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Best Place to Retire in Sunset Beach NC

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Looking for a quiet, sleepy, oceanfront town perfect to retire in? That’s Sunset Beach. Located in Brunswick County, this small beach town of just 3,400 people is located almost on the border of South Carolina, just north of Myrtle Beach and south of Wilmington. These are the largest cities close to Sunset Beach that would have most major amenities like a Target, chain restaurants and such. But for a quiet little oasis on the beach and Intracoastal waterway, Sunset Beach makes a great location for retirement.

Best Place to Retire in Sunset Beach NC

Sunset Beach resort town with the retirees living along the beach or in one of the many active adult communities. Shops, restaurants, and markets are found along Shoreline Drive on the mainland right across the Intracoastal waterway and up on Sunset Boulevard at the corner of Seaside Road and Sunset. The post office, several smaller local restaurants, and a few chain restaurants are available here.

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Out on the island is the island market, the Sunset Beach trading company, and a surf shop. On the mainland as a couple shops and restaurants as well including the Pelican Book Store, thrift shop, Walgreens, and CVS. Larger department stores such as Target, Home Depot,  and other larger box stores are found in Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Wilmington is about an hour away and Myrtle Beach is about 45 minutes.

One-third of the town of Sunset Beach is located on the barrier island that shares with Bird Island. The other two-thirds is on the mainland between Calabash and Ocean Isle Beach. Barrier island features vacation and rental homes with very few year-round residents. In the off-season, this area is very quiet but during the summer season can be hopping with a lot of tourists, some residents, and guests. Many people that choose Sunset Beach as their retirement spot wish they had done so sooner.

There are older developments, new subdivisions, and beachfront homes, all offering a variety of home prices and designs. The well-established development of Carolina Shores featuring established homes, mature landscaping and large layouts. Oyster Bay, Sea Trail and Sandpiper are the three major developments in Sunset Beach. There are smaller development such as Ocean Ridge and Thistle. Several of these offer larger lots of over 1-acre summer smaller of about 10,000 ft.².
In age for Sunset Beach is about 66 with a household size just over 2. The median home price is about $209,000.

If you’re looking to settle down and enjoy life on the beach, start here, at Sunset Beach! We’re waiting for you! This is why we love it here and why we can help you find the perfect retirement location. Call us today!
 

 

Cape Side Homes in Sunset Beach NC

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Cape Side Homes in Sunset Beach NC

Located just off of Old Georgetown Rd., Southwest in North Sunset Beach North Carolina is a small, new home community of Cape Side.

The community is on a no outlet street called Sea Bourne Way and borders the Sea Trail Golf resort and course on one side and the Pearl Golf course on the other. These darling Cape Cod style homes offer enchantment and beauty in the secluded area of the South Brunswick Isles. There are a few lots available but at this point most of the homes are resale or pre-existing homes. These homes are priced from about $250,000-$295,000 an offer three and four bedroom floor plans from about 1700 ft.² to 2200 ft.² on lots of around 10,000 ft.².

Cape Side does require yearly POA dues of about $340. Most homes feature an oversize garage, screened porch, gas fireplace, cathedral ceiling living room, large dining room, kitchen with eating area and formal dining room. Many homes feature a porch that opens to a deck with a beautiful awning, ideal for entertaining. Most of the homes feature landscaped yards and due to its location, is close to fresh seafood restaurants, shops, markets and more. Of course, it’s nestled in the center of four pristine golf courses and it’s just one hour to Wilmington and 30 minutes to Myrtle Beach. Many of the homes were built between the year 2000 and 2004.

Many of these homes offer Energy Star appliances. For more information on the Cape Side homes, similar properties in the area that may currently be available or to be notified when new listings hit the market in this community of Sunset Beach contact our office today.

 

Bird Island Sunset Beach NC

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Bird Island Sunset Beach NC

Located just west of the town of Sunset Beach is the Bird Island Reserve. This 1300 acre reserve is adjacent to the coastal town on a barrier island and is the southernmost part of North Carolina. Bird Island was once separated from Sunset Beach by the title Creek that could easily be crossed at low tide but due to hurricane activity in the 1990s, this Creek is gradually filled in so that the two separate islands became one.

Up until 2002 it was privately owned the state of North Carolina purchased the land to create a coastal reserve for $4.2 million with public and private funding. Although there are no vehicles on Bird Island it is easily accessible following the shoreline from Sunset Beach. It is an underdeveloped barrier island featuring 135 upland acres and over 1300 acres of marsh, subtitle and intertidal flats and reserves.

Bird Island Sunset Beach NC

It’s accessible by the public only by the beach and boats can come up on the beach or be accessed by Little River Inlet, South Carolina side. The open part of the property begins at the boundary with Sunset Beach and follows nearly 1 mile until it meets the Corps of Engineers property less than a half a mile from state line. The best way to reach it by foot is the park at the intersection of 40th and Main Street in town but there is limited parking. You can take the 40th St., Boardwalk beach access and follow it until you reach signs indicating the boundary of Bird Island.

