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 Federal Point Historic Preservation Society in Carolina Beach, NC 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.
“Always Best Care has been such a relief for our family. They were there when”
“I receive in home care with Sabrina & Erin at Always Best Care in Leland”
“I’ve trusted Always Best Care with almost daily care for my mom, for over a”
“Kathryn Q. was invaluable in guiding us through the process of exploring senior living options”
“ABC has been such a reliable, compassionate and helpful company!! Could not talk more highly”
“I have been searching for a care company for my Mother, upon speaking with Sabrina”
“I have been pleased with the level of consistent care provided. Sabrina is wonderful and”
“Excellent care. Sabrina is a wonderful caregiver and runs things very well.”
“Always Best Care has been such a great experience. I recently started in August,”
“I have used Always Best Care several times when I was away and my mother”
“Courtney is very professional and compassionate caregiver.”
“They have provided great service to my wife. They have helped her with several household”
“Great experience talented and pleasant aids”
“ABC is a Great company that strives to provide clients with the Best care possible!”
“I was pleased with the consistent kindness shown by the staff.”
“Mangerment and caregiver are awesome very professional and caring for there clients they were very”
“Where do I start! With the new found stress of dealing with life's ups and”
“Amazing company!!!! They definitely put the needs of the clients first. If you”
“Ever since my grandfather got out of the hospital, ABC services has been a life”
“I've worked in 3 different places, this will be my fourth company and I have”
“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 has been such a relief for our family. They were there when my mother-in-law came home from the hospital and have been incredibly flexible as her needs have changed. Brandi and Sabrina truly listen and care about finding what works best for Mom—and for us. They’ve worked hard to find the right caregiver who can keep her safe, help her maintain her independence, and take some of the stress of managing her care off our shoulders (even when Mom isn’t always the easiest customer!). I also love that they can help us navigate what comes next, from caregiving now to eventually finding the right placement when she needs a higher level of care. This stage of life is not easy, and having people you trust to help navigate it makes such a difference. We’re so grateful to have them in our corner.”
“I receive in home care with Sabrina & Erin at Always Best Care in Leland NC. Without their caregivers to assist me in my daily activities I would be lost! He fact that Hannah and Brittany are so supportive is a bonus, I adore them both for different reasons. Thank you to Always Best Care for making my time here at home so easy, and memorable!”
“I’ve trusted Always Best Care with almost daily care for my mom, for over a year. They are very professional and my mom developed a close relationship with (Super-Special) Brittany. Thank you ABC!”
“Kathryn Q. was invaluable in guiding us through the process of exploring senior living options for my sister. She thoughtfully recommended communities that aligned with her needs, coordinated all the appointments, and personally drove us to each visit. Whenever questions arose, she promptly followed up with staff and ensured we had the information needed to make informed decisions. Her patience, attentiveness, and genuine care made what could have been an overwhelming process feel smooth and manageable. Thanks to Kathryn, we were able to move forward with confidence in this important next stage of life.”
“ABC has been such a reliable, compassionate and helpful company!! Could not talk more highly of the team & environment cultivated :)”
“I have been searching for a care company for my Mother, upon speaking with Sabrina I felt like I was talking to someone who had the best interest for mom’s wellbeing and safety. She educated me on all the amazing service Always best care provides and her compassion truly made me feel like I was talking with a friend . We have been using this amazing company which now has elevated my stress as the son in another state. The care team even calls her mom!!! She looks forward to seeing them everyday. Thank you Sabrina and Shawn for putting my mind at ease. Highly recommend Always best care for anyone searching for the. Best care for their loved ones.”
“I have been pleased with the level of consistent care provided. Sabrina is wonderful and is very attentive, responsive and great at communicating. Always Best Care provides excellent service and does so with care and compassion.”
“Excellent care. Sabrina is a wonderful caregiver and runs things very well.”
“Always Best Care has been such a great experience. I recently started in August, and from the very beginning, Sabrina and Shawn have been incredibly supportive, welcoming, and helpful. They’ve taken the time to make sure I feel comfortable in my role, answer any questions I have, and provide guidance whenever needed. It’s clear they truly care not only about their clients, but also about their staff. The positive environment and strong communication have made a big difference, and I already feel like part of a team that values compassion and professionalism. I’m really looking forward to continuing to grow here and being part of such a dedicated organization.”
“I have used Always Best Care several times when I was away and my mother needed care. They were very responsive in the initial setup and visit. Sabrina is outstanding. She is patient and caring with my mother, who has dementia. Mother doesn't do well with strangers but was comfortable with Sabrina and her backup. They assisted with catheter care, dressing and meals. I have no reservations recommending ABC to a family needing help with a loved one.”
“Courtney is very professional and compassionate caregiver.”
“They have provided great service to my wife. They have helped her with several household and personal care duties.”
“Great experience talented and pleasant aids”
“ABC is a Great company that strives to provide clients with the Best care possible! As an Employee they are also Awesome accommodating the girls working with your schedule. It’s Great working hand in hand with people that care!”
“I was pleased with the consistent kindness shown by the staff.”
“Mangerment and caregiver are awesome very professional and caring for there clients they were very good to me”
“Where do I start! With the new found stress of dealing with life's ups and downs, ABC has come thru for me and my family in ways I could never put a price on. Their compassion and understanding made my Mom feel safe and secure, even during difficult times. For that, they have earned a client for life. The way they have loved on her since leaving the hospital make me smile.”
“Amazing company!!!! They definitely put the needs of the clients first. If you are looking for a company you can trust your loved one with, then I would definitely recommend this company!!!”
“Ever since my grandfather got out of the hospital, ABC services has been a life saver for me and my family. The staff they have is always so warm & inviting they always make my grandpa feel so comfortable. What makes ABC different is that they really care about their customers, and you can truly feel that when you’re dealing with their caregivers. I feel so much better knowing that my grandfather is in the hands of people who truly care about his wellbeing. When times got really hard for my family ABC stepped in and provided assistance & reassurance to us. If you’re looking for a company who will treat your loved one as their own I 100% recommend Always Best Care.”
“I've worked in 3 different places, this will be my fourth company and I have never felt at home in a workplace and actually comfortable with communication. So far working here has been amazing.”
“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!”
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 in Carolina Beach, NC 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.
SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — Early voting opens the last two weeks of October in North Carolina and allows residents to register to vote and cast a ballot in one stop — at any location in their respective county.Statewide the polls open to in-person voters on Oct. 15 and close Oct. 31, before reopening on Election Day, Nov. 3. However, only registered voters can cast a ballot on Nov. 3 and must go to their assigned precinct.READ MORE: Election 2026: Candidate Q&AsAhead of going to the polls, be su...
SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — Early voting opens the last two weeks of October in North Carolina and allows residents to register to vote and cast a ballot in one stop — at any location in their respective county.
Statewide the polls open to in-person voters on Oct. 15 and close Oct. 31, before reopening on Election Day, Nov. 3. However, only registered voters can cast a ballot on Nov. 3 and must go to their assigned precinct.
READ MORE: Election 2026: Candidate Q&As
Ahead of going to the polls, be sure to keep a few things in mind:
Below are the times and hours for early voting in the tri-county region.
HOURS: Oct. 15-16, 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.Oct. 19-23: 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.Oct. 24-25: Noon – 5 p.m.Oct. 26-30: 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.Oct. 31: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
LOCATIONS: New Hanover County Board of Elections Office226 Government Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405
Carolina Beach Town Hall- Police Training Room1121 N. Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
MLK Community Center- Multipurpose Room401 S 8th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Northeast Library- David M. Paynter Room1241 Military Cutoff Road, Wilmington, NC 28405
Pine Valley Library- Pelican and Osprey Rooms 3802 S College Road, Wilmington, NC 28412
HOURS: Oct. 15-16, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (government center) and 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (satellite locations)Oct. 19-23: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (government center) and 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (satellite locations)Oct. 26-30: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (government center) and 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (satellite locations)Oct. 31: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
LOCATIONS:Brunswick County Cooperative Extension, Government Center Complex25 Referendum Drive NE, Building N, Bolivia, NC, 28422
Sunset Beach Community Center200 Station Trail, Sunset Beach, NC, 28468
Leland Cultural Arts Center1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland, NC, 28451
Homer E. Wright Event Center4136 Southport-Supply Road, Southport, NC, 28461
Brunswick Center at Supply101 Stone Chimney Road SE, Supply, NC, 28462
HOURS: Oct. 15-16: 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.Oct. 19-23: 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.Oct. 26-30: 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.Oct. 31: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
LOCATIONS:Pender County NC Coop Ext. Auditorium801 S. Walker St, Burgaw
Pender County Annex Building1506 US Hwy 17, Hampstead
At Port City Daily, we aim to keep locals informed on top-of-mind news facing the tri-county region. To support our work and help us reach more people in 2026, please, consider helping one of two ways: Subscribe or make a one-time contribution .
We appreciate your ongoing support.
If you’ve ever read a Nicholas Sparks book (or seen a movie adaptation), you’ve likely fallen in love with a fictional character. We can’t help but swoon over the chemistry between Will and Ronnie in The Last Song, or the tragic young love between Landon and Jamie in A Walk to Remember. And of course, we’re forever in awe of the unbreakable bond between Noah and Allie in The Notebook. While the characters in Sparks’s novels aren’t real, many of the places where their love stories...
If you’ve ever read a Nicholas Sparks book (or seen a movie adaptation), you’ve likely fallen in love with a fictional character. We can’t help but swoon over the chemistry between Will and Ronnie in The Last Song, or the tragic young love between Landon and Jamie in A Walk to Remember. And of course, we’re forever in awe of the unbreakable bond between Noah and Allie in The Notebook. While the characters in Sparks’s novels aren’t real, many of the places where their love stories unfold are. Take for example, New Bern, North Carolina. Sparks’s adopted hometown also happens to be the setting for some of his most popular novels. A Bend in the Road, The Return, The Wedding, and most notably The Notebook are all set in New Bern.
Everything about New Bern, from its scenic setting on the Trent and Neuse Rivers to its centuries-old churches and historic downtown, make it the perfect backdrop for a Southern romance. The town of around 31,000 people in east North Carolina was founded in 1710, making it the second oldest town in the state. It’s part of a region known as North Carolina’s Inner Banks, which means while it’s not quite on the ocean like neighboring Outer Banks towns, it’s still decidedly part of the Carolina coast. Expect days to be filled with activities like standup paddle boarding, pontoon boat cruises, and waterfront dining. If you’ve ever wished to be transported inside one of Nicholas Sparks’s novels, New Bern quite literally gives you the opportunity to live out your dreams. Here are the 15 best things to do in New Bern, North Carolina.
It doesn’t get more picturesque than a golden hour walk at Union Point Park that ends with a sunset show under the park’s iconic green-roofed gazebo. The six-acre site in historic downtown marks the convergence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, and is a popular gathering space that includes two boat launches, grills, a playground, picnic tables, and a fishing pier.
Stroll the tree-shaded streets of historic downtown New Bern to find all kinds of treasures, from quirky antique stores and art galleries to artisan shops and boutiques housed in historic homes. The Black Cat Shoppe is a colorful spot for eclectic oddities and The Next Chapter Books & Art carries on the town’s rich literary history that dates to 1783 when the state’s first bookstore was opened in New Bern.
Learn about Black history in New Bern and its surrounding regions by exploring its African American Heritage Trail. The trail is made up of 16 panels at 10 sites in the Craven Terrace and Dryborough neighborhoods that tell the stories of historical events, people, and places that pertain to Black history in New Bern. The entire trail covers 1.3 miles and takes around 30 minutes to complete.
New Bern was once home to the state’s capital building, and you can see a replica of it, plus historic homes and spectacular gardens at Tryon Palace, which was built in the 1760s as a home for the Royal British Governor when North Carolina was just a colony. A one-day pass to the site includes entry into the North Carolina History Center, a tour of the governor’s mansion, and access to four historic homes and the complex’s 21 acres of meticulously upkept gardens.
