It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Federal Point Historic Preservation Society gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Carolina Beach, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with.”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed,”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We”
“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many”
“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.”
“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 contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many options it was confusing for me! Shawn and his team sent me several places to review and then accompanied me to visit independent living facilities. I appreciate the resources and information provided. Shawn, thank you for being focused on our family's needs and sharing your expertise. Your compassion and patience is so very appreciated!”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by far the best place I've worked our boss and staff are everything.????????????????????????????????????????????????????”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Carolina Beach State Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Lake Park Steakhouse or visit Carolina Beach Boardwalk, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Carolina Beach, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Carolina Beach, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Carolina Beach, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Board the ferry, ditch your car, and head outside.In This ArticleLocated off the coast of North Carolina, this overgrown, nature-loving island is rich in opportunities for adventure. For one, it's the home of the state's oldest standing lighthouse, Old Baldy. Its nature is also something of preserved wonder. It's th...
Board the ferry, ditch your car, and head outside.
In This Article
Located off the coast of North Carolina, this overgrown, nature-loving island is rich in opportunities for adventure. For one, it's the home of the state's oldest standing lighthouse, Old Baldy. Its nature is also something of preserved wonder. It's the northernmost subtropical island on the East Coast and 10,000 of its 12,000 acres are protected as preserves. There are endless stretches of sandy beachesand palm-filled forests, too, giving you plenty of places to get lost and get back to quiet moments in nature.
Park your car and set out on foot; while getting there and getting around will require a little planning, once you've arrived, you'll see why it's such a treasured secret. Here are some ideas for visiting this quiet hideaway.
The Best Beach Towns In North Carolina
Cars aren't allowed on the island, so it's actually possible to get some real peace and quiet—aside from the hum of cicadas, of course. Visitors must travel there by ferry or private boat and then use a golf cart or bicycle to get around. (Don't worry, it's mostly flat.) Cary Cart Co. has some spiffy rides available for rent so you can cruise in style.
A ferry departs from Deep Point Marina in Southport, North Carolina, every hour (on the hour) that will deliver you and your luggage to Bald Head Island Marina where you can catch the island tram to your house (reserve online) or pick up golf carts for the day from Cary Cart Company (reservations recommended). For the athletically inclined, Riverside Adventure Company is located next door and rents out bikes by the hour or day. If you are flying to Bald Head, take a taxi from the airport to Deep Point Marina.
During any trip outdoors, you're sure to glimpse some island wildlife. Hike through the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve by entering any of the trailheads along Federal Road. It comprises 173 acres of forest.
According to the Bald Head Association, you'll see giant live oaks, laurel oaks, red cedar, and red bay laurels on the island. Take in these natural areas, or simply kick it on the beach by entering the sand at any of the many public access points that run along the 14 miles of coastline.
To learn about nature in the Brunswick Islands, head to the Bald Head Island Conservancy, where you can sign up for a guided nature outing, turtle walk, or ride-along beach turtle patrol. Kids' programs will help them get their feet wet with crabbing or surf fishing. Some programs are only available in summer, so check the website to see what's currently on offer.
If adventure is calling your name, rent kayaks, surfboards, and paddle boards at the East Beach Surf Shop and set out on the water to see the sights. You can explore the tidal creeks solo or hire a guide. If you're looking to discover surfing for the first time, contact the shop to see when surf lessons are available.
Don't miss your tee time just because you're on vacation. Golf is available to members and their guests through the Bald Head Island Club. You'll get excellent views while you play, as the George Cobb-designed course winds through the forest, under Old Baldy, and out onto the dune ridge with a 180° view of the ocean, according to the club. Check out baldheadisland.com/events for other great activities indoors and out.
No visit to Bald Head Island is complete without a visit to the most recognizable local landmark. Many coastal towns have a lighthouse, but this one is special. Travel back in time with a tour of the island's unofficial mascot, Old Baldy, and make sure you're rested and ready, because a visit here might include a climb. If you're up for it, take the 108 stairs to the top for unparalleled views of the coast. Built in 1817, it's the oldest standing lighthouse in the state. Through the special programs at Old Baldy, you can take a two-hour historical tour aboard a golf cart, which will zip you around the island and uncover facts about the area as you go.
