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.
The restaurant scene in the Wilmington area might slow down (just a bit) during the cooler weather, but the lull doesn't last long. There's always something new happening. Here's a look at the new eateries that have been added in recent weeks, as well as some businesses that have closed.Restaurant openings K38 Baja Grill: The newest location of this locally born Cali-Mex brand is now open in the new Carolina Beach ...
The restaurant scene in the Wilmington area might slow down (just a bit) during the cooler weather, but the lull doesn't last long. There's always something new happening. Here's a look at the new eateries that have been added in recent weeks, as well as some businesses that have closed.
K38 Baja Grill: The newest location of this locally born Cali-Mex brand is now open in the new Carolina Beach mixed-use development, Proximity. It joins four other K38 restaurants in Wilmington.
Beach Break Donuts: This new spot serves “always hot” doughnuts, ice cream and coffee made with water purified via reverse osmosis. They held a grand opening at 1009 N. Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina Beach on April 14.
Shaka-Laka Bowls of OIB: A Brunswick County location of this organic acai bowl cafe. (There’s another in North Myrtle Beach. They opened mid-April at 11 Causeway Drive in Ocean Isle Beach serving a menu that also includes coconut bowls, pitaya bowls, ube bowls and green matcha bowls.
Crispy? Cones: This Shark Tank-approved concept opened its first North Carolina location on April 11 at 120 Market St. in downtown Wilmington. Warm pastry cones are made to order and filled with soft serve, toppings and drizzles.
Mi Rey Taqueria & Grill: A Mexican restaurant offering the flavors of Jalisco has opened in a former at 4015 Market St. in Wilmington. There’s a special lunch menu, a kids’ menu and specials like al pastor tacos on Tuesdays.
Casa Encanto: Also new in Mexican restaurants is the latest concept from the El Cerro Restaurant Group. It’s in the former Applebee’s space at 5120 New Centre Drive, Wilmington and aims to provide a unique, upscale experience with signature drinks.
Salty Dogs Cafe and Bark Bar: The former Archibald’s Deli has been rebranded as this pet-friendly spot with a full bar, fenced dog area, live music, and special events. Look for a menu with lobster rolls, key lime pie, salads and burgers at 2991 Holden Beach Road S.W. in Supply.
Grateful Graze: The owner of this charcuterie shop has been working out of the space at 1616 Shipyard Blvd. in Wilmington for a while. But on April 28, she opened the storefront and started offering a limited lunch menu and graze plates. Look for more hours and an expanded menu soon.
Dockside Seafood House: The owners of this Calabash staple announced they had closed after 70 years of serving great seafood and steaks at 9955 Nance St. on the Calabash River. "This is not just a farewell to a business, but a heartfelt goodbye to the countless relationships, shared memories and cherished memories that have been built within these walls," the owners said in a letter posted to social media.
David's Deli & Restaurant: This longtime restaurant that first opened in 1981 is also now officially closed, with a thank you note to customers posted on the door at 1984 Eastwood Road near Wrightsville Beach. Owner Doug Efting took over business in 1993 and announced in February that he would close the restaurant in April.
El Mariscal: This seafood-focused Mexican eatery opened in 2022 at 1319 Military Cutoff Road in Landfall Center as a part of the El Cerro Grande restaurant group. Now that they've opened Casa Encanto, Emmanuel Ibarra said that they transferred the staff (and many of the favorite dishes) to the new restaurant.
Chow Thai: The owners of this Asian restaurant at 5552 Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington posted to social media that they would close due to ongoing financial difficulties. “This place has been more than just a business,” the note read. “It’s been a home for us. Serving you over the years has been an honor beyond words, and we are deeply grateful for the support and memories you've given us.”
Golden Dawn Bakers: This bakery located upstairs at Alcove Beer Garden in Wilmington’s Cargo District announced that they would close after four years in business. “Thank you to all of our customers who have supported us,” the post read. “We’ve made the difficult decision to close the bakery and pursue other opportunities.”
Panacea Restaurant: This restaurant, once an extension of the Panacea Brewing Company kombucha business, is also closed at 4107 Oleander Drive after the business was sold to a new owner last year. The kombucha is still flowing at Panacea’s Tiny Tap & Taste at 311 Judges Road in Wilmington.
STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the area’s latest food news by signing up for the Port City Foodies newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at [email protected].
In one of Yelp’s newest must-try lists of American restaurants, the review site released a compilation of family friendly restaurants as Mother’s Day and summer vacations approach.Yelp used criteria like total volume of ratings and reviews that mention “family friendly” dining. The top spots on the list are known for keeping kids well-fed and entertained and meeting the needs of young diners. The restaurants also tend to encourage a relaxed vibe and serve more than junk food.The list only included three ...
In one of Yelp’s newest must-try lists of American restaurants, the review site released a compilation of family friendly restaurants as Mother’s Day and summer vacations approach.
Yelp used criteria like total volume of ratings and reviews that mention “family friendly” dining. The top spots on the list are known for keeping kids well-fed and entertained and meeting the needs of young diners. The restaurants also tend to encourage a relaxed vibe and serve more than junk food.
The list only included three restaurants from North Carolina, and only one local eatery. Michael’s Seafood Restaurant at 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina Beach came in at No. 83.
Michael and Shelly McGowan founded the restaurant in 1998, and it’s since become known for its chowder (which is now available at retail markets) and the seafood menu that leans into saute? and grill preparations, rather than fried. Larry Fuller is the current executive chef. The restaurant has a tiki bar vibe and a shaded patio.
They also offer a children’s menu with games and puzzles. Menu options for those 12 and younger include a kid-sized salad, mac and cheese, cheese pizza, barbecue chicken pizza, hotdogs, hamburgers, baked and breaded chicken breast bites, and corn puppies (or mini corn dogs). Small seafood lovers can also get specially sized portions of shrimp, fish and crab legs.
Elsewhere in North Carolina, The Mad Crabber in Avon is No. 84 on the list and Duckworths Grill & Taphouse, Huntersville is No. 91. The nearby Myrtle Beach area had two eateries on the list. Simply Southern Smokehouse is No. 17 and Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts is No. 53.
STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the area’s latest food news by signing up for the Port City Foodies newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at [email protected].
Nine Wilmington-area beaches are in the running for nationwide recognition again for USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award "Which beach in North Carolina is the best?"Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Surf City, Topsail Beach and Wrightsville Beach are amon...
Nine Wilmington-area beaches are in the running for nationwide recognition again for USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award "Which beach in North Carolina is the best?"
Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Surf City, Topsail Beach and Wrightsville Beach are among 20 finalists.
An expert panel has nominated their top beaches in North Carolina.
Readers can vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 19 at noon. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 28. Vote here: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-beach-in-north-carolina/.
Here's what an expert panel said about the beaches.
For a laid-back and down-to-earth beach vacation on the Atlantic coast, look no further than Carolina Beach. The vintage Carolina Beach Boardwalk bustles in summer, as families stroll past shops, restaurants, and bars on the way to the seaside amusement park. A number of different beach activities are available to enjoy, too, from surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, to fishing and diving.
In spite of its small size, Kure Beach is bursting with picturesque landscapes carved into the eastern edge of Pleasure Island. Sunbathing and swimming are both top summer activities around here, while the town's long-standing fishing pier draws visitors in droves to catch local marine life.
With a particularly idyllic atmosphere thanks to its low population, Holden Beach is perfect for a relaxed seaside getaway. Golfing is a popular hobby across the area, while visitors gather along the town's shores to scour the tide for shells and even watch hatching sea turtles during the summer months.
Golfing, fishing, and kayaking are all popular activities across Oak Island, a vibrant community found on the southern shores of North Carolina. Wildlife lovers can set off along the Oak Island Nature Center to search for native birds and mammals, while the town's lengthy 10-mile shoreline is perfect for some afternoon relaxation on the sand and in the surf.
Ocean Isle Beach offers soft, sandy shores and calm water that's perfect for swimming. Guests can spot dolphins and the occasional sea turtle from shore, while the Museum of Coastal Carolina offers ample insight into the biology of the region's native marine creatures.
Beachgoers won't find boardwalks or high rises at Sunset Beach, but what they will find is a seemingly endless stretch of sand. Since the beach is south facing, it's possible to not only watch the sunset from the aptly named beach, but the sunrise as well.
A prominent settlement on Topsail Island, Surf City showcases the picturesque beauty of the North Carolina coast at its best. In between trips to the beach, guests can take advantage of the many restaurants scattered along the shore, while the Topsail Touch Tank Aquarium is the perfect attraction for any marine biology aficionados.
While it's a tranquil destination today, legend states that Topsail Beach was once frequented by pirates, with the infamous Blackbeard once having prowled the surrounding area. In the modern era, visitors can relax along the water or enjoy surfing, swimming, or fishing.
Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach offers an idyllic escape on the eastern edge of New Hanover County. In addition to offering multiple fishing piers and a soft, sandy shoreline, the destination also doubles as a top spot for "Dawson's Creek" fans, thanks to its role as a prominent filming location during the series.
Cheryl M. Whitaker covers community news for the StarNews. Reach her at [email protected].
A cult favorite burger that gained attention for its gas station location opened in a free-standing restaurant at 254 N Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina Beach.Island Burgers & Bites invited diners to their new spot on May 5. It’s still a counter-service restaurant, but there’s now both an indoor and outdoor dining ar...
A cult favorite burger that gained attention for its gas station location opened in a free-standing restaurant at 254 N Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina Beach.
Island Burgers & Bites invited diners to their new spot on May 5. It’s still a counter-service restaurant, but there’s now both an indoor and outdoor dining area where people can enjoy their burgers, cheesesteaks and more.
Island Burgers is consistently well reviewed and was named the best burger in North Carolina by Yelp in 2022. Last year, it was No. 5 on the review site’s list of top 100 restaurants in North Carolina.
Owners announced in November that they’d be moving into the former Hardee's location next door, just steps aways from the from the convenience store at 111 Carl Winner Drive. They closed the former location on April 27.
Island Burgers is now easier to see on Lake Park Boulevard with new signage and murals on the buildings. The interior is light and bright with banquette seating, tables, and high-tops. There’s also a covered patio with wood paneling, ceiling fans and round picnic tables. Parking is available in the on-site lot.
The menu is the one most of their fans are familiar with – a selection of single and double burgers available with bacon, cheese and a wide variety of free toppings like relish, slaw, chili, sriracha relish, and fresh or pickled jalapenos. Premium toppings like a fried egg, grilled onions, peppers or mushrooms, and pimento cheese can also be added. The menu also includes cheesesteaks, hot dogs, sandwiches, onion rings, french fries and fountain and bottled sodas.
Owner Ajay Singh said they've also already been able to start serving beer. Look for local brews, including an Island Burgers lager made especially for the restaurant. He's also planning to expand the menu to include wings, grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers and milkshakes. Singh said Island Burgers will also soon be making their own bread for the cheesesteaks and that he's thinking about a dessert menu, too.
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Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at [email protected].
A Carolina Beach church is helping visitors pay it forward to local families in need by providing donation-based parking.St. Paul’s United Methodist Church has all the hallmarks of a small-town church. Brick walls, stained-glass windows and a friendly Southern pastor greet the congregation every Sunday morning. But there’s one component that sets it apart: real estate.The church is just blocks away from the heart of Carolina Beach, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It’s a quarter mile walk f...
A Carolina Beach church is helping visitors pay it forward to local families in need by providing donation-based parking.
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church has all the hallmarks of a small-town church. Brick walls, stained-glass windows and a friendly Southern pastor greet the congregation every Sunday morning. But there’s one component that sets it apart: real estate.
The church is just blocks away from the heart of Carolina Beach, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It’s a quarter mile walk from Britt’s Donut Shop, the town’s iconic seasonal doughnut shop. The 0.62-acre property is worth over $2 million, according to New Hanover County’s most recent property revaluation. For the past three years, St. Paul’s has utilized its sought-after location to solve two issues at once. The church offers donation-based parking with the proceeds funding affiliated ministries’ efforts to serve local families in need, lead pastor Stuart Milton said.
“We have ministries here that feed people and to help people who are in tough times,” Milton said. “All of that money that we receive from the parking goes to help families in the Carolina Beach community.”
The church hopes to provide some relief to the growing demand for parking in the tourist hotspot. Roughly 50 spots are available throughout the week, except for during the church’s Sunday service from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and special events.
“We have space and we just felt like it was a good way to serve,” Milton said. “It was kind of a win-win situation.”
St. Paul’s, which is located at 300 Harper Ave., has received nearly $1,000 in online parking donations in the past year. The church feeds local families with the funds every Friday morning. None of the money will go into the church’s budget, Milton said.
The town of Carolina Beach voted to reduce the price of a residential parking pass from $40 to $30 in January. The resolution raised the parking rate for low-speed vehicles and golf carts to $100. Town council voted down an option offering a $40 residential pass and a $200 pass for both residents and non-residents.
Annual residential passes are available to Carolina Beach and Kure Beach residents, business owners and property owners only. Weekly visitor passes are available for $100. Daily parking rates start at $25. In Wrightsville Beach, residential parking passes are $50 with daily rates starting at $30.
Daniel Sheehan covers New Hanover County for the StarNews. Reach him at [email protected].
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