It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Federal Point Historic Preservation Society gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Carolina Beach, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with.”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed,”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Always Best Care goes above and beyond to provide great care for you or your”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by”
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team of caregivers who really care about the well fare of their clients. They go above and beyond taking care of my parents and have been very professional and dependable. I would recommend ABC to anyone who needs a reliable and competent care team. Karen Lussi”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart to see the services being rendered to clients. Extra miles taken to make sure every client is well taken care, even in unpleasant weather conditions. The CEO and administrators were out in the snow last week picking up workers who were unsure of driving . I was glad to see this commitment, making sure families could sit back and relax. With no fear, I will recommend Always best to any family who needs awesome care for their love ones.”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office staff are great people, very helpful and always treat everyone with love and respect. Definitively it is a bless to work for this agency.”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time with our father. It all began with a fall, followed by an ER visit, and soon after, my sister and I found ourselves flying to NC to care for him and plan the next steps. Kathryn from Always Best Care was an absolute lifesaver! She guided us seamlessly through the process of finding the perfect independent senior living community for our father. Her extensive industry knowledge helped us navigate the additional health services he required with ease. Kathryn went above and beyond, consistently checking in and patiently responding to countless texts and emails from us. Thanks to her support, our father is now thriving in a supportive environment and is healthier than ever. We can’t imagine how we would have managed this journey without Kathryn’s expertise and compassion. Truly an incredible experience!”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of what someone living with dementia is like. This is such a horrible disease but this helps care givers understand the disease. Thanks so much!!”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things . I didn’t know it was that bad for them and it’s very sad , I will always treat them all with care and love no matter what because there dealing with something that’s really hard to deal with .”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I now know what to do differently when working with my residents. I think A all caregivers should experience this training.”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and caring home health assistance to my mother who was recovering from an unexpected surgery. They were able to assist on incredibly short notice and made a difficult situation for our family much better. Each of their carers was exceptionally professional and attentive, especially Lori and Kylie who were incredible. I felt safe leaving my loved one in their care and appreciated that they went above and beyond to meet our needs. They provided regular updates to me and my family and made my mother feel so well attended, especially as she needed extra mobility and personal care help. I would absolutely not work with any other company, should we ever need home health assistance again. Highly recommend.”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me gain my mobility! They are all super nice and very helpful! Give them your trust, they have mine. If I ever need home help, it'll be through them!”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had to downsize due to an unexpected illness and Always Best Care (ABC) stepped in to make this possible. Kind, compassion, pleasant, friendly, joyful and talented professionals comprise those providing this service. I literally couldn’t have lived for at my assisted living since I had so many hospital visits each week. I didn’t want to go alone to these appointments and this freed my family from needless distress and worry about my wellbeing when they couldn’t be there. I highly recommend ABC since they are an essential component providing excellent and reliable support.”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in law transition into her new home after moving to Raleigh from Winston Salem. She has dialysis 3x a week and they have worked so hard to coordinate a schedule to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sherry continues to amaze me in how she is able to help figure out schedules and provide customer services in a kind and professional manner. We will continue to look to this wonderful service provider as her needs change and feel blessed to have them on site at Atri”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with. He was sincerely concerned about my mom and our family. He is an excellent listener and introduced me to Paige who is equally wonderful. Together they found a great place for my mother in a very short time. Paige was always available to speak on the phone and addressed my questions or concerns. I would recommend using this service for your loved one. Laura B of Raleigh”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed, and things changed constantly. My dad has a chance to live the rest of his life with dignity and my mom has a chance to live a fuller life because of the help we got from Kathryn and this team. They have a great network and valuable knowledge but what observed that makes them invaluable is that they care...and when you are on this situation I found that this is the quality that matters the most. Cannot thank them enough.”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Always Best Care goes above and beyond to provide great care for you or your loved ones. Always Best Care makes it possible to stay in home, and stay as independent as possible. ABC staff are there to assist in keeping you or your loved ones safe, healthy and happy. If you are looking for top quality care, you have found the right place!”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We are very satisfied with his service and professionalism. He took his time and our requirements and found the perfect place. Highly recommend him and Always Best Care!”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by far the best place I've worked our boss and staff are everything.????????????????????????????????????????????????????”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Carolina Beach State Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Lake Park Steakhouse or visit Carolina Beach Boardwalk, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Carolina Beach, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Carolina Beach, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Carolina Beach, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A serious bacterial infection has put a North Carolina man in an Outer Banks ICU, highlighting a growing concern over the flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters.A North Carolina man is still fighting a serious bacterial infection that landed him in an Outer Banks ICU for more than a week. His case is one of a handful reported this year, drawing attention to a potentially deadly bact...
