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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.

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Home Care In Atlantic Beach, NC

Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC

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.

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 Atlantic Beach, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 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.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Atlantic Beach, NC?

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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.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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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.

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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.

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Senior Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Atlantic Beach, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal 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:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming
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Respite Care Atlantic Beach, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
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Caregivers Atlantic Beach, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

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.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
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Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

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. 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.

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In-Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Atlantic Beach, NC

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:

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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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

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 Atlantic 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.

Elderly Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Affordable 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:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
Senior Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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 Atlantic 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.

Assisted Living Referral Services

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.

Respite Care Atlantic Beach, NC

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:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
Caregivers Atlantic Beach, NC

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.

Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC

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.

In-Home Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 Atlantic 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.

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Elderly Care Atlantic Beach, NC

Latest News in Atlantic Beach, NC

2025 Atlantic Beach Christmas Lights

We love driving around checking out all the holiday lights in Jacksonville. Of all those around town, Atlantic Beach Christmas is one of our favorites. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach Christmas is a neighborhood light show that is well worth hunting out. While it’s not as large scale as some of the other, commercially produced light shows, it’s an impressive light display and one to add to your holiday must visits this year.Neighborhood Light DisplayAtlantic Beach Christmas does not...

We love driving around checking out all the holiday lights in Jacksonville. Of all those around town, Atlantic Beach Christmas is one of our favorites. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach Christmas is a neighborhood light show that is well worth hunting out. While it’s not as large scale as some of the other, commercially produced light shows, it’s an impressive light display and one to add to your holiday must visits this year.

Neighborhood Light Display

Atlantic Beach Christmas does not disappoint with 60,000 lights illuminating a cul-de-sac. Hidden away in Atlantic Beach, this house is not easy to find, but use the address below and you shouldn’t have a problem. Unless you live in the neighborhood, at some point on your journey to find it, you’ll think this is a total waste of time. It’s not! Rest assured, this house is worth a visit. This impressive neighborhood display features inflatables, lights, and holiday music. One of our favorite parts about the light display is how the lights dance along with the music.

Atlantic Beach Christmas Lights

What started as just a single house light display, as spread to other neighbors in the cup-de-sac. There is limited parking and maneuverability on this street. As a courtesy, it is strongly recommended that you park on Oceanwalk Drive West and walk the short walk down to the end of the street. One of the great things about parking at the end of the street and walking down towards the cul-de-sac is that you get a great view as you approach the house. There are always tons of people standing in the street. You can stand and admire the light display for as long as you want without having to worry about blocking traffic.

2025 Holiday Season Information

An Atlantic Beach Grill In North Carolina Serves Holiday Shrimp Stuffing Locals Plan Around

Holiday cravings on the Crystal Coast often point to one surprising star: shrimp stuffing at Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar. Locals swap tips on when to line up, because this cozy waterfront spot fills fast—and for good reason. With an eclectic seafood menu and whimsical charm, Amos Mosquito’s turns seasonal tradition into a crave-worthy ritual. Read on to discover why one Atlantic Beach grill inspires plans, lines, and repeat plates every festive season.Holiday Shrimp Stuffing TraditionAt Amos Mosquit...

Holiday cravings on the Crystal Coast often point to one surprising star: shrimp stuffing at Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar. Locals swap tips on when to line up, because this cozy waterfront spot fills fast—and for good reason. With an eclectic seafood menu and whimsical charm, Amos Mosquito’s turns seasonal tradition into a crave-worthy ritual. Read on to discover why one Atlantic Beach grill inspires plans, lines, and repeat plates every festive season.

Holiday Shrimp Stuffing Tradition

At Amos Mosquito’s, holiday shrimp stuffing is more than a side—it’s a seasonal ritual. Plump Atlantic shrimp mingle with coastal herbs, butter-kissed aromatics, and toasted bread for a briny, comforting bite. Locals time their visits around its return, pairing it with seafood staples or savoring it solo. The stuffing captures waterfront nostalgia, warming the room like a family gathering. Expect generous portions, balanced salinity, and a hint of citrus to brighten the richness. With a 4.7-star reputation, guests arrive early, brave lines, and leave planning their next plate. It’s festive, familiar, and uniquely Atlantic Beach.

A Waterfront Cozy With Whimsy

Amos Mosquito’s blends fine seafood and playful charm, creating a coastal hangout that feels personal. Nautical touches and a patio overlooking the water set a relaxed, celebratory tone. Inside, quirky details and friendly servers—Pumpkin and Peaches earn shout-outs—make first-timers instant regulars. The vibe invites families, date nights, and friend groups seeking elevated comfort food. Lines form before the 4:45 PM opening, but the bar eases the wait with refreshing cocktails. It’s the kind of place where conversation lingers and plates stay generous. Holiday season amplifies the glow, and the shrimp stuffing seals the memory.

