Travelers are familiar with North Carolina’s Outer Banks and South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach, but between these popular beach destinations lies a charming coastal getaway with fewer crowds, lower prices, and beautiful beaches: the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina.
Ten cities on the southeastern coast of the Tar Heel state make up the Brunswick Islands. Six of the ten barrier island towns—Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Caswell Beach, and Bald Head Island—boast their own beaches, while Southport, Calabash, Shallotte, and Leland are vibrant coastal towns.
The seafood is fresh, and most attractions focus on the stunning beaches, tranquil lagoons, and the ocean, although there are plentiful shopping, dining, and historical experiences to enjoy. Read on to discover more about North Carolina’s best-kept beach secret.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Brunswick Islands?
The busiest time in the Brunswick Islands is summer when temperatures soar to the mid to high 80s°F along the shore, and the ocean ranges between 79°F and 82°F. As summer is the peak tourist season, beaches may be crowded and lodging costs higher. However, visitors can witness loggerhead turtle hatchlings and partake in a multitude of festivals and events across the ten communities.
Conversely, the off-seasons, particularly fall and winter, offer a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists, making it an affordable time for budget-conscious travelers. Be prepared for cooler weather—between 69°F to 77°F in fall and 55°F to 65°F in winter—with some businesses operating on limited hours.
Notably, visitors during the off-season can experience a unique natural phenomenon; the sun rises and sets over the ocean, offering breathtaking views that are especially vibrant in the fall and spring due to the orientation of the beaches facing south.
How Do I Get Around the Brunswick Islands?
Visitors to the Brunswick Islands have two airport choices. Wilmington International Airport, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, is our preferred option. This small airport is only a 40-minute drive from the Brunswick Islands, making it convenient for travelers. Alternatively, Myrtle Beach International Airport, located in South Carolina, is about a 70-minute drive away but may be more crowded due to increased traffic from Myrtle Beach tourists.
Upon landing, renting a car is advisable. Although taxis may be available, they can be costly, and securing a return taxi can be challenging, particularly for early morning flights. Renting a car facilitates easy exploration of all ten communities.
Many communities are walkable, especially in Southport and Ocean Isle Beach. However, rideshare and taxi services can be limited, particularly during the off-season, affecting availability during early or late hours.
Why Should I Visit the Brunswick Islands?
Unlike many beach destinations that offer limited attractions, the Brunswick Islands provide a plethora of activities to suit any interest. Enjoy wine tastings at Silver Coast Winery, scenic lighthouse climbs at Oak Island Lighthouse, antique shopping, art gallery walks, outdoor activities like kayaking, and indulge in some of the best seafood along the east coast.
Interestingly, these islands have served as backdrops for numerous Hollywood films and TV shows since the 1980s. Southport boasts the highest concentration of film sites and was featured in beloved 90s shows such as Dawson’s Creek and I Know What You Did Last Summer. The area is also known for adaptations of Nicholas Sparks’ romantic novels like Safe Haven and A Walk to Remember among others.
Additionally, locations like Bald Head Island hosted film shoots for Weekend at Bernie’s and Sleeping with the Enemy, while Oak Island served as a backdrop for Iron Man 3. Movie enthusiasts can explore a comprehensive list of film sites compiled by the Brunswick County Tourism Development Authority, offering an exciting self-guided adventure.
Favorite Activities in the Brunswick Islands
With six stunning beaches and over 45 miles of sand, spending a day on the beach or in the ocean is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable activities when visiting. These white sandy beaches hold magical experiences—notably, witnessing loggerhead turtles laying eggs from May to August and their hatchlings emerging from July to October.
Each beach presents a unique experience. Opt for a beachfront hotel, such as Ocean Isle Inn, to enjoy front-row views during sunrise and sunset. Many beaches have dunes or natural reserves paired with walking trails, and the expansive sandy areas encourage biking to explore different sections. Furthermore, many beaches are pet-friendly, allowing for fun family outings—just be mindful of local leash laws and hours for pets.
