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THE HEART OF THE SEA --- OCEANFRONT LUXURY AT KURE BEACH

Welcome to The Heart of the Sea, a truly exceptional ground-floor corner condo just ten steps from the sand. If you dream of staying as close to the ocean as possible—without actually being in it—this is the place for you.

With no stairs, parking less than 10 feet from your front door, and instant access to everything Kure Beach offers. This beautiful retreat is designed for comfort, convenience, and unforgettable views. While not officially handicap-approved, the no step entry makes arrival effortless.

UNMATCHED OCEANFRONT LOCATION

*Ground-floor, corner unit

*Parking directly outside your door

*Ten steps from your private beach access

*As close to the Atlantic as you can get without getting wet

COMFORTABLY DESIGNED INTERIOR

Bedroom

*Comfortable queen-size bed

*Two nightstands, chest & wall mirror

*Spacious double closet

*25” TV and VCR

Alcove Bunk Area

*Two twin-size bunks

*Built-in drawers perfect for your extra vacation gear

Living Room

*Cozy sofa, recliner & comfortable seating

*Enjoy stunning ocean views right from your couch

*42” Smart TV with Spectrum Bronze cable package

*High-speed WiFi & Xumo voice-controlled remote

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN

*Mr. Coffee maker & Keurig (coffee included)

*Built-in microwave

*Toaster & toaster oven

*Blender

*Large spice rack

*Complete cookware, utensils & dining essentials

Perfect for enjoying local seafood or cooking up your own fresh catch.

CONVENIENT FULL BATH

*Tub/shower combo

*Plenty of counter space

*Closet storage

*Washer and dryer in the unit

A DECK WITH A VIEW YOU'LL NEVER FORGET

Step onto your private deck and experience a 180-degree panorama of the Atlantic. At 11 feet above sea level, many guests describe it as standing on the bow of a ship, surrounded by ocean beauty.

Enjoy:

*Two relaxing hammock chairs—ideal for a book, Kindle, or quiet escape

*A fixed bar-height table for outdoor dining

*Charcoal grill just outside your unit

*The soothing sounds of the waves

*Bring your chairs, umbrella or shibumi{or rent from one of the local rental companies} and enjoy the magic of Kure Beach.

*And if you’re lucky…you might catch a pod of dolphins putting on a show right in front of you.

The Heart of the Sea is more than a condo—it’s a beachfront experience. The true amenities at Kure Beach are on the outside. When your trip brings you to Kure Beach, I invite you to make the most of your trip with a stay at The Heart of the Sea...When previously listed on VRBO, The Heart had 200+ five star reviews. Same owner, same condo, just a new listing ID#.

We want your vacation to be restful and stress free--all you imagine and more. You can call or text at any point after making your reservation with any questions that might arise.

Make your reservation now for up to one year in advance. Break your cost up into three payments.

Step out your door, breathe in the ocean air and let your vacation begin.


Nearby Attractions:

Dive Into Adventure: THE NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM at Fort Fisher!

Discover an unforgettable journey from the headwaters of the Cape Fear River to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF)! Perfect for families, students, and nature lovers, the Aquarium offers a window into the diverse aquatic world of North Carolina and beyond.

What You'll Explore:

• The Massive Cape Fear Shoals Exhibit: Gaze into 235,000 gallons of saltwater, where you'll come face-to-fin with majestic sand tiger sharks, graceful stingrays, and protected loggerhead sea turtles.
• Meet Luna: Say hello to our one-of-a-kind celebrity—a rare albino American alligator!
• Playful Otters: Watch the mischievous antics of the Asian small-clawed otters as they frolic and swim in their custom-built habitat.
• Interactive Touch Pools: Get hands-on with coastal creatures like horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and even small bamboo sharks!
• Exotic Aquatics: Explore vibrant coral reefs and see colorful fish, venomous lionfish, and delicate seahorses from around the globe.
• Conservation in Action: Learn about our rescue and rehabilitation efforts, including the care of a rescued Bald Eagle and sea turtles.

Plan Your Visit

Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Check website for holiday closures)
Location
900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449 (Near the Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal)
Admission
Adults (13-61): $12.95

Seniors (62+)/Military: $11.95

Children (3-12): $10.95

Ages 2 & Under/Members: FREE
Parking
Free onsite parking is available


FORT FISHER CIVIL WAR MUSEUM:

New State-of-the-Art Visitor Center
Cost and Size: The project involved an investment of approximately $25.5 million and resulted in a new two-story visitor center that is about 20,000 to 22,000 square feet—roughly three times the size of the original 1965 facility.