Rare, pristine, quiet, secluded island with no houses

“On of the only areas on the east coast of the USA that will never be built on. You feel like an explorer. The only human presence is the Kindred Spirit mailbox with its bench and American flag on a pole. For decades, visitors have been sharing their dearest thoughts in writing inside notebooks that reside there. It is a very special place. It resides next to an adjacent island called Sunset Beach in North Carolina.” [Trip Advisor]

While exploring the secluded location you’re likely to find loggerhead turtles, endangered birds and species, unique habitats and the purple Sandpiper found only on Bird Island. Take a day and choose a guided educational walk hosted throughout the summer by the Bird Island Preservation Society Stewards. The tours happen every Wednesday from June through August starting at 8:30 AM last about two hours.

Bird Island Sunset Beach NC

We’ve helped several homebuyers find property close to Bird Island and there are several residential neighborhoods between 40th St. along North Shore Dr. and Main Street. These homes typically range from about $300,000-$700,000 and of course provide easy access to the beach and Bird Island without having to find a parking spot. If you’d like to know more about Bird Island or the homes and real estate close by please contact our office today. Many homes are up against Bull Creek and have beautiful riverfront accessibility and beach access as well.

 

By Zach Rudisin – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20745268 By Andreas Trepte – Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=716747 By ukanda – originally posted to Flickr as Loggerhead turtle, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10481668

North Carolina Beaches

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With over 300 miles of barrier island beaches along the coast of North Carolina, it’s no wonder that we have some of the best East Coast beaches in the country. But, the surf, sun and sand is just part of it, in beautiful coastal towns like Southport and Sunset Beach, shopping, romantic getaways and family trips through beach resorts is always a welcome addition.

North Carolina Beaches

Here are some of our favorite southern North Carolina beaches.

Bald Head Island is located just south of Southport and a short ferry ride away to the 12,000 acre Bald Head Island. Located at the southernmost point of the Cape Fear River at the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean, this private and peaceful island allows visitors and residents to explore over 14 miles of beaches interspersed with golf courses, day hikes and a beautiful forest as well as the Old Baldy Lighthouse.

Holden Beach offers a narrow stretch of barrier islands known as the Outer Banks. There are several activities and beach going events throughout the year as well as museums, national seashores and an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Environmentalist enjoy the wildlife refuges with birdwatching and nature trail scattered all up and down the beach. Those that prefer the water can enjoy windsurfing, scuba diving, hang gliding and more. Oak Island as well as Holden Beach are well known for their golf courses in this area is commonly referred to as North Carolina’s Golf Coast. This area has some of the best courses in the country.

North Carolina Beaches

The Brunswick Islands has its own unique character with six separate beach communities spread out on five barrier islands. This stretches from Seaport in the mouth of the Cape Fear River down to South Carolina’s border. There are beautiful coastal towns such as Calabash and Sunset Beach offering quaint villages, shops, beachfront restaurants, coastal cottages and private estates. With over 10 distinct beaches stretching from Bald Head Island to Calabash, there’s something for everyone along these charming Brunswick Islands.

This area also feature several events throughout the year including racists, Easter egg hunts, spring festivals, art shows, family day at the Museum of coastal Carolina, Waterfront markets in Southport and Sunset Beach, Music and art festivals and concerts on the coast.

One of the best ways to explore these beaches is to simply get in your car and drive along the Brunswick Islands, stopping at each one to experience its own charming personality.

North Carolina Beaches

If living here sounds like a good plan, start browsing the cities in the area for homes, oceanfront property or charming cottages for sale. Whether you’re planning to retire here, looking for an investment property, a second or vacation home or simply a stop along your way through life, North Carolina beaches offer a tranquil escape from the ordinary.

Images by Dennis Jarvis  & MaxGag 

Best Place to Live in Brunswick County NC

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Brunswick County North Carolina is located on the border of South Carolina at the far southern tip of the state bordering Cape Fear River on the east and the South Carolina border on the west. It encompasses several oceanfront communities and towns including Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach and Caswell Beach just to name a few. If you’re considering moving to Brunswick County you’re probably doing so because of its oceanfront cities and towns. There are very few and far between residential communities and north of the ocean until you reach Highway 74, which is outside of the Brunswick County area. Wilmington is one of the largest cities located on the border of Brunswick County and New Hanover County.

Best place to live in Brunswick County

Demographics

The total population is about 110,000 residents with the median age of 48 and a median home price of about $185,000. Nearly 63% of the population is married with a 6.3 unemployment rate, the same as the national average. Compared to the rest of the country, Brunswick County’s cost of living is about 4% higher than the US average and since the year 2000, the county has had a population growth of nearly 48%. There are approximately 47,600 households throughout Brunswick County and 48% of residents fall between the ages of about 25 to 34 with only 18% under 18 and 23% over 65. There are active adult communities throughout Brunswick County but primarily are located in Wilmington and several adult communities are closer to Myrtle Beach, which is actually in South Carolina.