A serious bacterial infection has put a North Carolina man in an Outer Banks ICU, highlighting a growing concern over the flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters.
A North Carolina man is still fighting a serious bacterial infection that landed him in an Outer Banks ICU for more than a week. His case is one of a handful reported this year, drawing attention to a potentially deadly bacteria found in coastal waters.
Vibrio Vulnificus is a flesh-eating bacterium that can cause serious illness and lead to sepsis, shock, and large blisters that destroy tissue.
The bacteria live in brackish water – a mixture of fresh and salt water. North Carolina is home to several areas where Vibrio Vulnificus could flourish near the coast, especially during warmer months.
An infection usually occurs in two ways: if someone has an open wound and enters brackish water, or if someone eats contaminated raw shellfish, usually oysters.
Infections are rare but can be fatal. About 1 in 5 people with Vibrio Vulnificus will die, sometimes in as little as 1-2 days, according to the CDC.
North Carolina has already reported one confirmed death from Vibrio Vulnificus this year.
NCDHHS data shows 59 total cases of Vibrio were reported between January 1-July 31, 2025. Of them, 7 are confirmed Vibrio Vulnificus infections.
Those at the highest risk of infection are those who:
· Have cuts, scrapes or surgical wounds and go into brackish water
· Have weakened immune systems
· Eat raw oysters or undercooked seafood
While longer, warmer seasons are allowing more bacteria to grow, the average beachgoer’s risk remains low. For reference, roughly 5 million people visit the Outer Banks every year, according to the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce.
NCDHHS State Veterinarian Carl Williams said he wants people to know it’s still safe to go enjoy the beach, but it’s important to manage risk of Vibrio infections.
“Don’t be afraid to go,” Williams said. “Just know, like anything, that every activity is probably going to have a certain amount of risk associated with it. If you have a wound, cover it before you go into salt water. If you sustain a wound while you’re in the water, come out and wash it.”
The state health expert explained Vibrio Vulnificus that causes necrotizing fasciitis, as well as Vibrio Parahaemolyticus and Vibrio Alginolyticus that cause the food-borne illnesses, are all normal inhabitants of a marine environment, like those found on North Carolina’s coast.
He added, “Our message to people is yes, they’re in the ocean and the sounds, but they’re supposed to be there. You can take precautions to make sure you don’t get infected.”
People heading to the beach can take these simple measures to significantly reduce risk of vibrio infections:
· Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood
· Shower with soap after leaving the beach
· Cleaning cuts and wounds with hydrogen peroxide
· Cover wounds with waterproof bandages when entering brackish water
Symptoms of a Vibrio Vulnificus infection can occur within 1 to 2 days. Health officials said early warning signs need to be taken seriously.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
· Redness or swelling near a wound
· Skin blisters or pain
· Fever
· Diarrhea
· Vomiting
· Chills
· Swelling
· Discharge or discoloration at wound site
Wilmington wouldn’t be the oft-frequented vacation destination it is without water. A tale of two waterways, the North Carolina city is known for its charming riverfront on the Cape Fear River and also for its three beach communities on the Atlantic Ocean: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach. While each ...
Wilmington wouldn’t be the oft-frequented vacation destination it is without water. A tale of two waterways, the North Carolina city is known for its charming riverfront on the Cape Fear River and also for its three beach communities on the Atlantic Ocean: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach. While each beach town has a personality all its own, the laidback island vibes on Wrightsville Beach make it one of our favorite places to spend time—and it also earned it a top spot as our readers' favorite waterfront town in North Carolina the 2024 South's Best Awards. Spend time soaking up the sunshine on the sand, try out a new watersport like paddleboarding, or explore the surfer-friendly village where great restaurants meet unique local shops. Here are the best things to do in Wrightsville Beach.
If you didn’t grow up on the water, you may be unfamiliar with sailing. Get acquainted with this style of watercraft with Wrightsville Performance Sailing. The company offers everything from half-day catamaran sails to three-hour private adventure charters to Masonboro Island. If you want to learn how to captain instead of just ride, sign up for an hour-long Hobie sail lesson.
