Oak Island vacation rentals

Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb

1 of 3 pages
1 of 3 pages

Popular amenities for Oak Island vacation rentals

Stay near Oak Island's top sights

Middleton Park39 locals recommend
Oak Island Pier59 locals recommend
Island Way85 locals recommend
Shagger Jacks84 locals recommend
The Point33 locals recommend
Skydive Coastal Carolinas19 locals recommend

Oak Island beach vacation rentals

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Oak Island

Total rentals

1.3K properties

Rentals with a pool

380 properties have a pool

Pet-friendly rentals

450 properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

1.2K properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

30K reviews

Nightly prices starting at

$50 before taxes and fees

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

  • 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 2,260 vacation rentals near Shagger Jacks, over 2,260 vacation rentals near Joseph''s Italian Bistro & Chop House, and over 2,470 vacation rentals near Island Way, 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 70 cottage rentals to over 940 house rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Oak Island?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 640 vacation rentals in Oak Island featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Oak Island?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Oak Island. Choose from more than 450 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Oak Island?

    Experience the best of Oak Island with our house rentals, starting at about $60 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Are there Oak Island house rentals on Airbnb with pools?

    Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 230 house rentals with pools in Oak Island, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • Do house rentals in Oak Island have self check-in?

    Absolutely! We offer over 270 house rentals with self check-in in Oak Island. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Oak Island have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 450 house rentals with a bbq area in Oak Island. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Oak Island have a gym?

    Absolutely! We offer over 130 house rentals with a gym in Oak Island. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there family-friendly house rentals in Oak Island?

    Oak Island has more than 920 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

Destinations to explore