OAK ISLAND, NC (WECT) – Walking down the beach can be a relaxing experience for those who enjoy the coast, but leaders in Oak Island are worried about a problem that keeps popping up.

Town leaders say they have a problem with giant holes on the beach, creating a safety hazard for beach-goers.

Some holes are large enough for a small child or a pet to fall inside and hurt themselves if they aren't paying attention.

Jo Tilghman has spent hours walking along the shore ever since she was a child.  But now, she does more of a dodge, avoiding the large holes that can be a problem.

"I'm concerned for people's safety," said Tilghman.  "It's fun to dig holes but it's a hazard for walkers."

While town leaders encourage people to have fun while visiting the beach, it's against the law to dig holes if the sand isn't replaced.

News Release from YWCA:

(Wilmington, NC, May, 2013) -  The YWCA Lower Cape Fear is pleased to announce that it has received a $15,000 grant from the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation for the Fluid Recovery program, which was developed in partnership with the Pretty in Pink Foundation. The Fluid Recovery program is modeled after the YWCA USA’s Encoreplus program that was created over 30 years ago.