What To Order With Shrimp Stuffing

The holiday shrimp stuffing shines alongside Amos Mosquito’s seafood favorites. Pair it with crab cakes over tender pasta, or balance richness with seared tuna’s clean finish. Shrimp and grits add Southern comfort, while scalloped scallops offer a casserole-style indulgence. For surf-and-turf lovers, fried pork chops surprise with crisp edges and savory depth. Start with pork dumplings to contrast textures, then finish with the chocolate crème brûlée—an adored dessert that evokes nostalgic warmth. Each bite complements the stuffing’s buttery savor, making a thoughtfully layered, coast-to-table feast that keeps locals returning each festive season.

Plan Around The Line (And Hours)

With 2,600+ reviews and a 4.7-star rating, Amos Mosquito’s draws lines before doors open. The strategy: arrive 30–45 minutes early, especially on weekends or during holidays. Hours run Tuesday–Thursday 4:45–8:30/9 PM and Friday–Saturday until 9 PM; closed Sunday–Monday. Parking gets tight, so carpool if possible. If there’s a wait, head to the bar for a cocktail to set the tone. The staff keeps service smooth and attentive, moving tables efficiently without rushing. A little patience rewards you with waterfront warmth and that seasonal shrimp stuffing that’s worth the planning.

Atmosphere: Eclectic Meets Coastal Fine Dining

Amos Mosquito’s balances eclectic fun with refined seafood technique. Expect polished plates served with a wink—comedic decor, friendly banter, and staff who keep things lively. The dining room hums, yet service remains dialed in and attentive. Waterfront views frame a cozy bar and patio, setting the stage for date nights and family dinners. It’s upscale without pretension, where a casserole of scallops shares the spotlight with expertly seared tuna. During the holidays, subtle seasonal touches make the space glow—perfect for celebrating, lingering, and savoring shrimp stuffing that tastes like coastal tradition on a plate.

Insider Tips From Regulars

Local wisdom: arrive early, join the list, then enjoy a bar drink while the room fills. Ask about seasonal specials—shrimp stuffing often appears in limited windows, so confirm availability. Portions are hearty; sharing appetizers like dumplings helps pace the meal. If you’re picky about scallops, ask whether they’re sea or bay that night. Weeknights can be slightly easier, but holidays draw crowds regardless. Save space for dessert—chocolate crème brûlée has a loyal following. Friendly servers offer smart pairings, so lean on their advice to balance richness with brightness across courses.

Practical Details You’ll Need

Find Amos Mosquito’s at 703 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, perched close to the water. Call +1 252-725-3374 or visit amosmosquitos.com for updates, menus, and seasonal notes. Expect a $20–$30 price range and seafood-centric, eclectic plates. Doors open at 4:45 PM Tuesday–Saturday; Sundays and Mondays are closed. Parking is limited; plan accordingly. The space suits large parties but fills quickly, so patience pays. Whether you’re chasing shrimp stuffing or exploring the broader menu, attentive service and consistent execution make this a must-stop on the Crystal Coast.

Holiday shrimp stuffing resonates because it captures Atlantic Beach on a fork—briny, buttery, and celebratory. It’s comforting without feeling heavy, nostalgic yet freshly executed. Locals build gatherings around it, trusting Amos Mosquito’s for warm service, consistent flavors, and a setting that feels like home. The ritual—arrive early, sip a cocktail, savor the stuffing—has become part of Crystal Coast holiday rhythm. With stellar reviews and a lively, coastal ambiance, the restaurant delivers more than dinner. It offers a tradition worth protecting, plate by plate, season after season.

The Clearest Water And Whitest Sand Can Be Found At This Beach In North Carolina

Atlantic Coast beaches have a charm all their own, but they don’t often get the same level of gushing admiration that their counterparts on the Gulf Coast are so accustomed to. While Florida beaches get praised for looking like the Caribbean and having out-of-this-world blue waters, beaches in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia have to work a little harder to earn their fans.However, there’s one beach in North Carolina that has sand and surf to rival even the dreamiest of Gulf Coast beaches, and it&rsquo...

Atlantic Coast beaches have a charm all their own, but they don’t often get the same level of gushing admiration that their counterparts on the Gulf Coast are so accustomed to. While Florida beaches get praised for looking like the Caribbean and having out-of-this-world blue waters, beaches in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia have to work a little harder to earn their fans.

