Brunswick County Nc Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Brunswick County is located in the southern part of North Carolina, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It boasts of pristine beaches, natural wonders, historical landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Brunswick County has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey of the top attractions and hidden gems of Brunswick County.
Top Attractions
1. Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a three-mile-long barrier island located on the southernmost tip of Brunswick County. It’s known for its stunning sunsets, pristine beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along the beach or go fishing from the pier. You can also rent a kayak and explore the tidal creeks and salt marshes.
2. Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island is a secluded island located on the easternmost point of Brunswick County. It’s accessible only by ferry or private boat. The island has no cars, so you can explore it on foot, bike, or golf cart. Take a tour of the island’s lighthouse, visit the Old Baldy Foundation Museum, or relax on the beach.
3. Oak Island Lighthouse
The Oak Island Lighthouse is an iconic landmark located on Oak Island. It’s the second-tallest lighthouse in North Carolina, standing at 169 feet tall. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.
Hidden Gems
1. Holden Beach
Holden Beach is a small, family-friendly beach town located on the southern coast of Brunswick County. It’s known for its quiet beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Take a walk along the beach or go fishing from the pier. You can also rent a paddleboard and explore the Intracoastal Waterway.
2. Orton Plantation Gardens
The Orton Plantation Gardens are located on the banks of the Cape Fear River in Brunswick County. They’re home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers, including azaleas, camellias, and magnolias. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
3. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
The Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is located on the southern tip of Brunswick County. It’s home to a 4-mile-long undeveloped beach, where you can swim, fish, or sunbathe. You can also explore the area’s Civil War history at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site.
Food Scene
Brunswick County has a diverse food scene, with fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and international cuisine. Some of the top restaurants in the area include The Fish House in Oak Island, Provision Company in Holden Beach, and The Boundary House in Calabash.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, Brunswick County has plenty of free and low-cost activities. Take a walk along the beach, explore the area’s parks and nature trails, or visit the Brunswick County Museum of History in Southport.
Outdoor Adventures
Brunswick County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing along the coast. You can also explore the area’s parks and nature trails, including the Brunswick Nature Park and the Green Swamp Preserve.
Historical Landmarks
Brunswick County has a rich history, dating back to colonial times. Some of the top historical landmarks in the area include the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum and Visitors Center, the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, and the Old Brunswick County Jail Museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
Brunswick County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. You can visit the Ingram Planetarium in Sunset Beach, go mini-golfing at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park in Wilmington, or take a ferry to Bald Head Island.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Brunswick County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. You can take a ghost tour of Southport, visit the Silver Coast Winery in Ocean Isle Beach, or go on a shrimp boat tour from Calabash.
Natural Wonders
Brunswick County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in North Carolina. You can explore the area’s beaches, marshes, and forests, including the Bald Head Island Maritime Forest Preserve, the Bird Island Reserve, and the Green Swamp Preserve.
Vibrant Nightlife
Brunswick County has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Some of the top spots include The Fat Pelican in Carolina Beach, The Dead Dog Saloon in Murrells Inlet, and The Whiskey Fish in Wilmington.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for fresh produce, seafood, and other local products, Brunswick County has plenty of markets to choose from. Some of the top markets include the Shallotte Farmers Market, the Ocean Isle Beach Farmers Market, and the Southport Waterfront Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Brunswick County is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a great destination for beach and mountain lovers alike. You can explore the area’s beaches, including Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, and Oak Island, or venture into the mountains and visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Cultural Immersion
Brunswick County has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Native American, African American, and European cultures. You can explore the area’s museums, including the Brunswick County Museum of History and the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport, or attend a festival or cultural event.
Art and Music Scene
Brunswick County has a thriving art and music scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues throughout the area. Some of the top spots include the Odell Williamson Auditorium in Bolivia, the Leland Cultural Arts Center, and the Franklin Square Gallery in Southport.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore Brunswick County on foot, there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. You can take a historic walking tour of Southport, a ghost tour of Wilmington, or a nature walk through the Green Swamp Preserve.
Architectural Marvels
Brunswick County is home to some of the most beautiful and historic buildings in North Carolina. You can explore the area’s architecture, including the Bald Head Island Lighthouse, the Old Smithville Burying Ground, and the Bellamy Mansion Museum in Wilmington.
Historical Sites
Brunswick County has a rich history, with sites dating back to colonial times. You can explore the area’s history, including the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, and the Old Brunswick County Jail Museum.
Biking Routes
Brunswick County has plenty of scenic biking routes, including the Brunswick Riverwalk at Belville, the Ocean Isle Beach Loop, and the Green Swamp Trail. You can rent a bike and explore the area’s beaches, parks, and nature trails.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway, Brunswick County has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. You can practice yoga, meditation, and other wellness activities at places like Island Healing Chiropractic and Wellness in Oak Island, or the Serenity Spa at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach.
Adventure Sports
Brunswick County is a great destination for adventure sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and kiteboarding. You can take lessons or rent equipment from places like Carolina School of Surf in Wrightsville Beach, or Coastal Urge in Wilmington.