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 Oak Island Pier 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 Oak Island, 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 Middleton 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 Island Way or visit Battery Madison, 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 Oak Island, 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 Oak Island, 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 Oak Island, 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.
The fresh injection of sand will help a section of the town's beach where some oceanfront homes are relying on sandbags to hold back the encroaching AtlanticUSA TODAY NETWORK0:000:39The brown piping snaked along the beach near Oak Island's western tip, making a trip from the public accesses and oceanfront homes a challenge at times.But that wasn't bothering Donnie Fredericks as he walked the beach with his family on a windy Tuesday morning."I'm just glad to see this part of the beach getting ...
USA TODAY NETWORK
The brown piping snaked along the beach near Oak Island's western tip, making a trip from the public accesses and oceanfront homes a challenge at times.
But that wasn't bothering Donnie Fredericks as he walked the beach with his family on a windy Tuesday morning.
"I'm just glad to see this part of the beach getting some fresh sand," said the Ohio native and frequent visitor to the Brunswick County beach town, pointing to some beachfront homes relying on sandbags to hold back the encroaching ocean. "It was getting a little touch-and-go there."
For almost all North Carolina beach towns, sand isn't something you take for granted. Because of North Carolina's long-term ban on hardened structures along the oceanfront, although the rules have been watered down for terminal groins and sandbags in the last decade, getting sand onto an eroded beach usually relied on one of two things − the whims of Mother Nature pushing material back on shore or a beach nourishment project.
But beach nourishment projects are big, sometimes messy as to where to find beach-quality sand, and often very expensive − something that's becoming an increasing problem for many coastal towns as the federal government pulls back on funding even as the price of beach-building projects keeps increasing.
That leaves many beach towns looking to Mother Nature. But in recent years she hasn't been kind to many beach communities in the state as tropical storms and nor'easters have pounded their oceanfronts. Climate change and sea-level rise isn't helping either, experts say.
This is especially true around inlets, the most unstable and wandering features along the coast. Beach towns that have had issues with severe erosion near inlets include Emerald Isle, North Topsail Beach, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Bald Head Island. Famously, things got so bad for Wrightsville Beach around Mason Inlet that the town and New Hanover County in the early 2000s teamed up to relocate the inlet back to its original location closer to Figure Eight Island and instituted periodic maintenance dredging to make sure it stayed there.
Oak Island is also on that list, as the beach on the island's western end has been repeatedly eroded away by the nearby Lockwood Folly Inlet.
Enter the Army Corps of Engineers.
As happens in several areas along the coast near inlets maintained by the federal agency, sand pumped out of the inlet − often where it crosses the Intracoastal Waterway − has been pumped onto the nearby Oak Island beach.
Jed Cayton, a spokesperson with the corps' Wilmington district, said the project to deepen the Intracoastal Waterway where it crosses Lockwood Folly to 12 feet at low tide should result in roughly 65,000 cubic yards of sand getting pumped onto the beachfront − although town officials said they hoped the final amount could be closer to nearly 105,000 cubic yards.
All together, the work is expected to add 75 feet or more of width to the beach in and around "The Point."
"This strategic placement not only widens our beach but also strengthens coastal resilience against erosion and storms," Cayton said in an email.
Work began in early April, and the contractor is required to be off the beach by April 30 to meet requirements limiting oceanfront activity to avoid impacting nesting sea turtles and shorebirds.
While 65,000 or even 100,000 cubic yards of sand isn't a lot of material when it comes to nourishment projects, and Oak Island has a much bigger project for its entire beachfront in the works, every bit helps areas feeling vulnerable as another hurricane season quickly approaches.
Another oceanfront project in the region nearing completion is a roughly $20 million nourishment of Surf City's beachfront. That work is seeing sand dredged from Banks Channel on the mainland side of Surf City pumped onto the beach, adding an estimated 60 feet of beach from the Topsail Beach line to 1,000 feet north of the Surf City Fishing Pier.
The breakdown of the project's cost is roughly $5 million from Surf City and about $14.5 million in funding coming through a one-time state grant.
Reporter Gareth McGrath can be reached at [email protected] or @GarethMcGrathSN on X/Twitter. This story was produced with financial support from the Green South Foundation and the Prentice Foundation. The USA TODAY Network maintains full editorial control of the work.
Any way you slice it, North Carolina has lucked out as a state. With its charming mountain towns, bustling cities, and quiet sandy beaches, North Carolina makes the cut on any travel list—and we just love exploring every trail-blazing destination, one by one. While summer is high-time for ...