A deep-tissue massage, botanical facial, or pedicure awaits you at Island Retreat, a salon, spa, and the island's only professional yoga studio. Enjoy yoga and mimosas on the studio's porch under a canopy of oaks and palms. Or, join a pilates class in the studio or a session of beach yoga.
For breakfast treats and the best iced coffee on the island, head to Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream (conveniently located right next to the ferry), which serves up hearty scoops of local ice cream. Or go next door to Boat House, a newly opened diner serving up everything from beignets to fried green tomato B.L.T.s.
Try Jailhouse Provisions for fish baskets, sandwiches, and salads, or stock up on groceries at Maritime Market and cook your own fresh catch. For a sip of something refreshing, stop into Bald Head Bottle Wine Shop and Bar.
Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub has a prime location in the heart of the marina, plus a pet-friendly deck if you want to bring your pup along. Choose from a mix of Southern favorites, sushi, and seafood, then head to the bar to hang out while the party lasts.
For a more elegant dining experience, full and temporary members can book a table at the Shoals Club. Aqua boasts the best views on the island and coastal cuisine fashioned from fresh, regional ingredients. The club's lounge, Latitudes, features a tapas-style menu and sweeping views when you're in the mood for a lighter meal.
You won't find any giant beach or souvenir shops littering the blocks here. Nor will you find a row of chain restaurants lit up with neon signs. For a little retail therapy, you can pop into Monkee's or Bald Head Blues, both of which stay stocked with preppy island must-haves. Monkee's, a boutique on Maritime Way, is filled with bright colors and breezy labels. Bald Head Blues has resort wear and golf gear as well as accessories to complement your sporty, beachy vacation. Stock up on beach gear at BHI Hardware & General, where they sell not only tools, housewares, and garden supplies, but also the best selection of beach toys and chairs.
Accommodations are primarily rental homes available through companies like Intracoastal Realty or Tiffany's Beach Properties, or through VRBO or Air BnB. Stay along one of the island's three beaches—East, South, West—or in the lush "Maritime Forest," which is located not too far from the sand.
To experience the heart of the harbor, check into the Marsh Harbour Inn and wake up to views of sailboats and the salt marsh. If you're staying on the island, rental properties typically include golf carts and bikes for your use as well as guest access to either The Shoals Club or The Bald Head Island Club, which offer additional dining options, pools, and golf. The Inn at Bald Head Island is a cozy spot for a getaway too.
Several nonprofit organizations are requesting funding from the town of Carolina Beach.At a town council meeting on March 11, eight Carolina Beach-based nonprofits requested funding for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The groups serve a variety of functions in and around Carolina Beach, with many bringing tourist dollars to the town. The...
Several nonprofit organizations are requesting funding from the town of Carolina Beach.
At a town council meeting on March 11, eight Carolina Beach-based nonprofits requested funding for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The groups serve a variety of functions in and around Carolina Beach, with many bringing tourist dollars to the town. The groups requested a total of $74,500. No action was taken during the meeting, as the requests will be discussed further during the budget process.
Here’s where the town’s money could go.
What they do: Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce works to promote economic development through hosting a variety of events. The group serves Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Fort Fisher.
Amount requested: $35,000
Reason for request: Funds will help support business and economic development programming, ribbon cuttings, the Women’s Empowerment Network and more.
What they do: The Katie B. Hines Senior Center provides classes, nutritional services and hosts activities for adults 55 years and older.
Amount requested: $15,000
Reason for request: Funds will support the center’s required insurance and utilities costs.
What they do: The Federal Point Historic Preservation Society offers guided walking tours of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, collects and archives local historical records and assists in installing plaques on significant structures.
