Beach Communities:
Sunset Beach received its name from the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that can be seen from the island due to its unique southern exposure. Beyond the sunsets, this beach is also known for its powdery white sand and its swing bridge; the only one of our islands to still have one. Another unique feature of the island is Bird Island, an undeveloped and secluded island that can only be accessed by land by way of Sunset Beach. The inland side of Sunset features several golf courses, Ingram Planetarium and Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center.
Ocean Isle Beach offers seven miles of family fun. Beyond the beach, there are many activities to enjoy including fishing charters, public tennis courts, kayaking on the Intracoastal Waterway and of course, golf. The Museum of Coastal Carolina also resides on the island and offers visitors information on the natural history of the region and historical artifacts. Ocean Isle is also the home for the 2009 North Carolina Oyster Festival.
Holden Beach boasts some of the most spectacular homes in our area and has officially received National Healthy Beach status through the National Healthy Beaches Campaign. Among its other recognitions, Holden was rated one of the best family beaches in the country by National Geographic Traveler magazine. In order to truly experience the culture of this beach, visit during one of its annual festivals, A Day at the Docks in April and Festival by the Sea in October.
Oak Island is the largest beach community in North Carolina and features the largest commercial district of all the Brunswick County islands. This island offers more than 50 public beach accesses, several boat ramps, recreational areas and a skate park. The Town of Oak Island has an active Sea Turtle Protection Program and the beaches are a focal point for the protection of sea turtle nesting and habitats. The town’s Recreation Department also features a turtle display in their Ocean Education Center.
Caswell Beach lies on the eastern-most end of Oak Island and is home of the Oak Island lighthouse. This lighthouse has the brightest light in the United States and the second brightest light in the world. The light can be seen as far as 24 nautical miles offshore. Caswell Beach was named for Fort Caswell, which was built in 1826 and seized by Confederate troops in 1861.
Bald Head Island is unlike any of the county’s other islands in that it is only accessible by powerboat or a pedestrian ferry. Once on the island, visitors and residents travel around the island by golf carts or bikes. Bald Head Island offers a true escape from the everyday world. This island is also home to Old Baldy, the eight-sided brick lighthouse that was built in 1818. Guests can take a tour of the lighthouse and even climb up 108 wooden steps to the top.
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