Brunswick County Beaches: Closed Or Open?

Brunswick County, North Carolina, is home to six beautiful beaches spread across five barrier islands. From the resort-style of Bald Head Island to the family-friendly Oak Island, there's something for everyone. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the beaches of Brunswick County were sparse as cases climbed in the Cape Fear region. While some residents felt the beaches should be closed to prevent the spread of the virus, others believed that social distancing measures were sufficient to allow people to enjoy the mental health benefits of being outdoors.

Coronavirus impact on Brunswick County beaches

The Coronavirus pandemic has had a notable impact on Brunswick County beaches, affecting both visitors and locals. In March 2020, as COVID-19 cases climbed in the Cape Fear region, Brunswick County beaches witnessed a noticeable decline in their usual crowds. While the beaches remained open, many people opted to stay home, leading to sparser crowds and a quieter atmosphere than typical for the season.

The pandemic prompted discussions among residents about the potential need to close the beaches temporarily to ensure safety. Some residents expressed support for keeping the beaches open, citing the mental health benefits of getting fresh air and maintaining a sense of normalcy during challenging times. Others were open to temporary closures if deemed necessary by local authorities.

Social distancing practices were observed on the beaches, with visitors keeping their distance from others and avoiding close interactions. This was particularly notable during Spring Break, a time when the beaches would usually be bustling with families and larger groups.

The Coronavirus outbreak also disrupted special events and celebrations, such as weddings, with couples having to alter their plans and reduce guest lists. Honeymoon plans were also affected, with cruise cancellations and travel restrictions leading couples to opt for alternative arrangements or postponements.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Brunswick County beaches remained a sought-after destination, offering a sense of normalcy and a chance for people to enjoy the outdoors while adhering to social distancing guidelines. The beaches' allure, with their inviting charm, pristine shores, and unique attractions, continued to draw visitors seeking a beach vacation filled with sun, sand, and seafood.

In summary, the Coronavirus pandemic had a visible impact on Brunswick County beaches, shaping visitor behaviour, sparking discussions about public health measures, and disrupting special events. However, the beaches' enduring appeal and the desire for outdoor spaces during a time of restrictions highlighted the essential role they played in providing respite and a sense of normalcy to locals and visitors alike.

Ocean Isle Beach

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Ocean Isle Beach instituted new policies and regulations to reduce crowds and encourage social distancing. The local government held emergency meetings to address the situation and declared a state of emergency. As of March 2020, Ocean Isle Beach had only closed public beach accesses and parking lots, allowing homeowners access to the beach strand. Short-term rentals were discontinued, with those currently renting asked to leave by 2 p.m. on March 25, and no new rentals allowed until at least April 6. Other restrictions included the closure of the community centre, public restrooms, and all other public recreation facilities, as well as limiting gatherings to 10 people, including on the beach.

By March 2024, most public beach access in Brunswick County was closed to restrict the spread of COVID-19. However, a few public accesses in the county remained open, including Bald Head Island and Caswell Beach. It is not clear from the sources whether Ocean Isle Beach remained open or not.

Cherry Grove Beach

In addition to fishing, Cherry Grove Beach provides a variety of other attractions and activities. There are several top golf courses in the area, including River Hills, Glen Dornoch, and Heather Glen. The beach is also home to a range of shops, restaurants, and fresh seafood stores, as well as arcades, mini-golf, and water sports.

For accommodation, Cherry Grove Beach offers a mix of hotels, vacation rentals, and beach homes. The crown jewel of the neighborhood is the Prince Resort at Cherry Grove Pier, a towering structure that joins the pier on the oceanfront. The beach is accessible only by Sea Mountain Highway and Ocean Drive, making it a peaceful vacation spot.

Wrightsville Beach

The closure of Wrightsville Beach limited the choices for those looking to visit the beaches in the area. However, it is important to note that the beach was not evacuated, and residents were still allowed to stay in the area. The decision to close the beach was made to prevent large groups of people from gathering and to encourage social distancing.

Bald Head Island

One of the unique features of Bald Head Island is its conservation efforts and focus on eco-tourism. It is home to one of the largest sea turtle nesting sites in North Carolina and is listed as one of the National Marine Fisheries Service's "index beaches." The island also boasts the oldest standing lighthouse in the state, known as Old Baldy, which offers a breathtaking view from its top.

When it comes to beach safety, Bald Head Island takes this very seriously. The island has public safety officers who are trained in law enforcement, fire safety, emergency medical services, and water rescue. They are on duty 24/7 and have quick response vehicles to handle any emergencies. The island also provides important beach safety tips for visitors, such as knowing your location, identifying rip currents, covering up holes, and being cautious while swimming.

The island offers a range of activities for visitors, including sailing, fishing, crabbing, shelling, art classes, and even squid dissection at the Bald Head Island Conservancy. It is a great place to relax and recharge, offering a unique and tranquil experience for those seeking a break from their everyday lives.

Overall, Bald Head Island is a beautiful and charming destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, conservation efforts, and a relaxing atmosphere for visitors seeking an unplugged beach vacation.

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