Brunswick's Secret Islands

The Brunswick Islands are a group of barrier islands located off the coast of North Carolina, known for their tranquil surroundings, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns. While all of the islands offer a peaceful escape, Caswell Beach stands out as the least inhabited and most secluded of the bunch. With its inviting stretches of sand and sea, Caswell Beach provides the perfect setting for those seeking quiet and solitude. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island, explore its maze of waterways and inlets, and admire the majestic Oak Island Lighthouse. So, if you're looking for a Brunswick Island that's a little less crowded, Caswell Beach is definitely worth considering.

Visit in fall for fewer crowds and lower prices

The Brunswick Islands are a charming collection of communities along the southeastern coast of North Carolina. With ten distinct towns and six beaches spread across five barrier islands, the Brunswick Islands offer a unique and tranquil beach vacation experience.

While the summer is the busiest time for the Brunswick Islands, with temperatures in the mid to high 80s°F, it is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit. For those seeking a quieter and more affordable beach getaway, the fall is the perfect time to visit.

During the fall, the Brunswick Islands experience cooler temperatures, ranging from 69°F to 77°F. While you may have to bundle up a bit, you'll be rewarded with fewer crowds and lower prices. The fall is the perfect time to take advantage of budget-friendly accommodations, such as RV parks and campgrounds, which can be found near Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Caswell Beach.

In addition to fewer crowds and lower prices, the fall offers a unique natural phenomenon. Due to the southern orientation of the beaches, visitors can witness both the sunrise and sunset over the ocean from the same spot. This stunning display of nature is a sight to behold and is sure to make your fall visit to the Brunswick Islands memorable.

The fall is also a great time to participate in outdoor activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, without the heat of the summer. The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and the gentle surf of the ocean provide the perfect opportunity to explore the islands from a different perspective.

Of course, the Brunswick Islands are known for their delicious seafood, and the fall is no exception. You can enjoy fresh catches from the many family-run restaurants or try the famous Calabash-style seafood, lightly breaded and fried to perfection.

So, if you're looking for a quieter and more affordable beach vacation with stunning sunrises and sunsets, outdoor activities, and delicious seafood, consider visiting the Brunswick Islands in the fall. You'll be glad you did!

Explore the least inhabited island, Caswell Beach

If you're looking for a peaceful beach escape, Caswell Beach is the perfect destination. As the least populated of the Brunswick Islands, it offers a quiet and secluded experience while still being just a stone's throw away from the amenities of Oak Island. Here's everything you need to know about exploring this hidden gem.

Getting There

To reach Caswell Beach, you have two airport options nearby. The first is Wilmington International Airport, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, which is a convenient 40-minute drive away. The other option is South Carolina's Myrtle Beach International Airport, which is a bit further at a 70-minute drive. It's important to note that renting a car is recommended to get around the Brunswick Islands easily.

Where to Stay

Caswell Beach offers traditional vacation homes nestled behind oat-fringed dunes, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The sound of the surf is always within earshot, creating a relaxing atmosphere for your beach getaway. Keep in mind that accommodation prices vary depending on the season, with summer being the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

Things to Do

Caswell Beach is home to the Oak Island Lighthouse, a 153-foot sentinel that has been guarding the coast since 1958. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the serene beach and lush marshland. The island is also ideal for surf-casting, shell collecting, and kayaking through the marsh creeks and Intracoastal Waterway. If you're looking for a change of pace, the shops and restaurants of Oak Island are just a short distance away.

Dining Options

Seafood lovers will delight in the fresh catches available at Caswell Beach. You can even reel in your own dinner! For a wider variety of dining options, Oak Island offers a range of restaurants, including Duffer's Pub & Grille, The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille, and Joseph's Italian Bistro.

Best Time to Visit

The summer months are the busiest in the Brunswick Islands, with warmer temperatures and the opportunity to witness loggerhead turtle hatchlings. However, the off-seasons, particularly fall and winter, offer a quieter and more affordable experience. During these months, you can witness a unique natural phenomenon where the sun rises and sets over the ocean due to the southern orientation of the beaches.

Enjoy a quiet, car-free getaway on Bald Head Island

If you're looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape, Bald Head Island in North Carolina's Brunswick Islands is the perfect destination. Leave your worries – and your car – behind as you step into a world of quiet beaches, scenic tours, and wildlife exploration.

Getting to Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island is a 20-minute ferry ride from Southport, offering a unique and memorable travel experience. The island is car-free, so you'll need to park your car at the mainland terminal and take the ferry to your island accommodation. The ferry ride is not only convenient but also a fun experience, especially for children and dogs, with tickets costing around $25 round trip per person.

Transportation on the Island

Once you arrive, you can explore the island by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation, and most rentals include one. The quiet, narrow streets and level terrain make walking a pleasant option, especially for taking in the island's natural beauty.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife

Bald Head Island is a nature lover's paradise, with lush nature preserves covering over 80% of the island. The island boasts one of the East Coast's largest maritime forests, Bald Head Woods State Reserve, where you can walk among sabal palms, live oaks, cedars, junipers, and wax myrtles. The island is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, foxes, and over 260 species of birds.

