An Ultimate Guide To The Brunswick Islands in North Carolina

The Brunswick Islands in North Carolina offer a great beach vacation because of the laid-back coastal vibes, beautiful scenery, and proximity to other coastal towns such as Myrtle Beach, Southport, and Wilmington.

Deciding which Brunswick County beach is best for you and your family can be difficult, with so many great options. I’ve outlined all six beaches in Brunswick County, along with a brief description of basic information, attractions, and other nearby activities to alleviate the decision-making process!

Your Guide To the Brunswick Islands in North Carolina

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is a great option for someone wanting a no-frills beach vacation to the Brunswick Islands while also being within proximity to Myrtle Beach attractions and Calabash seafood. What makes Sunset Beach different from the other Brunswick Islands is that it is very nature-focused, with a 1,500-acre nature preserve and a lack of over-commercialized spaces.

Getting Around Sunset Beach, NC

Even though the island is only 3 miles long, most restaurants and attractions are pretty spread out. It would be hard to get around without a car or a golf cart.

Things To Do in Sunset Beach

Beach Activities

Listed below are various activities and rental services for your perfect beach vacation to Sunset Beach.

Parks and Nature

Bird Island Nature Preserve

• Bird Island is a 2-mile-long stretch of Sunset Beach where you can either walk along the ocean or, if you have a boat, dock inlet side and enjoy a beach day with unobstructed views.
  • Accessing Bird Island on Foot
    • Walk along the 40th Street boardwalk, turn right, and keep walking until you see the Bird Island signs.
  • Accessing Bird Island by Boat
    • The best way to access by boat is to cross the intracoastal and take one of the several creeks.

Sunset Beach Town Park

• A beautiful 5-acre park with picnic tables, swings, a boardwalk, and a kayak launch for people to enjoy views of Mary’s Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway.
• During the summer months, the park hosts a summer concert series from 6 pm to 8 pm. Visit Sunset Beach’s town site for the full concert schedule and more information.

Pier

The pier is a great Sunset Beach activity for those wanting to either fish or take a stroll on the 900-foot pier. The pier also offers a grill, souvenir shop, and tackle store.

Fishermen get FREE parking at the pier. Your day rate of $10 will be refunded with the purchase of fishing admission.

Museums and Indoor Activities

• Old Bridge Historical Society
  • The Old Bridge Historical Society is a cute little museum dedicated to Mannon Gore, who bought Sunset Beach in 1955 for $55,000 (insane, right!?). On his own, Mannon Gore built the old bridge from a WWII-propelled barge. This is an interesting story of a man who was a true engineer by finding a solution to a problem.
  • The museum also has artifacts and photographs of Sunset Beach over the years, which is an interesting Sunset Beach attraction.

• Ingram Planetarium
  • The Ingram Planetarium is a perfect indoor activity in Sunset Beach, NC. The Ingram Planetarium showcases astronomy, space exploration, special music, and light shows.
    • Admission
      • $12 for adults
      • $8 for children (8-12)
      • $10 for seniors (60+)

Golfing

Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle is 6 miles away from Sunset Beach, with a few more attractions and restaurants. Like Sunset Beach, you are still within proximity to Myrtle Beach and Calabash seafood. Once again, this is a very laid-back beach with a few more attractions than Sunset.

Ocean Isle is a great choice among the Brunswick Islands in North Carolina because of its mix of fun attractions and restaurants, while also still keeping the laid-back beach vibes.

Getting Around Ocean Isle Beach

Unfortunately, Ocean Isle Beach is so spread out that you will need another mode of transportation besides walking. A car is the most common option, but another fun way to cruise around the beach is by renting a golf cart. Below are a couple of rental options:

• Beach Life Golf Cart Rentals
• A Jax Golf Carts

Where to Park in Ocean Isle Beach

From April 1st to October 31st, parking costs $5 per hour and $20 per day. Weekly rates are $80.

Places to Stay Near Ocean Isle Beach

House Rentals

• Sloan Vacation Rentals is the most straightforward option for vacation rentals, as they can accommodate your various accommodation needs.

Hotels

• Ocean Isle Inn– This super cute inn is located right on the beach, so you will not have to worry about parking! Other amenities include: a continental breakfast and an indoor/outdoor pool.
• The Islander Inn– Another great option, super close to the beach with a pool, tiki bar, and continental breakfast.
• Winds Resort Beach Club– This small resort is located right on the beach and offers a swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and gym.

Ocean Isle Things To Do

Beach Activities

Undoubtedly, a vacation at Ocean Isle is not complete without relaxing on the beach with the serenity of the ocean.

Beach Equipment Rentals

• Some great companies provide beach equipment rentals such as umbrellas, chairs, games, and even boogie boards.
  • Mr. Beach Rentals
  • Sandlappers Beach Supplies
  • Beachway Rentals

Ocean Isle Beach Kayak Rentals

• Sandlappers Beach Supplies
• Scooters Surf Garage
• Summertide Adventure Tours

Boat Rentals

• Ocean Isle Boat Rentals
• Ocean Isle Marina

Pier

Originally built in 1957, the Ocean Isle Pier is perfect for fishing or those wanting to take a stroll to get beautiful views of the ocean. Pier admission is $1 for adults and 50 cents for children.

