Visit Sunset Beach, NC

There’s so much to do in Sunset Beach, NC!

Sunset Beach rightfully sits on National Geographic’s list of “21 Best Beaches In The World.” If it’s sweeping views of seemingly endless sand and peaceful serenity you’re longing for, put this beach at the top of your list. Uninterrupted by boardwalks or high-rises, the wide stretch of beach separating the surf and the marsh is perfect for biking or collecting shells, all while reconnecting with the natural world and one another. As the southern-most Brunswick Islands beach, from late fall through early spring, you can watch the sun both rise and set over the water from Sunset Beach. So, pick your spot on the beach early, and you won’t have to move to catch both views!

See a listing of things to do below.

Ingram Planetarium

A short drive from Ocean Isle Beach and the Museum of Coastal Carolina (our sister location), the Ingram Planetarium offers immersive shows in a full-dome theater, along with exhibits focused on astronomy, space exploration, and science. It’s a great indoor activity, especially for families or rainy-day plans. From Planetarium Programs & Events and the Sky Theater Show Library, to the Paul Dennis Science Hall and Laser Light Shows, our events, hands-on displays for kids, and laser light shows will dazzle adults and children of all ages.

Visit Ingram Planetarium Visit the Museum

Address: 7625 High Market Street, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 575-0033

Things to do near Ingram Planetarium

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Bird Island Reserve

A protected coastal area at the western end of Sunset Beach, Bird Island offers a quieter, more natural experience. Wide beaches, dunes, and tidal creeks provide space for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying an undeveloped stretch of shoreline.

Address: 8468 Bay St, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 962-2998

Kindred Spirit Mailbox

Tucked within Bird Island, the Kindred Spirit Mailbox has become a meaningful tradition for many visitors. Inside, journals are filled with notes, reflections, and memories left by people from around the world.

Address: 8468 Bay St, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 962-2998

Sunset Beach Pier

Stretching into the Atlantic, the pier is a simple, scenic place to fish or take in the view. Its quieter atmosphere reflects the laid-back character of Sunset Beach. There’s also a grill with Nathan’s hot dogs, yummy curly fries and more.

Address: 101 W Main St, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-6630

Shell Hunting

If you like hunting for nature-made beach treasure, Sunset Beach is particularly known for its sand dollars, but you never know what you may find on a relaxing beach walk. Just be sure to get out there early!

Sunset Beach Trading Company

A classic beach shop experience, this store offers souvenirs, apparel, and treats like ice cream and fudge. It’s a convenient stop for visitors looking to pick up gifts or beach essentials.

Address: 423 Sunset Blvd S, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-0194

The Island Market

Part grocery, part deli, The Island Market provides quick meals, snacks, and everyday essentials. It’s especially popular for takeout sandwiches and easy beach-day provisions.

Address: 430 Sunset Blvd S #4166, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-0815

Sunset Beach Park

Located along the intracoastal waterway at the base of the Sunset Beach pier this shady park has breezy paths to walk and is the site of summer concerts, market and other activities.

Address: 206 Sunset Blvd N, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: 910-579-6297

Silver Coast Winery

Silver Coast Winery’s award-winning wines are modeled after traditional, European styles, along with hybrid grapes such as their signature Seyval Blanc and Traminette. From Chardonnay to White Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, wines are dry to semi-sweet, aged in stainless tanks with daily wine tastings available. The winery offers charcuterie items for purchase to enjoy with your wine purchase, or you are welcome to pack a picnic of your own to bring along.

Address: 6680 Barbeque Rd NW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 287-2800

Where to Eat near Ingram Planetarium

Roberto’s Restaurant

Roberto’s offers a more refined dining experience, featuring Italian-inspired cuisine in an intimate setting. Known for attentive service and a well-curated menu, it’s a favorite for special occasions or a quieter evening out.

Address: 6737 Beach Dr SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-4999

Fibber McGees Bar and Grill

A neighborhood staple, Fibber McGees offers a casual pub-style setting with a menu of comfort food favorites. It’s a welcoming, laid-back place where visitors and locals mix easily.

Address: 1780 Queen Anne Unit 1, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 575-2271

Coastal Grounds Coffee Shop

Coastal Grounds combines a coffee shop, breakfast spot, and beach rental hub. It’s a convenient stop for coffee, light fare, and essentials before heading out to enjoy the day.

Address: 424 Sunset Blvd S #1, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-1211

Bill’s Seafood

A longtime local seafood market, Bill’s Seafood offers fresh, locally sourced seafood along with prepared items. Visitors staying nearby often stop in to pick up ingredients for a coastal meal at home.

Address: 310 Sunset Blvd N, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-6372

Aromas at the Beach Food, Bar and Breakfast

Serving breakfast through dinner, this unique restaurant serves delicious Peruvian food, including ceviche, empanadas, and chicken with generous portions, reasonable prices, and fresh, flavorful dishes.

Address: 1780 Chandlers Lane, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-0058

Joey O’s Brick Oven Pizzeria

Pizza by the slice or in the round is offered at this unassuming joint. You can also get pasta, sandwiches and more.

Address: 1637 Seaside Rd SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-3322

House’s Patio Bar and Grill

Fried fish and seafood dishes are served in a casual eatery with creek-side views and a patio.

Address: 310-B Sunset Blvd. N, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 575-2572

Oak and Palm Waterfront Dining

Nestled beneath the Sunset Beach Bridge overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and adjacent to the beautiful Sunset Beach Park, Oak and Palm offer American Coastal Cuisine with global influences.

Address: 102 Sunset Blvd. N, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: (910) 579-9599

Sarah’s Kitchen

Homemade biscuits, pancakes, and omelets made to order for breakfast change to daily lunch specials in a bright restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.

Address: 1649 Seaside Rd., Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-3777

D’Amici Ristorante

Bottle of red, bottle of white, are you in the mood for authentic Italian tonight? If so, this is the place to come. All the traditional favorites, some with a twist, are served in this dinner-only restaurant.

Address: 6931 Beach Dr. SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 393-0028

The Brew House

This casual coffee shop also offers bagels, baked goods and occasional live music.

Address: 7207 Beach Dr. SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-9544

Visit Ocean Isle Beach, NC!

Looking for more things to do near Sunset Beach, NC? Checkout our other listings for Ocean Isle Beach, NC. We hope to see you soon!

Visit Ocean Isle Beach, NC

Shopping near Ingram Planetarium

Sunset Beach offers several small shopping centers where you will find local delights such as fashion retailersAPR Beach Boutique, Bleu and Island Breeze. Need an easy-reading novel for your beach time check outIslands Art and Books on Beach Drive or Pelican Bookstore in the Village at Suset Beach. For a unique gift, stop in at the Olive Press. Sunset Beach Trading Company is a classic beach shop experience offering souvenirs, apparel, and treats like ice cream and fudge. It’s a convenient stop for visitors looking to pick up gifts or beach essentials. The Island Market is part grocery, part deli, providing quick meals, snacks, and everyday essentials. It’s especially popular for takeout sandwiches and easy beach-day provisions. Host and Graze offers charcuterie for gifts or your beach gathering. Salt and Vine offers wine, craft beer and cider.

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