However, there’s one beach in North Carolina that has sand and surf to rival even the dreamiest of Gulf Coast beaches, and it’s Emerald Isle. Part of the 85-mile barrier island that’s affectionately known as the Crystal Coast or the Southern Outer Banks, Emerald Isle is the kind of laidback family getaway that makes you want to return year after year. Its white sand and crystal-clear, emerald waters (hence its name) are a bit of a best-kept secret, but once you discover their beauty, you'll be devoted—hook, line, and sinker.

What Makes Emerald Isle’s Water And Sand Different?

While the water at beaches in other parts of the state are typically murky and appear dark blue or even brownish in color, the water off the coast of Emerald Isle is much clearer and takes on a signature blue-green hue. Last summer, North Carolina locals were astounded by a rare but entirely natural phenomenon that caused the ocean along the Crystal Coast to sparkle with a brilliant blue radiance that folks previously only associated with places like the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos.

The phenomenon, caused by an uncharacteristically low number of tropical storms and hurricanes coupled with unseasonally light offshore winds, allowed sediment to settle closer to the ocean floor and the water to exhibit its true vibrant turquoise color. During the middle of the day when the sun was brightest, visitors swore they had been transported to a faraway tropical island.

While Emerald Isle’s sand can’t claim the same sugar-white distinction that Florida’s quartz sand beaches can, its stretches of shoreline do trend toward the light khaki and even off-white, which is a far cry from the mineral-heavy, graham cracker-colored sand found on other beaches in North Carolina.

How To Experience Emerald Isle’s Water

Spending consecutive days alternating between sunbathing in the soft sand, then taking a dip in the sea when it gets too hot, is a must. But once you’ve mastered the fine art of “beaching” in Emerald Isle, you may want to graduate to exploring the ocean from new angles. See the water from above by hanging ten with a surf lesson from Hot Wax Surf Shop or testing your balance on a stand-up paddle board. When you’re ready to dive deeper, you can experience Emerald Isle from underwater by snorkeling or diving. The clear conditions and light-colored water make it easy to spot all kinds of fish and marine life, as well as remnants from long-ago shipwrecks in an area that’s known as The Graveyard of the Atlantic.

This Laidback North Carolina Surf Town Is Perfect For Your Next Beach Vacation

Wilmington wouldn’t be the oft-frequented vacation destination it is without water. A tale of two waterways, the North Carolina city is known for its charming riverfront on the Cape Fear River and also for its three beach communities on the Atlantic Ocean: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach. While each beach town has a personality all its own, the laidback island vibes on Wrightsville Beach make it one of our favorite places to spend time—and it also earned it a top spot as our readers' favorite waterfront town in...

Wilmington wouldn’t be the oft-frequented vacation destination it is without water. A tale of two waterways, the North Carolina city is known for its charming riverfront on the Cape Fear River and also for its three beach communities on the Atlantic Ocean: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach. While each beach town has a personality all its own, the laidback island vibes on Wrightsville Beach make it one of our favorite places to spend time—and it also earned it a top spot as our readers' favorite waterfront town in North Carolina the 2024 South's Best Awards. Spend time soaking up the sunshine on the sand, try out a new watersport like paddleboarding, or explore the surfer-friendly village where great restaurants meet unique local shops. Here are the best things to do in Wrightsville Beach.

Get Out On The Water

If you didn’t grow up on the water, you may be unfamiliar with sailing. Get acquainted with this style of watercraft with Wrightsville Performance Sailing. The company offers everything from half-day catamaran sails to three-hour private adventure charters to Masonboro Island. If you want to learn how to captain instead of just ride, sign up for an hour-long Hobie sail lesson.

; 330 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Folks in Wrightsville Beach love a workout on the water. The town is home to some of the country’s most prestigious stand-up paddleboarding competitions like the annual Carolina Cup. Get in on the craze with a rental or lesson from Wrightsville SUP. The outfitter also rents kayaks and bikes, so you’ll have your pick of outdoor adventures.

; 96 West Salisbury St., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

For a more passive activity on Wrightsville’s crystal blue waters, hop aboard a boat for a relaxing cruise on the calm waters. The Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cruise with Soundside gives a gentle tour of the tranquil sea that’s set against the picturesque image of a vibrant sunset.

; 226 South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Anglers can go inshore or deep sea fishing with Captain Robbie Wolfe of Whipsaw Charters, who has spent years taking folks out on the water to enjoy this active ocean sport. On a half-day family fishing trip, you can reel in everything from king mackerel and bluefish to black sea bass, then take home a giant cooler filled with your fresh catch.

If you’ve ever dreamt of hanging ten, there’s no better place to turn your far-off fantasy into reality than in North Carolina’s first surf town. The talented and patient instructors at WB Surf Camp will have you up on your board and catching waves in no time.

