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 The Mailbox at Wrightsville Beach 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 Wrightsville 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.
“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”
“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since”
“Other Navigation through the process of finding a Memory Care Facility for my husband. The Owner.”
“Phenomenal services providing peace of mind during difficult times when your elderly loved ones need”
“I could not be happier with this service. I schedule care in 15 minute or”
“I Love Always Best Care, we have an amazing team and I am lucky to”
“I am a past client of this provider Staff helped guide and navigate options for my”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by”
“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!”
“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since the early 2000s and was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. We've worked with many companies to provide care for her and companionship. Since 2020, as my mother has significantly declined, we've had to make the decision to move her into a facility. For the past three years, Always Best, and more specifically Nancy Newcomer, has provided consistent and quality care for our family. Nancy is always on time, caring, and reliable. We've experienced companies with high turnover and feel blessed to have had Nancy's support for three years. She doesn’t do this solely for a paycheck but also checks on my dad on her days off and genuinely cares. I'd highly recommend this company to help care for your aging loved ones.”
“Other Navigation through the process of finding a Memory Care Facility for my husband. The Owner. Met with my daughter and me. We included my husband. Right away we could hear see and feel this man's compassionate heart. He cared for his own aging family members and can relate. He personally called to check in with us despite the fact that we needed a facility and not home care. Taking it one step further he went on tours with us and we discussed pros and cons without his bias of one over another. Once our loved one was placed this gentleman continued advising at our initiation of calls. He never failed to call back. Highly recommend this man.”
“Phenomenal services providing peace of mind during difficult times when your elderly loved ones need you the most. Highly recommend!”
“I could not be happier with this service. I schedule care in 15 minute or 30 minute visits for 6 visits a day. They make sure that my 96 year old mother takes her meds, walks to meals, they deliver her meals when she is too tired to walk, they water her plants, bathe her, they will help in anyway to provide the best care. Shawn Cothran, the owner, made a personal visit to her room to make sure she had all that she needs. The caregivers; Vera, Jackie, Toni, Elizabeth and many others could not be better. I highly recommend this service.”
“I Love Always Best Care, we have an amazing team and I am lucky to be surrounded by such caring hearts.”
“I am a past client of this provider Staff helped guide and navigate options for my mother. We found a new home for her and the extra attention she is now receiving has given both the family and her comfort and peace of mind. It is a challenging transition and the help was invaluable. Many thanks!”
“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 Wrightsville Beach 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 22 North or visit Crystal Pier, 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 Wrightsville 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 Wrightsville 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 Wrightsville 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.
It was a lengthy process to bring the vision to life, but the Bevvy Mart has been offering a unique, better-for-you version of the ever-popular convenience store for a few months. The location at 520 Causeway Drive was once the site of the Causeway Market and before that a welcome center for Wrightsville Beach.“I love that,” said Michaela Batten, one of the owners. “That’s what we wanted to offer, some of that Southern hospitality and welcome.”Batten, her husband Chris Batten, and Wrightsville Beac...
It was a lengthy process to bring the vision to life, but the Bevvy Mart has been offering a unique, better-for-you version of the ever-popular convenience store for a few months. The location at 520 Causeway Drive was once the site of the Causeway Market and before that a welcome center for Wrightsville Beach.
“I love that,” said Michaela Batten, one of the owners. “That’s what we wanted to offer, some of that Southern hospitality and welcome.”
Batten, her husband Chris Batten, and Wrightsville Beach native and professional surfer Mason Barnes are partners in the project and ushered it through a years-long permitting and renovation process. They’ve since joined forces with Chef James Bain, who is making some of the favorite foods from Epic Food Co.
The result has a little something for everyone, “from sunup to sundown,” Michaela Batten said. There is a full espresso bar, snacks, slushies, fresh grab-and-go meals, grocery essentials, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.
“But we want it to be healthy, in a realistic way,” she said. Sure, you can find Cheetos, but also a line of products that she curates that may be gluten free or dairy free or offer other wellness benefits.
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Many locals know the Battens from founding Bespoke Coffee in downtown Wilmington, but their coffee experience also pre-dates moving to this area. The coffee bar at Bevvy Mart has some retro stools at the counter, and a menu that includes both the basic brews and seasonal lattes.
The location right off The Loop means a lot of people walk in while exercising, Michaela Batten said. So there are also some refreshing options, including the Loop Lemonade, which is a half-charcoal blend that also incorporates green juice.
And, instead of happy hour, the market hosts pick-up hour. It takes place 2-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Each day, you can find specials on drinks and slushies.
Michaela Batten said given the health-forward focus of Bevvy Mart, it was a natural choice to work with Bain. The chef developed several comfort food dishes that combine both flavor with better-for-you ingredients. Many of them, like his popular “Brussels with hustle” salad, chicken salad and gluten-free chicken tenders are now at the market.
Bain is also working on new food for Bevvy Mart, including a possible taquitos recipe.
“And hot breakfast,” Batten said. “That’s something everybody seems to want.”
In addition to new foods, and seasonal coffees, Michaela Batten said they’re planning other tweaks as they move into spring and summer. That includes a new line of smoothies, getting food and drinks delivered through a third party, and eventually, they plan to open their service window.
Batten also said given the positive response, she sees the brand growing in the future.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at [email protected].
Atlantic Coast beaches have a charm all their own, but they don’t often get the same level of gushing admiration that their counterparts on the Gulf Coast are so accustomed to. While Florida beaches get praised for looking like the Caribbean and having ...
Atlantic Coast beaches have a charm all their own, but they don’t often get the same level of gushing admiration that their counterparts on the Gulf Coast are so accustomed to. While Florida beaches get praised for looking like the Caribbean and having out-of-this-world blue waters, beaches in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia have to work a little harder to earn their fans.
However, there’s one beach in North Carolina that has sand and surf to rival even the dreamiest of Gulf Coast beaches, and it’s Emerald Isle. Part of the 85-mile barrier island that’s affectionately known as the Crystal Coast or the Southern Outer Banks, Emerald Isle is the kind of laidback family getaway that makes you want to return year after year. Its white sand and crystal-clear, emerald waters (hence its name) are a bit of a best-kept secret, but once you discover their beauty, you'll be devoted—hook, line, and sinker.
While the water at beaches in other parts of the state are typically murky and appear dark blue or even brownish in color, the water off the coast of Emerald Isle is much clearer and takes on a signature blue-green hue. Last summer, North Carolina locals were astounded by a rare but entirely natural phenomenon that caused the ocean along the Crystal Coast to sparkle with a brilliant blue radiance that folks previously only associated with places like the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos.
The phenomenon, caused by an uncharacteristically low number of tropical storms and hurricanes coupled with unseasonally light offshore winds, allowed sediment to settle closer to the ocean floor and the water to exhibit its true vibrant turquoise color. During the middle of the day when the sun was brightest, visitors swore they had been transported to a faraway tropical island.
While Emerald Isle’s sand can’t claim the same sugar-white distinction that Florida’s quartz sand beaches can, its stretches of shoreline do trend toward the light khaki and even off-white, which is a far cry from the mineral-heavy, graham cracker-colored sand found on other beaches in North Carolina.
Spending consecutive days alternating between sunbathing in the soft sand, then taking a dip in the sea when it gets too hot, is a must. But once you’ve mastered the fine art of “beaching” in Emerald Isle, you may want to graduate to exploring the ocean from new angles. See the water from above by hanging ten with a surf lesson from Hot Wax Surf Shop or testing your balance on a stand-up paddle board. When you’re ready to dive deeper, you can experience Emerald Isle from underwater by snorkeling or diving. The clear conditions and light-colored water make it easy to spot all kinds of fish and marine life, as well as remnants from long-ago shipwrecks in an area that’s known as The Graveyard of the Atlantic.
Wrightsville Beach is a favorite destination for surfers, fishing fans, vacationing families, and anyone seeking a low-key beach experience. Our readers even named it their ...
Wrightsville Beach is a favorite destination for surfers, fishing fans, vacationing families, and anyone seeking a low-key beach experience. Our readers even named it their favorite waterfront town in North Carolina in the 2024 South's Best Awards. And now there’s another reason to plan a visit here. Trailborn Surf & Sound opened its doors at the end of January, giving visitors a new beachfront hotel option. The property—Formerly the Seashore Hotel, Ocean Terrace Hotel, and Blockade Runner Beach Resort—has long been a fixture in Wrightsville Beach, and recent renovations have turned it into a charming, modern-day escape.
The overall look of the property, which was designed by Post Company, is open and breezy, with a spacious lobby that leads out to a boardwalk and the grounds, where the hotel will host events like yoga and oyster roasts. With easy access to the beach and the sound, there are plenty of water activities that can be arranged by the hotel, including surf lessons and kayaking. Inside, each of the redone 151 guest rooms has a view of the ocean or the sound side, with either a full or a Juliette balcony. If you're traveling with a group, the Deluxe Garden Suite has a kitchenette and three beds that can accommodate up to six people.
PHOTO:
Trailborn Surf & Sound
PHOTO:
Trailborn Surf & Sound
Several new drinking and dining options are set to open early this year. La Duna Paradiso, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, will offer a Mediterranean-inspired menu of local seafood and pasta. Bar Duna, in the hotel’s lobby, will serve cocktails and snacks. The beachfront Blockade Surf Bar, which serves lunch and dinner, has cabanas and seating areas for hanging out.
Wrightsville Beach is about 15 minutes from Wilmington and the city’s airport (which has direct flights from many major cities). If you’re driving, the area is about 4 hours from Charlotte, NC and Charleston, SC; and about 2 hours from Raleigh.
A well-known hotel in Wrightsville Beach is back open with a luxurious makeover.STORY HIGHLIGHTSOne of the best-known hotels on the North Carolina coast is back open — with a new name and a swank approach.The Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach is now the Trailborn Surf & Sound, and the spot that has welcomed vacationers for decades has a sweeping new look.The ...
A well-known hotel in Wrightsville Beach is back open with a luxurious makeover.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
One of the best-known hotels on the North Carolina coast is back open — with a new name and a swank approach.
The Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach is now the Trailborn Surf & Sound, and the spot that has welcomed vacationers for decades has a sweeping new look.
The hotel sits on an ideal location, spanning 3.5 acres and featuring the Banks Channel on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.
Lawrence Lewis Jr. opened the 151-room Blockade Runner in 1964 and sold it to Joseph Baggett in 1971. The Baggett family sold the hotel in 2022 to Castle Peak Holdings of New York City.
Castle Peak Holdings announced in September that the hotel would undergo an extensive renovation and rebrand as Trailborn Surf & Sound.
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Exterior view of the Surf & Sound hotel in Wrightsville Beach. Expand to read more
Leslie Ryann McKellar
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This is Trailborn’s fourth hotel and first beachfront resort property, the company said in a news release
The renovations include easier access to the beach, an updated and improved pool bar and an expanded restaurant. The restaurant, La Duna Paradiso, will feature an Italian and seafood dishes and is expected to open this spring.
The renovated Blockade Surf Bar is a nod to the property's previous name.
“Trailborn is thrilled to uphold the legendary status of this coastal gem and create a higher quality experience that ensures the hotel continues to be a beloved spot for locals, while also meeting the evolving expectations of travelers,” said Mike Weiss, co-founder and co-CEO of Trailborn.
Driving the renovations was Post Company, which has offices in Brooklyn, New York, and Jackson, Wyoming. The look includes a brightened, lively lobby and refreshed rooms across the property.
Room prices in May begin at $263 per night early in the month and rise from there.
The Blockade Runner isn't the oldest hotel in North Carolina by any means — the Pinehurst Resort dates to 1895 and Asheville's Grove Park Inn dates to 1913, for example — but it's been a favorite of North Carolina families for decades.
The name change continues a trend away from names associated with the Confederacy. Wilmington was a key port for Confederate blockade runners and protected by Fort Fisher, which fell to Union forces in 1865.
Numerous shark encounters have occurred in North Carolina throughout the years, and the state's waters are home to a variety of shark species, including the great white shark, tiger shark, and bull shark. These species are known for their size and aggressiveness, which increases the risk of face-to-face sightings, esp...
Numerous shark encounters have occurred in North Carolina throughout the years, and the state's waters are home to a variety of shark species, including the great white shark, tiger shark, and bull shark. These species are known for their size and aggressiveness, which increases the risk of face-to-face sightings, especially in popular beach areas. The state's warm waters, along with rising human activity, make it a prime location for sharks, especially during peak tourist months when more people are in the water. However, it is important to remember that shark attacks remain rare and that following safety precautions — such as avoiding swimming at dawn or dusk and staying in groups — can significantly reduce the risk of incidents. Here are the six most shark-infested beaches in North Carolina.
One of the most shark-infested beaches in the world is Emerald Isle Beach, which is situated in North Carolina's Crystal Coast. The surrounding coastal waters are a significant part of a major migration route for sharks, creating what is commonly referred to as a "shark superhighway." This pathway is frequented by various shark species, including the mighty great white, hammerhead, and blacktip sharks, making the area a hotspot for shark activity. Their increased sensitivity to prey in the dim light around twilight is what drives their behavior. Because people are frequently in the water at the same time and are not aware of the predators nearby, shark attacks typically happen during these times. Shark attacks in the area have become more common since 2000. In that year, a man was bitten by a shark, nearly losing his hand in the attack. Following this, several more incidents were reported, including attacks in 2002, 2008, 2016, and 2020.
Wrightsville Beach has experienced occasional shark-related incidents. In 2021, a young boy was bitten on his right calf while standing in shallow water. Another incident occurred in 2019 when another little boy was bitten by a shark while swimming. That month, North Carolina saw a greater rise in shark attacks as a result of this incidence. While these sightings are worrisome, they educate the public on how most shark encounters result in non-life-threatening injuries, especially in areas with shallow, clear water, and since sharks are often more interested in pursuing smaller aquatic prey. It is still a common place for sharks and people to meet, with only a few close, alarming encounters, because of its popularity for activities like swimming, surfing, and fishing.
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Shark sightings are relatively frequent in Kitty Hawk and the broader Outer Banks region, where great white sharks and other species are frequently observed through tracking and seasonal migrations. According to OCEARCH, in a recent month alone, nine great white sharks were tracked near the Outer Banks. This evidence showcases how important the area is to the sharks' migratory patterns as they pass through it, hunting for food. There have been 10 shark attacks in the Outer Banks since the 1930s, two in Currituck County and eight in Dare County, where Kitty Hawk is located.
Ocracoke Island, a beach town in the scenic Outer Banks region, has seen many shark attacks and sightings. In 2011, a girl was bitten by a shark on her lower leg and foot. The event served as a reminder that even shallow waters can be risky. In 2015, a more serious attack occurred when an older man was bitten while casually swimming. He suffered multiple bites spanning from his torso, hip, and leg to his hands. The most recent reported sighting occurred in 2024 when a shark bit a woman at Ocracoke’s lifeguard beach and left multiple wounds on her foot. Visitors and locals should know the importance of swift and knowledgeable action in the event of an encounter, as well as the need for individuals to be aware of potential shark activity, even in the presence of lifeguards and well-regulated beach areas.
Unfortunately, communities along the coast, such as Holden Beach, must often be on the lookout for shark sightings. A moderate number of shark attacks have been charted at the beach between 1853 and 2015, with six documented shark attacks reported in the area. There have been four well-known sightings that took place in 2005, 2009, 2011, and 2013. In 2013, an older woman's right foot was bitten while walking through the water. Attacks like this commonly take place in deeper waters, which provide an ideal environment for larger shark species like the blacktip and bull shark.
However, sharks are known to venture to the shoreline of Holden Beach due to its calm, relatively shallow waters where their prey is found. Nonetheless, with isolated reports of shark sightings and occasional bites near Holden Beach, the overall likelihood of an attack remains low, although there may be sightings. The beach’s gentle waters, combined with the natural habits of sharks to avoid shallower regions during much of the year, contribute to a safer environment for swimmers and families.
North Topsail Beach certainly adds to the ongoing discussions about shark activity along the state’s coastline. In 2024, a young swimmer was bitten by a shark while swimming surprisingly close to the shore. Another shark-related event occurred in 2018, when a woman was bitten by a shark while swimming off the coast, which resulted in bites to her lower body, but, like the 2024 incident, the injuries were not life-threatening. Because sharks, including blacktip, spinner, and hammerhead, traverse through the region as part of their seasonal movements, these sightings are standard during the summer and fall.
North Carolina is home to some of the most shark-infested beaches in the country, but it's crucial to realize that shark attacks shouldn't deter potential visitors from enjoying the breathtaking beaches. Sharks congregate in the state's coastal waters, which are vibrant with marine life and a key shark migration route. In regions with high concentrations of human activity, bite attacks are usually isolated incidents. Regardless, by staying informed, following local safety guidelines, and being cautious while swimming or surfing, visitors and residents can continue to enjoy North Carolina's beaches while minimizing the probability of shark encounters.
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