How do I access Sunset Harbor?

Sunset Harbor is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Sunset Harbor?

Sunset Harbor supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

When is the best time to visit Sunset Harbor?

The best time to paddle at Sunset Harbor is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Sunset Harbor?

Water conditions at Sunset Harbor include mild current.

Is Sunset Harbor good for beginners?

Yes, Sunset Harbor is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

person riding blue kayak on lake during daytime

Photo by Gene Gallin on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockFishing PierConcessionsLightingTrash ReceptaclesADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Sunset Harbor

Oak Island, NC · Carry-In · Public

Sunset Harbor is a public carry-in on Lockwoods Folly River & Intracoastal Waterway near Oak Island, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Carry-In

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Carry-In accessing Lockwoods Folly River & Intracoastal Waterway near Oak Island, North Carolina. mild current conditions.

Paddlers heading out on Lockwoods Folly River & Intracoastal Waterway will find Sunset Harbor in North Carolina a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and fishing pier and concessions and lighting and trash receptacles and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Oak Island, Sunset Harbor is a convenient option for Oak Island-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Sunset Harbor?: Sunset Harbor is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sunset Harbor?: Sunset Harbor supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Sunset Harbor?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, fishing pier, concessions, lighting, trash receptacles, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sunset Harbor?: The best time to paddle at Sunset Harbor is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Sunset Harbor?: Water conditions at Sunset Harbor include mild current.
Is Sunset Harbor good for beginners?: Yes, Sunset Harbor is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 33.9228, -78.2130