; 222 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

See The Sights

One of the best things about Wrightsville Beach is that there are seemingly endless ways to get to the beach. Rather than one central public access point, there are 44 smaller access points spread out over around 4 miles. Find a public parking spot, load up your beach day essentials, and prepare to soak up all the wonders of the surf, sun, and sand. Pro tip: For the best sunset spot, try Access #43 and #44, which are on the southern end of the island.

Extending more than 1,200 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, this iconic fishing pier is a must-see for all Wrightsville Beach visitors. Take a stroll along the state’s oldest concrete fishing pier and stop to cast a line if you’re feeling lucky. The attached tackle shop offers rod rentals if you didn’t bring your own and daily fishing passes are just $8.

; 23 Eeast Salisbury St., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

To get a quick overview of the island, walk or bike the 2.5-mile paved pedestrian path that’s known simply as The Loop. With marsh and intracoastal views, you’ll have plenty to look at while you unknowingly get your exercise for the day. Detours along the path include Wrightsville Beach Park, where you’ll find sport courts and a wide, grassy field; the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History; the Wrightsville Beach Arboretum; and the Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market from May through October.

Sticking out like a sore thumb along gently swaying sea oats and majestic sand dunes, the Wrightsville Beach Mailbox is a legendary character in this part of North Carolina. Head to Beach Access #2, then walk north along the shore until you reach a point just past Shell Island Resort. It’s here that the mysterious mailbox resides. Peek inside to discover notes and letters from fellow travelers, and add your own story for others to read.

Explore The Town

Any time you visit a new destination, it’s good to have context about the corner of the world that you’re exploring. At the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, you can learn about the island town’s more-than-100-year history. The historic Bordeaux Cottage gives a chronological account of the town’s history, complete with artifacts. In the neighboring Myers Cottage, you’ll find a deeper dive into several subjects relating to the town’s history.

; 303 W Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Take a stroll through the historic Wrightsville Beach town square to get a glimpse into what the Wrightsville Beach of yesteryear looked like. You can follow the online map to see several historic homes and landmarks. On select weekends the Museum of History even installs exhibit signs along the Loop, giving additional information about each of the structures.

When you need a break from the beach, head inland to peruse the many local shops and boutiques that makeup Wrightsville Beach’s sunny town. Try spots like South End Surf Shop, Holly Aiken, and Lighthouse Beer and Wine for a little something for everyone.

southendsurf.com; 708 South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480hollyaiken.comlighthousebeerandwine.com; 220 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

If you’re looking for evening entertainment, one place in Wrightsville Beach has been a beloved standby since 1955. The historic Palm Room Bar is the universal gathering place for anyone seeking ice-cold beer, a cocktail, or live music performances spanning all types of genres. Open until 2 a.m. every day, there’s always a party at the Palm Room.

palmroomwb.com, 11 E Salisbury St., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Where To Eat

La Duna Paradiso, the recently opened restaurant inside Trailborn Surf & Sound resort, has a stylish dining room and a menu inspired by Italy, the Mediterranean, and North Carolina's coast. Open to the public as well as guests, the dinner menu is heavy on fresh seafood and pastas, and the breakfast menu has dishes ranging from acai bowls to loaded pancakes. Bar Duna, the hotel's lobby bar, is open from noon to 9 p.m. and offers salads, sandwiches, and cocktails.

ladunaparadiso.com, 275 Waynick Blvd. Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Start your day with a hearty meal in the form of artisan toasts, breakfast bowls, and more at Drift.

Farm- and sea-to-table dining is the name of the game in Wrightsville Beach. For fresh seafoodwith a gorgeous view of the ocean from which it came, head to Bluewater Waterfront Grill or Oceanic for dishes like the classic North Carolina-Style Calabash Platter that’s jam-packed with lightly fried flounder, shrimp, and oysters.

bluewaterdining.com; 4 Marina St., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 oceanicrestaurant.com; 703 South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

If you’re not in the mood for seafood, head to Tower 7 for Baja-inspired Mexican cuisine or Zeke’s Beans & Bowls for acai or poke bowls.

zekes.net/wrightsvillebeach; 534 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 tower7.com; 4 North Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

It wouldn’t be a beach town without an ice cream shop. In Wrightsville Beach, the place to go when you’re craving a cold, sweet treat is Kohl’s Frozen Custard & Kitchen. You can get a classic vanilla or chocolate cone, but you’ll also find creative homemade flavors like Huggy Bear with graham crackers and caramel and Death by Chocolate with brownies, chocolate syrup, and chocolate flakes.

; 92 South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

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