Folks in Wrightsville Beach love a workout on the water. The town is home to some of the country’s most prestigious stand-up paddleboarding competitions like the annual Carolina Cup. Get in on the craze with a rental or lesson from Wrightsville SUP. The outfitter also rents kayaks and bikes, so you’ll have your pick of outdoor adventures.
For a more passive activity on Wrightsville’s crystal blue waters, hop aboard a boat for a relaxing cruise on the calm waters. The Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cruise with Soundside gives a gentle tour of the tranquil sea that’s set against the picturesque image of a vibrant sunset.
Anglers can go inshore or deep sea fishing with Captain Robbie Wolfe of Whipsaw Charters, who has spent years taking folks out on the water to enjoy this active ocean sport. On a half-day family fishing trip, you can reel in everything from king mackerel and bluefish to black sea bass, then take home a giant cooler filled with your fresh catch.
If you’ve ever dreamt of hanging ten, there’s no better place to turn your far-off fantasy into reality than in North Carolina’s first surf town. The talented and patient instructors at WB Surf Camp will have you up on your board and catching waves in no time.
One of the best things about Wrightsville Beach is that there are seemingly endless ways to get to the beach. Rather than one central public access point, there are 44 smaller access points spread out over around 4 miles. Find a public parking spot, load up your beach day essentials, and prepare to soak up all the wonders of the surf, sun, and sand. Pro tip: For the best sunset spot, try Access #43 and #44, which are on the southern end of the island.
Extending more than 1,200 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, this iconic fishing pier is a must-see for all Wrightsville Beach visitors. Take a stroll along the state’s oldest concrete fishing pier and stop to cast a line if you’re feeling lucky. The attached tackle shop offers rod rentals if you didn’t bring your own and daily fishing passes are just $8.
To get a quick overview of the island, walk or bike the 2.5-mile paved pedestrian path that’s known simply as The Loop. With marsh and intracoastal views, you’ll have plenty to look at while you unknowingly get your exercise for the day. Detours along the path include Wrightsville Beach Park, where you’ll find sport courts and a wide, grassy field; the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History; the Wrightsville Beach Arboretum; and the Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market from May through October.
Sticking out like a sore thumb along gently swaying sea oats and majestic sand dunes, the Wrightsville Beach Mailbox is a legendary character in this part of North Carolina. Head to Beach Access #2, then walk north along the shore until you reach a point just past Shell Island Resort. It’s here that the mysterious mailbox resides. Peek inside to discover notes and letters from fellow travelers, and add your own story for others to read.
Any time you visit a new destination, it’s good to have context about the corner of the world that you’re exploring. At the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, you can learn about the island town’s more-than-100-year history. The historic Bordeaux Cottage gives a chronological account of the town’s history, complete with artifacts. In the neighboring Myers Cottage, you’ll find a deeper dive into several subjects relating to the town’s history.
Take a stroll through the historic Wrightsville Beach town square to get a glimpse into what the Wrightsville Beach of yesteryear looked like. You can follow the online map to see several historic homes and landmarks. On select weekends the Museum of History even installs exhibit signs along the Loop, giving additional information about each of the structures.
When you need a break from the beach, head inland to peruse the many local shops and boutiques that makeup Wrightsville Beach’s sunny town. Try spots like South End Surf Shop, Holly Aiken, and Lighthouse Beer and Wine for a little something for everyone.
If you’re looking for evening entertainment, one place in Wrightsville Beach has been a beloved standby since 1955. The historic Palm Room Bar is the universal gathering place for anyone seeking ice-cold beer, a cocktail, or live music performances spanning all types of genres. Open until 2 a.m. every day, there’s always a party at the Palm Room.
Start your day with a hearty meal in the form of artisan toasts, breakfast bowls, and more at Drift.
Farm- and sea-to-table dining is the name of the game in Wrightsville Beach. For fresh seafood with a gorgeous view of the ocean from which it came, head to Bluewater Waterfront Grill or Oceanic for dishes like the classic North Carolina-Style Calabash Platter that’s jam-packed with lightly fried flounder, shrimp, and oysters.
If you’re not in the mood for seafood, head to Tower 7 for Baja-inspired Mexican cuisine or Zeke’s Beans & Bowls for acai or poke bowls.
It wouldn’t be a beach town without an ice cream shop. In Wrightsville Beach, the place to go when you’re craving a cold, sweet treat is Kohl’s Frozen Custard & Kitchen. You can get a classic vanilla or chocolate cone, but you’ll also find creative homemade flavors like Huggy Bear with graham crackers and caramel and Death by Chocolate with brownies, chocolate syrup, and chocolate flakes.
