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Ocean Isle Beach, NC, is the perfect place to vacation. Not only is it beautiful, but this slice of paradise offers you the chance to renew your spirit, make lasting memories with those you love, and live like no one’s watching. Keep reading to discover all you need to know about Ocean Isle Beach.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OCEAN ISLE BEACH
Ocean Isle Beach (OIB) is one of three barrier islands known as the South Brunswick Islands. On either side of Ocean Isle are Holden Beach and Sunset Beach. It is the second largest island of the three, stretching six miles in an unusual east-to-west direction. You can see beautiful sunrises and spectacular sunsets over the water, something not found in many beach destinations. Start your day by soaking in the sunrise in one of our Ocean Isle Beach vacation rentals and end it with a sunset stroll on the beach. The OIB experience is one you won’t soon forget and will have you coming back year after year.
WEATHER
Terrific beaches, stunning views, and wonderful weather are what the South Brunswick Islands are known for. On average, the waters here are 10 degrees warmer than the Outer Banks areas. Our surf is gentle and generally without strong currents, perfect for a lazy day in the sun and playing in the surf. If you’re into sailing, scuba diving, or just swimming in the warm Atlantic waters, you’ll love our beaches. We have mild winters and warm summers, making OIB the perfect year-round destination with four seasons. Our beautiful sunsets will cap off your day and provide a doorway to the night’s activities.
THINGS TO DO
Fishing
If you’re interested in fishing, the Ocean Isle Beach community offers several charter boats to take deep-sea and inshore fishing. We have excellent guides for both spring fishing and fall fishing. If you’re looking for a more easy-going time, be sure to take advantage of the Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Pier.
It was completed in 1957 and is one of the oldest fishing piers along the coast of North Carolina. The pier’s grill serves as a favorite local spot for breakfast, featuring tasty eggs, grits, omelets, biscuits, fluffy pancakes, and more (available all day). Lunch items like cheeseburgers, chicken fingers, and crispy fries are also available.
The pier also offers a soft-serve ice cream parlor serving delicious soft-serve cones, cups, cookie and candy blends, and sundaes. Sunset Slush, a store selling a large variety of flavored Italian ice, is also located at the pier. You can find Sunset Slush carts serving beachgoers along the beach as well. The fishing pier has a store where you can buy packaged ice cream, candy, chips, ice, drinks, water, beach supplies, pier t-shirts and hats, fishing bait, tackle, and rods. For more information regarding pier fishing, visit their website.
Golfing
Golfers can delight in a great round of golf at one of the many award-winning area golf courses, each with its own diverse layout and scenery. Bookmark our guide to local golf courses for more information or to book a tee time during your vacation.
Dining & Shopping
The OIB area has some of the finest food on the East Coast. Nearby Calabash, known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” and the entire region offers fresh and delicious local seafood. If seafood isn’t your thing, try one of the great steak houses or other delicious establishments. From cozy cafés to waterfront diners, you have plenty of restaurants in OIB to choose from. Plenty of shopping centers and boutiques are found throughout our local area. Perfect for finding a special memento to take home.
Festivals and Events
Festivals and area events are a great way to experience OIB. The Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival is held on the third weekend in October and is an excellent way to enjoy a slice of Eastern NC culture. There are interesting and fun events year-round. From Christmas events and Spring happenings to summer celebrations, you can find something fun to add to your vacation itinerary. For more area happenings, check out the Ocean Isle Beach calendar.
If you’re looking for more great things to do in and around Ocean Isle Beach, check out our list!
LOCAL TOWNS AND DAY TRIPS
Visitors and locals enjoy easy access to other coastal towns from beautiful Ocean Isle Beach. These coastal towns make perfect day trip destinations during your vacation! Wilmington, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC, are only a short drive away. Each city has a unique look & micro-culture, each with a plethora of fun things to do and see! Head to exciting Myrtle Beach and take in a show, travel to historic Wilmington and have a cocktail overlooking the Cape Fear River, or visit Bald Head Island. Either way, you’re sure to have an amazing day! Be sure to save our day trip guide for all the best destinations and things to do.
Know that you have learned all you need to know about Ocean Isle Beach it is time to start planning your next beach vacation.