; 529 South Front Street, New Bern, NC 28562; 1-800-767-1560
One of New Bern’s many claims to fame is that Pepsi was invented there in 1898. 100 years later, the town decided to honor the major milestone with a Birthplace of Pepsi historical site and experience in the heart of downtown. Free to the public, head inside to learn about the history of Pepsi, buy Pepsi-themed merchandise, and get an ice-cold Pepsi from the old-school soda fountain.
; 256 Middle St., New Bern, NC 28560; 252-636-5898
This downtown eatery is beloved for breakfast thanks to two things, their Dutch Potatoes and their Butter Syrup. The creamy, rich, and cheesy potato dish is perfect alongside a short stack of pancakes smothered in their addictive butter syrup. The stuff is so good they’ve even bottled it for diners to take home.
; 227 Middle Street, New Bern, NC 28560; 252-637-0304
After training at Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina, Chef Ashley Moser returned home to open Cypress Hall Kitchen + Bar in New Bern. His menu focuses on seasonal, local, and fresh ingredients in New American dishes like ricotta gnudi with summer squash, asparagus, brown butter, and Parmesan or pork cheeks with rice grits, collards, smoked ham, lemon, and chive.
; 219 Middle Street, New Bern, NC 28560; 252-633-5909
The South is known for its legendary barbecue, and North Carolina’s specific variety brings a little something special even to that. If you want real deal smoked meats, Harry’s is the place to go. Fill your platter with meats like pulled pork, sausage, ribs, and pastrami beef rib surrounded by classic Southern sides like corn pudding, potato salad, braised greens, hush puppies, and pit beans.
; 243 Craven St, New Bern, NC 28560; 252-631-2672
Most folks fall head over heels in love with New Bern from the moment they arrive, but a stay in a bed and breakfast is always enough to seal the deal. The Aerie, located in downtown New Bern, is an impressive Italianate Victorian that dates to 1882. Each of its nine guest rooms and suites are uniquely decorated, but all offer modern amenities and plenty of Southern hospitality. Other worthy options include Hanna House Bed & Breakfast and modern boutique hotel The Harvey.
Take advantage of New Bern’s coastal locale by renting a standup paddle board from Banx Watersports, which is perched on the water’s edge. The company’s private launch on Lawson Creek gives access to both the Trent and Neuse Rivers, so your paddling adventure is limitless.
; 1305 Country Club Road, New Bern NC 28562; 252-638-3000
New Bern was named after the Swiss capital city of Bern, which is an old Germanic word for bear. As such, New Bern’s unofficial nickname is Bear Town, and you can find painted statues of the animal all over town. Celebrate the mascot and satisfy your sweet tooth at Bear City Fudge Company, where you’ll find a wonderland of confections and sweet treats that include homemade fudge, pralines, truffles, and ice cream.
; 236C Middle St., New Bern, NC, 28560; 252-636-1360
See the beauty of New Bern by boat on one of four daily excursions that depart from the New Bern Grand Marina. During the 90-minute cruise along the Neuse River, a captain relays stories and facts about New Bern. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Daytime tours leave at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m.; a sunset tour departs at 6:30 p.m.
; 101 Craven Street, New Bern, NC, 28560; 252-772-1876
It’s always cool to read about a place and then see it in person. If you’ve read A Bend In the Road, The Wedding, or The Notebook, you can have plenty of those page-to-real-life experiences in New Bern. The city’s Walk to Remember tour points out 15 landmarks around town that are all mentioned in Sparks’s novels. Places like Tryon Palace (mentioned in both A Bend in the Road and The Wedding), the Masonic Theater (The Notebook), and the famous Alfred Cunningham Bridge (The Notebook) are all on the list.
The best way to get an overview of the city is on a 90-minute historic trolley tour. Operating from March through December, the tours take passengers around downtown New Bern and to historic landmarks including New Bern Academy Museum, Cedar Grove Cemetery, and Christ Episcopal Church. While you ride, a historian will relay interesting details, historical narratives, and true stories about what you’re seeing.