Historic Landmarks and Attractions

For those interested in history, Bald Head Island is home to "Old Baldy," the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. Climb the 108 steps to the top for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding barrier island. The lighthouse, commissioned by Thomas Jefferson, is also a famous movie location, appearing in the cult classic "Weekend at Bernie's."

Dining and Amenities

Bald Head Island offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining experiences. Popular choices include JULES' Salty Grub & Island Pub, Delphina's, and Lulu's BBQ. The island also has a grocery store, the Maritime Market, offering fresh produce, seafood, and other essentials for your stay.

Beach Activities

With 14 miles of beaches, Bald Head Island provides ample opportunities for beachcombing, swimming, fishing, and crabbing. South Beach, running east and west, is particularly renowned for its sunrises and sunsets. The island also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

So, whether you're seeking tranquil beaches, natural wonders, historical landmarks, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Bald Head Island offers a unique and memorable car-free getaway experience.

Experience the magic of Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, one of the Brunswick Islands off the coast of North Carolina, is a magical place. It offers a unique and captivating experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Here are some reasons why Sunset Beach should be your next vacation destination:

Serene and Secluded Beach

Sunset Beach provides a serene and secluded beach experience. Unlike other crowded beaches, this southern-most Brunswick Island beach offers sweeping views of endless sand and peaceful serenity. The wide stretch of beach is uninterrupted by boardwalks or high-rises, making it perfect for biking, shell collecting, or simply reconnecting with nature.

Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets

Sunset Beach lives up to its name by offering breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Due to its unique south-facing orientation, you can witness the magic of both the sunrise and sunset over the water from late fall through early spring. Pick your spot on the beach, and you won't even need to move to enjoy this natural spectacle!

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the outdoors, Sunset Beach presents a variety of exciting activities. You can take a walk to Bird Island, a family-favourite destination, or visit the Kindred Spirit Mailbox, where you can share your thoughts and stories in notebooks within. Additionally, Sunset Beach is ideal for biking, with its wide stretches of sand, and offers six golf courses for those who enjoy a round of golf.

Delicious Seafood

The Brunswick Islands, including Sunset Beach, are known for their delicious seafood. Indulge in the signature Calabash-style seafood, where the seafood is lightly breaded and fried, and satisfy your taste buds at restaurants like Waterfront Seafood Shack and Oyster Rock.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Sunset Beach is a great choice for families. It offers a range of accommodations, from vacation rentals to beachfront hotels, and provides a safe and inviting atmosphere for all ages. The beach is also known for its family-friendly activities, such as the Ocean Isle Beach Movies in the Park and the Oak Island Farmers and Artisans Market.

Rich History and Culture

Sunset Beach and the surrounding Brunswick Islands have a rich history and culture. The area has served as a shooting location for Hollywood films and TV shows, including "Dawson's Creek" and "Safe Haven." Additionally, the islands are home to historic lighthouses, such as the Oak Island Lighthouse, and offer insights into the region's maritime past.

In conclusion, Sunset Beach in the Brunswick Islands is a magical destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. It is the perfect place to relax, explore, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Sunset Beach!

Climb Oak Island Lighthouse

If you're looking for a less crowded beach destination, consider the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina. The Brunswick Islands are made up of ten cities on the southeastern coast, six of which have their own beaches. While the busiest time to visit is during the summer, you can beat the crowds by visiting during the off-season, particularly in fall and winter.

Now, let's talk about climbing the Oak Island Lighthouse!

The Oak Island Lighthouse is located in Caswell Beach, North Carolina, and is the only 100% volunteer-managed lighthouse in the state. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The lighthouse is owned by the Town of Caswell Beach and is open to the public for tours.

There are two types of tours available: Open House Tours and Top Tours. Open House Tours are free, require no reservation, and are offered during the summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day) on Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to noon. These tours are open to anyone 7 years of age or older and involve climbing 12 steps up to the second level of the lighthouse. A docent provides information about the lighthouse and answers any questions.

The Top Tours are also free but require a reservation, which you can request by emailing [email protected]. Climbers must be at least 9 years old and wear sneakers or similar closed-toe shoes. These tours are offered year-round, with varying availability depending on the season. From May 1st to September 30th, tours are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, starting at 9:30 am. From October 1st to April 30th, tours are offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9:30 am, depending on available space. The complete tour takes about 30-45 minutes, and climbers will ascend 131 steps to an outside balcony.

The lighthouse grounds are open year-round and free to visit from sunrise to sunset. There are two parking lots available, a smaller one at the base of the lighthouse and a larger one 500 feet to the east. However, please note that there are no restroom facilities on site.

So, if you're looking for a unique experience in the Brunswick Islands, consider climbing the Oak Island Lighthouse! With its historical significance and stunning views, it's sure to be a memorable part of your trip.

Frequently asked questions