South Brunswick Islands

The South Brunswick Islands--Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Sunset Beach--are man-made barrier islands formed when the North Carolina section of the Intracoastal Waterway was constructed between 1930 and 1940. In the late 1940s, Odell Williamson dreamed of a tranquil, family-vacation island and began buying tracts of land that would later become Ocean Isle Beach. This seven-mile-long island was incorporated as the town of Ocean Isle Beach in 1959. Mannon C. Gore envisioned the three miles of Sunset Beach as a peaceful residential community when he purchased the island in 1955. With over eight miles of oceanfront, Holden Beach is the longest and the largest of the three islands in the group. Each island boasts a unique character and has remained quiet with pristine beaches and a focus on families.

The South Brunswick Islands—Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Sunset Beach—are man-made barrier islands formed when the North Carolina section of the Intracoastal Waterway was constructed between 1930 and 1940. In the late 1940s, Odell Williamson dreamed of a tranquil, family-vacation island and began buying tracts of land that would later become Ocean Isle Beach. This seven-mile-long island was incorporated as the town of Ocean Isle Beach in 1959. Mannon C. Gore envisioned the three miles of Sunset Beach as a peaceful residential community when he purchased the island in 1955. With over eight miles of oceanfront, Holden Beach is the longest and the largest of the three islands in the group. Each island boasts a unique character and has remained quiet with pristine beaches and a focus on families.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for something different, North Carolina Off the Beaten Path shows you the Tar Heel State with new perspectives on timeless destinations and introduces you to those you never knew existed––from the best in local dining to quirky cultural tidbits to hidden attractions, unique finds, and unusual locales. So if you’ve “been there, done that” one too many times, get off the main road and venture Off the Beaten Path.

North Carolina's Outer Banks and Upper and Lower Coasts are full of enchantment, from the magical waters to the stunning islands, imposing lighthouses, and captivating lore. Author Zepke brings you: History and heritage of coastal communities like Manteo's Fort Raleigh, where Sir Walter Raleigh established settlements in 1585, and Kitty Hawk, the birthplace of modern aviation Main sites and attractions like Cape Hatteras's tallest lighthouse in the United States and Wilmington's 230-block historic district Complete listings of boat ramps, marinas, golf courses, and spots to practice unusual sports such as kitesurfing and hang gilding. Little-known natural gems such as Bear Island's Hammocks State Park and the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge