Sunset Beach, the southernmost treasure of the Brunswick Islands, has earned its place on National Geographic's list of 21 Best Beaches In The World—and it’s clear why. With vast stretches of pristine sand and a serene, untouched atmosphere, it offers an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility. A visit to Bird Island to explore the cherished Kindred Spirit Mailbox, where visitors leave heartfelt notes in its journals, is a must for any guest.
Free from the distractions of boardwalks and high-rises, this wide expanse of beach is perfect for biking, shell collecting, and reconnecting with nature. True to its name, Sunset Beach delivers breathtaking views from dawn to dusk. Thanks to its unique south-facing position, you can experience both sunrise and sunset over the water from late fall through early spring. Find your spot on the beach, settle in, and let the natural beauty of Sunset Beach captivate you.
Family fun at Ocean Isle Beach has been a tradition for generations, and whether it’s your first visit or your 21st, you’ll find the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days zip-lining through the canopy at The Swamp Park's Ocean Isle Beach Outpost, catching waves at a favorite surfing spot, or exploring marine wildlife on a kayak trip through the marsh. You can even witness baby sea turtles making their first trek from nest to sea—a mesmerizing experience that makes every visit unforgettable.
For those seeking a more laid-back vibe, Ocean Isle Beach offers plenty of ways to unwind. Enjoy sunbathing on the beach, dining at local restaurants with outdoor decks and waterfront views, or visiting The Museum of Coastal Carolina for an educational escape. If you’re in the mood for a drink, relax at the award-winning Silver Coast Winery or enjoy a brew at Makai Brewing Company. However you choose to spend your time, a vacation at Ocean Isle Beach is always time well spent.
Holden Beach, recognized by National Geographic Traveler as one of the best family beaches in the country, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you’re bringing bikes, boards, boats, or simply seeking relaxation, this destination is ideal for creating lasting family memories. Enjoy evening strolls while chasing ghost crabs, or bike to the eastern tip of the island to explore Lockwood Folly Inlet.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love at Holden Beach. Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard along the Intracoastal Waterway, keeping an eye out for playful dolphins. During low tide, explore small pools on the beach teeming with fascinating sea creatures. After a day of adventure, dine on the deck of a waterfront restaurant and watch shrimp boats pass by, or join the North Carolina Festival by the Sea to enjoy arts, crafts, and seafood.
Oak Island captures the essence of a classic family beach vacation with its nostalgic charm. Imagine biking with bells and baskets, enjoying ice cream after mini-golf, or casting a line off a historic ocean pier—these are the moments that define a stay here. Welcoming visitors since the early 19th century, Oak Island’s uncrowded, tranquil beaches continue to offer a serene escape.
Water activities are a highlight, with over 60 public access points, two fishing piers, a marina, and numerous boat and kayak ramps making it a watersport haven. Rent a boat and explore the island’s western tip for breathtaking ocean and marsh views. Beyond the beach, enjoy the Oak Island Nature Center, local shops, unique eateries, and even skydiving. Pet-friendly accommodations ensure that your entire family, including four-legged members, can join in the fun.
For a beach vacation with stunning views of serene shores and lush marshlands, Caswell Beach is your perfect destination. Home to the historic Oak Island Lighthouse, which has been guiding sailors since 1958, this 153-foot beacon offers panoramic views from its observation deck, making it an ideal spot for memorable family vacations.
As the least populated of the Brunswick Islands, Caswell Beach provides a peaceful retreat with cozy vacation homes nestled behind oat-fringed dunes. Here, the soothing sound of the surf offers a welcome escape from daily life. Enjoy activities like surf-casting, shell collecting, or kayaking through the marshes and Intracoastal Waterway. Despite its tranquility, Caswell Beach is just a short drive from the shops and restaurants of Oak Island, combining seclusion with convenience.