; 1311 N Craven St., New Bern, NC 28560; 252-637-7316
Views of the water abound in New Bern, and one of the best places to get a particularly great one is at Persimmons, which sits on the end of a short dock suspended over the Neuse River. The restaurant has been an integral part of New Bern’s dining scene since opening in 2010. You can opt for a table on the back deck for panoramic views of the water, but even from inside, you’ll experience similar stunning sights thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. For dinner, seafood is certainly on the menu with options ranging from linguini and clams to shrimp and grits to jumbo lump crab cakes. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail like the effervescent Grapes of Wrath (Moscato, Campari, blood orange, soda), and you’ve got a night to remember.
; 100 Pollock St., New Bern, NC 28560; 252-514-0033
Editor’s Note: Hurricane Helene has impacted the South. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we encourage readers to stay informed about travel disruptions and road closures. Learn how you can help support our neighbors here.
North Carolina, USA —A nor’easter is causing significant damage along the Outer Banks and has forced the closure of parts of Highway 12.The low-pressure system is tracking along the East Coast and is bringing damaging wind gusts, beach erosion, and 15- to 20-foot waves from the Mid-Atlantic to New England. It is called a nor’easter because of the strong winds blowing from the northeast; this is the counterclockwise rotation typically seen around a low-pressure storm.NCDOT cameras showed...
North Carolina, USA —
A nor’easter is causing significant damage along the Outer Banks and has forced the closure of parts of Highway 12.
The low-pressure system is tracking along the East Coast and is bringing damaging wind gusts, beach erosion, and 15- to 20-foot waves from the Mid-Atlantic to New England. It is called a nor’easter because of the strong winds blowing from the northeast; this is the counterclockwise rotation typically seen around a low-pressure storm.
NCDOT cameras showed significant swells washing over onto Highway NC-12 on Thursday and Friday. Dunes collapsed, leaving the road exposed to the Atlantic's rough waves. On Saturday, crews reported making progress clearing some sand and beach debris from area roads and NC-12, but they are fighting gusty winds and tides that may bring more water their way between Hatteras and Oregon Inlet.
Here’s a timeline of what to expect at the coast:
Below-normal temperatures are over coastal areas of North Carolina. Along the coast, coastal flooding, beach erosion, dangerous surf, and a high risk for rip currents are possible during high tide.
The low will continue to move northward along the East Coast and eventually east. Gusty winds from 15-30 mph are possible in the Outer Banks as the low moves away. Rough seas will remain a concern along the coast, especially near exposed beaches and east toward the Gulf Stream.
The low will slowly pull away early next week after battering New England beaches with strong winds, rain and high waves. Coastal areas in North Carolina will continue to see gusty winds, high surf and occasional coastal flooding this weekend.
The National Weather Service meteorologists at the Morehead City office anticipate wave heights of 7 to 10 feet on Saturday to drop to 4 to 6 feet by Sunday afternoon.
The threat of a powerful early-season Nor’easter is prompting flood watches and warning of ocean waves that can reach up to 12 feet along some parts of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.A coastal low-pressure system is building off the North Carolina coast that is forecasted to bring dangerous surf conditions, strong winds, rip currents and coastal flooding.“This will be a prolonged coastal event, coastal and marine,” said Rohan Jain, meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Morehead City&rsquo...
The threat of a powerful early-season Nor’easter is prompting flood watches and warning of ocean waves that can reach up to 12 feet along some parts of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
A coastal low-pressure system is building off the North Carolina coast that is forecasted to bring dangerous surf conditions, strong winds, rip currents and coastal flooding.
“This will be a prolonged coastal event, coastal and marine,” said Rohan Jain, meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Morehead City’s office. “Inlands areas will see minimal impacts, but the beaches and waters will see the brunt of it here, and we’ll have a prolonged period of north, northeast winds with gale force gusts that could produce some coastal flooding concerns and really high waves, strong waves.”
The High Surf Advisory warns of a high risk of rip currents and large breaking waves between 8 and 12 feet possible in Currituck County from Tuesday, Sept. 22 until through late Thursday, as of 3 p.m. Tuesday. The Flood Watch is in effect for oceanside areas from Duck to Ocracoke.