Modern Amenities: The building features an expanded gift shop, an Activity Hall/multipurpose room available for group rentals and events, and a 100-seat orientation theater.

Design & Resilience: The sleek, modern structure is elevated above the 100-year flood plain and designed to withstand coastal conditions, including high winds. Its architectural design is intentional, with a unique rotation in the first floor that frames views of the historic earthworks as you approach.

Accessibility: The new visitor center, restrooms, and the main outdoor Tour Trail are fully ADA-compliant and wheelchair-accessible.

Nuanced and Expanded Exhibits
The new exhibit space offers a significantly broader and more comprehensive look at the site's history, titled "Through Their Eyes."

Broader Historical Scope: The exhibits transcend the traditional focus on just the 1865 battle. They now interpret centuries of regional history, from pre-colonial times and the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the area to Fort Fisher's role as a training facility in World War II.

Diverse Voices: A major focus is on telling a complete, human-centered story by elevating the experiences of all individuals connected to the site, including the enslaved and African American laborers whose forced work helped construct the fort.

Reconstruction of Earthworks
One of the most unique elements of the renovation is the meticulous reconstruction of parts of the Civil War fortifications, using historical accounts and archaeological evidence.

Recreated Structures: Visitors can now view newly reconstructed earthworks, including the 6th, 7th, and 8th traverses (mounds).

Interactive Features: The project also recreated a Center Sally Port (gateway) and a Bombproof Shelter Exhibit with a working tunnel system, allowing visitors to get a rare, immersive look inside the fort's defenses and operations.

This extensive upgrade transforms Fort Fisher into a state-of-the-art historic destination, making it an excellent stop just a short walk from The Heart of the Sea. You can still expect free general admission, with tickets available for guided tours.

NORTH CAROLINA FERRY SYSTEM...two miles from your condo.

Important information for passengers traveling on the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry route across the Cape Fear River/Intracoastal Waterway, operated by the North Carolina Ferry System (NCDOT).

Key Travel Alerts & Important Notes

• No Reservations Required: The Fort Fisher-Southport ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You cannot make reservations.
• Arrive Early: Especially during the peak summer season (April - September), weekends, and holidays, long lines and significant wait times are common. Travelers are strongly advised to arrive at the terminal at least 30-45 minutes before their desired departure time.
◦ Tip for Avoiding Crowds: Aim for early morning crossings (first few departures) or travel on a weekday.
• Weather and Conditions: Service is subject to change or cancellation due to inclement weather, high winds, mechanical issues, or river conditions. Always check the current status before heading to the terminal.
• Boarding Policy: Boarding generally begins approximately 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Fort Fisher Terminal Departure Times

(Based on typical schedules—Always confirm the current seasonal schedule online):
Day
First Departure (Approx.)
Last Departure (Approx.)
Typical Frequency
Monday - Friday
6:15 AM
7:00 PM
Every 45 - 90 minutes
Saturday - Sunday
7:45 AM
7:00 PM
Every 45 - 90 minutes

One-Way Fares (Subject to Change)

Vehicle Type / Passenger
Approximate One-Way Fare
Pedestrian
$1.00
Bicycle Rider
$2.00
Vehicle (under 20 ft.)
$7.00
Vehicle (20 ft. up to 40 ft.)
$14.00
Motorcycle
$3.00

Onboard Rules and Amenities

• Journey Time: The scenic crossing time is approximately 35 minutes.
• Exiting Your Vehicle: Passengers are permitted to leave their vehicles to enjoy the outdoor decks and the indoor, climate-controlled passenger lounge once the ferry has left the dock and is underway.
• Pets: Pets are allowed but must remain leashed or inside your vehicle at all times.
• Prohibitions: No smoking or alcohol is permitted anywhere on board the ferry. There are generally no vending machines, but restrooms and water fountains are available.

Get Real-Time Updates

For the most immediate and up-to-date information on delays, schedule changes, and unexpected closures, NCDOT recommends:
• Sign up for the Ferry Information Notification System (FINS) to receive real-time text or email alerts for the Fort Fisher-Southport route.
• Contact the Fort Fisher Terminal: (910) 251-7310

Make your reservation now for up to one year in advance. Break your cost up into three payments.

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