If you are making a decision to relocate to the south end of the North Carolin coast, you may be considering Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle Beach for your next home. These are two highly regarded locations on the coast with a laid-back beach lifestyle. But what are the differences between the two? Knowing these can help you decide which area suits you better.
Sunset Beach or Ocean Isle Beach? Which is the Ideal Spot for You to Relocate?
Location
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is on the southernmost stretch of the North Carolina coastline. The beach itself is mostly located on the barrier island portion of the city. Sunset Beach boundaries encompass both the barrier island and a small portion of the mainland. Sunset is more about the original nature settings and enjoying the beach area in its original state. There are some charming shops and restaurants, but not as many as in other areas.
Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach is also a barrier island. It is also located in Brunswick County. It is closer to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, via access from Highway 17. This location gives people a bit of a retreat, yet it is very close to the bustling area that is Myrtle Beach.
Community Culture
Sunset Beach
The vibe of Sunset Beach is incredibly relaxed and calm. It is the movie-esque beach getaway spot. In fact, it has been the picture-perfect inspiration for famous stories. This is the Atlantic Coastal beach getaway from it all. The place to really fall in love with a seemingly empty beach and feel like you can let go of distractions. The community is warm, and people love it here because it is so peaceful.
Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach is also a small coastal beach town, but it has just a bit more bustle to it. It is a location for people that dont mind more activity and sharing spaces with vacationing visitors for longer periods of the year.
Things to Do
Sunset Beach
Bird Island Reserve is one of the major points of attraction. It is a chance to chill out in nature and unwind. People love to bird watch in the area, hence the name. The pier/boardwalk is a charming place to grab a bite and hang out. Many people love to fish off the end of the pier. The famous mailbox is a charming walk down the gorgeous stretch of beach. There is a small collection of the most charming restaurants and shops, with an easy ability to get to know the staff and make yourself comfortable. Calabash, a neighboring town, offers some more dining and shopping. Then, of course, there are all the activities to be enjoyed in the water.
Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach also offers the ability to access and enjoy the water. There are many golf course communities in the area. The museum is a draw for tourists and fun for locals to experience. The marina provides a nice spot for those who love to use their boat often.
Real Estate Offerings
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach has a lower cost of living when it comes to looking at the average list price of properties. There are several more budget-friendly options in Sunset Beach compared to neighboring beach towns in the area. Finding an oceanfront single-family property is going to be a little easier in the Sunset Beach location.
Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach has a larger mix of properties and offers possibly a larger number of oceanfront properties, including a larger selection of oceanfront condos. Due to the extreme desirability as a vacation destination, the list price gets a little bit higher in Ocean Isle. However, if you are looking for a low-maintenance condo with ocean views, there may be more to choose from.
Each location has its perks and drawbacks. The answer to which location is right for you. Depends on your personal preferences. If you are looking for that incredibly peaceful, laid-back beach location, and Sunset Beach, we are happy to help you find the ideal Sunset Beach property.
When you are ready to buy a Sunset Beach home, the team at Sunsest Beach and Beyond is here to help you find the best home that fits you and your needs. You want an experienced Sunset Beach real estate agent at your side who knows the details of searching for homes in the right places in Sunset Beach to help you find exactly what you are looking for.
“Amy and I have bought and sold four properties in the past twelve years. Both of you are the best realtors we have ever dealt with. Amy and I both felt we could trust you to look out for our interest. The level of service you provided was outstanding, from taking the trash out, helping the buyer with inspecting the irrigation system, dealing with our tenants, always being there if we needed to ask a question, providing constant updates on the market and always keeping us informed on the sale of our house. I think your next venture should be training other realtors, because both of you have mastered the art of providing excellent service. I will be sure to recommend the Frank and Karen team to anybody looking for a trust worthy, knowledgeable and top performing realtor. It was a pleasure working with both of you.” Sunset Beach and Beyond testimonial