Any way you slice it, North Carolina has lucked out as a state. With its charming mountain towns, bustling cities, and quiet sandy beaches, North Carolina makes the cut on any travel list—and we just love exploring every trail-blazing destination, one by one. While summer is high-time for coastal vacations, fall provides a welcome respite from the sweltering heat at our very favorite North Carolina beaches. (Winter and spring getaways in these seaside towns are just fine by us, too.) We've narrowed our list of the best beaches to visit in North Carolina to these few incredible spots you need to add to your bucket list. You'll want to sit back and enjoy the sunset at these sandy spots all year long.
With its classic Outer Banks feel, Nags Head is a great destination for any beach-lover. There's a mix of on-the-beach relaxation (pet-friendly!) and off-the-beach amusements, such as go-kart tracks, a handful of mini-golf courses, a number of ice cream shops, and good restaurants. Horseback riding on the beach is a popular attraction in the area for visitors, with different excursions and locations to explore! While you're there, visit Jennette's Pier, Jockey's Ridge State Park, or the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Most people prefer to book one of the many rental properties in the area; so take a look at Twiddy & Company to start your search.
Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is made up of two small islands connected by Shell Road. The small coastal town is home to the second oldest Yacht Club in America, built in 1884. The beach is known as a great destination for watersports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing, and Johnnie Mercer's Pier that extends 1,200 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean for great fishing. Vacation rentals are popular here, but you can book a room at the Shell Island Resort for oceanfront views and beach access with umbrellas and chairs for rent. Head to Dockside Restaurant for a relaxed Carolina seafood spot perched right on the water's edge.
Topsail Island is a 26-mile long barrier island off the coast of North Carolina made up of the communities of Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach. Its small population (only around 500 full-time residents) and no high-rise development rule helps maintain its natural beauty. In fact, up until World War II, the island was accessible only by boat. Now, two bridges bring visitors to its relaxing beaches and charming attractions. Loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to nest and lay eggs along Topsail's beachfront from mid-May through August, to the delight of marine life enthusiasts. And the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City is a great place to learn about the island's preservation and conservation initiatives. Additionally, Topsail used to be rumored as the location of Blackbeard's treasure, reeling in treasure hunters for years searching for the prize in the maritime forests. This island is so full of history and intrigue that it's hard to pass up a trip to one of its small seaside towns as a quiet weekend getaway or exciting family trip!
This bustling seaside town is a major summer spot on the southern tip of North Carolina, about 60 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach. In the 1950s, a hurricane wiped out the area, leaving only five buildings standing; but Oak Island has rebuilt to become a popular getaway destination for those desiring a family-friendly beach with a small-town feel. The town has miles of sandy beaches with piers for fishing, ramps for boating, plenty of water activities, and charming restaurants and shops. It's the perfect place for a relaxing, old-fashioned beach trip that's no-fuss and fancy-free.
Located at the western end of Bogue Banks, a barrier island, Emerald Isle gives visitors 12 miles of shoreline and views of the Atlantic Ocean as part of the Crystal Coast. The town's only oceanfront hotel, the Islander Hotel & Resort, is a great place to consider for a weekend getaway; but there are plenty of quaint rentals and condos that are just perfect for a family vacation. Make sure to stop by Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-B-Q for its amazing shrimp burger and old-fashioned milkshakes. Whether you want to fish from the pier, relax on the sand, or explore the antique shops, there's something for every member of the family.
There are no cars are allowed on Bald Head Island, but visitors are able to move around with golf carts or bikes. The island is only accessible by ferry from nearby Southport. The majority of the island's 12,000 acres are undeveloped, with the exception of coastal rental residences and the highly acclaimed Bald Head Island Club golf course. That means that you can anticipate the 14-mile stretch of the shoreline, which includes South Beach and North Beach, to be largely calm and peaceful during your visit. It's also a terrific site to see some of nature's most beautiful creatures. The island is home to over 260 bird species, as well as other animals like alligators and foxes. Beachcombers and seashell hunters will appreciate the opportunity to find little treasures washed ashore.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which stretches for about 70 miles, is renowned for its pristine beaches and the striking black-and-white striped Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. The historic lighthouse is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen to visitors (who can climb to the top) in 2026. Also, there are opportunities to observe sea turtles (during their nesting season) coming ashore or hatchlings clumsily finding their way into the sea.
Corolla/Currituck Beach is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Currituck Sound on the other along the Outer Banks' northern coast. Visitors for its tranquility and opportunities to explore the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and historic district. But this area is best known for the wild Spanish Mustang horses that freely roam the island. And visitors can even sign up for guided tours to get a closer look at the wild, majestic creatures.