If seclusion is your aim, consider visiting Caswell Beach or Bald Head Island, which is exclusively accessible by boat or ferry. Families will likely gravitate towards Sunset and Ocean Isle Beaches.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the picturesque lagoons and swamps exhibiting rich biodiversity near several beaches. Kayaking through these scenic waterways is especially popular for those seeking more than just sunbathing.
Budgeting for Your Brunswick Islands Adventure
The cost of visiting the Brunswick Islands varies based on the season. In the high season, accommodations experience price surges, with hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals, and golf resorts starting at around $150 per night. Prices rise with proximity to the beach.
On the other hand, vacation rentals located further away from the beach may be available for as low as $100 per night, although this option necessitates a drive to the beach with associated parking fees or a long walk with beach gear. More budget-friendly accommodations include RV parks and campgrounds situated near Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Caswell Beach—most campgrounds require a walk to reach the ocean.
Despite being lesser-known, the Brunswick Islands feature competitive food and drink prices, reflective of their coastal seafood reputation. Expect most appetizers to range from $10 to $12, with entrees between $14 and $30; even casual options like pizza or burgers usually start at about $10 to $12. Although some low-key seafood shacks offer slightly lower prices, they remain relatively close. Cooking your own meals in a vacation rental with a kitchen or taking advantage of happy-hour specials at certain restaurants can save on dining costs.
Choosing Your Ideal Brunswick Islands Destination
With ten distinct cities in the Brunswick Islands, figuring out where to stay or which community to explore may seem daunting. Here’s an overview of four fantastic locations to assist in selecting the right destination for your needs.
Family Fun in Ocean Isle Beach
Families adore Ocean Isle Beach. With numerous hotels, motels, and vacation rentals directly on the beach, you enjoy convenient access to both the ocean and the lagoon. Anticipate sunny days filled with beach activities, fishing off the pier, swimming, kayaking in the lagoon, or adventuring at the nearby Shallotte River Swamp Park, an eco-adventure park that offers boat tours, zip lines, and an aerial obstacle course.
Many families bike, walk, or glide in golf carts through the leisurely streets of Ocean Isle Beach. While many eateries cater to families, there are also adult-oriented spaces where parents can enjoy a romantic wine tasting at Silver Coast Winery or sample artisanal beers at Makai Brewing Company.
Romantic Serenity in Southport
Film enthusiasts will delight in searching for iconic locations from beloved movies in Southport. Although it lacks a beach, Southport is beloved by couples for its charming downtown area, ideal for a romantic getaway.
Book a stay in a historic bed-and-breakfast while spending the day visiting art galleries, boutique shopping, and wandering through neighborhoods to admire the historic architecture and vibrant homes. Exploring the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport and the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum and Visitors’ Center are enjoyable diversions.
Our favorite seafood restaurants include Fishy Fishy Café and Moore Street Oyster Bar, where you can sit hand-in-hand with your loved one on a swing by the pier while watching the sunset.
Calabash: A Foodie’s Paradise
Known as the seafood capital of the world, Calabash is the perfect destination for those who appreciate exquisite culinary delights.
Calabash seafood—which is lightly breaded and fried—takes its name from this charming fishing village. Waterfront Seafood Shack and Oyster Rock are ideal dineries for savoring shrimp, clams, fish, and oysters prepared in the local style. Enhance your experience with a deep-sea fishing trip or an exciting dolphin adventure cruise through Calabash Fishing Fleet.
Outdoor Adventures in Sunset Beach
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Sunset Beach. Renowned for its natural beauty, Sunset Beach features vacation rentals located a bit farther from the ocean. Accessing the beach requires a stroll along wooden paths built over the dunes.
Many visitors spend their days either soaking in the ocean or relaxing on the beach, while others may rent bikes to cycle down to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox. This delightful spot invites you to express your fears, hopes, and dreams in journals left in a mailbox. Additionally, the Bird Island Reserve offers a scenic walking trail through 1,200 acres of stunning landscapes featuring beaches, dunes, and tidal creeks. Fishermen will appreciate the local pier, ideal for casting a line into the ocean. Finally, with six golf courses, Sunset Beach is a perfect setting to practice your swing.
