Heading to the beach is relaxing, serene, and just plain fun! Whether you want to get married by the sea or simply want to honeymoon there, visit Brunswick Islands NC. From a secret mailbox to delicious seafood (of course!), here are 10 things to do in Brunswick Islands NC.
This post is in partnership with the NC Brunswick Islands. I visited and took photos of the featured locations.
Where are Brunswick Islands NC?
Before getting into what there is to do, it’s best to answer a question many have. Where are the Brunswick Islands? This area is along the southern coast of North Carolina and consists of several islands and towns to visit.
Brunswick Islands NC Map
The map of Brunswick Islands NC below should help you get your bearings a little. Whether you decide to drive or fly, it’s a beautiful, coastal area with lots to do!
Brunswick Island NC Weather
The Brunswick Islands NC prides itself on being a year-round destination. With mild weather all year long, it’s a fabulous place to plan a honeymoon or romantic trip.
The coldest month is January with highs in the mid-50s and lows in the mid-30s. However, the hottest month is July with highs in the high-80s and lows in the low-70s. The best months to visit NC Brunswick Islands are May, June, September, and October.
Brunswick Islands NC Hotels
There are quite a few places to stay in the area. However, if you’re looking for a lovely, romantic retreat, head to The Sunset Inn on Sunset Beach NC.
Its 14 rooms each have a king bed and a screen porch, which is the best part! Sit and enjoy a nightcap as you watch the sunset each night. Hence, the name The Sunset Inn.
Not only are the accommodations wonderfully appointed, but the staff is kind and knowledgeable, too. It’s the perfect getaway in a fabulous location.
10 Things to Do in Brunswick Islands NC
Now that you know where the Brunswick Islands NC is, the weather, and where to stay, find out what there is to do. Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive, but here are a few selections we think couples will love.
1. Rent a kayak and explore the inland waterways.
The Brunswick Island NC rentals are fairly plentiful. However, one of the issues with renting kayaks is actually getting the kayak to your location. Some rental companies, such as Julie’s Rentals, will drop your kayaks off just over the bridge from Sunset Beach.
From there you can kayak through the inland waterway between the island and the mainland. There is a variety of wildlife to see, and you can also head towards The Sunset Inn to get a waterside view. Just be sure to take your sunscreen!
2. Ride a bike on Sunset Beach.
The tides make the upper part of the beach hard enough for biking. Plus, biking on the beach is simply fun! Whether you head to one of the island’s attractions (more on that, later!) or just bike a little, you’ll have gorgeous views along the way. Be sure to stop and walk in the water and observe the shells while you’re there.
3. Visit the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.
The Kindred Spirit Mailbox is such an interesting—and cathartic—spot. In order to find it, be on the lookout as you bike down the beach. It’s on Bird Island, but if you are busy looking at the water or beach, you may miss it.
What looks like an unassuming, black mailbox holds notebooks where folks can stop and write whatever they want inside. Pen a love letter to your sweetie. Write a healing message for someone else to read. Pour your heart out if you are going through a difficulty. Or simply just sign your name and date. Whatever you decide to write is totally up to you!
If you’re a Nicholas Sparks fan, he based a novel, Every Breath, on the site. It’s a unique, must-see when in the Brunswick Islands.
4. Explore and hike around Bird Island.
Bird Island offers pretty views if you’re willing to hike a little. The area also has beaches where you can stop and have a picnic. Although, you can’t take your bike as the sand is too soft.
If you ride bikes (you should!) to Bird Island, take a lock so that you can safely leave your bikes. While on the island enjoy the views and notice the wildlife and plants in the area.
5. Eat freshly caught seafood.
Calabash has been called the “Seafood Capital of the World.” It’s no wonder as it’s on the water, and the area boasts lots of seafood restaurants. Honestly, it may be difficult to choose one, so if you love seafood, head there more than once.
Calabash is a quaint area with everything from shack-style eateries to more established restaurants. Yum! Another fabulous area for seafood lovers is Southport, where you can get seafood with lovely views of the beach and ocean.
6. Go out for ice cream.
Ice cream is such a treat, and it’s a must on vacation! Several creameries make their own ice cream. However, while you are in Calabash stop at Calabash Creamery. Have a waffle cone or bowl, and enjoy it while sitting in a rocking chair on their porch. It’s definitely an enjoyable experience while you are in Brunswick Islands North Carolina.
Flava’s in Southport is the perfect opportunity to have a cone while strolling to look at the water. It may be hot when you go, so cool down with a sweet treat.
7. Shop (with coffee in hand) in Southport.
The coastal town of Southport is quaint with the main area filled with shops and restaurants. If you love vintage shopping, there are several places to check out. Additionally, there are a few galleries and ocean-centric shops along the way.
A favorite is the Dosher Thrift Shop, where you can find everything from clothes and household items to books and vintage things. It’s such a fun stop! Be sure to stop by Port City Java to grab a coffee to sip as you walk around town.
8. Stroll the Southport shoreline.
Not only is Southport an adorable town, but the shoreline is filled with views and interesting sights. From historic homes and a fort to piers and docks, it’s a relaxing way to see the ocean.
Spending a day in the town of Southport is definitely a must while you’re in the Brunswick Islands NC. If you’re a movie buff, there are several locations to see around town where movies, such as Safe Haven and A Walk to Remember, were filmed.
9. Do a tasting at a local brewery.
Fans of beer will enjoy the flavors that the Brunswick Islands have to offer. Whether you head to Makai Brewing Company in Ocean Isle Beach or Red Hare Brewing & Distilling in Shallotte, beer lovers need to taste the flavors brewed the sea. Order a flight, and sit outside to sip.
10. Make time to wander.
Every vacation, whether it’s your honeymoon or a quick getaway, needs a bit of time to simply wander. Stop at shops, stumble upon a fabulous restaurant, notice the wildlife in unexpected places.
The NC Brunswick Islands is filled with areas just waiting to be explored. Whether you enjoy nature, history, shopping, eating, or sitting oceanside, schedule a bit of unplanned time to make your own discoveries.
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