Local Favorites, Hidden Gems, and One Unforgettable E-Bike Tour
If you’re visiting Oak Island or Southport, North Carolina, get ready for an unforgettable coastal experience filled with charming shops, scenic views, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a day-tripper, a weekender, or a long-time local, these 7 handpicked activities — all from locally owned businesses — will give you a true taste of the area.
7. Stroll the Davis Canal Walkway & Visit the Oak Island Nature Center
Nature • Wildlife • Coastal Trails
Enjoy one of Oak Island’s hidden gems — the scenic 31st Street Walkway, which winds over the Davis Canal and into a lush stretch of marshland and forest. Pair your walk with a stop at the Oak Island Nature Center, where you’ll find local wildlife displays, shell collections, and kid-friendly educational exhibits.
6. Discover Local Art at Franklin Square Gallery (Southport)
Art • Culture • Coastal Inspiration
Located in a historic Southport building, Franklin Square Gallery features a wide array of art by local creators. Pottery, watercolor, oil painting, jewelry — it’s the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir and support the coastal art community.
5. Explore Southport’s Waterfront and Historic District
Small-Town Charm • Boutiques • Maritime History
Southport is famous for its picture-perfect waterfront, oak-lined streets, and quaint coastal charm. Don’t miss:
- Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center
- Old Smithville Burying Ground
- A peaceful harborfront walk or bench swing
Grab lunch or a drink at local staples like Provision Company or Fishy Fishy Café while watching the boats go by.
4. Shop at Local Strand (Oak Island)
Beachwear • Gifts • Women-Owned Business
Need a stylish swimsuit, beachy outfit, or coastal-inspired gift? Local Strand has you covered with carefully curated clothing and accessories. It’s a great stop before a beach day or e-bike ride — and an easy way to support local entrepreneurs.
3. Get Your Coffee Fix at Island Jo Coffee & Café (Oak Island)
Breakfast • Coffee • Smoothies
Start your morning right with a stop at Island Jo, a cozy café known for its relaxed atmosphere and seriously good brews. Pair your latte with a local pastry or smoothie before heading out to explore the island.
2. Browse the Shops at Southport’s Downtown Market
Shopping • Antiques • Local Finds
Take a leisurely afternoon stroll through Downtown Southport, where you’ll find unique boutiques, antique shops, bookstores, and more. Look out for seasonal markets and art walks — there’s always something local and lively happening here.
1. Ride with Cycle-logical Tours (Oak Island)
Top-Rated Guided E-Bike Tours
Want to experience Oak Island from a whole new perspective? Hop on a Trek Verve+ e-bike and take a guided tour with Cycle-logical Tours, Oak Island’s only guided e-bike company and a must-do for visitors and locals alike.
Tours are themed and beginner-friendly:
- 🐚 Nature Tour — Birdlife, salt marshes, and conservation
- 🏰 History Tour — Lighthouses, shipwrecks, WWII history
- 🌅 Golden Hour Tour — Sunset by the Oak Island Lighthouse
- 📸 Picture Perfect Tour — Scenic spots with photo ops
Locally owned and operated, Cycle-logical Tours starts most rides at the Oak Island Nature Center, offering small-group experiences that showcase the island’s hidden treasures.
🎉 Insider Tip: Use code EARLYBIRD at checkout for 10% off tours booked 30 days in advance!
Wrap-Up: Your Oak Island & Southport Bucket List
From sunrise walks and shopping to history, lattes, and unforgettable bike rides, Oak Island and Southport are filled with local gems just waiting to be discovered. Skip the big-box attractions and experience the coast the local way — by supporting small businesses and slowing down enough to soak up the magic.
Cycle-logical Tours 
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