When it comes to summer hazards, sunburns, sharks and riptides tend to receive the lion’s share of attention.Here’s something else you’ll want to avoid: fecal contamination.In 2024, 50% of North Carolina beaches tested were potentially unsafe for swimming on at least one day, according to ...
When it comes to summer hazards, sunburns, sharks and riptides tend to receive the lion’s share of attention.
Here’s something else you’ll want to avoid: fecal contamination.
In 2024, 50% of North Carolina beaches tested were potentially unsafe for swimming on at least one day, according to Safe for Swimming?, Environment North Carolina Research and Policy Center’s latest analysis of bacteria testing. Not surprisingly, swimming in contaminated oceans, lakes, rivers and ponds can cause gastrointestinal illness, respiratory disease, ear and eye infection and skin rashes. An estimated 57 million cases of illness are caused by fecal contamination in the U.S. each year.
Have no fear: With a few precautions in place, it’s entirely possible to enjoy clean water at your favorite swimming hole this summer.
States vary in how frequently and widely they test their beaches. As a point of reference, it helps to know how often your favorite beach was closed last year due to contaminated waters.
Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center’s Safe for Swimming? dashboard is a state-specific resource that provides the number of days with tests showing potentially unsafe levels of fecal indicator criteria for North Carolina beaches in 2024. The dashboard also lists the percentage of days on which testing took place. North Carolina will be automatically selected in the dropdown menu when you begin.
Arriving at your favorite watering hole only to find out it’s closed due to unsafe water conditions is a real bummer.
Check that your preferred spot is open for swimming before leaving home by perusing the latest beach advisories in your state or a state you’re traveling to. We’ve created this simple tool to find where you can get the latest information.
If you have questions about your favorite beach, or if you can’t find sufficient information online, phone your local or state health department. They should be able to tell you whether the beach is being monitored for contamination. If it is, they may also be able to tell you whether your preferred spot is currently safe for swimming.
After a deluge, overflowing stormwater can flood sewage systems. When this happens, raw sewage trickles straight into bodies of water and pollutes them with bacteria and viruses.
It’s a good practice to steer clear of swimming immediately after a heavy rainfall. While there’s no hard and fast rule, some scientists suggest waiting three days after a heavy downpour to allow time for contaminants to disperse and dilute.
Contaminated water that finds its way into an open wound may lead to an infection, so definitely avoid swimming if you have any open cuts. And if your ability to fight germs is already impacted by existing health issues or medications, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that you check with your healthcare provider before taking a dip.
Beaches aren’t tested daily, and some states test for clean water more often than others. It pays to be mindful of possible hazards that may impact water quality.
Be cognizant of surrounding hazards that could pollute waters. If there’s a livestock farm nearby, fecal contamination may be present at higher levels than at a different spot.
Consider, too, how often the water is recycled in your swimming spot. Water that’s recycled slowly generally contains additional contaminates because they take longer to dilute. Because lakes have little water movement, lake swimming after a storm may be riskier than a coastal beach. Conversely, exposed beaches with strong tides are likely to clear out more quickly.
While you won’t be able to see individual bacteria, the cloudier and dirtier the water, the more risky it is. In general, it’s best to steer clear of water that’s discolored, cloudy or smells foul. And be sure to heed any warnings or beach closures posted at the beach itself, which may indicate unsafe conditions due to bacteria, rip currents or other hazards.
Fecal contamination can arise from a variety of sources:
U.S. beaches aren’t routinely tested, and many continue to be unsafe. More than 60% of U.S. beaches that were tested had potentially unsafe contamination levels on one or more days in 2024. Such conditions are making millions of Americans sick.
We’re calling on legislators to support funding for regular, timely beach testing to make it easier for beachgoers to know if their beach is safe for swimming.
Emily advocates for cleaner air, water, clean energy and protecting wildlife and wild places in North Carolina. Emily lives in Cary, North Carolina, where she enjoys trying new recipes and kayaking.
John directs Environment America's efforts to protect our rivers, lakes, streams and drinking water. John’s areas of expertise include lead and other toxic threats to drinking water, factory farms and agribusiness pollution, algal blooms, fracking and the federal Clean Water Act. He previously worked as a staff attorney for Alternatives for Community & Environment and Tobacco Control Resource Center. John lives in Brookline, Mass., with his family, where he enjoys cooking, running, playing tennis, chess and building sandcastles on the beach.