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a classic American promenade—with a pedestrian-only walkway that features bars, restaurants, arcades, bike and surfboard rental shops, and even an amusement park—that beach-goers have been enjoying since the late 1800s. Don't leave without getting a couple hot and fresh donuts from Britts Donut Shop, which has been cranking out the excellent sugary treats since 1939. Even more entertainment can be found nearby at the Carolina Beach State Park, which offers a variety of hiking paths, including the Flytrap Trail where visitors can see the native Venus flytrap plant.
There's the sand and surf at Kure Beach, of course, and then there's the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, which hosts music concerts, open-air markets, and other entertainment. Kids can also enjoy the pavilion's playground, making it a family-friendly venture. Even more, visitors can cast a line off the fishing pier, play disc golf at Joe Eakes Park, and learn about the state's military history at Fort Fisher State Historic Site.
Topsail Island sits about 40 miles northeast of Wilmington. The 26-mile-long barrier island off the North Carolina coast is home to three charm...
Topsail Island sits about 40 miles northeast of Wilmington. The 26-mile-long barrier island off the North Carolina coast is home to three charming seaside towns: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. This destination is easily accessible by car, or you can fly to a nearby airport and take a shuttle. That's a fairly recent development, as the laidback island wasn't accessible except by boat until World War II.
Topsail makes an ideal summer getaway as it rarely gets crowded even during the peak season. Each of the three main towns provides a fun and laid-back beach vacation. With its maritime forests and natural landscape, water surrounds North Topsail Beach on three sides and offers dog-friendly shores. Surf City, located in the middle of the island, is the most commercial destination, offering many dining options, shopping, and community events. On the island's southernmost end, Topsail Beach is an old-school coastal town with untouched sands and unbeatable views.
According to local legend, Topsail got its name centuries ago when pirates hid their boats in the channel between the island and the mainland. Only the tops of the boats' sails were visible to ships approaching from the Atlantic. Rumor has it that Blackbeard's treasure is still buried somewhere on the island. Though you aren't likely to find buried treasure, there are plenty of reasons to venture to Topsail Island, North Carolina, for your next vacation.
If you're lucky enough to snag a beachfront rental, you'll likely spend a lot of time sunning, shelling, and building sand castles on the beach. If not, there are dozens of public access points along Topsail Island (most parking lots charge an hourly rate). The beaches here are known as a hot spot for shark teeth; visit during low tide to find them. North Topsail Beach has 4x4 access onto the beach off of River Road. An access pass must be purchased before entering. Other beaches allow beach driving at some locations for fishing purposes only; this requires a pass and may be seasonal.
Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon at Richard C. Peters Town Park in North Topsail Beach, or hop in a kayak to explore the sound, inlet, and ocean surrounding the town. In Topsail Beach, set up your chair at Serenity Point to catch a breathtaking sunset.
northtopsailbeachnc.gov; 3962 River Drive, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460
northtopsailbeachnc.gov; 465 New River Inlet Road, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460
Topsail is best known for its sea turtle preservation and conservation efforts. Throughout the 26 miles of coastline, loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to nest and lay eggs from May through August. While you're here, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City. Visitors can take a tour of the facility and help with the rehabilitation efforts of the turtle patients. Check the website before you go since the center's hours change by season.
seaturtlehospital.org; 302 Tortuga Lane, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-329-0222
Cast a line off the Surf City Ocean Pier, another point of interest here. Rods and crab traps are available for rental. Check the pier's webcam to see a sneak peek of the day's conditions before heading out.
surfcityoceanpier.com; 112 South Shore Drive, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-328-3521
Tuck's Water Shuttle makes regular trips to Lea-Hutaff Island, an undeveloped barrier island of more than 5,000 acres that serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and a prime nesting spot for sea birds. Book a sunset cruise for spectacular views on the water.
The whole family can join in a unique marsh adventure using dip and cast nets through Ecological Marine Adventures. Classes generally take place from June to August, but check the group's website for scheduling. They also offer kids' classes and camps. The adjoining Topsail Aquarium offers night-time ghost crab hunts and has a touch tank aquarium with horseshoe crabs, bamboo sharks, and other marine life.
ecologicalmarineadventures.com; 106 North Topsail Drive, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-265-4491
topsailaquarium.com, 106 North Topsail Drive, Surf City NC 28445; 910-515-9751
Plan to visit another popular attraction, the Missiles and More Museum, and learn about the island's history during WWII. The museum is in a historic building used by the government for a secret missile operation in the 1940s. Exhibits also cover pirates and the natural history of the area.
missilesandmoremuseum.org, 720 Channel Blvd., Topsail Beach, NC 28445; 910-328-8663
No family beach trip is complete without a round of mini-golf. Topsail Island has two courses to choose from: the pirate-themed Shipwreck Point Miniature Golf and an old-school mini-golf course and arcade called Pirates Turf.
