The town of Sunset Beach covers the smallest of the Brunswick Islands, as well as part of the Brunswick County mainland. This sweet little town made the 2017 National Geographic list of "21 Best Beaches in the World". Not only does it have some of the best ocean views where visitors can see the sun rise and set over the water, it has some of the nicest people too.
Sunset Beach is home to one of Brunswick County's entertainment jewels, Ingram Planetarium, a full-dome, immersive theater and science center. Ingram Planetarium features educational shows about space and science, and music laser shows set to different themes.
Fisherman will enjoy visiting the Sunset Beach Pier. Visitors can purchase fishing licenses and bait onsite, and enjoy having access to a cleaning station, snack bar, and game room. Rods can be rented.
Sunset Beach also has 6 championship golf courses: Sandpiper Bay Golf & Country Club, Oyster Bay Golf Links , Thistle Golf Club, and the Sea Trail Golf Courses (Dan Maples Course, Rees Jones Course, and Willard Byrd Course). So, there's no shortage of opportunities to get out and hit a ball around.
Overall, this is a great place to enjoy North Carolina's natural environment. Accessible from Sunset Beach is Bird Island, a wonderful day adventure. This barrier island is a state preserve and home to rare wildlife, like the Loggerhead Sea Turtle and Purple Sandpiper. It's also where you'll find the Kindred Spirit Mailbox. Leave a note and read messages from other visitors.
If you're looking for a genuine small town beach community, Sunset Beach is a winner.