How cities are getting the lead out of school drinking water Environment America’s 2024 highlights Getting the lead out, 10 years after Flint Environment North Carolina’s 2024 Program Agenda
CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) -Southeastern North Carolina is no stranger to floods when storms roll in, including Carolina Beach.“I think flooding is an issue in every coastal community. We’re not alone or different,” says Carolina Beach mayor Lynn Barbee.What makes Carolina Beach different, though, is the amount of flooding they see without heavy rainfall, and even on a sunny day.“Unless the wind cooperates and helps us out, we typically have it at every king tide on Canal Drive,” said Barbe...
CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) -Southeastern North Carolina is no stranger to floods when storms roll in, including Carolina Beach.
“I think flooding is an issue in every coastal community. We’re not alone or different,” says Carolina Beach mayor Lynn Barbee.
What makes Carolina Beach different, though, is the amount of flooding they see without heavy rainfall, and even on a sunny day.
“Unless the wind cooperates and helps us out, we typically have it at every king tide on Canal Drive,” said Barbee.
Not only can the flooding be extremely inconvenient, but it can also cause long-term problems.
“It damages the roadway. It damages any of the underground infrastructure,” said Barbee. “Remember, this is salt water. You don’t want to be driving your cars through that. It can really damage your car.”
To help solve the problem, a group of researchers from NC State and UNC Chapel Hill have been partnering with the town for years now.
The group presented its final research to the town council on Tuesday.
“They met with residents, held workshops to understand what they’re seeing, what their concerns are,” said Barbee.
The findings show improved stormwater management could help, but Barbee says there’s not a perfect solution.
“There is no write a check for this and have this done and the problem goes away,” he said. “The homeowners down there have gotten organized in a positive way and in talking to them, they don’t expect the miracle or the silver-bullet solution. I think they’re taking a very practical approach too, ‘okay, how do we make it better?’”
Barbee says thanks to the research group; their next steps are to slowly implement some of their suggested strategies and work with state legislators.
“We’re headed in a positive direction with a problem that could easily just defeat you,” said Barbee.
One solution brought up suggests that residents be required to have bulkheads, which could stop flooding. However, Barbee says he understands it can be difficult telling people what to put on their own property, but says it’s still a possible solution in the future.
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CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) - A floating home that caused a stir in Wrightsville Beach is now anchored in Carolina Beach.According to the town’s deputy manager, a 10-day reservation has been accepted in the town’s mooring field for AquaVita, a “pleasure craft.”“After reviewing the request and boarding the vessel, our Harbormasters determined that the vessel meets our code requirements for utilizing the mooring field,” the deputy town manager said in a statement. “The vessel is registere...
CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) - A floating home that caused a stir in Wrightsville Beach is now anchored in Carolina Beach.
According to the town’s deputy manager, a 10-day reservation has been accepted in the town’s mooring field for AquaVita, a “pleasure craft.”
“After reviewing the request and boarding the vessel, our Harbormasters determined that the vessel meets our code requirements for utilizing the mooring field,” the deputy town manager said in a statement. “The vessel is registered as a pleasure craft with the state of NC, has insurance, and we have a copy of its USCG safety inspection.”
AquaVita is owned by Wade Miller of Copper Builders, the same developer behind the proposed development of more than 4,000 acres of wetlands and forest in northern New Hanover County, land locals refer to as “Sledge Forest.”
The vessel had anchored in Banks Channel at Wrightsville Beach just before the Fourth of July. It stayed there for weeks, despite violating the town’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), which bans “floating homes” in all zoning districts.
Wrightsville Beach officials set a compliance deadline for AquaVita on July 11. Fines started accumulating at $50 per day, increasing to $500 daily from July 21.
On July 21, AquaVita left the channel.
In a statement provided to WECT News, Wade and Ann Miller defended their vessel and its use.
“AquaVita is a privately owned, North Carolina–registered, recreational vessel — not a business, not a residence, and not a floating home. We, the owners, are aboard. Like other boaters, we’ve been enjoying the use of public waterways in accordance with the rights granted to all citizens,” the Millers wrote. “We did not move the vessel previously because we felt we were well within our legal rights. We decided to move because the conditions were favorable, and we were already planning a relocation this week.”
The vessel is currently anchored at the Carolina Beach Yach Club and Marina. It will then be anchored in the mooring field starting July 25.
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