Ocean Fest's big event is in the fall, with a two-day live music festival in Surf City that raises funds to benefit the ocean. The nonprofit also holds a retro surf competition with vintage boards during the festival and other events throughout the year, like a family-friendly fair and parade in May. All are designed to "Surf and Protect" Mother Ocean.
Topsail Island has plenty of options for fresh seafood and waterfront views. Dine at the Beach Shop and Grill for classic Southern dishes made with sustainable and organic ingredients from local farms. The first-come, first-serve patio within sight of the beach welcomes dogs and features live music. Splash By the Sea specializes in popular seafood favorites and pizzas in a relaxed setting (though shirts are required). Their patio also offers ocean views and live music.
beachshopandgrill.com; 701 South Anderson Blvd., Topsail Beach, NC 28445; 910-328-6501
splashbythesea.com; 790 New River Inlet Road, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460; 910-328-3044
Satisfy your shellfish craving at the Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar in Surf City, and wash it down with a rum cocktail or craft beer on tap. In addition to steamers and shooters, they offer fried fish and sandwiches.
theshuckinshack.com; 13460 NC-50, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-803-2037
Named for the island's history of driving livestock across waterways at low tide, the Low Tide Steakhouse & Sandbar is known for its excellent surf and turf menu. Try the steaks, grilled fish, or burgers topped with bourbon-smoked bacon. They also have an extensive bourbon list and serve weekend brunch.
lowtidesteakhouse.com; 13741-E NC Highway 50, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-803-0738
For a low-key dinner back at the beach house, stop at Topsail Steamer and pick up all you need for your Lowcountry boil. Their seafood steam pots feature shrimp, clams, crabs, oysters, and even lobster tails, depending on your family's preferences. Just steam and eat.
topsailsteamer.com; 302 South Topsail Drive, Surf City, NC 28445; 910-328-2645
You'll find no shortage of old-school hotels on Topsail Island, though many families that want to spread out opt for weeklong beach house rentals. For something in between, rent a two-bedroom condo in the Sea Coast Suites, which has nearby beach access and an ocean view.
The Saltwater Suites in Surf City are a hybrid between a hotel and a condo building. The 24 tastefully decorated suites include a kitchenette and washer and dryer, as well as a balcony with ocean views. The hotel's newest project, Saltwater Resort, with a saltwater pool and two-story event space, is a few blocks away.
saltwatertopsail.com; 910-886-4818
Another favorite of visitors is the Island Inn in Surf City. It's located directly across from the beach, has a pool, and is within walking distance of the town's shops and restaurants. They even allow dogs (with a fee).
topsailislandinn.com; 202 Goldsboro Ave., Surf City, NC 28445; 910-328-2341
A Brunswick beach town is putting a new plan in action and searching for future opportunities.The to...
A Brunswick beach town is putting a new plan in action and searching for future opportunities.
The town of Oak Island, like most of Brunswick County, is preparing for the future by keeping an eye on property potential and using a new strategic plan.
During Oak Island Town Council's meeting on Tuesday, April 8, council members participated in a closed session to consult with the town attorney to discuss potential land acquisition. However, no actions were taken by council.
Oak Island Communications Manager Michael Emory said the town is not actively pursuing any real estate searches at this time.
"However, they are preparing for future land acquisition / disposition possibilities necessary for infrastructure and other public services needs, consistent with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan update currently underway and the town’s strategic plan," Emory said.
Council members recently adopted a new strategic plan and, Emory explained, one of the plan goals is to conduct a facilities condition assessment and begin life-cycle costing for all facilities, equipment and infrastructure.
"So actively reviewing, upgrading, and if need be, expanding town facilities is something administration is taking a pro-active approach towards," he said.
Emory believes acquiring new land "would not necessarily" be directly due to local population growth. Instead, he said, the town's decision to acquire more property would be dependent on the services the town needs to provide and if more space is needed to improve those services.
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Asked if a new emergency service station is needed, Emory said it is not a current need for the town.
"The fire chief has discussed this on numerous occasions, and the possible future need is certainly a responsible thing to plan for," Emory said. "At this time, current resources have proven adequate to the point of even returning what is expected to be an improved ISO (insurance services office) rating."
The town has completed several upgrades to town hall with more to come, Emory said.
"These are both to accommodate new staff and create a new, more efficient customer service areas," he said. "These upgrades are not necessarily due to limited space available, but rather to provide a more efficient use of existing space as we take on new staff, who have already enhanced the services offered."
Savanna Tenenoff covers Brunswick County for the StarNews. Reach her at[email protected].
