The Best of Brunswick Islands NC

Tucked away between Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina, the Brunswick Islands are a hidden treasure just waiting on your discovery! The Brunswick Beaches are made up of five barrier islands (Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Caswell Beach, and Bald Head Island) and charming coastal towns with views of the Inter-coastal Waterway. Each of the Brunswick Beaches has a unique charm. Avoid the crowds of the neighboring vacation destinations’, and experience something unique, the Brunswick Islands NC!

With six different beaches across five barrier islands, there is something for everyone. With a range of tastes, activities, and interests as varied as everyone in your family. All with sea breezes, sunny days and rolling surf. Whatever island or town you choose to visit, there is something to fit your style and budget. All within reach of all the best North Carolina Beaches!

Brunswick Islands Weather – When to Visit

The best time to visit the Brunswick Islands is March to May or September to November, when rates drop and crowds dissipate. Most locals and out-of-towners arrive during the summer months when the temperatures are the warmest. Similar to other parts of the Southeast, the temperatures stay relatively warm and humid – with average highs hitting the upper 80s in the summer – until the winter months, when the weather dips into the 40s and 50s. Keep in mind that during the off season some attractions, as well as restaurants and shops, may close or operate under more limited hours. 

Best Brunswick Islands Beaches

Sunset Beach

If you want sweeping views of endless sand and long for serenity, then head to Sunset Beach. A walk to Bird Island is a must as well as a visit to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox where visitors can share their thoughts and stories in the pages of the notebooks within.

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Holden Beach

Holden Beach is a great family beach with lots of activities to keep families busy. Explore the island with a walking tour, by bike, or with a kayak or canoe excursion along the Intracoastal Waterway. Spend a day on the beach spotting dolphins and playfully chasing ghost crabs with flashlights in the evening.

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Caswell Beach

The last lighthouse built in North Carolina, the Oak Island Lighthouse stands 169 feet above the water, and its light can be seen for 16 miles. Take a tour and climb to the top of the unique lighthouse by a series of ship ladders with 131 steps, all leading to incredible views of Caswell Beach and the lush, green inland marsh from the outside balcony.

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Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach has an abundance of activities both on and off the sand. It’s one of the top surf spots in the Brunswick Islands. Other activities include biking, zip lining, kayaking, fishing, helicopter tours and much more – all without leaving Ocean Isle Beach!

Bald Head Island

Reachable only by ferry or private boat, visitors and locals explore the resort-style island by bike, boat and golf cart. Bald Head Island is unspoiled, yet charming, and provides quiet relaxation for a vacation hideaway filled with natural landscapes and pristine beaches.

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Best Tours & Activities Near the Brunswick Islands

Sunset Sail Tour from Wrightsville Beach

Cruise through the waters of Wrightsville Beach aboard a 42-foot (13-meter) yacht during this small-group coastal sailing adventure. Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding waterways and barrier islands, and catch a glimpse of marine life. Soft drinks, juice, bottled water, and light refreshments are provided on board the boat. Plus, choose from morning, afternoon, or sunset cruises to best suit your schedule. Learn more about the Sunset Sail from Wrightsville Beach.

Private Charter

The captain works with the guest to design a custom outing based on his 30 years of cruising experience in the local area. With knowledge of the local sea conditions and coastal ecology. you build a custom experience. Learn more about the Private Charter tour.

Wrightsville Beach Fishing Trips

Let Capt. Jennings Rose of North State Guide Service take you to fish and explore the water around Wrightsville Beach! We are dedicated to ensuring you have a excellent experience on the water. Fishing trips, family outings, scenic cruises and dolphin tours; we’ve got you covered! Over 10 years of professional guiding experience. Learn more about the Wrightsville Beach Fishing Trips.

Afternoon Sail

Take a 2.0 hour sailing cruise on a Sparkman and Stephens Sailing Yacht. With your small-group, engage on this classic 42 ft yacht, that accommodates a 6 passenger maximum for an intimate cruise through the waters of Wrightsville Beach. This tour is a spectacular way to see the waterways, barrier islands, and marine life surrounding Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina. Learn more about the Afternoon Sail.

Best Brunswick Islands Restaurants

Captain John’s Seafood House $11 – 30

They are a family run waterfront seafood restaurant and lounge in their 41st year of operation! Also great chicken and pasta. Best rib eye steaks in Calabash. Telephone: 910-579-6011 Web: Captain John’s Seafood House

Captain Nance’s Seafood $11 – 30

They feature all of your favorite seafood as well as a variety of land lover meals. They also have an amazing outside seating area where you can often see their shrimp boats bringing in their catch for the day. Telephone: 910-579-2574 Web: Captain Nance’s Seafood

The Dockside Seafood House $11 – 30

Check out their menu of “Calabash Style” seafood favorites as well as Slow Roasted Prime Rib, NY Strip Steaks & rib eye steaks for the land lover. Telephone: 910-579-6775 Web: The Dockside Seafood House

Crabby Oddwaters $11 – 30

Crabby’s has since evolved to into a full service restaurant and bar, popular with locals and visitors alike, offering the freshest seafood possible. Their menu features classic seafood dishes and southern favorites, as well as traditional options for kids and landlubbers. Telephone: 910-579-6372 Web: Crabby Oddwaters

Jinks Creek Waterfront Grill $11 – 30

Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille is an energetic with fresh seafood, blending classical preparations and exciting new flavors. Their raw bar features the best variety of fresh shellfish and seafood in Ocean Isle Beach. Welcoming of all palates, Jinks Creek also features non-seafood options daily. Telephone: 910-579-9997 Web: Jinks Creek Waterfront Grill

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