“Strong winds are forecast to bring rough seas, dangerous surf and large breaking waves late this week and into the weekend,” according to Michael Duquette, meteorologist for the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. “The strongest winds and greatest risk of coastal impacts are expected Thursday into Friday, and will lead to beach erosion, ocean overwash at vulnerable locations including Highway 12.”
The North Carolina Department of Transportation attempted to fortify protective dunes along Highway 12 on Pea, Hatteras and Ocracoke islands and warned drivers of possible hazards on Tuesday afternoon.
“If the forecast holds, difficult driving conditions along N.C. 12 are likely, particularly during high tide cycles, peaking with the Thursday evening and Friday morning high tides,” according to NCDOT. “Overnight travel may become especially hazardous at times, and temporary closures of the highway are possible.”
Moderate to strong winds are expected to peak Thursday into the night, bringing possible power outages and some tree damage, according to a Tuesday briefing from the National Weather Service. Wind gusts are forecasted to peak at 49 miles per hour in Rodanthe and 47 miles per hour in Ocracoke.
There is still uncertainty of how strong or where exactly the nor’easter will end up, but there is a “high confidence” it will bring strong winds and waves, Jain said.
“The waters are going to be very dangerous,” he said. “Waves 15 to 20 feet along the Gulf Stream, winds of gale force gusts expected for a lot of our waters.”
A nor’easter last year helped put more than a dozen houses and hotel buildings along the Buxton waterfront into the surf, an area on Hatteras Island where heavy erosion has brought down homes.
Further inland in central North Carolina, the nor’easter will contribute to the area’s cold air damming pattern where cold air gets trapped by the Appalachian Mountains, bringing cooler temperatures.
Temperatures aren’t forecasted to reach 80 degrees the rest of the week in Raleigh and Durham with a projected high of just the mid-60s on Thursday in the Triangle and upper 60s in the Charlotte area.
“It will be very underwhelming for central North Carolina,” said Aaron Swiggett, meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Raleigh office. “If you’re around and along the coast, it’ll be a bit more significant.”
People can check beach conditions and the risk of rip currents by visiting weather.gov/beach.
Summer travel isn’t cheap -- especially this year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of July, the consumer price index for plane tickets had risen 25% in the past year, and prices at the gas pump have stayed high into August 2026.Despite the cost, for some families, summer is when traveling just makes the most sense. Schools are out of session, and the weather is conducive to making the most out of a vacation.While traveling -- especially to the beach -- might never be cheap, there are so...
Summer travel isn’t cheap -- especially this year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of July, the consumer price index for plane tickets had risen 25% in the past year, and prices at the gas pump have stayed high into August 2026.
Despite the cost, for some families, summer is when traveling just makes the most sense. Schools are out of session, and the weather is conducive to making the most out of a vacation.
While traveling -- especially to the beach -- might never be cheap, there are some destinations that are more budget-friendly than others, including in the Wilmington area.
A recent USA TODAY column spotlighted Carolina Beach as one of the best spots for a vacation that stays affordable while still offering that classic beach trip experience.
These two New Hanover beach towns are 'more than just sand and surf'Explore the Crossword page and play the new MidGrid Crossword.A USA TODAY column from travel site FamilyVacationist.com detailed eight places across the United States that were ideal budget-friendly destinations.
Carolina Beach was included, in part, because it offers a classic coastal vibe. Almost nothing says quintessential beach town like Carolina Beach Boardwalk with its colorful ice cream parlors, beachy seafood restaurants and an amusement park complete with towering Ferris wheel.
Beyond that, once you’re in Carolina Beach, there’s plenty to do that won’t cost you a dime. The town puts on live music and a free firework show every Thursday night during the summer, as well as a free movie series at the town’s Lake Park on Sunday evenings.
As for outdoor recreation beyond the beach itself, the free-to-enter Carolina Beach State Park offers miles of hiking trails, water access and views of the native Venus' flytrap.
With no cars, this Brunswick island is a top pick for a quiet getawayThe full list included towns and regions from across the U.S., though Carolina Beach was the only place in North Carolina to make the list.
Here’s the full list.
Charlie Kingree is the trending topics and Pender County reporter for the StarNews. He can be reached at [email protected].
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