In North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands beach season extends well into the fall. Thanks to mild temperatures and fewer visitors, the fall season is one of the best times of year to visit Oak Island, NC. Plus, there’s no shortage of activity beyond enjoying the island’s pristine shoreline.

Fall Weather is Better Beach Weather

Oak Island’s coastal climate means you don’t have to say goodbye to the beach after summer ends. Throughout October you can expect average air temperatures in the upper 70s with an average water temperature of 75 degrees. The mild fall temperatures continue throughout November with average highs in the upper 60s. Such weather is what makes the fall season such a hidden gem on the North Carolina coast.

Visitors to Oak Island in the fall also have a unique opportunity to witness a weather wonder! Given the island’s south-facing orientation, beachgoers can witness the sunrise and sunset over the Atlantic Ocean beginning in fall and through early spring. This natural phenomenon was named a must-see by Weather.com.

Whether you choose to wake up with a cup of coffee and a view from your vacation rental, stroll an ocean pier, or take to the marsh in a kayak – the weather on Oak Island is still perfect for it this time of year.

With a free permit, visitors to Oak Island can cozy up around a beachside bonfire from November 16 through April 30. Just imagine a crackling fire, the sound of ocean waves, and the company of those you love – that’s the beach at its best.

Fewer Crowds but Even More Fun

The summer crowds are clear, and the kids are back in school. It’s the beach at a slower and more relaxed pace. Thankfully, fewer visitors doesn’t mean there’s less fun to have on Oak Island in the fall.

Staying on Oak Island means you’re near some signature events in NC’s Brunswick Islands, including:

• U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament: Held annually the first week of October.
  • Note: The U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament was rescheduled to October 30-November 1, 2025
• North Carolina Oyster Festival: Held annually on the third weekend in October
• North Carolina Festival by the Sea: Held annually on the fourth weekend in October
  • Happening October 25-26, 2025
• Southport Wooden Boat Show: Held annually on the first weekend in November
  • Happening November 1, 2025
• Halloween events including trunk or treats, the Oak Island Spooktacular, and costume contests

Our annual festivals are always packed with hundreds of local vendors, set to the tune of live music, and full of much more fun. You’ll also find our Events Calendar is filled with free outdoor concerts, markets, haunted trails, Oktoberfest events, and many more family-friendly activities.  

There are also plenty of year-round activities on and near Oak Island. Climb a lighthouse, zipline above a swamp, or relax on a charted sunset cruise—visit our Things to Do page for trip ideas to help you plan your visit.

A visit to one of the nearby Brunswick Islands or towns is also a sure way to spend a day. From strolling the oak-lined streets of charming Southport to a lunchtime visit to Calabash for some world famous seafood, you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose to do.

Off-Season Rates

What could possibly make a beach vacation with fewer crowds (but just as much fun) even better—how about saving some money on the trip?

Fall is the best time of year to take advantage of beach season weather at an off-season rate. Whether you want to book a cozy cottage for two or a grand vacation rental for the entire extended family on Oak Island, the hardest decision you should be making is which view you want to wake up to.  

For more information and help planning your trip, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com.