Other attractions on the pier include an old-school arcade, a small shop, and The Pier Grill, which offers breakfast and lunch options daily.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

This unique museum was created by Stuart Ingram, who was passionate about sharing his knowledge of marine life and its coastal ecosystem. The museum has several exhibits, touch tanks, and other interactive aspects where you will learn about North and South Carolina’s marine science and history.

Admission

• $12 for adults (13-61)
• $10 for seniors (62+)
• $8 for children (3-12)

Note: Another great activity established by Stuart Ingram is the Planetarium in Sunset Beach. Sunset Beach, North Carolina, brings a similar vibe to Ocean Isle with a heavier focus on nature.

Nature Trail

Located on 5th Street, the nature trail on Ocean Isle is .7 miles long with a stunning coastal backdrop. My husband and I were so surprised at how far back this trail went and how beautiful it was as it guided us through the marshland

Holden Beach

Holden Beach is one of six Brunswick Islands in North Carolina that I would consider to be the most rural and quaint. If you are looking for a slow beach vacation to the Carolina coast with down-to-earth locals, then check out this Holden Beach visitors guide.

Getting Around Holden Beach

Holden Beach is an eight-mile-long island where, unfortunately, you will need a car or a golf cart to get around. Pelican Golf Carts is your best option for golf cart rentals.

Holden Beach Parking

Paid parking is enforced 9 am-5 pm with rates at $5 per hour, $20 per day, and $80 per week. For more parking information, visit the town of Holden Beach.

Holden Beach Places to Stay

There are several different accommodation options in Holden Beach. Because this is a smaller and more laid-back beach, your main choice is to rent a house. The only hotel-style option on the island is the Gray Gull Motel.

• Coastal Vacation Resorts
• Holden Beach Vacations
• Hobbs Realty

Holden Beach Things To Do

As I’ve mentioned, Holden Beach is a super laid-back vibe, so the attractions are centered around the beach, and rightfully so. Listed below are all the Holden Beach attractions I suggest.

Beach Activities

Because Holden is a calmer beach, this is a great vacation option because there are fewer crowds with a laid-back vibe.

Kayak, Paddleboard, and Other Water Equipment

Another way to experience Holden Beach and the surrounding areas’ beauty is by getting on the water! There are a few rental companies in the area where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other equipment for water activities.

• Mr. Beach Rentals
• Boomers Rental

Shelling

This is such a fun and unique activity to do in Holden Beach! I am not sure why, but Holden is a hotbed for some amazing shells! I went there with some friends and we found SO many seabiscuits, shark teeth, and other unique shells.

The Pier

The pier is a great place for fishing enthusiasts or anyone wanting to take a stroll and get beautiful views of the ocean and the coastline.

Holden Beach Parks

There are a couple of parks for you to choose from on Holden Beach where you can listen to the summer concert series, exercise, or enjoy the coastal landscape.

• Bridgeview Park
  • This park has several facilities such as bocce ball courts, a splash pad, docks, and a kayak launch.
• Bridge Pavillion
  • Summer Concerts are hosted at the bridge pavilion every Sunday during the summer months from 6:30 pm-8 pm. For a full concert schedule, visit Holden Beach’s town site.

Oak Island

Oak Island is the largest of the six Brunswick Islands in North Carolina, with more shopping and dining options. Another benefit of Oak Island is that it is the closest beach to Southport, NC, a cute and quaint downtown located along the Cape Fear River.

Getting Around Oak Island

Because Oak Island is the largest of the six Brunswick Islands, a car is necessary to drive around to the major attractions and the nearby towns of Southport and Wilmington. A golf cart is also a great option for simply cruising around the island.

Golf Cart Rentals

• Oak Island Golf Cart Rentals
• Pete’s Golf Carts

Where To Park on Oak Island

Parking: Paid parking is from April to September, starting at $5 per hour, $20 per day, and weekly permits for $80.

• Note: The Oak Island pier allows free parking for the first 2 hours.

Places to Stay on Oak Island

Vacation rentals on Oak Island mainly comprise of homes. Check out these rental companies that can cater to a beach accommodation that best suits you:

• Oak Island Rentals
• Better Beach Rentals

Things To Do On Oak Island

The Piers

Oak Island Pier

The Oak Island Pier is a great activity for fishing enthusiasts or those wanting to get a nice view of the ocean. On a clear day, you can see Bald Head Island in the distance!

• Admission
  • Free for walkers
  • $10 for fishing

There are also some great restaurants around the pier, including:

• Koko Cabana
• Lazy Turtle
• Rubys Coffee House

Ocean Crest Pier

• The unique thing about Oak Island is that there are two piers for you to choose from! The Ocean Crest Pier is located between 14th and 16th Street and is open for fishing or simply to get scenic views of the ocean.
  • Admission
    • $2 for walkers
    • $14 for fishing

Beach Activities

Undoubtedly, the main draw to Oak Island is the beach, and rightfully so! Listed below are several beach activities and areas on Oak Island for you to enjoy the water.

