
What are the best places to stay in Oak Island?
Long Beach and Yaupon Beach are popular areas to stay in Oak Island. These areas are close to the beach, offering easy access to the ocean and various local amenities. For those looking for a bit more tranquility, staying near the Oak Island Nature Center provides a peaceful retreat.
What are the best places to visit in Oak Island?
Popular places to visit in Oak Island include the Oak Island Lighthouse, the Oak Island Pier, and the Oak Island Nature Center. The Oak Island Golf Club is also a favorite among golf enthusiasts. For a bit of history, a visit to the Fort Caswell Historic Site is often recommended.
What are some hiking trails in Oak Island?
Oak Island has several hiking trails that cater to various fitness levels. The Oak Island Nature Center Trail provides a serene path through local flora and fauna. For a beachside stroll, the Caswell Beach Walkway is a popular choice. Additionally, the Davis Canal Trail offers a scenic route along the island's canal.
What are some family activities to do in Oak Island?
Families in Oak Island can enjoy a day at the beach, fishing at the pier, or exploring the Oak Island Nature Center. There's also the fun of a treasure hunt at the local pirate-themed mini-golf course, or a visit to the Oak Island Light House. The Ocean Education Center also provides interactive learning experiences about marine life.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Oak Island?
Popular day trips from Oak Island include a visit to the historic city of Wilmington, just 30 miles (48 km) away, or exploring the natural beauty of the Brunswick Riverwalk at Belville. A boat trip to Bald Head Island, a car-free community known for its pristine beaches and maritime forest, is also frequently suggested.
Are there vacation rentals near Oak Island's top attractions?
You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near Oak Island's top attractions. We offer over 2,530 vacation rentals near Joseph''s Italian Bistro & Chop House, over 2,790 vacation rentals near Island Way, and over 2,530 vacation rentals near Shagger Jacks, and so much more! Experience the best of Oak Island right on your doorstep.
What types of vacation rentals are available in Oak Island?
Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Oak Island. From over 1,060 house rentals to over 60 cottage rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.
Destinations to explore
- Emerald Isle Vacation rentals
- Wilmington Vacation rentals
- Carolina Beach Vacation rentals
- North Myrtle Beach Vacation rentals
- Holden Beach Vacation rentals
- Surfside Beach Vacation rentals
- Fayetteville Vacation rentals
- Wrightsville Beach Vacation rentals
- Ocean Isle Beach Vacation rentals
- Sunset Beach Vacation rentals
- Charleston Vacation rentals
- Myrtle Beach Vacation rentals
- Hotel rentals Oak Island
- Waterfront rentals Oak Island
- Fitness-friendly rentals Oak Island
- Rentals with a washer and dryer Oak Island
- Bungalow rentals Oak Island
- Rentals with a fireplace Oak Island
- Rentals with a kayak Oak Island
- Kid-friendly rentals Oak Island
- Pet-friendly rentals Oak Island
- Beach house rentals Oak Island
- Rentals with outdoor seating Oak Island
- Rentals with a patio Oak Island
- Rentals with beach access Oak Island
- Rentals with a hot tub Oak Island
- Rentals with pools Oak Island
- Villa rentals Oak Island
- Apartment rentals Oak Island
- Beach condo rentals Oak Island
- Condo rentals Oak Island
- Rentals with a fire pit Oak Island
- Family-friendly rentals Oak Island
- House rentals Oak Island
- Monthly Rentals Oak Island
- Rentals with an EV charger Oak Island
- Beachfront rentals Oak Island
- Yurt Rentals United States
- Yurt Rentals United Kingdom
- Castle Rentals United States
- Houseboats United States
- Holiday Caravans United Kingdom
- Private Island Rentals United States
- Farm Houses United States
- Farm Cottages United Kingdom
- Cabin Rentals Australia
- Luxury Cabins United Kingdom
- Luxury Cabins United States
- Holiday Chalets United Kingdom
- Cottage Rentals United States
- Holiday Cottages United Kingdom
- Mansion Rentals United States
- Villa Rentals United Kingdom
- Holiday Bungalows United Kingdom
- Bungalow Rentals United States
- Condo Rentals United States
- Holiday Apartments Australia
- Holiday Houses United States
- Holiday Houses United Kingdom
- Private Holiday Rentals United Kingdom
- Big House Rentals United States
- Big Cottages Australia
- Large Villas United Kingdom
- House Rentals with a Pool United States
- Cabin Rentals with a Pool United States
- Villas with a Pool United Kingdom
- Apartments with a Hot Tub United States
- Holiday Cottages with a Hot Tub United Kingdom
- Beach Cabins United States
- Beach Condos United States
- Beachfront Rentals United States
- Beach Houses United Kingdom
- Beach Villas United Kingdom
- Coastal Cottages United Kingdom
- Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Beach Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals United States
- Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Luxury Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom