Experience North Carolina's hidden coastal gem! Brunswick County and the Brunswick Islands feature charming towns, scenic beaches, and tranquil surroundings with beach solitude and ocean views. From Oak Island to Sunset Beach, this southern coastal region offers incredible attractions, restaurants, parks, and water adventures perfect for families.
Popular Brunswick County attractions include Shark Tooth Island, Shallotte River Swamp Park, Brunswick County Botanical Garden, and Lake Waccamaw State Park. The region excels in outdoor adventures with coastal waters and rivers serving as economic engines, best explored by water with charter boats and rental vessels.
The Brunswick Islands boast miles of stunning shorelines, world-class golf courses, and stunning landscapes that shine at sunset. Visitors enjoy lighthouse tours along North Carolina's famous coastline, fishing charters, and scenic waterfront activities year-round.
Oak Island spans twelve miles long and averages 1 mile across, offering history, walking trails, a nature center, and a 10-mile sprawling beach. Oak Island Lighthouse serves as a signature landmark, while Ocean Crest Pier and Oak Island Pier provide excellent fishing opportunities and waterfront dining.
Oak Island features scenic paddle trails with seven designated routes ranging from 2 to 7 miles, offering easy paddling experiences through protected waterways perfect for all skill levels. The island's Environmental Overlook Trail and guided e-bike tours create memorable outdoor experiences.
The Brunswick Islands offer numerous accessible beaches including Oak Island, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Caswell Beach, Sunset Beach, and Bald Head Island. Each beach community maintains its unique character while providing family-friendly atmospheres with calm waters ideal for children.
Holden Beach features pristine shorelines with paid parking systems, while Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach offer quieter alternatives to busier coastal destinations. These barrier islands provide excellent shelling, fishing, and beach walking opportunities.
Top Brunswick County restaurants include Southern (a gathering place), The Oyster Rock Waterfront Seafood, and Le Volte Oceanfront Dining & Venue. The dining scene emphasizes fresh seafood, waterfront locations, and farm-to-table concepts featuring local ingredients.
Beach town restaurants range from casual pier dining to upscale oceanfront establishments, with many featuring outdoor seating and sunset views. Local specialties include fresh-caught seafood, North Carolina barbecue, and coastal cuisine.
Lake Waccamaw State Park and other natural areas provide hiking trails, nature photography, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Numerous marinas throughout Brunswick County support fishing charters, boat rentals, and water sports activities.
The region's protected waterways create ideal conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. State parks and nature preserves offer camping, hiking trails, and environmental education programs.
Brunswick County hosts a wide variety of events including live music, festivals, and family activities throughout the year. The mild coastal climate makes year-round visits enjoyable, with spring and fall offering ideal temperatures for outdoor activities. From lighthouse tours to championship golf courses, Brunswick County delivers authentic coastal Carolina experiences perfect for relaxation and adventure.
145,889 people live in Brunswick County, where the median age is 56.1 and the average individual income is $44,565. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Brunswick County, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Captain John's Seafood, Lockwood Folly Marketplace, and Greenlands Farm.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 2.7 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $ | 2.71 miles | 35 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 4.14 miles | 8 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.54 miles | 21 reviews | 4.4/5 stars | |
| Dining · $ | 3.85 miles | 45 reviews | 4.4/5 stars | |
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Brunswick County has 64,436 households, with an average household size of 2.25. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Brunswick County do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 145,889 people call Brunswick County home. The population density is 171.62 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
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Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
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Blue vs White Collar Workers
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