Beach Equipment Rentals

• Mr. Beach Rentals
• Oak Island Rentals
• Quicksand Beach Concierge

Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals

• Mr. Beach Rentals
• Island Dans
  • Kayak and paddleboard guided tours are also available

The Point

The point is at the tip of Oak Island, where you can practically swim over to Holden Beach. Known for being the more preserved area, the point is a cool spot to relax on the beach or to beach your boat to enjoy the summer sun.

Parks and Nature

I love the attractions in Oak Island that involve its coastal beauty because it is so important to appreciate the nature around us. Listed below are a couple of options for nature trails and areas that emphasize the natural aspects of Oak Island.

• Oak Island Nature Center
  • A great place to bring kids or nature enthusiasts wanting to fish, explore coastal scenery, or learn about wildlife in the area.
  • There is also a small nature trail that leads you to the butterfly garden.

• Environmental Overlook Trail
  • Tucked behind the recreation center on 31st Street, the environmental overlook trail provides glimpses of wildlife and the beautiful coastal scenery while walking along the Davis Canal. The path is heavily wooded with wooden bridges and dirt paths.

• Middleton Park
  • Middleton Park is a large park with several facilities and activities that make for great fun things to do in Oak Island, NC.
    • Oak Island Summer Concert Series
      • During the summer months, Middleton Park in Oak Island hosts a summer concert series every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30. Visit Oak Island’s site for the full concert schedule.
    • Farmers Market
      • From June to August, there is a farmers market every Monday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring local produce, crafts, and my favorite, Hippie Chic Granola. Other food trucks and vendors are around for a quick bite as well!
    • Other Facilities include: Splashpad, Playground, Tennis Courts, Pickleball Courts, Basketball court, and a Baseball Field.

Caswell Beach

Technically still on Oak Island, Caswell is like the more laid-back sister. Only four miles long, the main attraction is the beach, as there is only 1 restaurant and a golf course in the area. The main attraction is the lighthouse and Fort Caswell. Caswell Beach is the second of the smallest Brunswick Islands in North Carolina

Caswell Beach is a great vacation for individuals and families wanting to escape the hustle of everyday life with the simplicity of the beach. If you want more activities and restaurants, Oak Island and Southport a nearby.

Getting Around Caswell Beach

Utilize the same rental service as Oak Island for Caswell Beach.

Parking

A huge benefit of Caswell Beach is that parking is FREE.

Caswell Beach Places To Stay

Use the same rental options as Oak Island.

Things To Do On Caswell Beach

Oak Island Lighthouse

• Tours are available Tuesday-Sunday, May 1st to October 1st, and are only available by reservation.
  • NOTE: The Oak Lighthouse website states that top tour requests may be needed up to 6 weeks in advance, depending on demand.

Fort Caswell

An old Civil War fort has been turned into a Christian retreat center. If you are interested in touring the grounds a checking out the historic fort, you must call in advance.

Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island is the most unique option because you have to take a ferry to reach this destination, and no cars are allowed. Once you arrive, you will have to rent a golf cart to get around. The island is well preserved with beautiful scenery.

Getting Around Bald Head Island

Getting To Bald Head Island

To get to the island, you will need to take the Bald Head Island Ferry in Southport, NC. Use the Ferry’s website to check for timing and to buy your ticket. Keep in mind that spaces fill up quickly in the summer months, and cars are not allowed on the ferry.

Getting Around Bald Head Island

Once you arrive on the island, you will need to rent a golf cart to get around. Cary Cart Company is the main golf cart rental company on the island.

Things To Do on Bald Head Island

Beach Activities

Beach Equipment Rentals

Listed below are various activities and rental services for your perfect beach vacation to Sunset Beach.

• Riverside Outdoor Recreation
• Coastal Urge
• Beach and Baby

Water Activity Rentals

• Riverside Outdoor Recreation
  • This rental company also offers guided kayak tours
• Coastal Urge
  • Guided kayak tours are also available

Parks and Nature

Bald Head Island Conservancy

• The Bald Head Island conservancy comprises three small islands dedicated to natural preservation. The conservancy includes beach accesses, nature trails, and overlooks for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bald Head Island.
• Bald Head Island Conservancy also offers several programs and activities that cater to individuals of all ages. I would definitely check out the program offerings to learn more about Coastal North Carolina’s marine life.

Kent Mitchell Nature Trail

• This .4 mile loop trail is an easy trail to spot wildlife along the marshes and admire the coastal scenery.

Old Baldy Lighthouse

Initially built in 1795, Old Baldy Lighthouse was utilized to guide boats in the Cape Fear and to alarm ships of Frying Pan Shoals.

Admission to the lighthouse includes: 108 stairs to ascend to the top, a tour of the keeper’s cottage, and the Smith Island museum.

Thank You

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Thank you for reading my post. I would appreciate your thoughts about Sunset Beach, North Carolina, and how this blog post helped you plan your trip.