Welcome to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina’s most accessible coastal gem, just 8.5 miles from Wilmington. Renowned as one of the best "SUP hubs" in the U.S. by Outside magazine and a top surfing town by National Geographic, Wrightsville Beach boasts world-class waves and a vibrant island lifestyle. Whether you're surfing, paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway, or exploring wildlife on Masonboro Island, adventure awaits around every corner.
This walkable island is ideal for shopping at beach boutiques, enjoying sea-to-table dining, or relaxing at a spa. With events like surfing competitions, marathons, and a festive holiday flotilla, there's always something to enjoy. As the sun sets, the island’s nightlife comes alive with beach taverns, oceanfront grills, and live music. Choose from resort hotels, vacation homes, or condo rentals for an unforgettable stay in this extraordinary coastal destination.
Escape to the serene beauty of Kure Beach, just 18 miles from Wilmington. This small-town retreat offers stunning ocean views and tranquil boardwalks, perfect for recharging with family. Enjoy fishing from the historic Kure Beach Fishing Pier or explore the nearly six miles of protected shoreline at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area.
Kure Beach features unique attractions like the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, where you can see sharks, sea turtles, and playful otters, and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, known for its Civil War history. With family-friendly events such as the Cape Fear Kite Festival and the summer Boogie in the Park concert series, Kure Beach is a top choice for memorable vacations and recognized as one of the “Best Family Vacations in the Southeast.”
Discover the charm of Carolina Beach, where relaxed coastal vibes meet lively entertainment. Stroll the nationally recognized Carolina Beach Boardwalk, brimming with colorful shops, seasonal rides, and nostalgic treats. Enjoy outdoor adventures at Carolina Beach State Park or dive into water sports, fishing charters, and surfing lessons, all just steps from the shore.
Indulge in local favorites like classic donuts from Britt’s Donut Shop or fresh seafood at the town’s beloved restaurants. As the sun sets, dive into the vibrant nightlife with beach bars and live music events, including the unique Carolina Beach Music Festival. With a range of accommodations from full-service hotels to cozy beach cottages, Carolina Beach offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for an unforgettable vacation.
Topsail Beach, located on the southern end of Topsail Island, offers a peaceful retreat with a timeless coastal charm. Known for its serene atmosphere and unspoiled beauty, this seaside town invites visitors to unwind on its pristine shores, where leisurely strolls, shell collecting, and sunbathing are popular pastimes. The iconic fishing pier is a focal point for anglers and onlookers, providing sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Topsail Beach is also home to the Missiles and More Museum, where history enthusiasts can explore the island's unique heritage, including its role in secret military missile testing during the Cold War. Local eateries serving fresh seafood and charming shops add to the town's quaint allure, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet, yet enriching, coastal getaway.
North Topsail Beach, nestled at the northern tip of Topsail Island, is a tranquil coastal retreat known for its unspoiled natural beauty and serene atmosphere. This laid-back beach town is a haven for nature lovers, offering pristine sandy beaches, breathtaking sunrises, and abundant wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls along the shore, search for unique shells and ancient sharks' teeth, or simply relax and soak in the calming ocean views.
Beyond its natural charm, North Topsail Beach offers a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing off the ocean pier to kayaking in the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. The town’s parks provide additional opportunities for recreation, with amenities like nature trails, picnic areas, and launch points for canoes and kayaks. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or a chance to connect with nature, North Topsail Beach delivers a serene and memorable coastal experience.
North Topsail Beach, nestled at the northern tip of Topsail Island, is a tranquil coastal retreat known for its unspoiled natural beauty and serene atmosphere. This laid-back beach town is a haven for nature lovers, offering pristine sandy beaches, breathtaking sunrises, and abundant wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls along the shore, search for unique shells and ancient sharks' teeth, or simply relax and soak in the calming ocean views.
Beyond its natural charm, North Topsail Beach offers a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing off the ocean pier to kayaking in the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. The town’s parks provide additional opportunities for recreation, with amenities like nature trails, picnic areas, and launch points for canoes and kayaks. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or a chance to connect with nature, North Topsail Beach delivers a serene and memorable coastal experience.