Set sail for Sunset Beach.In This ArticleWhat makes a great beach town? First, there’s the beach itself: There must be wide, sandy shores with sparkling water and ...
Set sail for Sunset Beach.
In This Article
What makes a great beach town? First, there’s the beach itself: There must be wide, sandy shores with sparkling water and plenty of shells, of course. Every beach town needs a handful of mom-and-pop restaurants where you can order the catch of the day (fried and served in a plastic basket, ideally), a waterfront bar where you can watch the sun set, and a friendly ice cream shop. Also important: a few places for old-fashioned fun like a putt-putt course or a fishing pier. If you’re visiting, you’ll need a variety of accommodations, from amenity-rich resorts, to rental houses, to budget-friendly hotels.
There are lots of sweet little beach towns across the South that check all of those boxes, and many of them—understandably—are jam-packed with tourists during the spring and summer months. Which is why Sunset Beach, North Carolina’s southernmost barrier island, is such a gem. Unlike neighboring Myrtle Beach (about an hour away, just over the South Carolina line), with its bustling boardwalk, outlet mall, and dozens of attractions, Sunset Beach has a peaceful small-town feel and everything you need for a laid-back beach trip.
The 8 Most Beautiful Places On The North Carolina Coast
Bring your umbrella and chair and find your perfect spot on the sand. With no high-rise buildings along the beachfront, and a wide, flat expanse of shoreline, there is plenty of room to spread out. Sunset Beach is a hot spot for collecting shells and is known for having lots of sand dollars that wash up on the shore.
If you’re in need of a bathroom or something to eat, head to the Sunset Beach Pier. The 900-foot pier is a great place for strolling and fishing, it’s also a convenience store and restaurant, and even has a game room. Getting to the beach is easy; there are 35 public access points and three parking lots near the beach. One of the lots is free—a rare occurrence along the coast—but it fills up quickly. The beach is dog-friendly, but only during a certain window of the year. Animals are not permitted on the beach from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day.
A trip to Sunset Island isn’t complete without a visit to picturesque Bird Island, which you can access from Sunset Beach or by boat. This protected, undeveloped preserve is known for its winged residents, which live in the island’s dunes, wetlands, and marshes. Between May and August, you may also see Loggerhead turtles or their eggs; the island is a popular nesting site for this endangered species.
Bird Island is also home to the Kindred Spirit mailbox. Tucked away at one end of the island, about a mile from the last access point at Sunset Beach, you’ll find an unusual sight: a mailbox and a bench. For decades, people have made pilgrimages to this isolated yet beautiful location to share their thoughts in a notebook left inside the mailbox. Local volunteers collect and replace the notebooks when they are filled up, then they send them to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington’s Randall Library, which stores the books, preserving the stories within.
Serious golfers can take their pick from six beautiful and award-winning courses within Sunset Beach. The Sea Trail Golf Courses—named for their designers: Rees Jones, Willard Byrd, and Dan Maples—offer players three different layouts and degrees of difficulty. If putt putt is more your speed, head to Tropical Adventure Mini Golf in nearby Calabash.
This open-air market across from the Sunset Beach Pier is a one-stop shop for locally-made jewelry, art, and crafts, fresh produce and food, apparel, and more. Not only does it provide a place for area makers and farmers to sell their products, proceeds benefit local rescue organizations both “human, furry, and wild,” as One Love puts it. The market is open seasonally, so check the calendar for dates.
Seafood lovers will find lots to love in this town. Fibber McGees is a popular spot, not only for its ample outdoor seating, but for its Irish pub-meets-fish shack menu. For something a little more upscale, The Boat Landing Restaurant has views of the Intracoastal Waterway and a dinner menu that includes fresh-catch fish tacos, corn-dusted fried oysters, and shrimp po’boys.
For burgers, live music, and cold beer, head to Mavericks Pointe. Sarah’s Kitchen is a local favorite for breakfast, especially pancakes. The breezy covered patio is nice, too. MooTown is a cute ice cream shop serving 40 flavors of Blue Bell and Hershey’s, plus milkshakes and other frozen treats.
With its charming decks and porches, the two-story 14-room Sunset Inn is a dreamy place to stay. Breakfast is free here, and the beach is just a few short blocks away.
Sea Trail Golf Resort has one-to-four-bedroom villas available for rent on its property. Villas come with kitchens, access to two pools, and a screened-in porch or balcony with views of the golf courses. At Legends Golf Resort you can choose from two- or three-bedroom condos.
Sloane Realty Vacations offers house and condo rentals close to the beach. Some properties are pet-friendly, and others come with boat docks.
910-213-3800