Although Wilmington is the largest city in the area, smaller coastal town such as Sunset Beach and Holden Beach have their own small town charm, and rustic home meanness. There are small shops, restaurants and if you markets in between but you won’t find the large, box stores or major markets except for in places like Myrtle Beach or Wilmington.Best place to live in Brunswick County

If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in the country, Brunswick County certainly has a lot to offer. Oak Island, Ocean Isle Beach and Bald Head Island are just a few places known for having some of the best beaches in the country. Many of these beaches also have a great family-friendly atmosphere where you can bring your dog, throw catch with the kids, beach, or simply enjoy the beautiful sunshine and fresh, crystal blue waters.

Brunswick County also is considered a golf lover’s paradise with over 30 championship courses throughout the county. It’s been lovingly referred to as North Carolina’s “Golf Coast” as there are legendary courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Dan Maples and Fred couples just to name a few. There are private championship golf courses as well as public courses with all pars and all challenges in between.

Brunswick County is also rich in history with numerous historical sites to explore, discover and learn about. Places like St. James Plantation, Fort Anderson and Brunswick town and many smaller communities located just off Cape Fear River off Route 133 to Southport provide a historical look back in time.

Oak Island was named #13 is one of the best towns in North Carolina. It got top scores for fun things to do, easiest commutes, education, low crime, outdoor health, fitness and activities in beautiful weather. Read more: Best Things to do in Oak Island

Boiling Springs Lakes, a small community located in central Brunswick County also made the list of some of the best places in the county. This is easily accessible along Highway 87 and was given top marks for housing, education, activities, weather and low crime.

Brunswick County is known for some of the best beaches, great weather and golf, superb Intracoastal Waterway boating from some of the many cities along the coastline, shopping, top medical care and fantastic history. These are just a few of the reasons why this County makes a great place to call home, vacation or retire.

For more information feel free to browse the website or contact our office today for a list of homes and properties in any one of the specific cities, towns or communities.

Images by countrygirl0 Doug Anderson Flickr

 

Best Things to do in Oak Island NC

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Oak Island is located along the Atlantic coastline between Caswell Beach and Sunset Beach in Brunswick County. It stretches from the opening of the Intracoastal Waterway all the way to Oak Island Golf Club and is primarily on the ocean side of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Whether you are planning on a move to Oak Island or just visiting, here are some of our favorite things to do in this coastal community.

Best things to do in Oak Island

#1. The beaches.

You have to check out the beaches while you’re in Oak Island. Even though it is an island technically, it is connected by several roads and causeways and it does have some of the most beautiful beaches in all of North and South Carolina. While you’re checking out the beaches visit the Ocean Crest Pier located at 1409 East Beach Dr. This beautiful fishing pier is ideal for walks, beachcombing and visiting the shops with snacks, fishing items and drinks. It offers the perfect beach scenery and is typically not that crowded. It cost either with $1 or $2 depending on the time of year and is definitely well worth it. Local say be sure to ask the fisherman how to fish so that you can catch a great dinner. There’s a small restaurant and store where you can buy bait and other supplies. Visit Bald Head Island Lighthouse as well, stepping back in time when it was first built in 1795. Also check out Oak Island Pier.

Oak Island lighthouse

#2. The Oak Island Lighthouse.

This spectacular lighthouse located on Oak Island has a little wooden beach access to the ocean featuring great views of the Atlantic. There are guided tours for groups and if you want to climb to the top you must make reservations two weeks in advance or even longer on the on season. There are several circular stairs, ship ladders and steep steps so you want to be careful but once you get up there, it’s amazing. Drive over the bridge and see the shining lighthouse beacon welcoming you to take a closer look.

#3. Biplane and helicopter rides.Helicopter tour North Carolina

Suncoast Aviation Biplane rides is a great way to fly along the coastline. It offers one of the best views of the island. You can fly the entire island, waive the wings of the plane and learn quite a bit about the area from knowledgeable pilots. If you prefer helicopters, High Tide helicopters offers a great way to see the island. It’s ideal for both winter and summer seasons and the view is breathtaking. The experienced pilots offers several different tours including the Cape Fear Passport and other areas. With great views, repeat tourists, and excellent reviews, this is definitely a great way to see the island.

#4. North Carolina Oyster Festival.

3918506669_2d0f0120e9_mFor over 36 years, this fantastic Brunswick County oyster Festival has been drawing locals and visitors alike. There are over 15 food vendors, 120 arts and craft vendors, live entertainment, surf contest and of course dozens and dozens of oysters. This event usually is held around the second weekend of October.

This is just a small collection of some of our favorite things to do in Oak Island. If you’re planning on living here or moving here full-time please contact our office for a list of current and available properties for sale in Oak Island.

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