Amount requested: $9,000
Reason for request: Funds will support operating costs including office supplies and staff compensation.
What they do: Friends of Fort Fisher is the official nonprofit support organization for the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which includes a museum and hosts a variety of Civil War-themed events.
Amount requested: $5,000
Reason for request: Educational programs, seasonal staffing and new exhibits are some of the services not funded by the state. The requested funds will provide operational support in these areas.
What they do: Cape Fear Civil War Round Table works to promote knowledge and interpretation of the Civil War era. The organization hosts monthly meetings with guest speakers and leads field trips to Civil War sites.
Amount requested: $3,500
Reason for request: The nonprofit seeks to install a Civil War Trails interpretive sign that explains the significance of the Sugar Loaf Line, a string of Confederate fortifications in Carolina Beach State Park.
What they do: Island of Lights hosts numerous events to promote tourism in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach.
Amount requested: $3,000
Reason for request: The money will help fund events including Light up Night at the Lake, Flotilla, Tour of Homes and the New Year’s Eve Countdown Celebration.
What they do: Friends of Felines traps, neuters, and vaccinates feral cats found roaming in Carolina Beach. The organization has worked to reduce the number of feral cats in New Hanover County since 1996.
Amount requested: $2,000
Reason for request: The funds will help the group neuter and vaccinate approximately 50 cats.
What they do: Pleasure Island Paws works in conjunction with Friends of Felines to reduce the feral cat population in the area. The nonprofit has no paid employees and runs entirely on volunteers that work from home.
Amount requested: $2,000
Reason for request: Funds will help support the spay and neuter costs that amount to $55 per cat.
Daniel Sheehan covers New Hanover and Brunswick counties for the StarNews. Reach him at [email protected].
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Wildfires
USA TODAY
Editor's note: This story reflects news of the wildfires in North and South Carolina for Sunday, March 2. For the latest news, visit our story of the Carolina fires for Monday, March 3.
Dozens of wildfires raged across North and South Carolina on Sunday, prompting officials to issue evacuation orders and open emergency shelters as both states and much of the Eastern Seaboard contended with dry conditions and gusty winds.
In South Carolina, 175 wildfires burned across the state, scorching over 4,200 acres of land and straining firefighting resources, according to the state fire marshal's office. Response operations were ongoing in various areas, including Horry, Spartanburg, Union, Oconee, and Pickens counties.
The largest of the brush fires erupted Saturday in Carolina Forest, a community west of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The fire exploded in size overnight, forcing residents in at least a half dozen neighborhoods to flee their homes, officials said.
As of 5:30 p.m. local time Sunday, the fire grew to more than 1,600 acres and was 30% contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission. By 7:30 p.m., some residents who were forced to evacuate were allowed back in their homes, Horry County Fire Rescue said in a statement.
Dramatic videos show the inferno nearing homes as flames whipped furiously, sending stacks of smoke into the air. Officials said no structures have been destroyed and no injuries have been reported.
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster issued a state of emergency Sunday to unlock funds and resources for the ongoing response effort. A statewide ban on outdoor fires remains in effect, he said.
"This state of emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need,” McMaster said in a statement.
The South Carolina National Guard said it was assisting the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources with wildfire containment in Horry County on Sunday. The state National Guard prepared two Blackhawk helicopters, which can carry about 600 gallons of water.
In an update Sunday night, the Horry County Fire Rescue said residents in neighborhoods that were evacuated due to the Carolina Forest-area wildfire are allowed to re-enter their homes. As of 7:30 p.m., no structures have been impacted by the wildfire and no injuries were reported.
"Residents can expect to see first responders in the affected areas for an extended period of time," the department said. "Smoke will also be visible for an extended period of time. Folks traveling across the area are asked to use caution as smoke may reduce visibility, particularly after dark."
International Drive, which runs through the Carolina Forest, remains closed at the fire gates, according to the Horry County Fire Rescue. The department advised motorists to use alternative routes of highways 501, 22, and 31.
About 410 personnel and at least 127 fire apparatus have been involved in the fire response, according to the department.
Jason Daily, 52, was home in western Myrtle Beach when he received an evacuation order on his phone Sunday morning. Living in a coastal city prone to hurricanes, he already had a go-bag with important documents ready, but he still needed to get his two African serval cats, Cage and Raven, into their kennels.
Within 30 minutes, he packed the animals into his truck and headed to the nearby town of Conway, where his contracting business has a shop. There, he let the cats out and started a barbecue in the parking lot for evacuees.
On Saturday, he heard about the fast-moving fire and began seeing smoke outside his windows. Taking one step outside, it was "all you could smell," he said.
Daily, a retired fireman, has lived in Horry County for decades. He said this fire is the worst he's seen in the area since 2009, when a massive blaze consumed over 19,000 acres of land and destroyed 76 homes, including some of his friend's properties.
"I'm worried about our home, but it's just belongings that can be replaced," said Daily, who has been offered a few places to stay if he's not able to return home Sunday. "Everything important to me is out of the house."
In North Carolina, a wildfire burning in the Blue Ridge mountains was threatening the communities of Saluda and Tryon, which are located near the South Carolina border.
The so-called Melrose Fire burned 400 acres of land as of Sunday afternoon and remained uncontained, according to Polk County Emergency Management. "As of right now, evacuations are still voluntary for those in the affected areas of this fire," the agency said.
The state's forest service said its personnel, along with local firefighters, were battling the blaze from the air and the ground.
The fire department in Saluda said in a statement on Facebook that the fire appeared to have been started "by a downed power line."
Myrtle Beach, a coastal city home to nearly 40,000 people, has not had any damage from the large blaze spreading in eastern South Carolina, though it's close enough to see the smoke.
The blaze has scorched over 1,200 acres in Carolina Forest, a community just west of Myrtle Beach, where residents in several neighborhoods fled their homes.
The Myrtle Beach Fire Department is one of more than 30 agencies helping Horry County Fire Rescue battle the blaze.
The National Weather Service issued advisories on Sunday from Georgia to New Jersey warning of an increased risk of wildfires.
"The combination of dry fuels & low relative humidity continues to raise concerns for dangerous fire behavior on Sunday," the weather service office in Columbia, South Carolina. "While winds will be lighter, the dry conditions are forecast to continue being a problem."
The weather service issued a special weather statement for the elevated risk of the spread of wildfires in central and southern New Jersey, southeastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, and northeastern Maryland.
"Minimum relative humidity values will be near 20% combined with northwest winds near 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 25 mph," said the weather service in Mount Holly, New Jersey. "These conditions could support the rapid spread of any fires that ignite, which could quickly become difficult to control."
The Georgia Forestry Commission said it responded to 137 wildfires that burned more than 2,300 acres across the state on Saturday. The agency warned that while conditions were expected to improve on Sunday, residents should remain "extremely cautious with anything that may start fires outdoors."
Two wildfires were burning in New Jersey, including one in Mercer County and another in Salem County.
As of Saturday night, the Salem County fire burned about 50 acres and was 85% contained, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. No structures or roads were impacted.
The Mercer County Fire scorched more than 270 acres and was 80% contained by Sunday morning, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said. The agency said 30 residential structures and four commercial structures had been threatened.
(This story has been updated to add new information.)
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - The NC Artificial Reef Program has completed the construction of an artificial oyster reef, according to a social media post from the NC Division of Marine Fisheries.The 5-acre reef’s completion now adds 2,100 tons of recycled crushed concrete.The NC Artificial Reef Program recently completed construction at AR-491, adding 2,100 tons of recycled crushed concrete. This 5-acre reef is located in the Cape Fear River just inside Snow's Cut next to Carolina Beach State Park. ...
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - The NC Artificial Reef Program has completed the construction of an artificial oyster reef, according to a social media post from the NC Division of Marine Fisheries.
The 5-acre reef’s completion now adds 2,100 tons of recycled crushed concrete.
The NC Artificial Reef Program recently completed construction at AR-491, adding 2,100 tons of recycled crushed concrete. This 5-acre reef is located in the Cape Fear River just inside Snow's Cut next to Carolina Beach State Park. https://t.co/NloTMBEOxs @nccoastalfed pic.twitter.com/FoonOZUvBB
— NC Division of Marine Fisheries (@NC_DMF) March 14, 2025
Builders constructed the artificial oyster reef near the Carolina Beach State Park to help grow oyster numbers and benefit the entire ecosystem.
The oyster population in North Carolina has decreased by about 90% since the 1900s, according to the Coastal Federation.
This is a problem that the Division of Marine Fisheries, the North Carolina Coastal Federation, and the Carolina Beach State Park are working on to boost the numbers in our waterways.
Workers took cement rocks from Carolina Beach State Park and dumped the rocks onto the barge.
Next, workers transported the rocks to the artificial reef, where they were hosed down and dumped into the Cape Fear River.
Oysters act as engineers for water filtration and attracting other fish to the area.
“Oysters will settle on the concrete that we’re putting out and will begin to grow and then all the little nooks and crannies in between the oysters provide habitat for shrimp, crabs and small fish species that in turn bring in larger fish species that is there to eat those,” said North Carolina Marine Fisheries enhancement project manager Jordan Byrum.
This reef is unique in its proximity to the shore. It is accessible by kayak, small boats, or shore-based anglers.
The creation of this reef has also created small revenue for North Carolina due to the sourcing of materials for this project has been entirely based within the state.
Copyright 2025 WECT. All rights reserved.
CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Two agencies are teaming up to rebuild marine ecosystems in the Cape Fear River.NC Marine Fisheries and NC Coastal Federation are collaborating to move more than 2,100 tons of recycled concrete into the waters off Carolina Beach State Park to build an artificial reef.Blasted with around 300 pounds of pressure, the small concrete rocks are pushed off of a barge and into the riverThe project, which began in ...
CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Two agencies are teaming up to rebuild marine ecosystems in the Cape Fear River.
NC Marine Fisheries and NC Coastal Federation are collaborating to move more than 2,100 tons of recycled concrete into the waters off Carolina Beach State Park to build an artificial reef.
Blasted with around 300 pounds of pressure, the small concrete rocks are pushed off of a barge and into the river
The project, which began in 2017, provides a vital space for oyster populations to grow—which in turn attracts fish and other marine wildlife.
“Lots of commercially and recreationally important species,” Project Manager Jordan Byrum noted.
Byrum explains the artificial reef gives oysters a place to latch on and grow.
“All artificial reefs, we put those into areas that we call sort of a desert. So, they’re just kind of flat, sort of sandy mud. No other natural resources there,” he said.
Funding for the project is made possible by the EPA’s Kerr McGee Superfund Site in Navassa.
“This project is one the efforts to help those habitats,” Ted Wilgis with the Coastal Federation said.
At one time the Cape Fear River was teaming with oysters.
“Over time with the alteration of the river though deepening and other activities, a lot of those oyster reefs have disappeared,” Wilgis explained.
The larger goal is to eventually construct a series of artificial reefs stretching from the state park to Bald Head Island.
Wilgis said the hope is that one day, people can eat fish from the lower Cape Fear without worrying about getting sick—though, restoration won’t fix the problem alone.
“We also have to combine that with an effort to reduce the amount of pollutants entering the river. So, it’s a multi-pronged approach,” he said.
Since 2023, the NC Department of Health and Human Services has advised against repeated consumption of fish in the lower Cape Fear because of contamination of forever chemicals like PFAS and 1, 4 Dioxane.
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Tags: Artificial reef, Cape Fear River, Ecology, Environment, Fishing, Jordan Byrum, Kerr-McGee Superfund Site, marine ecosystems, NC Coastal Federation, NC Marine Fisheries, Oysters, Pollution, Ted Wilgis
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