North Carolina’s 300 miles of coastline is dotted by more than a dozen piers offering a range of water-based activities. Proximity to the Gulf Stream means great pier fishing, and additional attractions range from an aquarium to tons of dining options.
From north to south, here’s a roundup of North Carolina’s ocean piers:
1 Avalon Fishing Pier
1 Avalon Fishing Pier
Kill Devil HillsSee on mapAvalon Pier is 696 feet long and, like most North Carolina piers, features a full tackle shop, bait, rentals, arcade, snacks and a beach bar.
2 Nags Head Fishing Pier
2 Nags Head Fishing Pier
Nags HeadSee on mapAt 750 feet, Nags Head Fishing Pier is one of our state’s longest and oldest piers. With pretty ocean views, Pier House Restaurant – “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” – is definitely a highlight.
3 Jennette’s Pier
3 Jennette’s Pier
Nags HeadSee on mapOriginally built way back in 1939, Jennette’s Pier was rebuilt after Hurricane Isabel. The groundbreaking concrete structure is 1,000 feet long and includes an outpost of the North Carolina Aquariums network, with aquariums, displays, programs, fishing classes and more.
4 Outer Banks Fishing Pier
4 Outer Banks Fishing Pier
Nags HeadSee on mapFishing Unlimited’s 600-foot pier is the closest pier to fabled Oregon Inlet. Along with a full tackle shop, there’s a popular and tasty oceanfront grill.
5 Rodanthe Pier
5 Rodanthe Pier
RodantheSee on mapWith repairs and additions making it better than ever, 700-foot Rodanthe Pier on Hatteras Island remains a classic Outer Banks fishing pier.
6 Avon Fishing Pier
6 Avon Fishing Pier
AvonSee on mapAlso situated on Hatteras Island, Avon Fishing Pier is about 600 feet long. Anglers aren't required to buy a license to cast a line for red drum and other fish here. Visit the Pier House store for supplies, snacks and souvenirs.
7 Seaview Fishing Pier
7 Seaview Fishing Pier
North Topsail BeachSee on mapOnce known as Salty’s Pier, 1,000-foot, family-owned and -operated Seaview Fishing Pier features a full-service pier store, a popular restaurant and even a 19-room motel.
8 Surf City Pier
8 Surf City Pier
Surf CitySee on mapOriginally built in 1948 and owned by the Lore family since 1973, Surf City Pier features two large fish-cleaning stations, a grill and ice cream shop, outdoor dining and a Pier Kids program that teaches children about fishing and more.
9 Jolly Roger Fishing Pier
9 Jolly Roger Fishing Pier
Topsail BeachSee on mapThe Jolly Roger includes the 850-foot pier, an oceanfront inn and the waterfront Jolly Roger Grill. Bonus: The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center is just 8 miles away.
10 Johnnie Mercers Pier
10 Johnnie Mercers Pier
Wrightsville BeachSee on mapThis iconic 1,200-foot pier offers a full tackle shop, snack bar and game area. It's the only concrete fishing pier in North Carolina and features beautiful views right in the heart of Wrightsville Beach.
11 Carolina Beach Pier
11 Carolina Beach Pier
Carolina BeachSee on mapTake your pick of places to park up at this iconic pier: a full-service bar and restaurant, a fast-casual cafe, a sandbar, a dog-friendly "pier garden" or a beloved tiki bar. This landmark also hosts fun events such as bonfire nights, silent discos and Mother's Day markets.
12 Kure Beach Fishing Pier
12 Kure Beach Fishing Pier
Kure BeachSee on mapBuilt in 1923 and known as the Atlantic Ocean’s oldest pier, Kure Beach Fishing Pier is 711 feet long and features a tackle shop, grill and an arcade with pool table. A license isn't required to fish at this family-friendly pier, but please note alcohol is prohibited.
13 Oak Island Fishing Pier
13 Oak Island Fishing Pier
Oak IslandSee on mapOak Island Fishing Pier has a full-service pier, and at 27 feet high, it’s currently the tallest ocean fishing pier in North Carolina.
14 Ocean Crest Pier
14 Ocean Crest Pier
Oak IslandSee on mapFamily-owned 893-foot Ocean Crest Pier features a full-service tackle shop and is conveniently flanked by Ocean Crest Motel to the east and Island Way Restaurant & Bar to the west.
15 Holden Beach Fishing Pier
15 Holden Beach Fishing Pier
Holden BeachSee on mapPlease note: This pier is currently closed for renovations.
Situated in the heart of quiet Holden Beach, the 700-foot pier features live bait, a tackle and gift shop, and grill and snack bar. Alcohol is neither sold nor permitted on this pier.
16 Ocean Isle Beach Pier
16 Ocean Isle Beach Pier
Ocean Isle BeachSee on mapThis 968-foot pier has a tackle shop, a grill, and a game room for kids and kids at heart.
17 Sunset Beach Fishing Pier
17 Sunset Beach Fishing Pier
Sunset BeachSee on mapThe island’s 900-foot pier includes a fully stocked tackle shop and convenience store, billiards, and a bar and grill. It’s North Carolina's southernmost ocean fishing pier.
Visit Outdoor NC for additional tips on how to connect with nature and help preserve the natural beauty of our state, plus fishing information for keeping NC's waters pristine and wildlife safe.